There are 195 countries recognized globally in the world today, comprising 193 member states of the United Nations and two observer states, the Holy See and the State of Palestine. Navigating the complexities of global demographics and understanding geopolitical landscapes can be challenging, but how.edu.vn provides expert guidance to clarify these intricate topics. Through our platform, you gain access to insights from leading PhDs and professionals, facilitating a deeper understanding of sovereign states, world populations, and international relations.
1. What Is The Total Number Of Countries In The World?
The total number of countries in the world is 195, consisting of 193 member states of the United Nations (UN) and two non-member observer states, which are the Holy See and the State of Palestine. This figure is widely accepted and used for statistical and geographical purposes.
Expanding on this, the United Nations is an intergovernmental organization established in 1945 to promote international cooperation and maintain global peace and security. Membership in the UN is generally seen as a benchmark of international recognition, although there are territories and entities with complex statuses that are not included in this count. These exclusions often involve political considerations and ongoing disputes over sovereignty. For example, Taiwan is not recognized by the UN, which considers it to be represented by the People’s Republic of China. Similarly, there are dependencies and territories with special statuses that are not considered independent countries. Understanding these nuances is important for a comprehensive view of global geography and political landscapes.
2. Which Countries Are Member States Of The United Nations?
Currently, there are 193 countries that are member states of the United Nations. Each member state has a seat in the UN General Assembly. These member states represent a vast array of political systems, cultures, and economies across the globe.
2.1 How UN Membership is Determined
Becoming a member of the United Nations involves a formal process, starting with an application to the UN Secretary-General. This application is then considered by the Security Council, where it must receive at least nine affirmative votes out of fifteen, with no veto from any of the five permanent members (China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States). If the Security Council recommends admission, the application is then presented to the General Assembly, where it requires a two-thirds majority vote for approval. This rigorous process ensures that new members adhere to the principles of the UN Charter and are committed to international peace and cooperation. The UN provides numerous benefits to its member states, including platforms for diplomatic engagement, access to development assistance, and participation in international law-making.
2.2 Role of the UN
The United Nations plays a crucial role in global governance, addressing issues ranging from peace and security to economic and social development. Its specialized agencies, such as the World Health Organization (WHO), the World Bank, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), work to improve living standards and coordinate responses to global challenges. The UN also serves as a forum for countries to voice their opinions and collaborate on solving common problems, making it an indispensable institution for international relations.
3. What Are The Non-Member Observer States Of The United Nations?
The two non-member observer states of the United Nations are the Holy See (Vatican City) and the State of Palestine. These entities have permanent observer status, allowing them to participate in UN proceedings without voting rights.
3.1 Understanding Observer Status
Observer status at the UN allows entities to participate in the work of the General Assembly and other UN bodies. This status is typically granted to states that are not full members but wish to engage with the international community through the UN. Observer states can speak at meetings, circulate documents, and propose agenda items, but they cannot vote on resolutions. This status provides a valuable platform for entities to express their views and advocate for their interests on the global stage.
3.2 The Holy See
The Holy See, representing Vatican City, maintains observer status due to its unique position as the central governing body of the Roman Catholic Church. This status allows the Holy See to engage in diplomatic activities and address moral and ethical issues on the international stage.
3.3 The State Of Palestine
The State of Palestine was granted observer status in 2012, a move that recognized its aspirations for statehood and provided it with a platform to advocate for its cause within the international community. This status allows Palestine to participate in UN activities, albeit without the full rights of a member state.
4. Why Are Some Territories Not Included In The List Of Countries?
Some territories are not included in the list of countries due to various reasons, including lack of full sovereignty, disputed status, or special agreements. These territories may be dependencies, autonomous regions, or areas recognized as not self-governing by the United Nations.
4.1 Taiwan’s Status
Taiwan, officially known as the Republic of China (ROC), is a self-governing island that is not recognized as a sovereign state by the United Nations. The UN considers Taiwan to be represented by the People’s Republic of China (PRC). This stance is due to the complex political history between Taiwan and mainland China, where the PRC asserts that Taiwan is a renegade province. As a result, Taiwan is excluded from the list of UN member states, despite having its own government, military, and democratic institutions.
4.2 Cook Islands and Niue
The Cook Islands and Niue are states in free association with New Zealand. While they are members of several UN specialized agencies and have been recognized as having “full treaty-making capacity,” they are neither member states nor non-member observer states of the UN. This unique status reflects their close ties to New Zealand while maintaining a degree of autonomy in their governance.
4.3 Dependencies and Autonomous Territories
Dependencies, also known as dependent territories or dependent areas, are territories that do not possess full political independence and are governed by another state. Examples include territories such as Bermuda (a British Overseas Territory) and Guam (a U.S. territory). Similarly, autonomous territories have a degree of self-governance but remain under the sovereignty of another state. These territories are not considered independent countries and are therefore excluded from the list of UN member states.
