Biography of leaders of the world
List of current heads of state and government
"World leaders" redirects here. For the CIA-published public domain directory, see World Leaders.
This is a list of current heads of state and heads of government. In some cases, mainly in presidential systems, one leader is head of state and head of government. In other cases, mainly in semi-presidential and parliamentary systems, the head of state and the head of government are different people. In semi-presidential and parliamentary systems, the head of government (i.e. executive) role is fulfilled by the listed head of government and the head of state.
In one-party states, the ruling party's leader (e.g. the General Secretary) is usually the de facto top leader of the state, though sometimes this leader also holds the presidency or premiership. In Andorra, Iran, and the Vatican City (Holy See), a clergy member also acts as the head of state. In Andorra, this is the Bishop of Urgell, Co-Prince of Andorra; in Iran, this is the Supreme Leader; and in the Vatican City, this is the Pope, who is also the head of government (President of the Governorate of Vatican City State).
The list includes the names of recently elected or appointed heads of state and government who will take office on an appointed date, as presidents-elect and prime ministers–designate, and those leading a government-in-exile if internationally recognised.
Member and observer states of the United Nations
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Green cells indicate leaders whose offices constitutionally administer the executive of their respective state/government. |
Blue cells indicate de facto executive leaders whose offices lack de jure constitutional power. |
- Note: Names in small font generally denote acting, interim, transitional, temporary leaders, or representatives. Other notes and exceptions are provided at § Notes.