Modern monarchs of the world. Countries with an absolute monarchy

Reading historical novels with the constant presence of states ruled by kings, emperors, pharaohs, shahs, sultans, grand dukes and dukes, one thinks that this is all a distant past. For generations, brought up on an atheistic, socialist and who knows what idea now, the citizens of Russia have forgotten that the monarchy is still strong all over the world - power from God. In different states, it is still legitimate and respected by the majority of its people. This article will tell you in which countries the monarchy has been preserved and how firmly it holds power in changed conditions.

Rulers of Europe, Middle East

The undoubted leader of monarchs around the world in terms of authority, length of time on the throne, and the power of their country with dominions throughout the planet, over which the Sun still does not set, is the Queen of Great Britain, the head of the British Commonwealth of Nations, Elizabeth II. She has ruled since 1952.

An interesting fact is that the representative of the ruling dynasty is not only the supreme commander, but also the head of the Anglican Church. Apparently, the Windsor monarchs solve with an iron hand not only worldly problems, but also religious matters, leaving nothing outside their control.

Despite the authoritarianism of Elizabeth II, the question of which countries have an absolute monarchy does not apply to her. In Great Britain there is a parliamentary monarchy, when in this case the queen's power is limited by the constitution, she performs mainly representative functions. It’s just hard to believe this.

The parliamentary type of constitutional monarchy is also in Denmark - since 1972, Queen Magrethe II, Sweden - since 1973, King Carl XVI Gustaf.

Kings also rule:

• Spain – Philip VI (since 2014).
• The Netherlands – Willem-Alexander (since 2013).
• Belgium – Philip (since 2013).
• Norway – Harald V (since 1991).

Monaco has been ruled by Prince Albert II since 2005. There is a curious situation in Andorra - there are two co-rulers: Prince Joan Enric Vives i Sicilha since 2003 and French President François Hollande since 2012.

In general, the vaunted European democracy against the background of the triumph of the monarchical system that came from time immemorial makes a rather strange impression. Despite the presence of parliaments and other elected institutions of power, the monarchs of many European states are not decorative, but real rulers, respected and loved by their people.

Which countries have an absolute monarchy? These are mainly Middle Eastern countries, such as:

• Oman;
• Qatar;
• Saudi Arabia.

Here, monarchs have truly unlimited power, like the rulers of the past, having the ability to execute and pardon, to rule the country, in accordance only with their own opinion. Perhaps to give a hint of new democratic trends, in some of these countries the people can sometimes express their aspirations through deliberative organizations.

Monarchs of the New World

The form of government in many countries discovered by Europeans and called the New World, long ago and often earlier than the states of the Old World, was already ruled individually by local rajahs, sultans, emirs, as well as kings and emperors.

In which countries does the monarchy still exist today?

• Japan. Emperor Akihito. Ruled since 1989. Wants to resign due to health reasons.
• Malaysia. King Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah.
• Cambodia. Ruled by King Norodom Sihamoni.
• Brunei. Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah.

Those who have visited Thailand know with what respect and love the people of the country treat their monarch. When there was an attempt to legislatively limit his power, a political crisis erupted in the country, which almost ended in civil war. Recently, in October 2016, King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who had ruled Thailand since 1946, died and a year of mourning was declared in the country.

The answers to the question - in which countries the monarchy has been preserved - are often very unexpected and provide food for thought. It turns out that half the world lives under the “oppression” of individual rulers, but not only does not create Marxist circles, printing proclamations calling for the overthrow of tyrants, but sincerely loves their monarchs, members of the ruling dynasties. For example, in the UK, Thailand, and.

In the modern world there are just over 230 states and self-governing territories with international status. Of these, only 41 states have a monarchical form of government, not counting several dozen territories under the authority of the British Crown.

It would seem that in the modern world there is a clear advantage on the side of republican states. But upon closer examination, it turns out that these countries mostly belong to the third world and were formed as a result of the collapse of the colonial system.

Often created along colonial administrative boundaries, these states are very unstable entities. They can fragment and change, as can be seen, for example, in Iraq. They are engulfed in ongoing conflicts, like a significant number of countries in Africa. And it is absolutely obvious that they do not belong to the category of advanced states.

Today monarchy- This is an extremely flexible and diverse system ranging from the tribal form, successfully operating in the Arab states of the Middle East, to the monarchical version of the democratic state in many European countries.

Here is a list of states with a monarchical system and the territories under their crown:

Europe

Andorra - co-princes Nicolas Sarkozy (since 2007) and Joan Enric Vives i Sicilha (since 2003)

Belgium - King Albert II (since 1993)

Vatican - Pope Benedict XVI (since 2005)

Great Britain - Queen Elizabeth II (since 1952)

Denmark - Queen Margrethe II (since 1972)

Spain - King Juan Carlos I (since 1975)

Liechtenstein - Prince Hans-Adam II (since 1989)

Luxembourg - Grand Duke Henri (since 2000)

Monaco - Prince Albert II (since 2005)

Netherlands - Queen Beatrix (since 1980)

Norway - King Harald V (since 1991)

Sweden - King Carl XVI Gustaf (since 1973)

Asia

Bahrain - King Hamad ibn Isa al-Khalifa (since 2002, emir 1999-2002)

Brunei - Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah (since 1967)

Bhutan - King Jigme Khesar Namgyal Wangchuk (since 2006)

