Not a type of monarchy. What types of monarchy exist. Monarchy as a form of government: concept, characteristics and types

The British royal family may be the most famous, but they are far from the only ones. In fact, there are 43 countries where a monarchy exists, and we are completely surprised at how many still exist. Yes, there are 43 different countries ruled by 28 royal families (some under the rule of a single monarch).

Today we have compiled a gallery of royal families around the world. What are you waiting for? Put on your fake crown, make your tea, and start reading!

United Kingdom: Queen Elizabeth II

Image Source: Getty/Samir Hussein

Long live the queen! Queen Elizabeth II became the longest-reigning monarch in the United Kingdom, dating back to 1952. In addition, the Queen is the monarch of the Commonwealth of 15 countries - Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Jamaica, Barbados, Bahamas, Grenada, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Tuvalu, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Antigua and Barbuda , Belize, Saint Kitts and Nevis.

The monarch in the UK is the head of state, and since it is a constitutional monarchy, the ability to make laws still lies with the elected parliament.

Since they are the most prominent royal family, you may already know that Queen Elizabeth II has four children with her husband Prince Philip, 8 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Saudi Arabia: King Salman

The head of Saudi Arabia is King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. Since Saudi Arabia is an absolute monarchy, Salman is not only the country's monarch, but also the prime minister. Salman became king in 2013 at the age of 79, after his half-brother King Abdullah (who was 90) died. According to washington post Although Saudi Arabia is currently governed by a hereditary king, all future kings will be chosen by a committee of Saudi princes founded in 2006.

Kuwait: Emir Sheikh Sabah IJ Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah

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Sabah Ahmed AS-Sabah has been involved in politics in Kuwait for many years. He was prime minister in 2003 and became emir (or king) of the country in 2006. Although Sabah has ruled the country for over a decade, he was not actually next in line to the throne. He took this position because the heir was unable to fulfill the oath due to health problems. He is currently the head of the royal family and commander of the Kuwaiti Armed Forces. Sabah has four children and is now 88 years old.

Liechtenstein: Prince Hans-Adam II

Image Source: Getty/Sean Gallup

As the eldest son of Prince Joseph II and Princess Gina, Prince Hans-Adam II inherited the throne of Liechtenstein upon his father's death in 1989. Surprisingly, Prince Hans-Adam, the first prince of Liechtenstein, actually grew up in Liechtenstein, and he is the country's 15th ruler.

The prince is married to Countess Marie Kinski of Wcinitz and Tettau, and the couple has four children, three sons and one daughter. Their eldest, hereditary Prince Alois, had already been named as his father's successor when he died.

Although Prince Hans-Adam rules a small country, he is the richest prince in Europe, according to Forbes, his fortune was estimated at $3.5 billion in 2011.

Qatar: Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani

Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani was named emir of Qatar in 2013 after his father abdicated the throne after an 18-year reign.

The Al Thani family is part of a dynasty of rulers in Qatar that has ruled since 1825, and many other family members hold key positions in the country's government, facilitating Tamim's role as emir.

United Arab Emirates: President Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Emir of Abu Dhabi

Image source: Getty/WPA Pool

The United Arab Emirates is made up of seven districts, each ruled by a hereditary monarch known as an emir. The Emir of Abu Dhabi is the President of the Federation, and therefore the monarch to whom the other districts submit. The current Emir of Abu Dhabi (and President of the United Arab Emirates) is Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who took office in 2004 after the death of his father. He has eight children, meaning the throne (and presidency) should remain in the family for many years to come.

Netherlands: King Willem-Alexander

In 2013, King Willem-Alexander (left) succeeded his mother, Queen Beatrix, as monarch of the Netherlands when she decided to abdicate the throne. Because Holland has a bicameral parliament, it does not govern directly, but it has the power of the President of the Council of State.

King Willem-Alexander is married to Queen Maxima and they have three children, Princess Catharina-Amalia, Princess Alexia and Princess Ariana.

