Monarchies in the modern world are types of monarchies. Modern monarchical forms of government

The existence of various forms of government in modern world due to the historical features of the development of states in different parts of the world. Specific events that took place in the fate of each nation provoked changes in political order and in relation to the government of the country. So, forms of government developed in which decisions were made by a kind of national assembly or any other association of several people. And in some states, only one person possessed authority and full power, this type of power is called a monarchy.

Monarchy is a form of government in which the supreme government belongs to one person and, most often, is inherited. The sole ruler is called a monarch, and in different cultural traditions he acquires different names - tsar, king, prince, emperor, sultan, pharaoh, etc.

The key features of the monarchical system are:

  • The presence of a sole monarch who reigns in the state for life;
  • Transfer of power by inheritance;
  • The monarch represents his state in the international arena, and is also the face and symbol of the nation;
  • The power of the monarch is often considered sacred.

Types of monarchy

V modern science there are several varieties of monarchical power. The main principle of the classification of the concept is the degree of limitation of the power of the monarch. If the king, emperor or any other sole ruler has unlimited power, and all the authorities are accountable to him and completely obey, then such a monarchy is called absolute.

If the monarch is only a representative person, and his power is limited by the constitution, the powers of parliament or cultural tradition, then such a monarchy is called constitutional.

The constitutional monarchy, in turn, is divided into two branches. The first kind - parliamentary monarchy- assumes only the representative function of the monarch and the complete absence of his power. And when dualistic monarchy the head of state has the right to make any decisions about the fate of the country, but only within the framework of the constitution and other laws approved by the people.

Monarchy in the modern world

Today, many countries still retain the monarchical form of government. One of the most striking examples of parliamentary monarchy is Great Britain, where the monarch acts as a representative person of a powerful country.

The traditional version of the monarchy, or absolute monarchy, remains in some African states, for example, in Ghana, Nigeria, Uganda or South Africa.

The dualistic monarchy has survived in countries such as Morocco, Jordan, Kuwait, Monaco and Liechtenstein. In the last two states, the dualistic monarchy is presented not in a pure form, but with some specific features.

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Sample title page term paper

Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia

Moscow University of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia

Moscow regional branch

Moscow University of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia

Department _ theory and history of state and law

in the discipline "Theory of State and Law"

Theme: Modern monarchical forms reign

Introduction

1. The concept and signs of monarchy as a form of government

2. Types of monarchies and their features in the modern world

Conclusion

Bibliography

Introduction

This paper deals with the topic "Modern monarchical forms of government". Monarchy (from the Greek monarchia - one-power: mono - one and arhea - power) is a state in which state power belongs to one person and is inherited by succession. There are the following types of monarchical form of government: absolute (unlimited) monarchy and constitutional (limited monarchy), which, in turn, is subdivided into dualistic and parliamentary monarchies.

Monarchy is the oldest form of government that has survived to this day. Therefore, its study and analysis seems to be quite relevant. Modern monarchies are usually nominal, constitutional, when the monarch shares power with the institutions of parliamentary democracy. While recognizing the monarchy as a historical anachronism, one can nevertheless highlight a number of its attractive features:

1. Stability. Power is extremely concentrated, it relies on an estate that owes its power to the monarch at the local level, serving him faithfully. monarchy power succession elitism

2. Efficiency. Decisions are made quickly and energetically, and they take effect immediately.

3. Elitism. In the environment of the monarch there are people who, in his opinion, have wisdom, education, energy.

4. The monarch is brought up and educated from childhood precisely as the supreme ruler, responsible before God and before the country, while a politician who came to power in adulthood is just beginning to get acquainted with the circle of knowledge and problems where he will work. In addition, to go through the difficult path to power requires some qualities, and to govern the country - completely different.

The significance of even a parliamentary monarchy should not be reduced to a bare symbol, to a ritual, to convention. V public consciousness monarchy makes sense, it cannot be ruled out that it may manifest itself in some extreme situations.

Modern monarchies in Europe: Andorra, Belgium, Vatican, Great Britain, Denmark, Spain, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Monaco, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden.

The purpose of the work is to identify the essence of the monarchical form of government and consider its modern varieties.

The object of research is the historical and modern monarchical forms of government.

Research subject - types of monarchies, features different types modern monarchies, the social content of the modern monarchy.

Let's take a closer look at the monarchy as a form of government and its modern varieties.

1. Concept and recognitionki of the monarchy as a form of government

Monarchy, along with the republic, is one of two forms of government known to the theory of state and law. The power of the monarch, as a rule, is life-long and is transferred by succession to the throne.

Succession to the throne is the transfer of the power of the monarch from one representative of the reigning house (dynasty) to another in the manner prescribed by law. There are currently three main systems of succession to the throne. The salic system boils down to the fact that inheritance is carried out only through the male line. Women from the circle of heirs to the throne are completely excluded (Sweden). The Castilian system does not exclude women from the line of succession to the throne, but prefers men: the younger brother excludes the older sister (Great Britain). The Austrian system does not exclude women, but gives men and male lines an advantage in all lines and in all degrees of kinship. Women inherit the throne only with the complete suppression of all male offspring.

In some Arab countries there is a so-called "clan" form of succession to the throne, when the ruling family elects the heir.

Another important form of government is the regency, a temporary collegial or individual exercise of the powers of the head of state in monarchies in the event of a temporary absence of the monarch, his prolonged illness, and childhood.

Depending on the principle of inheritance of power, the monarchy can be dynastic, clan and elective.

