Introduction
When it comes to the number of countries in the world, the answer may surprise you. While it is commonly believed that there are 195 countries, the actual number can vary depending on how you define a country. In this blog post, we will explore the different ways countries are classified and provide you with the names of the countries recognized by the United Nations.
United Nations Member States
The United Nations is an international organization that serves as a platform for countries to discuss and address global issues. As of 2021, there are 193 member states in the United Nations. These countries are recognized by the majority of the international community and have full sovereignty.
Some of the well-known member states include the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, France, China, India, Brazil, and Australia. Each member state has its own government, territory, and international relations.
Non-Member Observer States
In addition to the 193 member states, there are two observer states in the United Nations: the Holy See (Vatican City) and Palestine. Observer states have a non-voting status in the General Assembly but can participate in discussions and debates.
Other Recognized Countries
Outside of the United Nations, there are a few other countries that are recognized by at least one UN member state but are not officially recognized by the majority. These include Taiwan, Kosovo, and Western Sahara.
Controversial Cases
There are certain regions in the world that have declared independence but are not widely recognized as independent countries. Some examples include Abkhazia, South Ossetia, and Transnistria. These regions have their own governments and control over their territories, but their status is disputed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the number of countries in the world can be subjective depending on how you define a country. According to the United Nations, there are 193 member states and two observer states. However, there are other regions and territories that have declared independence but are not widely recognized. The names of the countries recognized by the United Nations include well-known nations like the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, and China. It’s important to note that the political landscape is constantly evolving, and new countries may emerge in the future.
