1996–1997 Bulgarian protests

The 1996–1997 Bulgarian protests or the Videnov winter, also known as the Bulgarian winter or the January events was a wave of violent demonstrations and strikes nationwide in Bulgaria for a month from December 1996 to January 1997, fuelled by devaluation of the economic and economic turmoil, which saw inflation rise to 300%. Countrywide and weekly demonstrations continued demanding the resignation of the BSP government of Zhan Videnov. Nationwide strikes escalated into violence as protesters even stormed government buildings. On 21 January, Zhan Videnov resigned despite further social unrest and widespread protests throughout Sofia and long acts of protest nationwide.

Timeline

 * 21–23 December 1996: During the XLIV congress of the BSP, Jean Videnov announces his resignation as prime minister and leader of the party, due to the economic crisis. Georgi Parvanov is elected chairman of the party.
 * 28 December 1996: The Bulgarian Parliament accepts Videnov's resignation.
 * 8 January 1997 The Democratic Left parliamentary group nominates interior minister Nikolay Dobrev to succeed Videnov.
 * 10 January 1997: Incumbent President Zhelyu Zhelev refuses to grant the first mandate for government formation to the largest parliamentary group (Democratic Left). Protesters in Sofia surround and storm the building of the National Assembly. Police disperse the protesters, leaving tens of people injured.
 * 22 January 1997: Petar Stoyanov takes office as the second President of Bulgaria.
 * 28 January 1997: In accordance with the Constitution, President Stoyanov grants the first mandate for government formation to the Democratic Left.
 * 4 February 1997: BSP leader Parvanov and PM candidate Dobrev return the mandate with a proposed government. The president refuses to accept it and summons a National Security Consultative Council later that day, where the BSP are convinced to return the mandate and a new election is scheduled.
 * 12 February 1997: President Stoyanov appoints an interim government, led by Sofia mayor Stefan Sofiyanski. One of the first decisions it takes is implementing a Currency board and applies for NATO membership.