Jordan - King Abdullah II (since 1999)

Cambodia - King Norodom Sihamoni (since 2004)

Qatar - Emir Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani (since 1995)

Kuwait - Emir Sabah al-Ahmed al-Jaber al-Sabah (since 2006)

Malaysia - King Mizan Zainal Abidin (since 2006)

United Arab Emirates UAE- President Khalifa bin Zayed al-Nahyan (since 2004)

Oman - Sultan Qaboos bin Said (since 1970)

Saudi Arabia- King Abdullah ibn Abdulaziz al-Saud (since 2005)

Thailand - King Bhumibol Adulyadej (since 1946)

Japan - Emperor Akihito (since 1989)

Africa

Lesotho - King Letsie III (since 1996, first time 1990-1995)

Morocco - King Mohammed VI (since 1999)

Swaziland - King Mswati III (since 1986)

Oceania

Tonga - King George Tupou V (since 2006)

Dominions

In the dominions, or Commonwealth kingdoms, the head is the monarch of Great Britain, represented by the governor-general.

America

Antigua and Barbuda Antigua and Barbuda

Bahamas Bahamas

Barbados

• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

  Saint Kitts and Nevis

  Saint Lucia

Oceania

Australia

New Zealand

Papua New Guinea

Solomon islands

Asia holds first place in the number of countries with monarchical statehood. This is a progressive and democratic Japan. Leaders of the Muslim world - Saudi Arabia, Brunei, Kuwait, Qatar, Jordan, Bahrain, Oman. Two monarchical confederations - Malaysia and the United Arab Emirates. And also Thailand, Cambodia, Bhutan.

Second place belongs to Europe. Monarchy here is represented not only in a limited form - in countries occupying leading positions in the EEC (Great Britain, Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, etc.). But also the absolute form of government is in “dwarf” states: Monaco, Liechtenstein, Vatican.

Third place goes to the countries of Polynesia, and fourth to Africa, where currently only three full-fledged monarchies remain: Morocco, Lesotho, Swaziland, plus several hundred “tourist” ones.

However, a number of republican countries are forced to put up with the presence of traditional local monarchical or tribal formations on their territory, and even enshrine their rights in the constitution. These include: Uganda, Nigeria, Indonesia, Chad and others. Even countries such as India and Pakistan, which abolished the sovereign rights of local monarchs (khans, sultans, rajas, maharajas) in the early 70s of the 20th century, are often forced to accept the existence of these rights, which is called de facto. Governments turn to the authority of holders of monarchical rights when resolving regional religious, ethnic, cultural disputes and other conflict situations.

STABILITY AND WELFARE

Of course, the monarchy does not automatically solve all social, economic and political problems. But, nevertheless, it can provide a certain amount of stability and balance in the political, social and national structure of society. That is why even those countries where it exists only nominally, say, Canada or Australia, are in no hurry to get rid of the monarchy.

The political elite of these countries for the most part understands how important it is for the balance in society that the supreme power is a priori consolidated in one hand and that political circles do not fight for it, but work in the name of the interests of the entire nation.

Moreover, historical experience shows that the best social security systems in the world were built in monarchical states. And we are talking not only about the monarchies of Scandinavia, where even Soviet agitprop in monarchical Sweden managed to find a version of “socialism with a human face.” Such a system has been built in the modern countries of the Persian Gulf, where there is often much less oil than in some fields of the Russian Federation.

Despite this, in the 40-60 years since the Gulf countries gained independence, without revolutions and civil wars, liberalization of everything and everyone, without utopian social experiments, in conditions of a rigid, sometimes absolutist, political system, in the absence of parliamentarism and a constitution, when all the mineral resources of the country belong to one ruling family, from poor Bedouins herding camels, the majority of citizens of the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and other neighboring states turned into quite wealthy citizens.

Without delving into the endless enumeration of the advantages of the Arab social system, just a few points can be given. Any citizen of the country has the right to free medical care, including that provided in any, even the most expensive, clinic located in any country in the world.

Also, any citizen of the country has the right to free education, coupled with free maintenance, at any higher educational institution in the world (Cambridge, Oxford, Yale, Sorbonne). Young families are provided with housing at the expense of the state. The monarchies of the Persian Gulf are truly social states in which all conditions have been created for the progressive growth of the well-being of the population.

Turning from flourishing Kuwait, Bahrain and Qatar to their neighbors in the Persian Gulf and the Arabian Peninsula, who abandoned the monarchy for a number of reasons (Yemen, Iraq, Iran), we will see a striking difference in the internal climate of these states.

WHO STRENGTHENS THE UNITY OF THE PEOPLE?

As historical experience shows, in multinational states the integrity of the country is primarily associated with the monarchy. We see this in the past, in the example of the Russian Empire, Austria-Hungary, Yugoslavia, and Iraq. The monarchical regime that comes to replace it, as was the case, for example, in Yugoslavia and Iraq, no longer has the same authority and is forced to resort to cruelties that were not characteristic of the monarchical system of government.

At the slightest weakening of this regime, the state, as a rule, is doomed to collapse. This happened with Russia (USSR), we see this in Yugoslavia and Iraq. The abolition of the monarchy in a number of modern countries would inevitably lead to the cessation of their existence as multinational, united states. This primarily applies to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Malaysia, and Saudi Arabia.

