SERVING BEYOND DUTY: THE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY IN PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION

This article examines social responsibility practices, particularly volunteer initiatives, implemented in selected Bulgarian public administrations. It focuses on how the principles of public social responsibility (PSR) are adopted within the organization and put into action. This topic is important because it focuses on the role of public institutions in the transformation of contemporary society. The study aims to identify the formal, internal, or informal frameworks that govern PSR and employee volunteering. It also seeks to identify distinctive good practices. Using qualitative document analysis, the study reviews formal frameworks, documented initiatives, and evidence of employee volunteering. A chronological review is conducted to highlight changes and identify trends. The findings show that although in most cases there are no formal PSR strategies, ministries regularly participate in socially beneficial projects, often initiated by the employees themselves. The analysis highlights the high fragmentation of actions, but at the same time, increasing interest in CSR-related activities in Bulgaria. It is emphasized that PSR can improve public trust, social cohesion, and sustainable governance. The article provides a broad overview of PSR practice in Bulgaria, as well as suggestions for future development.