Constitutional Monarchy: Examples of Countries. Countries with a constitutional monarchy: list

In our modern world 41 states have a monarchical form of government. All these countries for the most part belong to the 3rd world and were formed as a result of the collapse of the colonial system. Often established along colonial administrative lines, these states are highly unstable entities. They can be fragmented and modified, which is 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 are not included in the category of advanced states. However, I would like to note that the monarchical system has many faces: from tribal forms of government that are used in the Arab states to monarchical forms in many European countries.

List of states with a monarchical system:

Europe
Andorra - co-princes Nicolas Sarkozy (since 2007) and Joan Enric Vives y Cicilla (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 in 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 of Sabah al-Ahmed al-Jaber al-Sabah (since 2006)

Malaysia - King Mizan Zainal Abidin (since 2006)

United 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 in 1990-1995)

Morocco - King Mohammed VI (since 1999)

Swaziland - King Mswati III (since 1986)

Oceania
Tonga - King George Tupou V (since 2006)

A number of republican countries are forced to put up with the presence on their territory of local monarchical or tribal formations. These countries include: Uganda, Nigeria, Indonesia, Chad and others. The government turns to authoritative monarchs if it is necessary to resolve religious, ethnic and cultural disputes.

However, the monarchy is not an attachment to stability and prosperity, but an additional resource thanks to which the country can get out or endure this or that crisis. They are created from time immemorial, their title passes from generation to generation.

African autocrats

Benin. Joseph Langanfen, representative of the Abomi dynasty

Nigeria. Igwe Kenneth Nnaji Onimeke Orizu III. Obi (king) of the Nnevi tribe.

Benin. Agboli-Agbo Dejlani. Abomi King. A former police officer, he had to wait six years for his retirement before he was finally proclaimed in a secret ceremony the head of one of the Abomi clans.

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

Cameroon. The background (king) of Banjun is the brother of bold and powerful animals. At night, he can transform into a panther and hunt in a shroud.

Ghana. Osediyo ado Danqua III. A graduate of the University of London and an economic adviser to the Ghanaian government.

Congo. Nyimi Kok Mabintsh III, King of Cuba. Now he is 50.

South Africa. Goodwill Zweletini, king of the Zulus.

Nigeria. Both Joseph Adecola Ogunoi. Tin (king) of the Ovo tribe.

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 rule of the British crown. It would seem that in the modern world a clear advantage is on the side of the 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 established along colonial administrative lines, these states are highly unstable entities. They can be fragmented and modified, which is 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 are not included in the category of advanced states.

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

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

Europe

* Andorra - co-princes Nicolas Sarkozy (since 2007) and Joan Enric Vives y Cicilla (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)
* The 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 in 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 of 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 in 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 realms, the head is the monarch of Great Britain, represented by a 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 the first place in the number of countries with monarchical statehood. This is a progressive and democratic Japan. The leaders of the Muslim world are 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. The monarchy is represented here not only in a limited form - in the countries occupying a leading position in the EEC (Great Britain, Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, etc.). But also an absolute form of government - in the "dwarf" states: Monaco, Liechtenstein, Vatican.

Third place - for the countries of Polynesia, and fourth for Africa, where at the present time only three full-fledged monarchies have survived: Morocco, Lesotho, Swaziland, plus several hundred "tourist" ones.

Nevertheless, 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 the holders of monarchical rights in resolving regional religious, ethnic, cultural disputes and other conflict situations.

stability and well-being

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. Political elite Most of these countries understand how important it is for the balance in society that the supreme power be a priori fixed in the hands of one and political circles do not lead opposition for it, but work in the name of the interests of the whole nation.

Moreover, historical experience shows that the best social security systems in the world are built in monarchical states. AND we are talking not only about the monarchies of Scandinavia, where even the Soviet agitprop in monarchical Sweden managed to find a variant of "socialism with human face". Such a system is built in the modern countries of the Persian Gulf, where oil is often much less than in some fields of the Russian Federation. Despite this, in the 40-60 years since the independence of the Persian Gulf countries, without revolutions and civil wars, liberalization of everything and all, without utopian social experiments, under conditions of harsh, sometimes absolutist, political system, in the absence of parliamentarism and a constitution, when all the bowels of the country belong to one ruling family, from poor Bedouins herding camels, most of the subjects of the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and other neighboring states, have become quite wealthy citizens.