Thus, the year 2007 clearly showed that in the conditions of the parliamentary crisis that arose due to national contradictions between Flemish and Walloon politicians, only the authority of King Albert II of the Belgians kept Belgium from disintegrating into two or even more independent state entities. In multilingual Belgium, a joke was even born that the unity of its people is held together by only three things - beer, chocolate and the king. Whereas the abolition of the monarchical system in 2008 in Nepal plunged this state into a chain of political crises and permanent civil confrontation.

The second half of the 20th century gives us several successful examples of the return of peoples who experienced an era of instability, civil wars and other conflicts to a monarchical form of government. The most famous and, undoubtedly, in many ways successful example is Spain. Having gone through civil war, economic crisis and right-wing dictatorship, it returned to a monarchical form of government, taking its rightful place among the family of European nations.

Another example is Cambodia. Also, monarchical regimes at the local level were restored in Uganda, after the fall of the dictatorship of Marshal Idi Amin (1928-2003), and in Indonesia, which, after the departure of General Mohammed Hoxha Sukarto (1921-2008), is experiencing a true monarchical renaissance. One of the local sultanates was restored in this country two centuries after it was destroyed by the Dutch.

Restoration ideas are quite strong in Europe, first of all, this applies to the Balkan countries (Serbia, Montenegro, Albania and Bulgaria), where many politicians, public and spiritual figures constantly have to speak out on this issue, and in some cases, provide support to the heads of the Royal Houses, formerly in exile.

This is proven by the experience of King Leki of Albania, who almost carried out an armed coup in his country, and the stunning successes of King Simeon II of Bulgaria, who created his own national movement named after him, managed to become the prime minister of the country and is currently the leader of the largest opposition party in the parliament of Bulgaria, which was part of the coalition government.

Among the currently existing monarchies, there are many that are openly absolutist in essence, although they are forced, as a tribute to the times, to dress up in the garb of popular representation and democracy. European monarchs in most cases do not even use the rights given to them by the constitution.

And here the Principality of Liechtenstein occupies a special place on the map of Europe. Just sixty years ago it was a large village, which by an absurd accident gained independence. However, now, thanks to the activities of Prince Franz Joseph II and his son and successor Prince Hans Adam II, this is one of the largest business and financial centers, which has managed not to succumb to promises of creating a “single European house”, to defend its sovereignty and an independent view of its own state device.

The stability of the political and economic systems of most monarchical countries makes them not only not outdated, but progressive and attractive, forcing them to be equal to them in a number of parameters.

So the monarchy is not an addition to stability and prosperity, but an additional resource that makes it easier to endure illness and recover faster from political and economic adversity.

WITHOUT A KING IN YOUR HEAD

There is a fairly common situation in the world when there is no monarchy in a country, but there are monarchs (sometimes they are located outside the country). The heirs of royal families either lay claim (even formally) to the throne lost by their ancestors, or, having lost official power, retain real influence on the life of the country. Here is a list of such states.

Austria. The monarchy ceased to exist in 1918 after the collapse of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The contender for the throne is Archduke Otto von Habsburg, son of the deposed Emperor Charles.

Albania. The monarchy ceased to exist in 1944 after the communists came to power. The pretender to the throne is Leka, son of the deposed king Zog I.

Andorra Principality. The nominal co-rulers of which are considered to be the President of France and the Bishop of Urgell (Spain); some observers consider it necessary to classify Andorra as a monarchy.

Afghanistan. The monarchy ceased to exist in 1973 after the overthrow of King Mohammed Zahir Shah, who returned to the country in 2002 after many years in Italy, but did not actively participate in political life.

Benin Republic. Traditional kings (Ahosu) and tribal leaders play an important role in life. The most famous is the current reigning king (ahosu) of Abomey - Agoli Agbo III, the 17th representative of his dynasty.

Bulgaria. The monarchy ceased to exist after the overthrow of Tsar Simeon II in 1946. The decree on the nationalization of lands belonging to the royal family was canceled in 1997. Since 2001, the former tsar has served as Prime Minister of Bulgaria under the name of Simeon of Saxe-Coburg Gotha.

Botswana. Republic since independence in 1966. The deputies of one of the chambers of the country's parliament - the House of Chiefs - include the chiefs (Kgosi) of the eight largest tribes in the country.

Brazil. Republic since the abdication of Emperor Don Pedro II in 1889. The contender for the throne is the great-great-grandson of the abdicated emperor, Prince Luis Gastao.

Burkina Faso. Republic since independence in 1960. The country is home to a large number of traditional states, the most significant of which is Vogodogo (in the territory of the capital of the country, Ouagodougou), where the ruler (moogo-naaba) Baongo II is currently on the throne.

Vatican. Theocracy (some analysts consider it one of the forms of monarchy - an absolute theocratic monarchy - however, it should be borne in mind that it is not and cannot be hereditary).

Hungary. The republic has been a nominal monarchy since 1946; before that, since 1918, the regent ruled in the absence of the king. Until 1918, it was part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire (the emperors of Austria were also kings of Hungary), so the potential contender for the Hungarian royal throne is the same as in Austria.

East Timor . Republic since independence in 2002. There are a number of traditional states on the territory of the country, the rulers of which have the titles of rajas.

