Bulgarian Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov and his entire government resigned on December 11, 2025, after weeks of large-scale, nationwide protests over economic policies and perceived widespread corruption.

The protests were initially sparked by a controversial 2026 draft budget that included plans to hike social security contributions and taxes to finance higher state spending.

The movement quickly grew to encompass broader public anger over persistent government corruption and a lack of accountability.

Zhelyazkov announced his government’s decision just minutes before parliament was scheduled to vote on a no-confidence motion.

Bulgaria has experienced significant political turmoil in recent years, holding seven national elections in the past four years. The government’s resignation is expected to lead to further instability and possibly another snap election.

The resignation comes only weeks before Bulgaria is due to join the eurozone on January 1, 2026. Officials, including the head of the national bank, have stated the switch to the euro is an independent process and is expected to proceed as planned despite the political upheaval.

President Rumen Radev will now ask parliamentary parties to attempt to form a new government. If they are unsuccessful, which appears likely, he will appoint a caretaker administration to manage the country until new elections can be held.