Sergei Stanishev assumed office as Prime Minister of Bulgaria in August 2005, following his nomination by the Bulgarian Socialist Party, of which he served as leader for 13 years. He oversaw the country’s accession to the European Union in 2007 and under his leadership, Bulgaria experienced a remarkable economic growth, attracting 24 billion BGN in foreign investments, and accumulating a fiscal reserve of 8 billion BGN. He introduced a flat income tax rate of 10% and implemented the world’s longest maternity leave policy. Stanishev emerged as a notable figure in European politics, serving three terms as President of the Party of European Socialists (PES), the second-largest political family, from 2011 to 2022. He has represented Bulgaria as a Member of the European Parliament from 2014 until July 2024, holding the position of vice-chair of the Committee on Foreign Affairs from 2019 onward. He has played an active role in advancing Bulgaria’s and Romania’s accession to the Schengen area and has been a vocal critic of delays to their full membership. As the European Parliament’s rapporteur in 2018, he introduced a pivotal report emphasizing the economic, social, and political implications of a ‘two-step’ accession process for both countries. His sustained advocacy contributed to the decision for Bulgaria and Romania to become full members of the Schengen area starting from January 1, 2025. Stanishev is deeply engaged in addressing the three major and global transformations confronting Europe: the green transition, digital transformations, and demographic shifts. He emphasizes the necessity for a robust and strategic approach in tackling these challenges head-on and recognizing their significant impact on the future trajectory of the EU.