According to Dutch news, the royal family costs taxpayers around 40 million euros a year, not including security, making the Dutch monarchy one of the most expensive in Europe.

Swaziland: King Mswati III

Image Source: Getty/Brendan SMIALOWSKI

Swaziland may not be a big country, but King Mswati III has a lot of power. Mswati took the throne at the age of 18 (in 1983) after the death of his father. As King of Swaziland, he appoints Parliament, although some of its members are elected by popular vote. Mswati, now 49, is known for having many wives: he married his 14th in September 2017, according to Africa News.

The king reportedly divorced three wives during his time as monarch and has more than 30 children.

Brunei: Sultan Sir Muda Hassanal Bolkiah Muizzadin Waddaula

Image Source: Getty/Suhaimi Abdullah

The Sultan of Brunei is known as Hassanal Bolkiah - even though his name is much longer than that. He took over the small country in 1967 and has been monarch and head of government ever since. In 2016, Hassanal Bolkiah is considered the richest monarch in the world, and he has a large, expensive car collection to prove it. According to the publication, His Majesty earns almost $100 per second from oil revenues (and other investments), which amounts to approximately $2 billion a year, for a total net worth of about $20 billion.

The Sultan has 13 children (from many different wives) to share this wealth.

Sweden: King Carl XVI Gustaf

Image source: Getty/Patrick Van Cutwijk

King Carl XVI Gustaf ascended to the throne in 1973, when he was only 27 years old. His reign was chronicled in 2010 when a book was released which claimed the king had an affair with a Swedish-Nigerian singer and was involved in an underground hot tub nightclub in the 1990s.

Despite the scandal, the king still remains the head of Sweden and has been married to Queen Silvia (since 1976). Together they have three children. The eldest is Crown Princess Victoria, who will take the throne when her father decides to retire or, more likely, when he dies. The king also has two other children - Princess Madeleine and Prince Carl Philip.

Crown Princess Victoria has two children of her own - Princess Estelle (5) and Prince Oscar (1) with her husband Prince Daniel Westling.

Oman: Sultan Qaboos Bin Said

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In 1970, Sultan Qaboos bin Said came to power after overthrowing his father, who was known as a "recluse". Sultan Qaboos is the longest reigning Arab leader, and yet, after a failed marriage, he has no direct heirs, which is very interesting. Despite his bachelor status, Sultan Qaboos is a true father of his country, he improved the economy and the standard of living of the people throughout his reign.

He rarely appears in public these days, but he still holds all the important titles in the Omani government, being Foreign Minister, Defense Minister, Finance Minister and Chairman of the Central Bank.

Bahrain: King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa

Image source: Getty/MANDEL NGAN

King Hamad Bin Isa Al Khalifa was named Emir of Bahrain in 1999 when his father, Isa Bin Salman Al Khalifa, died. In 2002, Hamad declared himself monarch, becoming the first king of Bahrain in the country's history. His family, however, has ruled the country since 1783 and has always had a lot of power.

King Hamad has 12 children from several wives.

Vatican: Pope Francis

Image Source: Getty/Franco Origlia

We know what you're thinking: this is the Pope, he's a religious leader and the head of the Roman Catholic Church. And you'll be right. But Pope Francis is also considered the monarch of the Vatican, which is a European city-state.

The Vatican City State is an absolute monarchy, and the Pope is its head (king, technically). He has full legislative, executive and judicial powers. When a pope dies and no other is named, the country is governed by a college of cardinals who ultimately name the next single pope/king/ruler.

Jordan: King Abdullah II

Jordan has been ruled by King Abdullah II since 1999, when he ascended the throne after the death of his father, King Hussein. King Abdullah is married to Queen Rania of Jordan, and their eldest child (one of four), a son named Hussein, the Crown Prince of Jordan, is set to take the throne when his father leaves him.

King Abdullah and his relatives claim to be direct descendants of the Prophet Muhammad, making him the 41st descendant of the founder of the Islamic faith.

