Monarchies and federations on the map. Modern monarchies of the world

Throughout the 19th century, parliamentary power actively developed in the world. Lands that had been ruled by royal families for centuries were changing their system of government: citizens were given the opportunity to choose their ruler and parliament.

However, some countries have retained the monarchical structure. Where the absolute monarchy has been preserved today - we will consider examples of countries with this method of governance below.

The list is quite extensive - contains 41 states. These are mainly countries of Asia, Europe, Polynesia, and Africa. Today there are only 12 absolute monarchies in the world. The largest number of them are located in the Middle East.

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Basic provisions of the control system

An absolute or unlimited monarchy is a form of government in which all power is in the hands of one person, which manages the legislative activities, cultural and economic life of the country. If there is any council or parliament in the state, then it is completely controlled by the monarch, or the body consists of direct relatives of the head of state.

Dualistic monarchy is a type of absolutism, in which the activities of the ruler are formally regulated by parliament. However, the monarch retains the power to dissolve parliament and the right of veto, so in fact he runs the state himself.

History of absolutism

For the first time states with absolute monarchy appeared in the modern era.

Absolute monarchy in Europe originated in the 16th-17th centuries, when the power of the feudal lords weakened and class assemblies ceased to function.

Unlimited monarchy flourished by the 18th and 19th centuries, the end of absolute rule occurred at the beginning of the 20th century.

The modern world and absolute monarchy

Today, only 7 states have survived, ruled by an absolute monarch. Largest number absolute monarchies located in the Middle East.

Oman

ruler: Sultan Qaboos bin Said;
religion: Islam;

State in the southeast Arabian Peninsula. In Oman, the relatives of the ruler do not take much part in state affairs, which is not typical for Middle Eastern absolutism.

The country has a Consultative Assembly, whose members are appointed by the monarch. The Assembly studies draft legislation and makes recommendations for their improvement.

Population: 4 million people(according to 2014 data), while 1 million are foreigners employed in the oil industry.

United Arab Emirates

ruler: Emir Khalifa al-Nahinyan;
religion: Islam;
basis of the economy: oil production, tourism.

The United Arab Emirates has federal structure, which includes 7 emirates - states with an unlimited monarchy. The head of the UAE is the emir of the largest emirate, Abu Dhabi (the same city is the capital).

Every year the Supreme Council of the Union meets in Abu Dhabi, which is attended by the emirs of all seven republics. They are about define foreign and domestic policy states.

In total, the country is home to 9.3 million people, of which 85% are labor migrants.

Qatar

Ruler: Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani;
religion: Islam;
basis of the economy: oil production.

Qatar is located in the Middle East, neighbors Saudi Arabia, and is an emirate. He lives according to the principles of Sharia, but this the most open of the Arab communities.

Qatar is one of the richest countries in the world.

Saudi Arabia

ruler: King Salman bin Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud;
religion: Islam;
basis of the economy: oil production.

The largest state on the Arabian Peninsula. His population – 31.5 million people(according to 2015 data).

All ministers are appointed by the king, and positions are distributed among his relatives. The monarch also appoints members of parliament and judges.

Saudi Arabia lives according to Sharia law.

Since criminal law is based on these laws, the country officially low level crime (discussing crimes is prohibited), at the same time little respect for human rights, human trafficking is rampant.

Saudi Arabia is a key oil producer in the world; on its territory there are 24% of the planet's oil reserves.

Important! Saudi Arabia is one of three countries in the world named after the ruling dynasty.

Brunei

ruler: Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah;
religion: Islam;
basis of the economy: oil production.

The official name of Brunei is the State of Brunei Darussalam.

Population – 401,890 people(according to 2011 data). One third of Bruneians live in the capital, with most residents concentrated in the oil fields.

Oil production has turned Brunei into richest country in Asia. The country actively trades with Japan, Indonesia, South Korea and Australia.

Since 2014, Brunei has been living under Sharia law.

Kingdom of Swaziland

ruler: King Mswati III;
religion: Christianity;
basis of the economy: agriculture.

On the world map, Swaziland can be found in Southern Africa.

According to 2009 estimates, the country's total 1.2 million people live. Residents of the state are mainly engaged in agriculture: they grow sugar cane, corn, cotton, tobacco, rice, citrus fruits and pineapples.

Vatican

ruler: Pope Francis I;
religion: Catholicism;
basis of the economy: church donations, tourism.

Absolute monarchy in Europe is represented by the Vatican. Vatican City - City State with a theocratic monocracy. The Pope is the Ruler, he is elected by the cardinals for life.

