Which countries still have a royal family?

As an expert in political systems and global governance, I have a deep understanding of the various forms of government around the world. One of the oldest forms of government is a monarchy, where a single individual or family holds power, often hereditary. While many countries have transitioned to more democratic forms of governance, there are still several nations that maintain a royal family. Let's explore this topic in detail.

Monarchies in the Modern World

Monarchies have evolved over time, and today, they often serve as symbolic leaders rather than wielding absolute power. The role of a royal family can vary significantly from one country to another. Here are some nations where a royal family still exists:


1. United Kingdom: The British Royal Family, headed by Queen Elizabeth II, is one of the most well-known and oldest monarchies in the world. The Queen is a constitutional monarch, meaning her powers are limited by a constitution or by law.


2. Spain: King Felipe VI is the current head of the Spanish Royal Family. Like the UK, Spain operates under a constitutional monarchy, with the king serving as a symbol of continuity and unity.


3. Norway: King Harald V rules Norway, a country that also practices constitutional monarchy. The Norwegian royal family is known for its commitment to social welfare and environmental issues.


4. Sweden: King Carl XVI Gustaf is the current king of Sweden, a country that has a strong tradition of constitutional monarchy. The Swedish royal family is often involved in various cultural and social events.


5. Netherlands: King Willem-Alexander is the reigning monarch of the Netherlands. The Dutch royal family plays a role in the country's ceremonial and representational functions.


6. Belgium: King Philippe is the current king of Belgium, a country with a rich history of monarchy. The Belgian royal family is involved in numerous cultural and diplomatic activities.

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Japan: Emperor Naruhito is the reigning emperor of Japan. The Japanese monarchy is considered the oldest continuous hereditary monarchy in the world, with a significant cultural and symbolic role.

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Thailand: King Maha Vajiralongkorn is the current king of Thailand. The Thai royal family holds a unique position in the country's political and cultural life.

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Monaco: Prince Albert II is the head of the House of Grimaldi and the reigning monarch of Monaco. Monaco is a principality, a type of monarchy, and is known for its glamorous image.

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Liechtenstein: Prince Hans-Adam II was the reigning prince until his death in 2023, and his son, Prince Alois, serves as the regent and head of state.

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1. Luxembourg: Grand Duke Henri is the current head of state in Luxembourg, which is a grand duchy, a specific rank of monarchy.

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2. Bhutan: King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck is the current Druk Gyalpo, or Dragon King, of Bhutan. Bhutan is known for its unique approach to governance, measuring progress through Gross National Happiness.

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3. Brunei: The Sultan of Brunei, Hassanal Bolkiah, holds significant power and is one of the few remaining absolute monarchs in the world.

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4. Saudi Arabia: King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud is the current king and maintains a strong influence over the country's affairs, operating under an absolute monarchy.

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5. Vatican City: The Pope, currently Pope Francis, is considered the spiritual leader of the Roman Catholic Church and holds a unique position as the monarch of the Vatican City.

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6. Bahrain: King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa is the current king of Bahrain, where the royal family plays a significant role in the governance of the country.

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Swaziland (Eswatini): King Mswati III is the last absolute monarch in Africa. However, it's important to note that the country's political structure has been evolving, and the role of the monarchy may change in the future.

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Jordan: King Abdullah II is the current king of Jordan, a country where the royal family has a significant influence on the political landscape.

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Lesotho: King Letsie III is the current king of Lesotho, a constitutional monarchy where the king's powers are limited by the constitution.

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Qatar: Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani is the current leader of Qatar, which is governed under an absolute monarchy.

These are just a few examples of countries with royal families. It's important to recognize that the role and power of these families can differ greatly, from purely symbolic and ceremonial to holding significant political authority.

However, a few have still managed to maintain total control of every aspect of ruling their country.Brunei. Photo: Michael Goodine/Flickr. ... Swaziland. Photo: Wikimedia Commons. ... Saudi Arabia. Photo: Wikimedia Commons. ... Bhutan. Photo: Istvan Hernadi/Flickr. ... Monaco. Photo: Jaguar PS/Shutterstock. ... Bahrain. ... Liechtenstein. ... Vatican City.More items...