In the dynastic monarchy, there is a strict principle according to which the throne is passed from father to son or from brother to brother, as it was in Russia.

Much more often we come across a tribal monarchy, where the principle of belonging to the royal family was in effect. The king was supposed to come from a royal family, but this did not mean at all that he automatically inherited the throne.

A special type of monarchy is elective, combining elements of the monarchy and the republic. An elective monarchy was also in Byzantium. It is not uncommon. In Equatorial Africa, the council of elders still elects tribal kings for a year, and a year later this council reaffirms or does not confirm the authority of the elected king. Currently, an elective monarchy exists in Malaysia, where the head of state is a monarch elected for five years by a special meeting from representatives of the monarchical states that are members of the federation.

The main features of the classical monarchical form of government are:

The presence of a sole head of state for life (the king,

· King, emperor, shah);

· Hereditary order of succession of the supreme power;

· Legal irresponsibility of the monarch.

Having emerged in a slave-owning society, the monarchy becomes the main form of government under feudalism and retains only the traditional, mostly formal features of monarchical government in bourgeois society.

2. Types of monarchies and theirfeatures in the modern world

Like many other concepts, monarchy has a Greek etymology and means autocracy. In a monarchical form of state organization, power belongs to one person and is inherited. However, there are several options for government according to the monarchical type, which differ in the degree of the monarch's powers, as well as in 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 government in general. Here the power of the rulers was controlled by the nobility or popular assemblies, which could influence the decisions made by the monarch.

Feudal. It is also called medieval. In this form, a policy that focuses on agricultural production is widespread, 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. In this case, the clergy plays an important role in society, and the arguments of certain actions of the chapter 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 unconditionalness of the monarch's rule is manifested, in his hands virtually all power is concentrated: judicial, legislative and executive, as well as, in some cases, religious. In the 17-18 centuries in Western Europe there was a flourishing of absolutism, which eventually ceased to be relevant.

The very rationale for absolute monarchy is interesting here: the head, his predecessors and heirs have a supposedly 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 lower, 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

Under this form of government, 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, they distinguish between a dualistic and a parliamentary monarchy.

Types of monarchy: parliamentary

Here the government has more powers than the monarch, it is responsible for its actions primarily before the parliament. At the same time, the monarch plays an exclusively ceremonial role and does not actually have executive and legislative powers, which are divided between parliament and government.

Types of monarchy: dualistic

In this form of government, the monarch is a responsible authority figure, whose government 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 from the parliament according to the formal principle: the monarch implements the executive, and the parliament implements the legislative.

Currently, there are states in which a monarchical system reigns. The absolute view is realized in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Brunei and Oman. The constitutional dualist is represented in Morocco, Liechtenstein, UAE, Luxembourg, Kuwait, Monaco and Jordan. Constitutional parliamentary manifested in Nevis, Saint Kitts, 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 nowadays, but the tendency towards the predominance of its more democratic form suggests that it is more perceived as a tribute to tradition than an effective form of government in its classical sense.

The peculiarity of the modern monarchy is distinctive feature this form of government, which characterizes the individuality of the organization of its authorities and distinguishes modern monarchies from their historical counterparts.

The first, and probably the most main feature is "atypical", so aptly identified by V.E. Chirkin. He calls the classical parliamentary monarchy "republican monarchy", i.e. monarchy in which the power of the monarch is completely limited in all spheres of state power. England, the Center of the Commonwealth of Independent States, which used to be part of its colonies, can serve as a striking example of an "atypical" monarchy. The English monarchy is an example of a classic constitutional parliamentary monarchy.

Another distinctive feature is that no monarchy in Europe is absolute, which once again emphasizes high level European democracy. However, from a legal point of view, the Vatican is an absolute monarchy.

In our time, there is the problem of "rich North - poor South", the same tendency can be seen to one degree or another in monarchies, that is, the further south the monarchy is, the more absolute it is. So from the northern monarchy, you can give the example of Sweden. This is a Northern European monarchy, which is even more limited than the English monarchy.

Another important feature of some modern monarchies is the fictitiousness of legislative (legislative bodies) under the monarch. This feature applies to modern absolute Muslim monarchies. In Oman, for example, "the creation of a parliament as contrary to the traditions of Muslim fundamentalism is excluded." Parliament is replaced by the institution of ash-shura - a legislative body under the monarch, but it has no real powers and is completely dependent on the monarch.

Very close to this feature is the post-colonial monarchy of some of the island republics, which were among the colonies of Great Britain, and are now in the British Commonwealth. To such countries V.E. Chirkin includes, for example, Antigua, Barbuda, Barbados, Jamaica, etc.

The most important feature is that in most monarchies in Europe the institution of the monarch is only a tribute to tradition. The adherence of the population of these countries to the monarch vividly illustrates to us how strongly the awareness that the personality of the monarch is sacred, that he is a kind of their defender from all ills, has stuck in the psyche of people. This feature is clearly illustrated by the examples of the already considered England or the Netherlands. The Netherlands is "a country where everything is allowed!" - this is what the European neighbors call the Netherlands. This country formally has a 2nd Constitution: the Statute of the Kingdom of the Netherlands from 1954 (this act resolves issues between the Netherlands itself and their provinces, because in form state structure The Netherlands is a unitary decentralized state) and the Constitution of the Netherlands from 1815, which enshrines the foundations of the Dutch constitutional order.