5. What Defines A Country?
A country, also known as a state, is typically defined by several key characteristics: a defined territory, a permanent population, a government, and the capacity to enter into relations with other states. These criteria are often used in international law to determine statehood.
5.1 Montevideo Convention
The Montevideo Convention on the Rights and Duties of States, signed in 1933, is a widely recognized treaty that codifies the definition of a state under international law. According to the convention, a state should possess a permanent population, a defined territory, a government, and the capacity to enter into relations with other states. These criteria are essential for recognition as a sovereign entity in the international community.
5.2 Recognition By Other States
Recognition by other states is a critical factor in establishing statehood. While the Montevideo Convention outlines the basic criteria, the willingness of other countries to recognize a state’s sovereignty often determines its acceptance into the international community. This recognition can be influenced by political considerations, historical ties, and adherence to international norms and standards.
6. How Does Population Size Vary Among Countries?
Population sizes vary significantly among countries, ranging from over 1.4 billion in India to just a few hundred in the Holy See. This variation reflects differences in land area, economic development, and historical factors.
6.1 Most Populous Countries
As of 2025, the most populous countries in the world are:
| Rank | Country | Population (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | India | 1,463,865,525 |
| 2 | China | 1,416,096,094 |
| 3 | United States | 347,275,807 |
| 4 | Indonesia | 285,721,236 |
| 5 | Pakistan | 255,219,554 |
These countries account for a significant portion of the world’s population, influencing global trends in demographics, economics, and politics.
6.2 Least Populous Countries
Conversely, the least populous countries include:
| Rank | Country | Population (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| 193 | Nauru | 12,025 |
| 194 | Tuvalu | 9,492 |
| 195 | Holy See | 501 |
These microstates often face unique challenges related to their small size, such as limited resources and vulnerability to external pressures.
6.3 Impact of Population Size
Population size can have a profound impact on a country’s development, influencing factors such as resource availability, economic productivity, and social services. Large populations can drive economic growth but also strain resources, while small populations may face challenges in maintaining economic viability and providing essential services.
7. How Does Land Area Vary Among Countries?
Land area varies greatly among countries, from Russia, which spans over 17 million square kilometers, to Vatican City, which covers just 0.44 square kilometers. This variation affects resource distribution, agricultural potential, and geopolitical influence.
7.1 Largest Countries By Land Area
The largest countries by land area are:
| Rank | Country | Land Area (Km²) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Russia | 16,376,870 |
| 2 | Canada | 9,093,510 |
| 3 | China | 9,388,211 |
| 4 | United States | 9,147,420 |
| 5 | Brazil | 8,358,140 |
These countries possess vast natural resources and diverse ecosystems, which contribute to their economic and environmental significance.
7.2 Smallest Countries By Land Area
The smallest countries by land area include:
| Rank | Country | Land Area (Km²) |
|---|---|---|
| 189 | Monaco | 1 |
| 193 | Nauru | 20 |
| 195 | Holy See | 0 |
These microstates often rely on specialized industries, such as tourism or finance, to sustain their economies.
7.3 Influence of Land Area
Land area influences a country’s access to natural resources, agricultural potential, and strategic importance. Larger countries may have greater potential for resource extraction and agricultural production, while smaller countries may focus on specialized industries and trade.
8. What Is The Population And Land Area Of Each Country?
Below is a comprehensive table of countries ranked by population, showing current population, share of world population, and land area.