IN 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, the monarchy 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 Wangchuck (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
* Belize
* Grenada
*Canada
* Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
* Saint Kitts and Nevis
* Saint Lucia
* Jamaica

Oceania

* Australia
* New Zealand
* Niue
* Papua New Guinea
* Solomon islands
* Tuvalu

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 place 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 prosperity

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 harsh, 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 countries have turned into quite wealthy citizens.

Without going into endless enumeration of the advantages of Arabic social system, you can give just a few strokes. Any citizen of the country has the right to free medical care, including the one that ends up 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, for example Russian Empire, Austria-Hungary, Yugoslavia, 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 the national contradictions of 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, largely 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, especially in 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, support the heads of the Royal Houses who were 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. Sixty years ago it was big 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.

Stability of the political and economic systems of the majority 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 at the 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 impact for 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 contender for the throne is Leka, the son of the deposed King Zog I.
Andorra Principality, whose nominal co-rulers are 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 its life. The most famous current reigning king (ahosu) of Abomey is Agoli Agbo III, the 17th representative of his dynasty.
Bulgaria
The monarchy ceased to exist after the overthrow of Tsar Simeon II in 1946. Decree on the nationalization of lands belonging to royal family, was canceled in 1997. Since 2001 former king holds the post of Prime Minister of Bulgaria under the name of Simeon of Saxe-Coburg Gotha.
Botswana
Republic since independence in 1966. Members of one of the country's parliamentary chambers, the House of Chiefs, include the chiefs (Kgosi) of the country's eight largest tribes.
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. On the territory of the country there is a large number of traditional states, the most significant of which is Vogodogo (in the territory of the capital of the country Ouagudou), where the current ruler (moogo-naaba) Baongo II is on the throne.
Vatican
Theocracy (some analysts consider it a form of monarchy - an absolute theocratic monarchy - but it should be borne in mind that it is not and cannot be hereditary).
Hungary
The Republic since 1946, before that, since 1918, it was a nominal monarchy - 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 (oonko) 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.
Ivory Coast
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
(until 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 contender for 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 ceased to exist in 1957, at next year after the declaration of independence. The contender for the throne is Crown Prince Sidi Ali Ibrahim.
Turkey 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, in a private ceremony in London, Haile Selassie's son Amha Selassie I was proclaimed the new Emperor of Ethiopia (in exile).
South Africa Republic
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). In 1994

And now a little about the features of the African monarchy.

African autocrats.

Benin. Joseph Langanfen, a member of the Abomi dynasty, is the president of KAFRA, the council of Abomi royal families.

The scions of the dynasties that entered the history of Africa before the beginning of the twentieth century are the bearers of the secret power with which “modern governments” must coexist.

Unlike the Indian Maharjas, they have survived the upheavals of history and exist, as it were, in parallel world, which remains very real. However, for some Africans they represent a backward, archaic system that has succumbed to Western colonization. They are accused of tribal conservatism, which prevents traditional African societies from moving towards the formation of modern states.

For others, these kings are the guarantors of the old culture in the face of an uncertain future. Be that as it may, they are still present in different countries, and this reality must be taken into account.

Nigeria. Igwe Kenneth Nnaji Onimeke Orizu III. Obi (king) of the Nnewi tribe. When he was proclaimed king in 1963, Igwe was a farmer and his 10 wives bore him 30 children. Situated in the east of the Niger River, the tribe's main city has several millionaires.

Benin. Agboli-Agbo Dejlani. King of abomi. A former policeman, he had to wait six years for retirement before finally being proclaimed in a secret ceremony the head of one of the Abomi clans. By nature, the monogamous king had to take two more wives, as required by rank.

Nigeria. In 1980, Sijuwade became the 50th oni (king) of Ilfa, one of the oldest African dynasties. Today he is a wealthy businessman, owning extensive property in Nigeria and England.

Cameroon. Fon (king) Banjuna is the brother of the brave and powerful animals. At night, he can turn into a panther and hunt in a shroud. Formerly the chief administrator and head of the Cabinet of the Minister of Finance of Cameroon, Kamga Joseph is now the 13th von of his tribe.

Ghana. Ocediyo ado Danqua III. A graduate of the University of London and an economic adviser to the Ghanaian government, King Akropong has spent the last sixteen years living in the "holy places" of the Akuarem-Ason, one of the seven major clans of the Akan tribe.

Congo. Nyimi Kok Mabintsh III, King of Cuba. Now he is 50, he ascended the throne at the age of 20. He is considered a descendant of the creator god and the possessor of supernatural powers. He has no right to sit on the ground or cross cultivated fields. And no one has ever seen him eat.