Vietnam. The monarchy in the country finally ceased to exist in 1955, when, following a referendum, a republic was proclaimed in South Vietnam. Previously, in 1945, the last Emperor Bao Dai had already abdicated the throne, but the French authorities returned him to the country in 1949 and gave him the post of head of state. The contender for the throne is the emperor's son, Prince Bao Long.

Gambia. Republic since 1970 (from independence in 1965 until the proclamation of the republic, the head of state was the Queen of Great Britain). In 1995, Yvonne Prior, a Dutch woman from Suriname, was recognized as the reincarnation of one of the ancient kings and was proclaimed queen of the Mandingo people.

Ghana. Republic since 1960 (from independence in 1957 until the proclamation of the republic, the head of state was the Queen of Great Britain). The Constitution of Ghana guarantees the right of traditional rulers (sometimes called kings, sometimes chiefs) to participate in the management of the affairs of the state.

Germany. Republic since the overthrow of the monarchy in 1918. The contender for the throne is Prince Georg Friedrich of Prussia, great-great-grandson of Kaiser Wilhelm II.

Greece. The monarchy officially ended as a result of a referendum in 1974. King Constantine of Greece, who fled the country after the military coup in 1967, currently lives in the UK. In 1994, the Greek government stripped the king of his citizenship and confiscated his property in Greece. The royal family is currently challenging this decision at the International Court of Human Rights.

Georgia. Republic since independence in 1991. The contender for the throne of the Georgian kingdom, which lost its independence as a result of annexation to Russia in 1801, is Georgiy Iraklievich Bagration-Mukhransky, Prince of Georgia.

Egypt. The monarchy existed until the overthrow of King Ahmad Fuad II of Egypt and Sudan in 1953. Currently, the former king, who was just over a year old at the time of the loss of the throne, lives in France.

Iraq. The monarchy ended in 1958 as a result of a revolution in which King Faisal II was killed. Claims to the Iraqi throne are made by Prince Raad bin Zeid, brother of King Faisal I of Iraq, and Prince Sharif Ali bin Ali Hussein, grandnephew of the same king.

Iran. The monarchy ceased to exist in 1979 after the revolution that overthrew Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. The contender for the throne is the son of the deposed Shah, Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi.

Italy. The monarchy ceased to exist in 1946 as a result of a referendum, King Umberto II was forced to leave the country. The contender for the throne is the son of the last king, Crown Prince Victor Emmanuel, Duke of Savoy.

Yemen. The republic emerged from the unification of North and South Yemen in 1990. In North Yemen, the monarchy ceased to exist in 1962. The sultanates and principalities in South Yemen were abolished after the declaration of independence in 1967. The contender for the throne is Prince Akhmat al-Ghani bin Mohammed al-Mutawakkil.

Cameroon. Republic since independence in 1960. The country is home to a large number of traditional sultanates, the heads of which often occupy high government positions. Among the most famous traditional rulers is Sultan Bamuna Ibrahim Mbombo Njoya, Sultan (baba) of the kingdom of Rey Buba Buba Abdoulaye.

Congo (Democratic Republic of Congo, former Zaire). Republic since independence in 1960. There are a number of traditional kingdoms throughout the country. The most famous are: the kingdom of Cuba (on the throne is King Kwete Mboke); the kingdom of Luba (king, sometimes also called emperor, Kabongo Jacques); the state of Ruund (Lunda), headed by the ruler (mwaant yaav) Mbumb II Muteb.

Congo (Republic of Congo). Republic since independence in 1960. In 1991, the country's authorities restored the institution of traditional leaders (reconsidering their decision 20 years ago). The most famous of the leaders is the head of the traditional Teke kingdom - King (UNKO) Makoko XI.

Korea. (DPRK and the Republic of Korea) The monarchy ceased to exist in 1945 due to the surrender of Japan, in 1945-1948 the country was under the control of the allied powers that won the Second World War, in 1948 two republics were proclaimed on the territory of the Korean Peninsula. Due to the fact that from 1910 to 1945 the rulers of Korea were vassals of Japan, they are usually classified as part of the Japanese imperial family. The contender for the Korean throne is the representative of this family, Prince Kyu Ri (sometimes his last name is written as Lee). On the territory of the DPRK, there is a de facto hereditary form of government, but de jure it is not stipulated in the country’s legislation.

Cote d'Ivoire. Republic since independence in 1960. On the territory of the country (and partly on the territory of neighboring Ghana) is the traditional kingdom of Abrons (ruled by King Nanan Adjumani Kuassi Adingra).

Laos. The monarchy ended in 1975 as a result of the communist revolution. In 1977, all members of the royal family were sent to a concentration camp (“re-education camp”). The king's two sons - Prince Sulivong Savang and Prince Danyavong Savang - were able to escape from Laos in 1981-1982. There is no official information about the fate of the king, queen, crown prince and other family members. According to unofficial reports, they all died of starvation in a concentration camp. Prince Sulivong Sawang, as the eldest surviving male of the clan, is the formal contender for the throne.

Libya. The monarchy ceased to exist in 1969. After the coup organized by Colonel Muammar Gaddafi, King Idris I, who was abroad during the coup, was forced to abdicate. The contender for the throne is the official heir of the king (the adopted son of his cousin), Prince Mohammed al-Hasan al-Rida.

Malawi. Republic since 1966 (from the declaration of independence in 1964 until the proclamation of the republic, the head of state was the Queen of Great Britain). An important role in the political life of the country is played by the paramount leader (inkosi ya makosi) Mmbelwa IV of the Ngoni dynasty.