| # | Country | Population(2025) | WorldShare | Land Area(Km²) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | India | 1,463,865,525 | 17.78% | 2,973,190 |
| 2 | China | 1,416,096,094 | 17.20% | 9,388,211 |
| 3 | United States | 347,275,807 | 4.22% | 9,147,420 |
| 4 | Indonesia | 285,721,236 | 3.47% | 1,811,570 |
| 5 | Pakistan | 255,219,554 | 3.10% | 770,880 |
| 6 | Nigeria | 237,527,782 | 2.89% | 910,770 |
| 7 | Brazil | 212,812,405 | 2.59% | 8,358,140 |
| 8 | Bangladesh | 175,686,899 | 2.13% | 130,170 |
| 9 | Russia | 143,997,393 | 1.75% | 16,376,870 |
| 10 | Ethiopia | 135,472,051 | 1.65% | 1,000,000 |
| 11 | Mexico | 131,946,900 | 1.60% | 1,943,950 |
| 12 | Japan | 123,103,479 | 1.50% | 364,555 |
| 13 | Egypt | 118,365,995 | 1.44% | 995,450 |
| 14 | Philippines | 116,786,962 | 1.42% | 298,170 |
| 15 | DR Congo | 112,832,473 | 1.37% | 2,267,050 |
| 16 | Vietnam | 101,598,527 | 1.23% | 310,070 |
| 17 | Iran | 92,417,681 | 1.12% | 1,628,550 |
| 18 | Turkey | 87,685,426 | 1.07% | 769,630 |
| 19 | Germany | 84,075,075 | 1.02% | 348,560 |
| 20 | Thailand | 71,619,863 | 0.87% | 510,890 |
| 21 | Tanzania | 70,545,865 | 0.86% | 885,800 |
| 22 | United Kingdom | 69,551,332 | 0.84% | 241,930 |
| 23 | France | 66,650,804 | 0.81% | 547,557 |
| 24 | South Africa | 64,747,319 | 0.79% | 1,213,090 |
| 25 | Italy | 59,146,260 | 0.72% | 294,140 |
| 26 | Kenya | 57,532,493 | 0.70% | 569,140 |
| 27 | Myanmar | 54,850,648 | 0.67% | 653,290 |
| 28 | Colombia | 53,425,635 | 0.65% | 1,109,500 |
| 29 | South Korea | 51,667,029 | 0.63% | 97,230 |
| 30 | Sudan | 51,662,147 | 0.63% | 1,765,048 |
| 31 | Uganda | 51,384,894 | 0.62% | 199,810 |
| 32 | Spain | 47,889,958 | 0.58% | 498,800 |
| 33 | Algeria | 47,435,312 | 0.58% | 2,381,740 |
| 34 | Iraq | 47,020,774 | 0.57% | 434,320 |
| 35 | Argentina | 45,851,378 | 0.56% | 2,736,690 |
| 36 | Afghanistan | 43,844,111 | 0.53% | 652,860 |
| 37 | Yemen | 41,773,878 | 0.51% | 527,970 |
| 38 | Canada | 40,126,723 | 0.49% | 9,093,510 |
| 39 | Angola | 39,040,039 | 0.47% | 1,246,700 |
| 40 | Ukraine | 38,980,376 | 0.47% | 579,320 |
| 41 | Morocco | 38,430,770 | 0.47% | 446,300 |
| 42 | Poland | 38,140,910 | 0.46% | 306,230 |
| 43 | Uzbekistan | 37,053,428 | 0.45% | 425,400 |
| 44 | Malaysia | 35,977,838 | 0.44% | 328,550 |
| 45 | Mozambique | 35,631,653 | 0.43% | 786,380 |
| 46 | Ghana | 35,064,272 | 0.43% | 227,540 |
| 47 | Peru | 34,576,665 | 0.42% | 1,280,000 |
| 48 | Saudi Arabia | 34,566,328 | 0.42% | 2,149,690 |
| 49 | Madagascar | 32,740,678 | 0.40% | 581,795 |
| 50 | Côte d’Ivoire | 32,711,547 | 0.40% | 318,000 |
| 51 | Cameroon | 29,879,337 | 0.36% | 472,710 |
| 52 | Nepal | 29,618,118 | 0.36% | 143,350 |
| 53 | Venezuela | 28,516,896 | 0.35% | 882,050 |
| 54 | Niger | 27,917,831 | 0.34% | 1,266,700 |
| 55 | Australia | 26,974,026 | 0.33% | 7,682,300 |
| 56 | North Korea | 26,571,036 | 0.32% | 120,410 |
| 57 | Syria | 25,620,427 | 0.31% | 183,630 |
| 58 | Mali | 25,198,821 | 0.31% | 1,220,190 |
| 59 | Burkina Faso | 24,074,580 | 0.29% | 273,600 |
| 60 | Sri Lanka | 23,229,470 | 0.28% | 62,710 |
| 61 | Malawi | 22,216,120 | 0.27% | 94,280 |
| 62 | Zambia | 21,913,874 | 0.27% | 743,390 |
| 63 | Chad | 21,003,705 | 0.26% | 1,259,200 |
| 64 | Kazakhstan | 20,843,754 | 0.25% | 2,699,700 |
| 65 | Chile | 19,859,921 | 0.24% | 743,532 |
| 66 | Somalia | 19,654,739 | 0.24% | 627,340 |
| 67 | Senegal | 18,931,966 | 0.23% | 192,530 |