South Africa. Goodwill Zwelethini, King of the Zulu. He is a direct descendant of the legendary Chaka Zulu, the founder of the kingdom, whose military genius is sometimes compared to Napoleon.

Nigeria. Oba Joseph Adekola Ogunoye. Olowo (king) of the Ovo tribe. 600 years ago, the first monarch of the dynasty fell in love with a beautiful girl who turned out to be a goddess. She became his wife, but demanded that every year the people hold festivals in her honor with a sacrifice. This still happens, but human sacrifices - necessarily a man and a woman - were replaced by a sheep and a goat.

Cameroon. Hapi IV, King of Bana. This royal dynasty is associated with a real tragedy. In the mid-12th century, several Bamileke clans settled in small villages around Ban. Legend has it that one of the village chiefs, Mfenge, was accused of witchcraft. In order to justify himself, he cut off his mother's head, and the corpse was studied by local shamans. Claims that witchcraft was transmitted through the "womb" were not proven, and Mfenge himself was made king.

These are Their African Majesties. 21st century.

However, some countries have retained the monarchical structure. Where the absolute monarchy has been preserved today - we will consider examples of countries with this method of governance below.

History of absolutism

United Arab Emirates

Qatar

Saudi Arabia

Brunei

Kingdom of Swaziland

Vatican

Basic provisions of the control system

History of absolutism

For the first time, states with an absolute monarchy appeared in the modern era.

Absolute monarchy in Europe originated in the 16th-17th centuries, when the power of the feudal lords weakened and class assemblies ceased to function.

Unlimited monarchy flourished by the 18th and 19th centuries, in Russia the end of absolute rule occurred at the beginning of the 20th century.

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The modern world and absolute monarchy

Today, only 7 states have survived, ruled by an absolute monarch. Largest number of absolute monarchies located in the Middle East.

Oman

ruler: Sultan Qaboos bin Said;
religion: Islam;

A state in the southeast of the Arabian Peninsula. In Oman, the relatives of the ruler do not take much part in state affairs, which is not typical for Middle Eastern absolutism.

The country has a Consultative Assembly, whose members are appointed by the monarch. The Assembly studies draft legislation and makes recommendations for their improvement.

Population: 4 million people(according to 2014 data), while 1 million are foreigners employed in the oil industry.

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United Arab Emirates

ruler: Emir Khalifa al-Nahinyan;
religion: Islam;
basis of the economy: oil production, tourism.

Every year the Supreme Council of the Union meets in Abu Dhabi, which is attended by the emirs of all seven republics. They are about define foreign and domestic policy states.

In total, the country is home to 9.3 million people, of which 85% are labor migrants.

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Qatar

Ruler: Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani;
religion: Islam;
basis of the economy: oil production.

Qatar is located in the Middle East, neighbors Saudi Arabia, and is an emirate. He lives according to the principles of Sharia, but this the most open of the Arab communities.

Qatar is one of the richest countries in the world.

Saudi Arabia

ruler: King Salman bin Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud;
religion: Islam;
basis of the economy: oil production.

The largest state on the Arabian Peninsula. His population – 31.5 million people(according to 2015 data).

All ministers are appointed by the king, and positions are distributed among his relatives. The monarch also appoints members of parliament and judges.

Saudi Arabia lives according to Sharia law.

Since criminal law is based on these laws, the country has an officially low crime rate (discussing crimes is prohibited), but at the same time little respect for human rights, human trafficking is rampant.

Saudi Arabia is a key oil producer in the world; on its territory there are 24% of the planet's oil reserves.

Brunei

ruler: Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah;
religion: Islam;
basis of the economy: oil production.

The official name of Brunei is the State of Brunei Darussalam.

Population – 401,890 people(according to 2011 data). One third of Bruneians live in the capital, with most residents concentrated in the oil fields.

Oil production has turned Brunei into richest country in Asia. The country actively trades with Japan, Indonesia, South Korea and Australia.

Since 2014, Brunei has been living under Sharia law.

Kingdom of Swaziland

ruler: King Mswati III;
religion: Christianity;
basis of the economy: agriculture.

On the world map, Swaziland can be found in Southern Africa.

Vatican

ruler: Pope Francis I;
religion: Catholicism;
basis of the economy: church donations, tourism.

Absolute monarchy in Europe is represented by the Vatican. Vatican City - City State with a theocratic monocracy. The Pope is the Ruler, he is elected by the cardinals for life.

The Vatican is located in the north-west of Rome, the country is surrounded on all sides by Italian lands.

The population of the Vatican is about 1000 people(according to 2014 estimates).

