In 2014, the Bulgarian delegation to the European Parliament will have 17 members. Members of the European Parliament are elected by a proportional system from a nationwide constituency with a possibility of a preference vote for one candidate on a candidate list (open list voting).23 The distribution formula is using largest remainders with Hare-Niemeyer’s quota.24 A candidate can benefit from the preference system if he/she obtains at least seven per cent of the votes cast.25 This is an acceptable method of proportional representation for the distribution of mandates.