Morocco: King Mohammed VI

Image source: Getty/Christophe Morin/IP3

In 1999, King Mohammed VI ascended the throne after the death of his father King Hassan II. Mohammed is married to Princess Lalla Salma, and they have two children - son Crown Prince Moulay Hassan and daughter Princess Lalla Khadija. Mohammed's official title is "His Majesty King Mohammed the sixth, Commander of the Faithful, may God grant him Victory."

Monaco: Prince Albert II

Image Source: Getty/Pascal Le Segretain

Prince Albert II has ruled Monaco since 2005. He is the son of Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace (actress Grace Kelly). He married Charlene Wittstock and had two children with her - twins Princess Gabriella Teresa Marie and Prince Jacques Honoré Rainier. Prince Albert has two more children with two other women.

Monaco is a sovereign principality, but it also has an elected legislature. Prince Albert, however, appoints the Minister of State and has some political power.

Thailand: King Maha Vajiralongkorn

Image source: Getty/AFP

At the age of 64, King Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarangkun (don't break your tongue!) became the 10th monarch of the Chakri dynasty. He is also known as Rama X. King Vajiralongkorn became the ruler of Thailand after his father, King Bhumibol Adulyadej, died in 2016, according to the BBC. He was the longest reigning monarch in the world. He ruled the country for seven decades, starting in 1946 and ending in 2016. Even Queen Elizabeth II did not surpass him. But she is still of sound mind and quite healthy.

Tonga: King Tupou VI

Image Source: Getty/Edwina Pickles/Fairfax Media

The King of Tonga was not the son of his predecessor. Tupou VI was the brother of the late King George Tupou V, who had no legal heirs when he died in 2012. King Tupou VI is actually married to Nanasipau Tukuaho and has three children, so his legacy will continue.

Norway: King Harald V

Image source: Getty/Patrick Van Cutwijk

King Harald V is the third child of King Olaf V and Queen Martha, but he ascended to the throne when his father died in 1991 because he was the sole heir. Although he had two older sisters, they, according to the Norwegian Constitution of 1814, could not be heirs due to their gender. It was not until 1990 (at one time Harald V had already been named as successor) that the constitution was changed to make the eldest child, regardless of gender, next in line to the throne.

Since King Harald V and his wife, Queen Sonja, had children of their own before the constitutional change took effect, their eldest daughter Princess Märtha, who was born in 1971, cannot be the next monarch. Instead, her younger brother, Crown Prince Haakon, born in 1973, is next in line, followed by his firstborn, who is a girl (yay!). Prince Haakon has three children (one adopted), two boys and one girl, with his wife Princess Mette-Marit.

The best thing about the Norwegian royal family is that it is rooted in love. Back in the 60s, the current king refused to marry a princess and married the daughter of a clothing merchant - a commoner. According to Norway's official website, the current king and queen dated secretly for nine years before they were allowed to marry, and the rest is history!

Bhutan: King Jigme Khesar Namgyal Wangchuk

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In Bhutan, King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuk is known as Druk Gyalpo, which means "Dragon King", which is pretty cool. He was officially crowned in 2008 after taking over most royal duties in 2006 when his father abdicated the throne. King Jigma was only 26 years old when he came to power, but his father was only 16 years old when he became king, so young blood is something of a trend in the Bhutanese royal family.

King Jigme Father made Bhutan a constitutional monarchy, and today's king has followed in his footsteps, maintaining peace and being loved by the people of his country.

The king, however, caused quite a stir when he married a commoner in 2011. But after he officially tied the knot with Jetsun Pema, the people finally approved. Together, the happy couple has one son, Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck, who was born in February 2016 and is now heir to the throne.

Lesotho: King Letsie III

Image Source: Getty/Chris Jackson

King Letsie III has been in power formally since 1996 (and informally since 1990). Although he holds no political power and is an official of the country of Lesotho, he is described as a "living symbol of national unity".