The vast majority of people serve catholic church, This the only way get a Vatican passport. Once a priest finishes serving in the Vatican, his passport is revoked.

Forms of government: Monarchy

Monarchy and modern monarchism

The question remains whether monarchical states will survive in the future. On the one hand, such the governance system guarantees the cohesion of the country, its integrity. On the other hand, many modern countries with absolutist forms of government do not respect human rights, which is condemned by the international community. It is unknown how many and what kind of absolute monarchies there will be on the map in a hundred years.

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Distinctive features and characteristics of an absolute monarchy

The distinctive features of an absolute monarchy are:

centralization of all government powers;
rigid hierarchical structure of public administration;
hereditary nature of transfer of power;
the power of the monarch cannot be limited.

In Europe, absolutism flourished between the 14th and 16th centuries. In the modern world, several states with unlimited power have also survived.

As a form of government, absolute monarchy appeared during Ancient Egypt, Ancient China. There, all power was concentrated in the hands of the emperor and pharaoh. They were supreme judges, commanders-in-chief of armies. Some historians believe that the form of government in ancient states can be classified as despotism, and not absolutism in the modern sense.

The foundations of absolutism were laid in ancient Rome. The well-known formula of the Roman lawyer Ulpian is that the Sovereign is not bound by laws (source: Wikipedia). In Europe, Niccolo Machiavelli made a great contribution to the formation of an absolute monarchy. In his writings, he described the theoretical foundations and features of the unlimited power of the monarch.

A feature of absolutism in the Middle Ages and now, for example, in the Vatican, was the deification of the power of the monarch. This was expressed in the ceremony of approval (coronation) of the king or king in the church. This is due to the fact that at that time the influence of the church was enormous. She dominated all areas of public life.

Absolute monarchy in Europe

The emergence of absolutism in Europe was due to changes in social relations. For example, in France, power actually belonged to large landowners (the king owned only about 30% of the land). Estate representative bodies had unlimited influence on the king. Landowners could force the king to pass any law that was beneficial to them. With the development of cities there appears new class bourgeoisie. Continuous wars lead to increased costs. There was a need for unification and the establishment of strong power.

The centralization of power was supported by representatives of the church. During that period, the merger of state and church took place. Almost all positions in government were occupied by clergy.

Lands become the property of the state, class-representative bodies lose their influence, and a new hierarchy of power develops. A regular army and law enforcement agencies appear. The laws issued by the king are binding throughout the country. Cities lose the right to self-government, and mayors are appointed by the king.

As economic relations developed, the unlimited monarchy lost its significance and began to hinder the further growth of the well-being of the bourgeoisie. The contradictions that arose led to the change from an absolute monarchy to a constitutional one, for example, in Great Britain, and the violent overthrow of the sovereign, for example, in France.

The distinctive features of the unlimited monarchy in Great Britain were the preservation of the functions of parliament, the absence of a regular army, and an extensive local government apparatus.

In Germany and Italy (since centralized states were formed later), unlimited monarchy was expressed in the power of the local prince.

In Russia, the absolute monarchy (autocracy) existed until the beginning of the 20th century.

Modern states with absolute monarchy

Currently, several states with this form of government have survived. This:

Vatican- a theocratic state in which all power belongs to the head of the Catholic Church - the Pope.
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, according to the basic law of the state, is a theocratic absolute monarchy, although nominally the power of the king may be limited by the norms and rules of Sharia.
Kingdom of Swaziland- Executive power is concentrated in the hands of the king. The country's parliament is nominally the highest legislative body, but in fact it only performs an advisory function.
UAE- a state that unites, in the form of a federation, several emirates with the absolute power of the monarch. The president of the federation is the emir of Abu Dhabi, and the prime minister is the emir of Dubai. The Supreme Council, which includes all the emirs of the UAE countries, is the supreme body in the country.
Sultanate of Brunei- is also a theocratic state with unlimited powers of the Sultan. The country nominally has a parliament, however, it consists only of relatives of the Sultan.
Sultanate of Oman can be described as a classic absolute monarchy. All power is concentrated in the hands of the Sultan of Oman. He is the Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Finance, Defense and acting Director of the country's Central Bank.
Emirate of Qatar– the state has a Constitution, according to which the country is an absolute monarchy. The Emir single-handedly appoints all members of the government and the advisory council.