Without delving into the endless enumeration of the advantages of the Arab social system, only a few strokes can be given. Any citizen of the country has the right to free medical care, including that which is 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 content, in any higher educational institution world (Cambridge, Oxford, Yale, Sorbonne). Housing is provided to young families 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 for a number of reasons abandoned the monarchy (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 coming to replace the monarchical regime, as it was, for example, in Yugoslavia and Iraq, no longer has that authority and is forced to resort to cruelties that were not characteristic of the monarchical system of government. With the slightest weakening of this regime, the state, as a rule, is doomed to disintegration. So it was with Russia (USSR), we see it in Yugoslavia and Iraq. The abolition of the monarchy in a number of modern countries would inevitably lead to the termination of their existence as multinational, united states. This primarily applies to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia. So the year 2007 clearly showed that in the conditions of the parliamentary crisis that arose due to the national contradictions of the 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 provides us with several successful examples of the return of peoples who survived an era of instability, civil wars and other conflicts to a monarchical form of government. The most famous and, undoubtedly, in many ways good example- This is Spain. Having gone through a civil war, an economic crisis and a right-wing dictatorship, she returned to a monarchical form of government, taking her rightful place among the family. European nations. Cambodia is another example. 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-Khoja Sukarto (1921-2008), is experiencing a real monarchical renaissance. One of the local sultanates was restored in this country two centuries later, 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 even support the heads of the Royal Houses, former in exile. This is proved by the experience of King Leka of Albania, who almost carried out an armed coup in his country, and the amazing successes of Tsar Simeon II of Bulgaria, who created his own national movement, named after him, who managed to become the country's prime minister and is in currently the leader of the largest opposition party in the Bulgarian parliament, which entered the coalition government.

Among the existing monarchies there are quite a few that are openly absolutist in their essence, although they are forced, bringing tribute to the times, to dress up in the clothes 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, 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 that has managed not to succumb to the promises of creating a "single European home", to defend its sovereignty and an independent view of its own state device.

