29/03/2026
THE BULGARIAN NATIONAL RADIO on the 2026 Public Speaking Competition and The English-Speaking Union
(Article Translation in English 🇬🇧)
🔵 The English-Speaking Union: A Century of Global Dialogue
The English-Speaking Union (ESU) is a distinguished international educational and cultural charity with a heritage spanning over a century. Established in Great Britain and headquartered in Mayfair, London, the organisation was founded in 1918 by the journalist Sir Evelyn Wrench. In the wake of the First World War, Wrench envisioned that international communication through the English language could foster superior mutual understanding and a lasting global peace.
For many years, the ESU enjoyed the patronage of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, with Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, serving as President. The current President is HRH The Princess Royal. From its London hub, the Union coordinates more than 50 national unions worldwide, including the Bulgarian ESU.
The ESU in Bulgaria
The Bulgarian ESU is an integral part of the ESU’s extensive international network, working proactively to enhance the communication skills of young people. Founded in 1993, its inception coincided with Bulgaria’s broader integration into international educational standards following the country’s democratic transition.
The English-Speaking Union of Bulgaria is currently chaired by Dr Sava Dragunchev. Over the years, the Board of Trustees has comprised eminent philologists, diplomats, and public figures, all united by a shared mission of intercultural dialogue.
🔵 National Public Speaking Competition 2026
The deadline for submitting materials and documentation for the inaugural stage of the annual National Competition is fast approaching, with entries closing on 30 March 2026.
🔵 Listen: You can find the full interview between Bulgarian National Radio's Silvia Choleva and ESUB's Dr Sava Dragunchev in the attached audio file.
Credits: Article prepared by Rositsa Mihova; Photography by Beloslava Dimitrova.
Съюзът на говорещите английски език (The English-Speaking Union, ESU) е международна образователна и културна благотворителна организация с над вековна история, създадена във В....
