About
Sergei Stanishev is a Bulgarian politician who served as Prime Minister of Bulgaria from 2005 to 2009. A member of the Socialist Party, which he led from 2001 to 2014, he later served as a Member of the European Parliament from 2014 to 2024. Stanishev has also been the President of the European Socialists and a Member of the National Assembly.
Career Timeline
BSP Party Leader
Elected leader of the Bulgarian Socialist Party, marking a rise in prominence.
Prime Minister of Bulgaria
Becomes Prime Minister after BSP victory, the youngest since communism's end.
Bulgaria Joins EU
Leads Bulgaria into the European Union, a major achievement.
Loses Premiership
BSP loses the election, and Stanishev steps down as Prime Minister.
MEP and PES President
Elected to the European Parliament and becomes President of the European Socialists.
MEP Term Ends
Term as a Member of the European Parliament concludes.
Political Influence Wanes
His influence in Bulgarian and European politics decreases as he transitions out of prominent roles.
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Last updated: February 25, 2026