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

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

Without a king at the head

The situation is quite common in the world when there is no monarchy in the country, but there are monarchs (sometimes they are outside the country). The heirs of royal families either claim (even formally) the throne lost by their ancestors, or, having lost official power, retain a 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, 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 a long stay in Italy, but did not become actively involved in political life.
Benin Republic,
an important role in the life of which is played by traditional kings (ahosu) and tribal leaders. The most famous is the current ruling 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. Decree on the nationalization of lands belonging to royal family, was canceled in 1997. Since 2001 former king occupies the post of Prime Minister of Bulgaria under the name of Simeon of Saxe-Coburg-Gotha.
Botswana
Republic since independence in 1966. The number of deputies of one of the chambers of the country's parliament - the chamber of leaders - includes the leaders (kgosi) of the eight largest tribes of the country.
Brazil
Republic since the abdication of Emperor Don Pedro II in 1889. The pretender to the throne is the great-great-grandson of the abdicated emperor, Prince Luis Gastao.
Burkina Faso
Republic since independence in 1960. There are a large number of traditional states on the territory of the country, the most significant of which is Vogodogo (on the territory of the country's capital Ouagudugou), where the ruler (moogo-naaba) Baongo II is currently on the throne.
Vatican
Theocracy (some analysts consider it a form of monarchy - an absolute theocratic monarchy - however, it should be borne in mind that it is not and cannot be hereditary).
Hungary
The republic since 1946, before that since 1918 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. On the territory of the country there are a number of traditional states, the rulers of which have the titles of rajas.
Vietnam
The monarchy on the territory of the country finally ceased to exist in 1955, when a republic was proclaimed in South Vietnam as a result of a referendum. Previously, in 1945, the last Emperor Bao Dai had already abdicated, 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 kings of antiquity and 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 Ghanaian constitution 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 pretender to the throne is Prince Georg Friedrich of Prussia, great-great-grandson of Kaiser Wilhelm II.
Greece
The monarchy officially ceased to exist as a result of a referendum in 1974. King Constantine of Greece, who fled the country after a military coup in 1967, currently resides 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 pretender to the throne of the Georgian kingdom, which lost its independence as a result of joining Russia in 1801, is George 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 former king, who at the time of the loss of the throne was just over a year old, lives in France.
Iraq
The monarchy ceased to exist in 1958 as a result of the revolution, during which King Faisal II was assassinated. Claims to the Iraqi throne are made by Prince Ra'ad bin Zeid, brother of King Faisal I of Iraq, and Prince Sharif Ali bin Ali Hussein, great-nephew of the same king.
Iran The monarchy ceased to exist in 1979 after the revolution, which resulted in the overthrow of Shah Mohammed 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. Pretender to the throne - son last king Crown Prince Victor Emmanuel, Duke of Savoy.
Yemen
The republic emerged from the unification of North and South Yemen in 1990. On the territory of North Yemen, the monarchy ceased to exist in 1962. The sultanates and principalities on the territory of South Yemen were liquidated after the declaration of its independence in 1967. The pretender to the throne is Prince Ahmad al-Ghani bin Mohammed al-Mutawakkil.
Cameroon
Republic since independence in 1960. There are a large number of traditional sultanates on the territory of the country, the heads of which often hold high government positions. Among the most famous traditional rulers is the Sultan of Bamun, Ibrahim Mbombo Njoya, Sultan (Baba) of the Kingdom of Rey Buba Buba Abdoulaye.
Congo(Democratic Republic of the Congo, formerly Zaire)
Republic since independence in 1960. There are a number of traditional kingdoms throughout the country. The most famous are: the Kingdom of Cuba (King Kwete Mboke is on the throne); the kingdom of Luba (king, sometimes also called emperor, Kabongo Jacques); the state of Ruund (Luunda), headed by the ruler (mwaant yaav) Mbumb II Muteb.
Congo(Republic of the Congo)
Republic since independence in 1960. In 1991, the country's authorities restored the institution of traditional leaders (revising their decision 20 years ago). The most famous among the leaders is the head of the traditional kingdom of Teke - 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, it is customary to classify them as part of the Japanese imperial family. The pretender to the Korean throne is the representative of this surname Prince Kyu Ri (sometimes his surname is written as Lee). On the territory of the DPRK, there is de facto a hereditary form of government, but de jure it is not stipulated in the legislation of the country.
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 Ajumani Kouassi Adingra).
Laos
The monarchy ceased to exist 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 Savang, as the eldest surviving male of the family, is the formal pretender to 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 pretender to the throne is the official heir to the king (the adopted son of his cousin) Prince Mohammed al-Hasan al-Rida.
Malawi
Republic since 1966 (from the moment 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 supreme leader (inkosi i makosi) Mmbelwa IV from the Ngoni dynasty.
Maldives
The monarchy ceased to exist after a referendum in 1968 (during the period of British rule, that is, before independence in 1965, the country once became a republic for a short time). The formal contender for the throne, however, who never declared his claims, is Prince Mohammed Nureddin, son of the Sultan of the Maldives Hassan Nureddin II (reigned 1935-1943).
Mexico
The monarchy ceased to exist in 1867 after the execution by the 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 Tankl Iturbide.
Mozambique
Republic since independence in 1975. On the territory of the country is the traditional state of Manyika, whose ruler (mambo) is Mutasa Pafiva.
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 pretender to the throne is Prince Hteiktin Tau Paya, grandson of the last king Thibau Ming.
Namibia
Republic since independence in 1990. A number of tribes are ruled by traditional rulers. The role of traditional leaders is at least indicated by the fact that Hendrik Witboui 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 own 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, tortiv, alafin, both, obi, ataoja, oroje, olubaka, ohimege (most often this means in translation "leader" or "supreme leader").
Palau(Belau)
Republic since independence in 1994. Legislative power is exercised by the House of Delegates (council of chiefs), which includes the traditional rulers of the 16 provinces of Palau. Yutaka Gibbons, the paramount chief (ibedul) of Koror, the main city of the country, enjoys the greatest authority.
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 in connection with an armed uprising. The pretender to the throne is the house of Duarte III Pio, Duke of Braganza.
Russia
The monarchy ceased to exist after February Revolution 1917. Although there are several contenders for the Russian throne, most monarchists recognize Grand Duchess Maria Vladimirovna, great-great-granddaughter of Emperor Alexander II.
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 former head states - a residence, a personal car with a driver and a salary in the amount of 50% of the salary of the president of the country.
Serbia
Along with Montenegro, it was part of Yugoslavia until 2002 (the rest of the republics seceded from 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, heir to the throne, Prince Alexander (Karageorgievich) became the head of the royal house.
USA
Republic since independence in 1776. On Hawaiian Islands(annexed to the United States in 1898, acquired statehood in 1959) until 1893 there was a monarchy. The pretender to 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 has the right to return to his homeland as an ordinary citizen.
Tunisia
The monarchy ended in 1957 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 pretender to 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 on the territory of the country were liquidated 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 on the territory of the country. 28 of them are concentrated in the area of ​​Lake Lanao (Mindanao Island). The Philippine government officially recognizes the confederation of the Sultans of Lanao (Ranao) as a political force representing the interests of certain segments of the island's population. The throne of the Sultanate of Sulu (located on the archipelago of the same name) is claimed by at least six people representing two clans, which is explained by various political and financial benefits.
France
The monarchy was abolished in 1871. Heirs of various families claim the French throne: Prince Henry of Orleans, Count of Paris and Duke of France (Orleanist 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, in 1976 proclaimed the country an empire, and himself emperor. In 1979 Bokassa was overthrown and the Central African Empire became the Central African Republic again. The contender for the throne is the son of Bokassa, Crown Prince Jean-Bedel Georges Bokassa.
Chad Republic since independence in 1960. Among the numerous traditional states on the territory of Chad, two should be singled out: 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, belonging to the dynasty, the founders of which are considered to be Menelik I, son of Solomon, king of Israel, from 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).
Republic of South Africa
Since 1961 (from the moment of independence in 1910 until the proclamation of the republic, the Queen of Great Britain was the head of state). Tribal leaders (amakosi), as well as the ruler of the traditional kingdom of KwaZulu, Goodwill Zwelitini KaBekuzulu, play an important role in the life of the country. Separately, it is worth highlighting the supreme leader of the Tembu tribe, Baelekhai Dalindiebo 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 famous politician, leader of the Inkata Freedom Party Mangosutu Gatshi Buthelezi of the Buthelezi tribe. During the apartheid period, the South African authorities created ten "autonomous" formations on a tribal basis, which were called bantustans (homelands). In 1994