In absolutely all monarchies, the head of state appears as a symbol of the latter, it is the face of his sovereign that is most dear to the population with a monarchical sense of justice, rather than the flag, coat of arms, anthem, etc. And this feature is characteristic not so much of European monarchies as of African monarchies. For example Swaziland. A country in southern Africa, which has also been repeatedly influenced by Western ideology. There is no constitution as such in Swaziland, but there are royal constitutional acts that consolidate the foundations of the constitutional system of this country.

A distinctive feature is the election of monarchs in Malaysia and the UAE, this is an absolute phenomenon of a monarchical form of government, which is a kind of "mix" of a monarchy and a republic, although, of course, there is more monarchical and even absolutist in these countries. So Malaysia - "a monarchy of several monarchies" or "United monarchical states", so dubbed this country global community... It consists of thirteen states, which are headed by hereditary monarchs (sultans, rajahs), and two federal territories, which are headed by governors.

One more interesting feature Some modern monarchies are monarchical federalism, which is characteristic not only of the UAE and Malaysia, but also for example for a state such as Belgium. According to the Belgian Constitution of 1831. this state is unitary, but during the development of this country problems arose due to the heterogeneity of the national composition of the population. However, federalism in monarchies can be seen as another way of limiting the power of the monarch through the decentralization of state leadership of the monarchy.

Among the Arab monarchies there is a special principle of succession to the throne, this is the so-called clan principle, when the monarch is chosen by his family. This feature is inherent exclusively in the Asian monarchies of the Persian Gulf. If you remember the succession to the throne in Ancient Egypt, you can find a lot in common. This principle can be seen, for example, in the already considered Qatar.

Thus, among the main features of modern monarchies, ten main ones can be distinguished:

- "atypical";

Lack of absolutism among European monarchies;

The presence among monarchies of the principle: "the further south the monarchy, the more absolute it is";

The presence of European democratic institutions, in the monarchies of Asia and Africa, which have been under the influence of European states;

The presence of the institution of the monarch, in the monarchies of Europe, as a tribute to traditions;

Raising the monarch to the rank of a symbol, the face of the state, in all monarchies;

Election of monarchs in Malaysia and the UAE;

The clan principle of choosing a monarch in Arab monarchies;

Monarchical federalism as a factor in limiting the power of the monarch;

Fictitiousness of legislative (legislative) bodies in a number of Muslim monarchies.

This list of features is not exhaustive, but it is it that most accurately characterizes the position of modern monarchies as forms of government in the world, their significance and the differences between modern monarchies and their historical predecessors.

Conclusion

V last years the process of "republicanization" in the world has noticeably slowed down. States with monarchs are in no hurry to part with their traditions and institutions.

Modern European monarchies are considered civilized, in contrast to the previous, "uncivilized", absolutist. In all monarchical states of our time, regardless of their form, it is believed that the monarch has executive power, although in the overwhelming majority of countries he does not really have such power.

In addition, in modern conditions there are such atypical monarchies, where the head of state is not life-long and not hereditary, but is elected after a certain period of time. Malaysia and United United Arab Emirates(UAE) elections for the monarch are held every five years. This brings the monarch closer to the president, and the form of government approaches the republican one. However, both of these states are undoubtedly monarchies.

Concerning Russian Federation, then some politicians believe that at present in our country the rule of the monarch may be more acceptable. The socialist past of our country, when the equality of political and civil rights was proclaimed, social equality was declared, influenced the modern state. The transitional period of the formation of the form of government of our state is over, power is increasingly centralized in the hands of the head of state, the presence of elected bodies only creates the appearance of a collective decision on issues that are significant for the country. Numerous appeals of deputies of various levels, prominent politicians who come up with a constitutional initiative to amend the basic law - the Constitution, on the extension of the powers of the current president, discussion of the candidacy of a presidential successor, suggest that Russia has not outlived its desire for a monarchical form of government.

Supporters of the monarchy argue that if the state is ruled by a loyal to Russia and a strong-willed monarch, then the country will be able to rise to a high level. Perhaps the monarchy could put everything in its place, because the authority of the monarch is completely dependent on his state.

However, it should be borne in mind that modern representatives of state law consider a "constitutional" monarchy, allegedly combining various elements in one Supreme Power, and thus, in reality, is nothing more than a not yet fully organized democracy. It has already won in the minds of the peoples, it has already become in fact the supreme power, but has not yet thrown out the remnants of the monarchy and aristocracy from its delegated powers, has not yet replaced these fragments of the previous structure with one chamber of people's representatives.

Bibliography

1. Theory of State and Law: Textbook for Universities / Ed. O.V. Martyshina. - M .: Publishing house NORMA, 2007 .-- 496 p.

Malakhov V.P., Gorsheneva I.A., Ivanov A.A.

2. Theory of state and law: tutorial for university students studying in the specialty "Jurisprudence". - M .: UNITI-DANA: Law and Law, 2010 .-- 159 p.

3. Theory of state and law: textbook / Ed. V.Ya. Kikot and V.V. Lazarev. - 3rd ed. per. add. - M .: Publishing House "Forum": INFRA - M .: 2008. - 624 p.

4. Chervonyuk V.I. Theory of state and law: textbook. M .: INFRA - M .: 2007 .-- 704 p.

5. Ivanov A.A. Theory of state and law: a textbook for university students studying in the specialty "Jurisprudence". -M .: UNITY-DANA: Law and Law, 2009 .-- 351 p.

6. Theory of state and law: textbook / Ed. Candidate of Law, Associate Professor P.V. Anisimova. - M .: TsOKR of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia, 2005 .-- 312 p.