Maldives. The monarchy ceased to exist after a referendum in 1968 (during the period of British rule, that is, before the declaration of independence in 1965, the country had already become a republic once for a short time). The formal contender for the throne, although he has never declared his claims, is Prince Mohammed Nureddin, the son of Sultan Hassan Nureddin II of the Maldives (reigned 1935-1943).

Mexico. The monarchy ceased to exist in 1867 after the execution by revolutionaries of the ruler of the empire proclaimed in 1864, Archduke Maximilian of Austria. Earlier, in 1821-1823, the country had already once been an independent state with a monarchical form of structure. Representatives of the Iturbide dynasty, whose ancestor was the Mexican emperor during this period, are pretenders to the Mexican throne. The head of the Iturbide family is Baroness Maria (II) Anna Tankle Iturbide.

Mozambique. Republic since independence in 1975. The country is home to the traditional state of Manyika, whose ruler (mambo) is Mutasa Paphiwa.

Myanmar (pre-1989 Burma). Republic since independence in 1948. The monarchy ceased to exist in 1885 after the annexation of Burma to British India. The contender for the throne is Prince Hteiktin Taw Paya, grandson of the last king Thibaw Min.

Namibia. Republic since independence in 1990. A number of tribes are governed by traditional rulers. The role of traditional leaders is evidenced by the fact that Hendrik Witbooi served as deputy head of government for several years.

Niger. Republic since independence in 1960. There are a number of traditional states on the territory of the country. Their rulers and tribal elders choose their political and religious leader, who bears the title of Sultan of Zinder (the title is not hereditary). Currently, the title of the 20th Sultan of Zinder is held by Haji Mamadou Mustafa.

Nigeria. Republic since 1963 (from independence in 1960 until the proclamation of the republic, the head of state was the Queen of Great Britain). There are about 100 traditional states on the territory of the country, the rulers of which bear both the familiar-sounding titles of Sultan or Emir, as well as more exotic ones: Aku Uka, Olu, Igwe, Amanyanabo, Tor Tiv, Alafin, Oba, Obi, Ataoja, Oroje, Olubaka, Ohimege (most often this means “leader” or “supreme leader”).

Palau (Belau). Republic since independence in 1994. Legislative power is exercised by the House of Delegates (Council of Chiefs), which consists of the traditional rulers of Palau's 16 provinces. The greatest authority is enjoyed by Yutaka Gibbons, the paramount chief (ibedul) of Koror, the main city of the country.

Portugal. The monarchy ceased to exist in 1910 as a result of the escape from the country of King Manuel II, who feared for his life due to an armed uprising. The pretender to the throne is Dom Duarte III Pio, Duke of Braganza.

Russia . The monarchy ceased to exist after the February Revolution of 1917. Although there are several contenders for the Russian throne, most monarchists recognize Grand Duchess Maria Vladimirovna, the great-great-granddaughter of Emperor Alexander II, as the legal heir.

Romania. The monarchy ceased to exist after the abdication of King Michael I in 1947. After the collapse of communism, the former king visited his native country several times. In 2001, the Romanian parliament granted him the rights of a former head of state - a residence, a personal car with a driver and a salary of 50% of the salary of the country's president.

Serbia. Along with Montenegro, it was part of Yugoslavia until 2002 (the remaining republics left Yugoslavia in 1991). In Yugoslavia, the monarchy finally ceased to exist in 1945 (since 1941, King Peter II was outside the country). After his death, his son, the heir to the throne, Prince Alexander (Karageorgievich), became the head of the royal house.

USA. Republic since independence in 1776. The Hawaiian Islands (annexed to the United States in 1898, gained statehood in 1959) had a monarchy until 1893. The contender for the Hawaiian throne is Prince Quentin Kuhio Kawananakoa, a direct descendant of the last Hawaiian Queen Liliuokalani.

Tanzania. The republic was formed in 1964 as a result of the unification of Tanganyika and Zanzibar. On the island of Zanzibar, shortly before the unification, the monarchy was overthrown. The 10th Sultan of Zanzibar, Jamshid bin Abdullah, was forced to leave the country. In 2000, the Tanzanian authorities announced the rehabilitation of the monarch and that he had the right to return to his homeland as an ordinary citizen.

Tunisia. The monarchy ended in 1957, the year after independence was declared. The contender for the throne is Crown Prince Sidi Ali Ibrahim.

Türkiye. Proclaimed a republic in 1923 (the sultanate was abolished a year earlier, and the caliphate a year later). The contender for the throne is Prince Osman VI.

Uganda. Republic since 1963 (from independence in 1962 until the proclamation of the republic, the head of state was the Queen of Great Britain). Some traditional kingdoms in the country were eliminated in 1966-1967 and almost all were restored in 1993-1994. Others managed to avoid liquidation.

Philippines. Republic since independence in 1946. There are many traditional sultanates in the country. 28 of them are concentrated in the area of ​​Lake Lanao (Mindanao Island). The Philippine government officially recognizes the confederation of Sultans of Lanao (Ranao) as a political force representing the interests of certain segments of the island's population. At least six people representing two clans claim the throne of the Sultanate of Sulu (located on the archipelago of the same name), which is explained by various political and financial benefits.