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

African autocrats.

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

The offspring of the dynasties that entered the history of Africa until the beginning of the twentieth century are the bearers of the secret power with which "modern governments" must coexist.

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

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

Benin. Agboli-Agbo Dejlani. Abomi King. A former police officer, he had to wait six years for his retirement before he was finally 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 it should be by rank.

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

Cameroon. Fon (King) Banjuna is the brother of bold and powerful animals. At night, he can transform into a panther and hunt in a shroud. Formerly Chief Administrator and Head of Cabinet of the Minister of Finance of Cameroon, Kamga Joseph is now the 13th Fon of his tribe.

Ghana. Osediyo ado Danqua III. A graduate of the University of London and an economic adviser to the administration of Ghana, the King of Akropong has been living in the "holy places" of the Akuarem Asona, one of the seven main clans of the Akan tribe, for the past sixteen years.

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 possessor of supernatural powers. He has no right to sit on the ground and cross cultivated fields. And no one has ever seen him eat.

South Africa. Goodwill Zweletini, king of the Zulus. He is a direct descendant of the legendary Chak Zulu, the founder of the kingdom, whose military genius is sometimes compared to Napoleon.

Nigeria. Both Joseph Adecola Ogunoi. Tin (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 is still happening, but human sacrifices - necessarily a man and a woman - were replaced with a sheep and a goat.

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

These are Their African Majesties. 21st century.

Like many other concepts, the monarchy has a Greek etymology and means autocracy. In the monarchical form of the state structure, power belongs to one person and is inherited by him. However, there are several options for government of the monarchical type, which differ from each other in the degree of authority of the monarch, as well as the presence or absence of additional independent authorities.

Monarchy and its types according to the traditional structure

Ancient Eastern. This is not only the very first form of monarchy, but also of state government in general. Here the power of the rulers was controlled by noble estates or popular assemblies, which could influence the decisions made by the monarch.

Feudal. It is also called medieval. Under this form, a policy that emphasizes agricultural production is common, and society is divided into two groups: feudal lords and peasants. It had several stages of its development, the last of which is the main type of monarchy - absolute.

Theocratic. Here the head of the church receives complete power, it is also possible to rule simply by a religious leader. The clergy in this case plays a crucial role in society, and the arguments of certain actions of the head are reduced to their original divine origin: signs, revelations and laws that God sent.

In addition to these three types, the monarchy is distinguished by the degree of restrictions: absolute, constitutional, parliamentary, dualistic.

Types of monarchy: absolute

Here the unconditional rule of the monarch is manifested, in his hands, in fact, all the legislative and executive, as well as in some cases religious, are concentrated. In the 17th and 18th centuries, absolutism flourished, which eventually ceased to be relevant.