7. Stories LP Theory of state and law: a textbook for universities. - 2nd ed. - M .: RIOR, 2009 .-- 464 p.

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

The main forms of government in the modern world

To date, it is known about two main models of government: monarchical and republican. By monarchy we mean a form of government in which power belongs to one person. It can be a king, emperor, emir, prince, sultan, etc. The second distinguishing feature of the monarchical system is the process of transferring this power by inheritance (and not by the results of popular elections).

Today there are absolute, theocratic and constitutional monarchies. Republics (the second form of government) are more common in the modern world: there are about 70% of them. The republican model of state governance presupposes 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 republican countries: Poland, Russia, France, Mexico, Ukraine. However, in this article we are only interested in countries with a constitutional monarchy (you will find a list of these states below).

Monarchy: absolute, theocratic, constitutional

Monarchist countries (there are about 40 in the world) are of three types. It can be a theocratic, absolute and constitutional monarchy. Let's consider briefly the features of each of them, and dwell on the latter in more detail.

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

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

A constitutional monarchy is ...

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

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

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

Types of constitutional monarchy

Modern constitutional monarchies can be parliamentary or dualistic. In the first, the government is formed by the country's parliament, to which it is accountable. In dualistic constitutional monarchies, ministers are appointed (and removed) by the monarch himself. The 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. Indeed, even in the most certain, certain aspects of the continuity 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: Country Examples

Today, 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.

All countries with a constitutional monarchy are listed below (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).

All of these countries are marked in green on the map below.

Is a constitutional monarchy an ideal form of government?

There is an opinion that the constitutional monarchy is the guarantee of the stability and prosperity of the country. Is it so?

Of course, a constitutional monarchy is not able to automatically solve all the problems that arise before the state. However, she is ready to offer society a certain political stability. Indeed, in such countries, the 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 is in such states that the world's best social security systems have been built. And we are talking here not only about the countries of the Scandinavian Peninsula.

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

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

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

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

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

Finally

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

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

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 a few dozen territories under the rule of the British crown.

It would seem that in the modern world there is a clear preponderance on the side of the republican states. But upon closer examination, it turns out that these countries for the most part 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 highly volatile entities. They can be fragmented and modified, which can be seen, for example, in Iraq. They are gripped by incessant conflicts, like a significant number of African countries. And it is quite obvious that they are not included in the category of advanced states.

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

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

Europe

    Andorra - co-princes Nicolas Sarkozy (since 2007) and Joan Enric Vives y Sicilla (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 (from 1989)

    Luxembourg d - Grand Duke Henri (since 2000)

    Monaco - Prince Albert II (since 2005)

    Netherlands - Queen Beatrix (since 1980)

    Norway - King Harald V (from 1991)

    Sweden - King Carl XVI Gustaf (from 1973)

Asia

    Bahrain - King Hamad ibn Isa al-Khalifa (from 2002, Emir 1999-2002)

    Brunei - Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah (from 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 (from 1995)

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

    Malaysia - King Mizan Zaynal Abidin (since 2006)

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

    Oman - Sultan Qaboos bin Said (from 1970)

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

    Thailand - King Bhumibol Adulyadej (from 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 (from 2006)

Dominions

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

America

    Antigua and Barbuda Antigua and Barbuda

    Bahamas Bahamas

    Barbados

  • Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

    Saint Kitts and Nevis

    Saint Lucia

Oceania

    Australia

    New Zealand

    Papua New Guinea

    Solomon islands

Asia holds 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.

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

The third place is for the countries of Polynesia, and the fourth for Africa, where at present there are only three full-fledged monarchies: Morocco, Lesotho, Swaziland, plus several hundred "tourist" ones.

Nevertheless, a number of republican countries are forced to put up with the presence on their territory of traditional local monarchical or tribal formations, 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 XX 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 when resolving regional religious, ethnic, cultural disputes and other conflict situations.

STABILITY AND WELFARE

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

Political elite These countries, for the most part, understand how important it is for the balance in society that the supreme power is a priori fixed in the same hands and the political circles do not oppose it, but work in the name of the interests of the entire nation.

Moreover, historical experience shows that the world's best social security systems are built in monarchical states. And we are talking not only about the monarchies of Scandinavia, where even the Soviet agitprop in monarchist Sweden managed to find a variant of "socialism with a 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, for 40-60 years since the Gulf countries gained independence, without revolutions and civil wars, liberalization of everything and everyone, without utopian social experiments, in a tough, 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 citizens of the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and other neighboring states have turned into quite wealthy citizens.

Without delving into the endless enumeration of the advantages of the Arab social system, you can cite just a few touches. 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, at any higher educational institution peace (Cambridge, Oxford, Yale, Sorbonne). Housing is provided to young families at the expense of the state. The monarchies of the Persian Gulf are truly welfare states, in which all conditions are 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, which for a number of reasons have abandoned the monarchy (Yemen, Iraq, Iran), we will see a striking difference in the internal climate of these states.

WHO BONDS 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, on the example of the Russian Empire, Austria-Hungary, Yugoslavia, Iraq. The monarchical regime that is replacing the monarchical regime, as was the case, for example, in Yugoslavia and Iraq, no longer possesses that authority and is forced to resort to atrocities 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 disintegration. This was the case 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, Saudi Arabia.