France. The monarchy was abolished in 1871. The heirs of various families claim the French throne: Prince Henry of Orleans, Count of Paris and Duke of France (Orléanist pretender); Louis Alphonse de Bourbon, Duke of Anjou (legitimist pretender) and Prince Charles Bonaparte, Prince Napoleon (Bonapartist pretender).

Central African Republic. After gaining independence from France in 1960, a republic was proclaimed. Colonel Jean-Bedel Bokassa, who came to power in 1966 as a result of a military coup, proclaimed the country an empire and himself emperor in 1976. In 1979, Bokassa was overthrown and the Central African Empire once again became the Central African Republic. The contender for the throne is Bokassa's son, Crown Prince Jean-Bedel Georges Bokassa.

Chad. Republic since independence in 1960. Among the numerous traditional states in Chad, two should be highlighted: the Bagirmi and Wadari sultanates (both were formally liquidated after the declaration of independence and restored in 1970). Sultan (mbang) Bagirmi - Muhammad Yusuf, Sultan (kolak) Vadari - Ibrahim ibn-Muhammad Urada.

Montenegro. See Serbia

Ethiopia. The monarchy ceased to exist in 1975 after the abolition of the post of emperor. The last of the reigning emperors was Haile Selassie I, who belonged to the dynasty, the founders of which are considered to be Menelik I, the son of Solomon, king of Israel, by the Queen of Sheba. In 1988, Haile Selassie's son, Amha Selassie I, was proclaimed the new Emperor of Ethiopia (in exile) in a private ceremony in London.

South Africa. Since 1961 (from independence in 1910 until the proclamation of the republic, the head of state was the Queen of Great Britain). Tribal leaders (amakosi) play an important role in the life of the country, as well as the ruler of the traditional kingdom of KwaZulu, Goodwill Zwelithini KaBekuzulu. Separately, it is worth highlighting the supreme leader of the Tembu tribe, Baelekhai Dalindyebo a Sabata, who, in accordance with the customs of the tribe, is considered the nephew of former South African President Nelson Mandela. The leader of the tribe is also a well-known politician, leader of the Inkatha Freedom Party, Mangosuthu Gatshi Buthelezi from the Buthelezi tribe. During the apartheid period, the South African authorities created ten “autonomous” tribal entities called Bantustans (homelands).

For many centuries, in almost the entire civilized world, power was organized according to the type of monarchy. Then the existing system was overthrown by revolutions or wars, but there are still states that consider this form of government acceptable for themselves. So, what types of monarchy are there and how do they differ from each other?

Monarchy: concept and types

The word “μοναρχία” existed in ancient Greek and meant “unique power.” It is easy to guess that monarchy in the historical and political sense is a form of government in which all power or most of it is concentrated in the hands of one person.

The monarch is called differently in different countries: emperor, king, prince, king, emir, khan, sultan, pharaoh, duke, and so on. The transfer of power by inheritance is a characteristic feature of the monarchy.

The concept and types of monarchies are an interesting subject for study by historians, political scientists and even politicians. A wave of revolutions, starting with the Great French Revolution, overthrew such a system in many countries. However, in the 21st century, modern types of monarchy successfully continue to exist in Great Britain, Monaco, Belgium, Sweden and other countries. Hence the numerous debates on the topic of whether the monarchical system limits democracy and whether such a state can develop intensively?

Classic signs of a monarchy

Numerous types of monarchy differ from each other in a number of characteristics. But there are also general provisions that are inherent in most of them.

There are examples in history when some types of republic and monarchy bordered so closely on each other in terms of political structure that it was difficult to give the state an unambiguous status. For example, the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth was headed by a monarch, but he was elected by the Sejm. Some historians call the controversial political regime of the Republic of Poland - gentry democracy.

Types of monarchy and their characteristics

There are two large groups of monarchies that have formed:

• according to the limitations of monarchical power;
• taking into account the traditional structure of power.

Before examining in detail the characteristics of each form of government, it is necessary to determine the existing types of monarchy. The table will help you do this clearly.

Absolute monarchy

Absolutus - translated from Latin as “unconditional”. Absolute and constitutional are the main types of monarchy.

An absolute monarchy is a form of government in which unconditional power is concentrated in the hands of one person and is not limited to any government structures. This method of political organization is similar to a dictatorship, since in the hands of the monarch there may be not only the fullness of military, legislative, judicial and executive power, but even religious power.

During the Age of Enlightenment, theologians began to explain the right of one person to individually control the fate of an entire people or state by the divine exclusivity of the ruler. That is, the monarch is God's anointed on the throne. The religious people sacredly believed in this. There are known cases when terminally ill French people came to the walls of the Louvre on certain days. People believed that by touching the hand of Louis XIV, they would receive the desired healing from all their illnesses.

There are different types of absolute monarchy. For example, absolute theocratic is a type of monarchy in which the head of the church is also the head of state. The most famous European country with this form of government is the Vatican.

A constitutional monarchy

This form of monarchical government is considered progressive because the ruler's power is limited to ministers or parliament. The main types of constitutional monarchy are dualistic and parliamentary.

In a dualistic organization of power, the monarch is given executive power, but no decision can be made without the approval of the relevant minister. Parliament retains the right to vote the budget and pass laws.

In a parliamentary monarchy, all levers of government are actually concentrated in the hands of parliament. The monarch approves ministerial candidates, but parliament still nominates them. It turns out that the hereditary ruler is simply a symbol of his state, but without the approval of parliament he cannot make a single nationally important decision. In some cases, parliament can even dictate to the monarch on what principles he should build his personal life.