In the modern world, democratic forms of government, such as parliamentary or presidential republics, are widespread. But at the same time, there are forty-one countries where the monarchy has been preserved, and has various shapes. European countries with a monarchy are the Vatican, Monaco and Liechtenstein. This form of government also exists in Africa. You can name Lesotho, Morocco and Swaziland. The modern monarchy has many faces, and is entrenched in both the Middle East and democratic Europe. For example, a constitutional monarchy, when the king has minimal power or the monarch is completely deprived of it, and retains his throne as a tribute to tradition: Great Britain, Japan. But, at the same time, there are countries with an absolute monarchy, in which all power is concentrated in the hands of one ruler. This is discussed in the article.

Absolute monarchy - its characteristics

A form of government called an absolute monarchy, characterized by the fact that the country is ruled by one person. Legislative power, as well as executive and judicial power, is concentrated in the hands of the monarch. We can mention such countries with absolute monarchy as Saudi Arabia, Oman, the principalities of the UAE, Qatar.

The country is ruled by a monarch, under whom an advisory body or parliament operates (it includes the most respected persons). However, all decisions of the latter, however, require the consent of the crowned person. The role of the constitution is played by the holy book of Muslims - the Koran. The family council in Arab forms of absolute monarchy is an informal institution, which, in addition to the relatives of the monarch, includes highly respected experts on the Koran. There were cases when the family council (for example, in Saudi Arabia) deposed the king, and a new family member was elected in his place. The monarch not only rules the country, but also unites secular and spiritual power, occupying the highest clergy. He is considered an imam in a country where the Muslim religion is recognized as the state religion. Therefore, the modern absolute monarchy that exists in the Middle East is called absolutist-theocratic.

Despite the fact that countries with an absolute monarchy were formed on the basis of a feudal aristocracy, they now prosper thanks to oil wealth. Most of the power is concentrated in the hands of the big financial bourgeoisie. The countries of the Persian Gulf, where the monarchy remains and there is no parliament or constitution, have turned their citizens into quite wealthy people. For example, there is free public medicine, free education and maintenance in the most prestigious educational institutions peace. The state provides housing for young families. Arab countries with an absolute monarchy are social states aimed at increasing the well-being of the people.

Sultanate of Oman

When considering countries with an absolute monarchy, we can take the Sultanate of Oman as an example. This state, located in South-West Asia, does not have a constitution; its role is played by the Koran. The government is chosen by the monarch himself. It is called the State Council. Its first meeting was held in 1998. In addition to it, there is also the Shura Council, the leader of which is appointed by the king. The Shura Council is in charge of discussing five-year development plans, taking care of the environment, and appealing to the Sultan to express their opinion. Only the Sultan can decide international affairs. The posts of major government officials, prime minister, and governors usually belong to relatives of the king.

How is monarchy superior to other forms of government? First of all, this is an opportunity to ensure the country’s integrity and give it balance. Of course, this form of government will not automatically solve all economic, social and political issues. But at the same time, states with an absolute monarchy are stable entities at the political and social level.

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.

But at the same time, there are forty-one countries where the monarchy has been preserved, and in various forms. with the monarchy - these are the Vatican, Monaco and Liechtenstein. This form of government also exists in Africa. You can name Lesotho, Morocco and Swaziland. The modern monarchy has many faces, and is entrenched in both the Middle East and democratic Europe. For example, when the king has minimal power or the monarch is completely deprived of it, and retains his throne as a tribute to Japan. But, at the same time, there are countries with an absolute monarchy, in which all power is concentrated in the hands of one ruler. This is discussed in the article.

Absolute monarchy - its characteristics

The form of government called is characterized by the fact that the country is ruled by one person. Legislative power, as well as executive and judicial power, is concentrated in the hands of the monarch. We can mention such countries with absolute monarchy as Saudi Arabia, Oman, the principalities of the UAE, Qatar.

Despite the fact that countries with an absolute monarchy were formed on the basis of a feudal aristocracy, they now prosper thanks to oil wealth. Most of the power is concentrated in the hands of the big financial bourgeoisie. The countries of the Persian Gulf, where the monarchy remains and there is no parliament or constitution, have turned their citizens into quite wealthy people. For example, there is free public medicine, free education and maintenance in the most prestigious educational institutions in the world. The state provides housing for young families. Arab countries with an absolute monarchy are social states aimed at increasing the well-being of the people.

Sultanate of Oman

Considering countries with an absolute monarchy, we can take as an example this state, located in South-West Asia, does not have a constitution, its role is played by the Koran. The government is chosen by the monarch himself. It is called the State Council. Its first meeting was held in 1998. In addition to it, there is also the Shura Council, the leader of which is appointed by the king. The Shura Council is in charge of discussing five-year development plans, taking care of the environment, and appealing to the Sultan to express their opinion. Only the Sultan can decide international affairs. The posts of major government officials, prime minister, and governors usually belong to relatives of the king.