So 2007 clearly showed that in the conditions of the parliamentary crisis, which arose due to national contradictions between Flemish and Walloon politicians, only the authority of King Albert II of the Belgians kept Belgium from disintegrating into two or even more independent state entities... In multilingual Belgium, a joke was even born that the unity of its people is held together by only three things - beer, chocolate and a 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 the return of peoples who have gone through 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. Gone through a civil war economic crisis and the right-wing dictatorship, it returned to a monarchical form of government, taking its rightful place among the family of European nations.

Cambodia was 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 leaders constantly have to speak out on this matter, and in some cases also provide support to the heads of the Royal Houses. exiled.

This is proved by the experience of the King of Albania Leki, who almost carried out an armed coup in his country, and the amazing successes of the Tsar of Bulgaria Simeon II, who created his own national movement named after him, who 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 entered the coalition government.

Among the currently existing monarchies, there are many openly absolutist in nature, 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 a large village that, 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, it is one of the largest business and financial centers that managed not to succumb to 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 most monarchical countries makes them not only not obsolete, but progressive and attractive, makes them equal in a number of parameters.

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

WITHOUT A KING IN 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 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 ousted 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... The nominal co-rulers of which 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 in 2002 returned to the country after a long stay in Italy, but did not actively participate in political life.

    Benin Republic... An important role in the life of which traditional kings (ahosu) and tribal leaders play. The most famous is the now 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. The decree on the nationalization of lands belonging to the royal family was canceled in 1997. Since 2001 former king holds the post of Prime Minister of Bulgaria under the name of Simeon Saxecoburgotzky.

    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 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 are a large number of traditional states, the most significant of which is Vogodogo (on the territory of the capital of the country, Ouagudugu), where the ruler (moogo-naaba) Baongo II is currently on the throne.

    Vatican Theocracy (some analysts consider it one of the forms of monarchy - an absolute theocratic monarchy - but 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 rajah.

    Vietnam. The monarchy on the territory of the country finally ceased to exist in 1955, when the republic was proclaimed based on the results of a referendum in South Vietnam. Earlier, in 1945, the last emperor Bao Dai had already abdicated the throne, but the French authorities returned him to the country in 1949 and granted him the post of head of state. The contender for the throne is the son of the emperor, Prince Bao Long.

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

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

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

    Greece. The monarchy officially ceased to exist as a result of the 1974 referendum. After fleeing the country after the 1967 military coup, King Constantine of Greece currently resides in Great Britain. 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 before the International Court of Human Rights.

    Georgia. Republic since the declaration of 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 Georgy 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 expressed by Prince Raad bin Zeid, brother of King Faisal I of Iraq, and Prince Sharif Ali bin Ali Hussein, the great-nephew of the same king.

    Iran. The monarchy ceased to exist in 1979 after a revolution that overthrew Shah Mohammed Reza Pahlavi. The contender for the throne is the son of the ousted 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 as a result of the unification of North and South Yemen in 1990. In North Yemen, the monarchy ceased to exist in 1962. The sultanates and principalities in the territory of South Yemen were liquidated after the declaration of its independence in 1967. The contender for the throne is Prince Ahmat 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 are Sultan of Bamun Ibrahim Mbombo Njoya, sultan (baba) of the kingdom of Rei Buba Buba Abdoulaye.

    Congo (Democratic Republic of the Congo, formerly Zaire)... Republic since independence in 1960. There are a number of traditional kingdoms in the country. The most famous are: the Kingdom of Cuba (on the throne of King Kvete Mboke); the kingdom of Luba (the king, sometimes also called the emperor, Kabongo Jacques); the state of Ruund (Lunda), headed by the ruler (mwaant yav) 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 of the leaders is the head of the traditional Teke kingdom - King (onko) 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 rank them among the Japanese imperial family. The contender for the Korean throne is the representative of this surname, Prince Q Ri (sometimes his surname is written as Lee). There is a de facto hereditary form of government on the territory of the DPRK, but de jure it is not stipulated in the country's legislation.

    Cote d'Ivoire. Republic since independence in 1960. On the territory of the country (and partly on the territory of neighboring Ghana) is the traditional kingdom of Abrons (ruled by King Nanan Ajumani Kuassi 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 Sawang and Prince Danyawong Sawang - 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 sources, they all starved to death in a concentration camp. Prince Sulivong Sawang, as the eldest surviving male of the clan, is a 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 king's official heir (adopted son of his cousin), Prince Mohammed al-Hasan al-Rida.

    Malawi. Republic since 1966 (from the moment of proclamation of independence in 1964 until the proclamation of the republic, the Queen of Great Britain was the head of state). The supreme leader (inkosi ya makosi) Mmbelwa IV of the Ngoni dynasty plays an important role in the country's political life.

    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 once already became a republic for a short time). The formal pretender to the throne, though he never announced his claims, is Prince Mohammed Nureddin, son of the Sultan of the Maldives Hasan Nureddin II (ruled 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 independent state with a monarchical form of the device. Representatives of the Iturbide dynasty, whose ancestor was the Mexican emperor during this period, are contenders for the Mexican throne. The head of the Iturbide family is Baroness Maria (II) Anna Tankle 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 contender for 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 evidenced by the fact that Hendrik Witbui 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 elect their own political and religious leader, who bears the title of Sultan Zinder (the title is not inherited). Currently, the title of the 20th Sultan of Zinder is held by Haji Mamadu Mustafa.

    Nigeria. Republic since 1963 (from the moment of independence in 1960 until the proclamation of the republic, the Queen of Great Britain was the head of state). On the territory of the country there are about 100 traditional states, whose rulers wear both the usual sounding titles of sultan or emir, and more exotic ones: aku uka, olu, igve, amanyanabo, torti tiv, alafin, both, obi, ataoja, oroje, olubaka, ohimege (most often this means in translation "leader" or "supreme leader").