Ancient Eastern monarchy

If we were to analyze in detail the list describing the types of monarchy, the table would begin with ancient Eastern monarchical formations. This is the first form of monarchy that appeared in our world, and it had peculiar features.

The ruler in such state formations was appointed by the leader of the community, who managed religious and economic affairs. One of the main duties of the monarch was to serve the cult. That is, he became a kind of priest, and organizing religious ceremonies, interpreting divine signs, preserving the wisdom of the tribe - these were his primary tasks.

Since the ruler in the eastern monarchy was directly connected with the gods in the minds of the people, he was given quite broad powers. For example, he could interfere in the internal affairs of any family and dictate his will.

In addition, the ancient Eastern monarch monitored the distribution of lands among his subjects and the collection of taxes. He established the scope of work and duties and led the army. Such a monarch necessarily had advisers - priests, noble people, elders.

Feudal monarchy

The types of monarchy as a form of government have transformed over time. After the ancient Eastern monarchy, the feudal form of government took precedence in political life. It is divided into several periods.

The early feudal monarchy emerged as a result of the evolution of slave states or the primitive communal system. As is known, the first rulers of such states were generally recognized military commanders. Relying on the support of the army, they established their supreme power over the peoples. To strengthen his influence in certain regions, the monarch sent his governors there, from whom the nobility was subsequently formed. The rulers did not bear any legal responsibility for their actions. In practice, institutions of power did not exist. The ancient Slavic state - Kievan Rus - fits this description.

After a period of feudal fragmentation, patrimonial monarchies began to form, in which large feudal lords inherited not only power, but also lands to their sons.

Then, for some time in history, an estate-representative form of government existed, until most states turned into absolute monarchies.

Theocratic monarchy

Types of monarchy, differing in traditional structure, include in their list the theocratic form of government.

In such a monarchy, the absolute ruler is the representative of the religion. With this form of government, all three branches of power pass into the hands of the clergy. Examples of such states in Europe have been preserved only on the territory of the Vatican, where the Pope is both the head of the church and the state ruler. But in Muslim countries there are a few more modern theocratic-monarchical examples - Saudi Arabia, Brunei.

Types of monarchy today

The flames of revolution failed to eradicate the monarchical system throughout the world. This form of government has been preserved in the 21st century in many respected countries.

In Europe, in the small parliamentary principality of Andorra, as of 2013, two princes ruled at once - Francois Hollande and Joan Enric Vives i Sicil.

In Belgium, King Philippe ascended the throne in 2013. A small country with a smaller population than Moscow or Tokyo, it is not just a constitutional parliamentary monarchy, but also a federal territorial system.

Since 2013, the Vatican has been headed by Pope Francis. The Vatican is a city-state that still maintains a theocratic monarchy.

The famous parliamentary monarchy of Great Britain has been ruled by Queen Elizabeth II since 1952, and Queen Margrethe II has ruled in Denmark since 1972.

In addition, the monarchical system has been preserved in Spain, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, the Order of Malta, Monaco and many other countries.

A monarchical state or, in other words, a monarchy is a state in which power, in whole or in part, belongs to one person - the monarch. This could be a king, king, emperor or, for example, a sultan, but any monarch rules for life and passes on his power by inheritance.

Today there are 30 monarchical states in the world and 12 of them are monarchies in Europe. A list of monarchy countries located in Europe is given below.

List of monarchy countries in Europe

1. Norway is a kingdom, a constitutional monarchy;
2. Sweden is a kingdom, a constitutional monarchy;
3. Denmark is a kingdom, a constitutional monarchy;
4. Great Britain is a kingdom, a constitutional monarchy;
5. Belgium – kingdom, constitutional monarchy;
6. The Netherlands – kingdom, constitutional monarchy;
7. Luxembourg – duchy, constitutional monarchy;
8. Liechtenstein – principality, constitutional monarchy;
9. Spain is a kingdom, a parliamentary constitutional monarchy;
10. Andorra is a principality, a parliamentary principality with two co-rulers;
11. Monaco – principality, constitutional monarchy;
12. The Vatican is a papal state, an elective absolute theocratic monarchy.

All monarchies in Europe are countries in which the form of government is a constitutional monarchy, that is, one in which the power of the monarch is significantly limited by the elected parliament and the constitution adopted by it. The only exception is the Vatican, where absolute rule is exercised by the elected Pope.

Exist in the modern world? Where on the planet are countries still ruled by kings and sultans? Find answers to these questions in our article. In addition, you will learn what a constitutional monarchy is. You will also find examples of countries with this form of government in this publication.

Basic forms of government in the modern world

Today, there are two main models of government known: monarchical and republican. Monarchy means a form of government in which power belongs to one person. This could be a king, emperor, emir, prince, sultan, etc. The second distinctive feature of the monarchical system is the process of transferring this power by inheritance (and not by the results of popular elections).

Today there are absolute, theocratic and constitutional monarchies. Republics (the second form of government) are more common in the modern world: there are about 70% of them. The republican model of government assumes the election of the supreme authorities - parliament and (or) the president.

