List of Countries Still Live Under a Monarchy

Monarchies remain a significant part of global governance, with 43 countries currently led by monarchs in varying capacities, from absolute rulers to symbolic figureheads. Monarchies can be either absolute (where the monarch holds real and significant power) or constitutional/ceremonial (where the monarch has a symbolic role, with elected officials holding actual authority).

What is Monarchy?

monarchy is a system of government led by a king, queen, emperor, or sultan, typically inherited within a royal family and lasting for life. In an absolute monarchy, rulers make major decisions and wield substantial authority. In a constitutional monarchy, the monarch’s function is mostly symbolic, representing national unity and tradition while political power rests with elected leaders.

Countries Under Monarchy (2025)

Currently, 43 countries have monarchs. Monarchs serve varied roles, from executing real power to ceremonial duties that reinforce cultural identity.

List of Countries Still Live Under a Monarchy

Currently, 43 countries have monarchs. Monarchs serve varied roles, from executing real power to ceremonial duties that reinforce cultural identity.

Country Monarch Title Monarch’s Role
Saudi Arabia King Absolute
Oman Sultan Absolute
Brunei Sultan Absolute
UAE President Executive & Federal
Bahrain King Executive
Morocco King Executive
Jordan King Executive
Qatar Emir Executive
Kuwait Emir Executive
Bhutan Druk Gyalpo Executive
Eswatini King Absolute
Liechtenstein Prince Executive
Monaco Prince Executive
Tonga King Executive
United Kingdom King/Queen Ceremonial
Canada King/Queen Ceremonial
Australia King/Queen Ceremonial
New Zealand King/Queen Ceremonial
Jamaica King/Queen Ceremonial
Solomon Islands King/Queen Ceremonial
Papua New Guinea King/Queen Ceremonial
Bahamas King/Queen Ceremonial
Saint Lucia King/Queen Ceremonial
Grenada King/Queen Ceremonial
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines King/Queen Ceremonial
Antigua and Barbuda King/Queen Ceremonial
Saint Kitts and Nevis King/Queen Ceremonial
Tuvalu King/Queen Ceremonial
Thailand King Ceremonial
Spain King Ceremonial
Netherlands King Ceremonial
Cambodia King Ceremonial
Belgium King Ceremonial
Sweden King Ceremonial
Norway King Ceremonial
Denmark King Ceremonial
Lesotho King Ceremonial
Luxembourg Grand Duke Ceremonial
Japan Emperor Ceremonial
Andorra Co-Prince Ceremonial
Vatican City Pope Absolute (religious head, sovereign)
Malaysia Yang di-Pertuan Agong Ceremonial & Federal (rotating among sultans)

Unique Monarchies

  • Vatican City (Pope — Absolute, religious head and sovereign)
  • Malaysia (Yang di-Pertuan Agong — Ceremonial & Federal, rotates among state sultans)

Monarchies in Today’s World

Modern monarchies often symbolize tradition and national pride, even when actual governance falls to elected officials. Others preserve significant power, especially in the Middle East.

Key Takeaways

  • 43 countries have some form of monarchy as of 2025, representing 22% of the world.
  • Differences exist between absolute, executive, and ceremonial monarchies.
  • Monarchies play diverse roles: some rule, most represent.
Sumit Arora

As a team lead and current affairs writer at Adda247, I am responsible for researching and producing engaging, informative content designed to assist candidates in preparing for national and state-level competitive government exams. I specialize in crafting insightful articles that keep aspirants updated on the latest trends and developments in current affairs. With a strong emphasis on educational excellence, my goal is to equip readers with the knowledge and confidence needed to excel in their exams. Through well-researched and thoughtfully written content, I strive to guide and support candidates on their journey to success.

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