    Palau (Belau). Republic since independence in 1994. Legislature is carried out by the House of Delegates (Council of Chiefs), which includes the traditional rulers of the 16 provinces of Palau. The most respected is Yutaka Gibbons, the supreme leader (ibedul) of Koror, the country's main city.

    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 contender for the throne is the house of Duarte III Pio, Duke of Bragança.

    Russia . The monarchy ceased to exist after February revolution 1917 of the year. Although there are several claimants to 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 Mihai I in 1947. After the collapse of communism, the former king visited his home country several times. In 2001, the Romanian parliament granted him the rights of a former head of state - a residence, a private car with a chauffeur, and a salary equal to 50% of the country's president's salary.

    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, 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, acquired state status 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. It was proclaimed a republic in 1923 (the sultanate was abolished a year earlier, and the caliphate was abolished a year later). The contender for the throne is Prince Osman VI.

    Uganda. Republic since 1963 (from the moment of independence in 1962 until the proclamation of the republic, the Queen of Great Britain was the head of state). Some of the traditional kingdoms in 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 in the country. 28 of them are concentrated in the area of ​​Lake Lanao (Mindanao island). The Philippine government officially recognizes the Lanao (Ranao) Sultan Confederation 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 families, due to various political and financial benefits.

    France. The monarchy was abolished in 1871. The heirs of various clans claim the French throne: Prince Henry of Orleans, Count of Paris and Duke of France (Orleanist aspirant); Louis Alphonse de Bourbon, Duke of Anjou (Legitimist challenger) and Prince Carl Bonaparte, Prince Napoleon (Bonapartist challenger).

    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 an emperor in 1976. In 1979, Bokassa was overthrown and the Central African Empire became the Central African Republic again. 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 on the territory of Chad, two should be distinguished: the Baghirmi and Vadari 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 ruling emperors was Haile Selassie I, belonging to the dynasty, the founders of which are considered to be Menelik I, the son of Solomon, king of Israel, from the Queen of Sheba. In 1988, in a private ceremony in London, the son of Haile Selassie, Amha Selassie I, was proclaimed the new emperor of Ethiopia (in exile).

    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). The leaders of the tribes (amakosi), as well as the ruler of the traditional kingdom of KwaZulu Goodwill Zvelitini KaBekuzulu, play an important role in the life of the country. 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 the ex-President of South Africa Nelson Mandela. The leader of the tribe is also a well-known politician, leader of the Inkata Freedom Party, Mangosutu Gatshi Butelezi from the Butelezi tribe. During the apartheid period, the South African authorities created ten "autonomous" tribal entities called bantustans (homelands).

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 a few dozen territories under the rule of the British crown. It would seem that in the modern world there is a clear preponderance on the side of the republican states. But upon closer examination, it turns out that these countries for the most part 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 highly volatile entities. They can be fragmented and modified, which can be seen, for example, in Iraq. They are gripped by incessant conflicts, like a significant number of African countries. And it is quite obvious that they are not included in the category of advanced states.

Today, the monarchy is an extremely flexible and multifaceted 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 monarchy and territories under their crown:

Europe

* Andorra - co-princes Nicolas Sarkozy (since 2007) and Joan Enric Vives y Sicilla (since 2003)
* Belgium - King Albert II (since 1993)
* Vatican - Pope Benedict XVI (since 2005)
* Great Britain - Queen Elizabeth II (from 1952)
* Denmark - Queen Margrethe II (since 1972)
* Spain - King Juan Carlos I (since 1975)
* Liechtenstein - Prince Hans-Adam II (from 1989)
* Luxembourg - Grand Duke Henri (since 2000)
* Monaco - Prince Albert II (from 2005)
* Netherlands - Queen Beatrix (since 1980)
* Norway - King Harald V (from 1991)
* Sweden - King Carl XVI Gustaf (from 1973)

Asia.

* Bahrain - King Hamad ibn Isa al-Khalifa (since 2002, emir in 1999-2002)
* Brunei - Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah (from 1967)
* Bhutan - King Jigme Khesar Namgyal Wangchuck (since 2006)
* Jordan - King Abdullah II (since 1999)
* Cambodia - King Norodom Sihamoni (from 2004)
* Qatar - Emir Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani (from 1995)
* Kuwait - Emir Sabah al-Ahmed al-Jaber al-Sabah (from 2006)
* Malaysia - King Mizan Zaynal Abidin (since 2006)
* United Arab Emirates United Arab Emirates - President Khalifa bin Zayed Al-Nahyan (since 2004)
* Oman - Sultan Qaboos bin Said (from 1970)
* Saudi Arabia - King Abdullah ibn Abdel Aziz al-Saud (since 2005)
* Thailand - King Bhumibol Adulyadej (from 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 (from 2006)

Dominions

In the dominions, or kingdoms of the Commonwealth, 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 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.

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

The third place is for the countries of Polynesia, and the fourth for Africa, where at present there are only three full-fledged monarchies: Morocco, Lesotho, Swaziland, plus several hundred "tourist" ones.

Nevertheless, a number of republican countries are forced to put up with the presence on their territory of traditional local monarchical or tribal formations, 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 XX 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 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 share of stability and balance in the political, social and national structure of society. That is why even those countries where it exists exclusively 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 fixed in one hand and the political circles do not oppose it, but work in the name of the interests of the entire nation.