The very rationale for absolute monarchy is interesting here: the head, his predecessors and heirs are supposedly of divine origin, which on earth was accompanied by exaltation and demonstration of this with the help of magnificent palaces and etiquette. The monarchs were supported by the nobles, who were one step below, but at the lowest were slaves or peasants, whose task was to live in poverty and obey. For this, the king allowed them to live.

Types of monarchy: constitutional

At the same time, the power of the monarch is somewhat limited, not only legally, but also in fact. He shares it with the parliament, and depending on who the executive remains behind, a dualistic and parliamentary monarchy is distinguished.

Types of monarchy: parliamentary

Here the government has more powers than the monarch, it is responsible for its actions in the first place before the parliament. At the same time, the monarch plays an exclusively ceremonial role and in fact does not have an executive and legislature, which are shared between the parliament and the government.

Types of monarchy: dualistic

Under this form of government, the monarch is a responsible authority figure whose governmental actions are limited by constitutional clauses. The monarch can dissolve the parliament and form the government, therefore, in fact, his power is preserved, but divided with the parliament according to the formal principle: the monarch implements the executive, and the parliament implements the legislative.

Types of monarchies in the modern world

Currently, there are states in which the monarchy reigns. The absolute view is implemented in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Brunei and Oman.

The constitutional dualist is represented in Morocco, Liechtenstein, UAE, Luxembourg, Kuwait, Monaco and Jordan.

The constitutional parliamentary system is manifested in Nevis, Saint Kitts, the Grenadines, Saint Vincent, Jamaica, Tonga, New Zealand, Great Britain, Belgium, Cambodia, Japan, Denmark, Thailand, Norway, Canada, Sweden, Bhutan, Spain, Andorra, etc.

Thus, monarchy is quite common these days, but the tendency to dominate it more suggests that it is perceived more as a tribute to tradition than an effective form of government in its classical sense.

Do they 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 of this form of government in this publication.

The main forms of government in the modern world

To date, two main models of government are known: monarchical and republican. By monarchy is meant a form of government in which power belongs to one person. It can be a king, emperor, emir, prince, sultan, etc. Second distinguishing feature monarchical system - 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: they are about 70%. The republican model of government assumes the election of the supreme authorities - the parliament and (or) the president.

The most famous monarchies of the planet: Great Britain, Denmark, Norway, Japan, Kuwait, United Arab Emirates (UAE). Examples of country-republics: 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

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

In absolute monarchies, all power is concentrated in the hands of one person. He makes absolutely all decisions, realizing the internal and foreign policy of their country. The brightest example such a monarchy can be called 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 absolute authority for the population is the Pope. True, some researchers classify Brunei and even Great Britain as theocratic monarchies. It's no secret that British Queen He 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 can be completely deprived of supreme authority. 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 only has the right of some vetoes.

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

Constitutional Monarchy: Examples of Countries

To date, 31 states of the world can be attributed to constitutional monarchies. The third part of them is located in the Western and Northern Europe. About 80% of all constitutional monarchies in the modern world are parliamentary, and only seven are dualistic.

The following 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).
28. Jamaica (Caribbean).
29. Saint Lucia (Caribbean).
30. Saint Kitts and Nevis (Caribbean).
31. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (Caribbean).

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

Is constitutional monarchy the ideal form of government?

There is an opinion that the constitutional monarchy is the key to the stability and welfare of the country. Is it so?

Of course, a constitutional monarchy is not capable of automatically solving all the problems that arise before the state. However, it is ready to offer society a certain political stability. After all, in such countries a constant struggle for power (imaginary or real) is absent a priori.

The constitutional-monarchical model has a number of other advantages. As practice shows, it was in such states that it was possible to build the world's best social security systems for citizens. And we are talking 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 the same Russia. However, in a few decades, from poor countries, whose population was exclusively engaged in grazing in oases, they were able to turn into successful, prosperous and fully established states.

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

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

The Norwegian king is also the head of state, according to the Constitution, which has been in force since 1814. To quote this document, Norway is "a free monarchical state with limited and hereditary form board". Moreover, initially the king had broader powers, which 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 the parliament, signs laws, appoints the head of the government; he also commands the troops of Kuwait. It is curious that in this amazing country women are absolutely equal in their political rights with men, which is not 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 for Antarctica. These are the gray-haired wealthy states of the old Europe, and the young richest

Is it possible to say that the most optimal form of government in the world is precisely a constitutional monarchy? Examples of countries - successful and highly developed - fully confirm this assumption.