The most famous monarchies on the planet: Great Britain, Denmark, Norway, Japan, Kuwait, United Arab Emirates (UAE). Examples of republican countries: Poland, Russia, France, Mexico, Ukraine. However, in this article we are only interested in countries with a constitutional monarchy (you will find a list of these states below).

Monarchy: absolute, theocratic, constitutional

Monarchical countries (there are about 40 of them in the world) are of three types. It can be a theocratic, absolute or constitutional monarchy. Let us briefly consider the features of each of them, and dwell in more detail on the last one.

In absolute monarchies, all power is concentrated in the hands of one person. He makes absolutely all decisions, implementing the domestic and foreign policies of his country. The most striking example of such a monarchy is Saudi Arabia.

In a theocratic monarchy, power belongs to the highest church (spiritual) minister. The only example of such a country is the Vatican, where the Pope is the absolute authority for the population. True, some researchers classify Brunei and even Great Britain as theocratic monarchies. It is no secret that the Queen of England is also the head of the church.

A constitutional monarchy is...

A constitutional monarchy is a model of government in which the power of the monarch is significantly limited.

Sometimes he may be completely deprived of supreme powers. In this case, the monarch is only a formal figure, a kind of symbol of the state (as, for example, in Great Britain).

All these legal restrictions on the power of the monarch, as a rule, are reflected in the constitution of a particular state (hence the name of this form of government).

Types of constitutional monarchy

Modern constitutional monarchies can be parliamentary or dualistic. In the first, the government is formed by the country's parliament, to which it reports. In dualistic constitutional monarchies, ministers are appointed (and removed) by the monarch himself. Parliament retains only the right of some veto.

It is worth noting that the division of countries into republics and monarchies sometimes turns out to be somewhat arbitrary. Indeed, even in the most, certain aspects of continuity of power can be observed (the appointment of relatives and friends to important government posts). This applies to Russia, Ukraine and even the USA.

Constitutional monarchy: examples of countries

Today, 31 states in the world can be classified as constitutional monarchies. A third of them are located in Western and Northern Europe. About 80% of all constitutional monarchies in the modern world are parliamentary, and only seven are dualistic.

Below are all countries with a constitutional monarchy (list). The region in which the state is located is indicated in brackets:

1. Luxembourg (Western Europe).
2. Liechtenstein (Western Europe).
3. Principality of Monaco (Western Europe).
4. Great Britain (Western Europe).
5. Netherlands (Western Europe).
6. Belgium (Western Europe).
7. Denmark (Western Europe).
8. Norway (Western Europe).
9. Sweden (Western Europe).
10. Spain (Western Europe).
11. Andorra (Western Europe).
12. Kuwait (Middle East).
13. UAE (Middle East).
14. Jordan (Middle East).
15. Japan (East Asia).
16. Cambodia (Southeast Asia).
17. Thailand (Southeast Asia).
18. Bhutan (Southeast Asia).
19. Australia (Australia and Oceania).
20. New Zealand (Australia and Oceania).
21. Papua New Guinea (Australia and Oceania).
22. Tonga (Australia and Oceania).
23. Solomon Islands (Australia and Oceania).
24. Canada (North America).
25. Morocco (North Africa).
26. Lesotho (South Africa).
27. Grenada (Caribbean region).
28. Jamaica (Caribbean region).
29. Saint Lucia (Caribbean region).
30. Saint Kitts and Nevis (Caribbean region).
31. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (Caribbean region).

On the map below, all these countries are marked in green.

Is constitutional monarchy the ideal form of government?

There is an opinion that a constitutional monarchy is the key to the stability and well-being of the country. Is it so?

Of course, a constitutional monarchy is not able to automatically solve all the problems that arise before the state. However, it is ready to offer society a certain political stability. Indeed, in such countries there is no constant struggle for power (imaginary or real) a priori.

The constitutional-monarchical model has a number of other advantages. As practice shows, it is in such states that it was possible to build the best social security systems in the world for citizens. And we are talking here not only about the countries of the Scandinavian Peninsula.

You can take, for example, the same countries of the Persian Gulf (UAE, Kuwait). They have much less oil than in Russia. However, over several decades, from poor countries whose population was exclusively engaged in grazing livestock in oases, they were able to turn into successful, prosperous and fully established states.

The most famous constitutional monarchies in the world: Great Britain, Norway, Kuwait

Great Britain is one of the most famous parliamentary monarchies on the planet. (as well as formally 15 other Commonwealth countries) is Queen Elizabeth II. However, one should not think that she is a purely symbolic figure. The British Queen has a strong right to dissolve Parliament. In addition, she is the commander-in-chief of the British troops.

The Norwegian king is also the head of his state, according to the Constitution, which has been in force since 1814. To quote this document, Norway is “a free monarchical state with a limited and hereditary form of government.” Moreover, initially the king had broader powers, which were gradually narrowed.

Another parliamentary monarchy since 1962 is Kuwait. The role of the head of state here is played by the emir, who has broad powers: he dissolves parliament, signs laws, appoints the head of government; he also commands the Kuwaiti troops. It is curious that in this amazing country, women are absolutely equal in their political rights with men, which is not at all typical for the states of the Arab world.

Finally

Now you know what a constitutional monarchy is. Examples of this country are present on all continents of the planet, except Antarctica. These are the gray-haired wealthy states of old Europe, and the young richest

Can we say that the most optimal form of government in the world is a constitutional monarchy? Examples of countries - successful and highly developed - fully confirm this assumption.