Moreover, historical experience shows that the world's best social security systems are built in monarchical states. And this is not only about the monarchies of Scandinavia, where even the Soviet agitprop in monarchist Sweden managed to find a variant of "socialism with a 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 Gulf countries gained independence, without revolutions and civil wars, liberalization of everything and everyone, without utopian social experiments, in conditions of a tough, 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 citizens of the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and other neighboring states turned into quite wealthy citizens.

Without delving into the endless enumeration of the advantages of the Arab social system, you can cite just a few touches. 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, at any higher educational institution in the 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, which for a number of reasons have abandoned the monarchy (Yemen, Iraq, Iran), we will see a striking difference in the internal climate of these states.

Who holds the unity of the people together?

As historical experience shows, in multinational states, the integrity of the country is primarily associated with the monarchy. We see this in the past, on the example of the Russian Empire, Austria-Hungary, Yugoslavia, Iraq. The monarchical regime that is replacing the monarchical regime, as was the case, for example, in Yugoslavia and Iraq, no longer possesses that authority and is forced to resort to atrocities 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 disintegration. This was the case 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, Saudi Arabia. Thus, 2007 clearly showed that in the conditions of the parliamentary crisis that arose due to national contradictions between Flemish and Walloon politicians, only the authority of King Albert II of the Belgians kept Belgium from disintegrating into two or even more independent state formations. In multilingual Belgium, a joke was even born that the unity of its people is held together by only three things - beer, chocolate and a 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 have gone through 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 a civil war, an economic crisis and a right-wing dictatorship, it returned to a monarchical form of government, taking its rightful place among the family of European nations. Cambodia was 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 leaders constantly have to speak out on this matter, and in some cases also provide support to the heads of the Royal Houses. exiled. This is proved by the experience of the King of Albania Leki, who almost carried out an armed coup in his country, and the amazing successes of the Tsar of Bulgaria Simeon II, who created his own national movement named after him, who 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 entered the coalition government.

Among the currently existing monarchies, there are many openly absolutist in nature, 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 a large village that, 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, it is one of the largest business and financial centers that managed not to succumb to 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 most monarchical countries makes them not only not obsolete, but progressive and attractive, makes them equal in a number of parameters.