| 68 | Romania | 18,908,650 | 0.23% | 230,170 |
| 69 | Guatemala | 18,687,881 | 0.23% | 107,160 |
| 70 | Netherlands | 18,346,819 | 0.22% | 33,720 |
| 71 | Ecuador | 18,289,896 | 0.22% | 248,360 |
| 72 | Cambodia | 17,847,982 | 0.22% | 176,520 |
| 73 | Zimbabwe | 16,950,795 | 0.21% | 386,850 |
| 74 | Guinea | 15,099,727 | 0.18% | 245,720 |
| 75 | Benin | 14,814,460 | 0.18% | 112,760 |
| 76 | Rwanda | 14,569,341 | 0.18% | 24,670 |
| 77 | Burundi | 14,390,003 | 0.17% | 25,680 |
| 78 | Bolivia | 12,581,843 | 0.15% | 1,083,300 |
| 79 | Tunisia | 12,348,573 | 0.15% | 155,360 |
| 80 | South Sudan | 12,188,788 | 0.15% | 610,952 |
| 81 | Haiti | 11,906,095 | 0.14% | 27,560 |
| 82 | Belgium | 11,758,603 | 0.14% | 30,280 |
| 83 | Jordan | 11,520,684 | 0.14% | 88,780 |
| 84 | Dominican Republic | 11,520,487 | 0.14% | 48,320 |
| 85 | United Arab Emirates | 11,346,000 | 0.14% | 83,600 |
| 86 | Honduras | 11,005,850 | 0.13% | 111,890 |
| 87 | Cuba | 10,937,203 | 0.13% | 106,440 |
| 88 | Tajikistan | 10,786,734 | 0.13% | 139,960 |
| 89 | Papua New Guinea | 10,762,817 | 0.13% | 452,860 |
| 90 | Sweden | 10,656,633 | 0.13% | 410,340 |
| 91 | Czech Republic (Czechia) | 10,609,239 | 0.13% | 77,240 |
| 92 | Portugal | 10,411,834 | 0.13% | 91,590 |
| 93 | Azerbaijan | 10,397,713 | 0.13% | 82,658 |
| 94 | Greece | 9,938,844 | 0.12% | 128,900 |
| 95 | Togo | 9,721,608 | 0.12% | 54,390 |
| 96 | Hungary | 9,632,287 | 0.12% | 90,530 |
| 97 | Israel | 9,517,181 | 0.12% | 21,640 |
| 98 | Austria | 9,113,574 | 0.11% | 82,409 |
| 99 | Belarus | 8,997,603 | 0.11% | 202,910 |
| 100 | Switzerland | 8,967,407 | 0.11% | 39,516 |
| 101 | Sierra Leone | 8,819,794 | 0.11% | 72,180 |
| 102 | Laos | 7,873,046 | 0.096% | 230,800 |
| 103 | Turkmenistan | 7,618,847 | 0.093% | 469,930 |
| 104 | Libya | 7,458,555 | 0.091% | 1,759,540 |
| 105 | Kyrgyzstan | 7,295,034 | 0.089% | 191,800 |
| 106 | Paraguay | 7,013,078 | 0.085% | 397,300 |
| 107 | Nicaragua | 7,007,502 | 0.085% | 120,340 |
| 108 | Bulgaria | 6,714,560 | 0.082% | 108,560 |
| 109 | Serbia | 6,689,039 | 0.081% | 87,460 |
| 110 | Congo | 6,484,437 | 0.079% | 341,500 |
| 111 | El Salvador | 6,365,503 | 0.077% | 20,720 |
| 112 | Denmark | 6,002,507 | 0.073% | 42,430 |
| 113 | Singapore | 5,870,750 | 0.071% | 700 |
| 114 | Lebanon | 5,849,421 | 0.071% | 10,230 |
| 115 | Liberia | 5,731,206 | 0.070% | 96,320 |
| 116 | Finland | 5,623,329 | 0.068% | 303,890 |
| 117 | Norway | 5,623,071 | 0.068% | 365,268 |
| 118 | State of Palestine | 5,589,623 | 0.068% | 6,020 |
| 119 | Central African Republic | 5,513,282 | 0.067% | 622,980 |
| 120 | Oman | 5,494,691 | 0.067% | 309,500 |
| 121 | Slovakia | 5,474,881 | 0.067% | 48,088 |
| 122 | Mauritania | 5,315,065 | 0.065% | 1,030,700 |
| 123 | Ireland | 5,308,039 | 0.064% | 68,890 |
| 124 | New Zealand | 5,251,899 | 0.064% | 263,310 |
| 125 | Costa Rica | 5,152,950 | 0.063% | 51,060 |
| 126 | Kuwait | 5,026,078 | 0.061% | 17,820 |
| 127 | Panama | 4,571,189 | 0.056% | 74,340 |
| 128 | Croatia | 3,848,160 | 0.047% | 55,960 |
| 129 | Georgia | 3,806,671 | 0.046% | 69,490 |
| 130 | Eritrea | 3,607,003 | 0.044% | 101,000 |
| 131 | Mongolia | 3,517,100 | 0.043% | 1,553,560 |
| 132 | Uruguay | 3,384,688 | 0.041% | 175,020 |
| 133 | Bosnia and Herzegovina | 3,140,095 | 0.038% | 51,000 |
| 134 | Qatar | 3,115,889 | 0.038% | 11,610 |
| 135 | Namibia | 3,092,816 | 0.038% | 823,290 |
| 136 | Moldova | 2,996,106 | 0.0 |