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

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 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 ousted 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 Mohammad Zahir Shah, who returned to the country in 2002 after staying in Italy for many years, but did not become actively involved in political life.
Benin Republic,
an important role in the life of which traditional kings (ahosu) and tribal leaders play. The most famous is the now 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. The decree on the nationalization of lands belonging to the royal family was canceled in 1997. Since 2001, the former Tsar has held the post of Prime Minister of Bulgaria under the name of Simeon of Saxe Coburgot.
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 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 are a large number of traditional states, the most significant of which is Vogodogo (on the territory of the capital of the country, Ouagudugu), where the ruler (moogo-naaba) Baongo II is currently on the throne.
Vatican
Theocracy (some analysts consider it one of the forms of monarchy - an absolute theocratic monarchy - but 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 rajah.
Vietnam
The monarchy on the territory of the country finally ceased to exist in 1955, when the republic was proclaimed based on the results of a referendum in South Vietnam. Earlier, in 1945, the last emperor Bao Dai had already abdicated the throne, but the French authorities returned him to the country in 1949 and granted him the post of head of state. The contender for the throne is the son of the emperor, Prince Bao Long.
Gambia
Republic since 1970 (from the moment of independence in 1965 until the proclamation of the republic, the Queen of Great Britain was the head of state). In 1995, Yvonne Prior, a Dutch woman from Suriname, was recognized as the reincarnation of one of the kings of antiquity and was proclaimed queen of the Mandingo people.
Ghana
Republic since 1960 (from the moment of independence in 1957 until the proclamation of the republic, the Queen of Great Britain was the head of state). Ghana's constitution guarantees the right of traditional rulers (sometimes called kings, sometimes chiefs) to participate in the management of state affairs.
Germany
Republic since the overthrow of the monarchy in 1918. The contender for the throne is Prince George Frederick of Prussia, great-great-grandson of Kaiser Wilhelm II.
Greece
The monarchy officially ceased to exist as a result of the 1974 referendum. After fleeing the country after the 1967 military coup, King Constantine of Greece currently resides in Great Britain. 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 before the International Court of Human Rights.
Georgia
Republic since the declaration of 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 Georgy 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 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 expressed by Prince Raad bin Zeid, brother of King Faisal I of Iraq, and Prince Sharif Ali bin Ali Hussein, the great-nephew of the same king.
Iran The monarchy ceased to exist in 1979 after a revolution that overthrew Shah Mohammed Reza Pahlavi. The contender for the throne is the son of the ousted 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 as a result of the unification of North and South Yemen in 1990. In North Yemen, the monarchy ceased to exist in 1962. The sultanates and principalities in the territory of South Yemen were liquidated after the declaration of its independence in 1967. The contender for the throne is Prince Ahmat 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 are Sultan of Bamun Ibrahim Mbombo Njoya, sultan (baba) of the kingdom of Rei Buba Buba Abdoulaye.
Congo(Democratic Republic of the Congo, former Zaire)
Republic since independence in 1960. There are a number of traditional kingdoms in the country. The most famous are: the Kingdom of Cuba (on the throne of King Kvete Mboke); the kingdom of Luba (the king, sometimes also called the emperor, Kabongo Jacques); the state of Ruund (Lunda), headed by the ruler (mwaant yav) 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 of the leaders is the head of the traditional Teke kingdom - King (onko) 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 rank them among the Japanese imperial family. The contender for the Korean throne is the representative of this surname, Prince Q Ri (sometimes his surname is written as Lee). There is a de facto hereditary form of government on the territory of the DPRK, 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 Ajumani Kuassi 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 Sawang and Prince Danyawong Sawang - 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 sources, they all starved to death in a concentration camp. Prince Sulivong Sawang, as the eldest surviving male of the clan, is a 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 king's official heir (adopted son of his cousin), Prince Mohammed al-Hasan al-Rida.
Malawi
Republic since 1966 (from the moment of proclamation of independence in 1964 until the proclamation of the republic, the Queen of Great Britain was the head of state). The supreme leader (inkosi ya makosi) Mmbelwa IV of the Ngoni dynasty plays an important role in the country's political life.
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 once already became a republic for a short time). The formal pretender to the throne, though he never announced his claims, is Prince Mohammed Nureddin, son of the Sultan of the Maldives Hasan Nureddin II (ruled 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 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 contenders for the Mexican throne. The head of the Iturbide family is Baroness Maria (II) Anna Tankle 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 contender for 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 evidenced by the fact that Hendrik Witbui 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 elect their own political and religious leader, who bears the title of Sultan Zinder (the title is not inherited). Currently, the title of the 20th Sultan of Zinder is held by Haji Mamadu Mustafa.
Nigeria
Republic since 1963 (from the moment of independence in 1960 until the proclamation of the republic, the Queen of Great Britain was the head of state). On the territory of the country there are about 100 traditional states, whose rulers wear both the usual sounding titles of sultan or emir, and more exotic ones: aku uka, olu, igve, amanyanabo, torti tiv, 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. The most respected is Yutaka Gibbons, the supreme leader (ibedul) of Koror, the country's main city.
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 contender for the throne is the house of Duarte III Pio, Duke of Bragança.
Russia
The monarchy ceased to exist after the February Revolution of 1917. Although there are several claimants to 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 Mihai I in 1947. After the collapse of communism, the former king visited his home country several times. In 2001, the Romanian parliament granted him the rights of a former head of state - a residence, a private car with a chauffeur, and a salary equal to 50% of the country's president's salary.
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, 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, acquired state status 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, the 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 the moment of independence in 1962 until the proclamation of the republic, the Queen of Great Britain was the head of state). Some of the traditional kingdoms in 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 in the country. 28 of them are concentrated in the area of ​​Lake Lanao (Mindanao island). The Philippine government officially recognizes the Lanao (Ranao) Sultan Confederation 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 families, due to various political and financial benefits.
France
The monarchy was abolished in 1871. The heirs of various clans claim the French throne: Prince Henry of Orleans, Count of Paris and Duke of France (Orleanist aspirant); Louis Alphonse de Bourbon, Duke of Anjou (Legitimist challenger) and Prince Carl Bonaparte, Prince Napoleon (Bonapartist challenger).
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 an emperor in 1976. In 1979, Bokassa was overthrown and the Central African Empire became the Central African Republic again. The contender for the throne is Bokassa's son, Crown Prince Jean-Bedel Georges Bokassa.
Chad is a republic since independence in 1960. Among the numerous traditional states on the territory of Chad, two should be distinguished: the Baghirmi and Vadari 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 ruling emperors was Haile Selassie I, belonging to the dynasty, the founders of which are considered to be Menelik I, the son of Solomon, king of Israel, from the Queen of Sheba. In 1988, in a private ceremony in London, the son of Haile Selassie, 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). The leaders of the tribes (amakosi), as well as the ruler of the traditional kingdom of KwaZulu Goodwill Zvelitini KaBekuzulu, play an important role in the life of the country. 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 the ex-President of South Africa Nelson Mandela. The leader of the tribe is also a well-known politician, leader of the Inkata Freedom Party, Mangosutu Gatshi Butelezi from the Butelezi 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 peculiarities of the monarchy in African style.

African autocrats.

Benin. Joseph Langanfen of the Abomi Dynasty is the president of CAFRA, the council of the Abomi royal families.

The offspring of the dynasties that went down in African history until the early twentieth century are the bearers of a secret power with which "modern governments" must coexist.

Unlike the Indian maharjas, they survived the shocks of history and exist, as it were, in a parallel world that remains very real. However, for some Africans, they are the embodiment of a backward, archaic system that has not resisted the onslaught of 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 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, the tribe's main city has several millionaires.

Benin. Agboli-Agbo Dejlani. King abomi. A former police officer, he had to wait six years for retirement to finally be 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 in rank.

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

Cameroon. The background (king) of Banjun 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, now Kamga Joseph is the 13th background of his tribe.

Ghana. Osediyo ado Dankwa III. A graduate of the University of London and an economic advisor to the Ghanaian administration, the King of Akropona has lived for the past sixteen years in the “holy places” of the Akuarem Asona, one of the seven main 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 and cross cultivated fields. And still no one has ever seen him eat.

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

Nigeria. Both are Joseph Adekola Ogunoy. 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 organize festivities in her honor with a sacrifice. This is still happening, but the human sacrifice - necessarily a man and a woman - was replaced by a sheep and a goat.

Cameroon. Hapi IV, King of Bana. 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 heads, Mfenge, was accused of witchcraft. In order to justify himself, he cut off his mother's head, and the corpse was examined by local shamans. The claims that witchcraft is transmitted through the "mother's womb" have not been proven, and Mfenge himself was made king.

These are Their African Majesties. 21st century.