Belgium: King Philippe

Image source: Getty/Patrick Van Cutwijk

King Philippe ascended to the Belgian throne in July 2013 following the abdication of his father, King Albert II. The King is married to Queen Matilda (they married in 1999) and they have four children: Princess Elizabeth, Prince Gabriel, Prince Emmanuel and Princess Eleanor.

In 1991, the Constitution was changed to allow a woman to ascend the throne, meaning that the heir to the Belgian monarchy is the eldest daughter, Princess Elisabeth.

Malaysia: Muhammad V

Image Source: Getty/MANAN VATSYAYANA

In 2016, Sultan Muhammad V became the 15th king and was named Yang di Pertuan Agong, which means: "He who became Lord."

Muhammad's predecessor, Sultan Abdul Halim mu'adzam Shah, is king twice. Once in the 1970s and again from 2011 to 2016. The Sultan's reign will likely last five years, which is the norm for any Malaysian king (who is always part of an elected monarchy system), and his role is largely ceremonial.

Spain: King Felipe VI

Image Source: Getty/Carlos Alvarez

In 2014, King Juan Carlos surprised his country by abdicating the throne after 39 years of service. He named his son Felipe the new King of Spain, and in less than three weeks Felipe VI became monarch and head of the Spanish army.

King Juan Carlos is currently married to Queen Letizia, and together they have two daughters: Leonor, Princess of Asturias, who is heir to the throne (11 years old) and her younger sister, Princess Sofia (now 10 years old).

Cambodia: King Norodom Sihamoni

Image source: Getty/AFP

Cambodia is one of many countries with a ceremonial king. King Norodom Sihamoni took over the role in 2004 after the Royal Throne Council of Thailand chose him (as is the custom with any new king).

He's probably an unconventional choice because he was a professional dancer who lived most of his life in France, but he won the case.

Luxembourg: Grand Duke Henri

Image Source: Getty/Max Mumby/Indigo

In the 1800s, the King of the Netherlands established the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, and in 1839 the people gained their independence. In 1890, Luxembourg became a grand duchy and as such their monarchy is headed by a duke rather than a king.

Since then, direct descendants of the first Duke Adolphus have ruled Luxembourg. The last ruler is Grand Duke Henri, who ascended the throne in 2000, and since he has five children, the legacy will continue after him. A Grand Duchy may have a sovereign, but its power is in the hands of the nation. Grand Duke Henri follows the rule “The Sovereign reigns, but does not rule.”

Japan: Emperor Akihito

Image Source: Getty/Minh HOANG

The Yamato Dynasty of Japan dates back to 660 and its current ruler is Emperor Akihito. He has reigned since 1989 and will be the first Japanese ruler in two centuries to be allowed to abdicate in December 2018 (on his 85th birthday).

Akihito will pass the throne to his eldest son, Crown Prince Naruhito.

Denmark: Queen Margrethe II

Image Source: Getty/Ole Jensen - Corbis

Denmark and Greenland have been under the rule of Her Majesty Queen Margrethe II (since 1972), and she's not going anywhere anytime soon.

The Danish monarchy is one of the oldest in the world, and according to the official website of the Danish Royal Family, it dates back more than 1,000 years to the time of the Viking kings.

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Monarchy- a form of government where the highest state power belongs solely to the head of state - the monarch (king, czar, emperor, shah, etc.), who occupies the throne by inheritance and is not responsible to the population.

Monarchical states can be either absolute, or limited.

Absolute monarchies are states in which supreme power is concentrated as much as possible in the hands of one person.

The main features of an absolute monarchy:

1) all state power (legislative, executive, judicial) belongs to one person - the monarch;
2) the fullness of state power is inherited;
3) the monarch rules the country for life, and there are no legal grounds for his voluntary removal;
4) there is no responsibility of the monarch to the population.

Examples of absolute monarchy states are those mentioned earlier:
the seven principalities of the United Arab Emirates; Oman, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Vatican City State.

Most monarchies in the modern world are limited by the competence of representative and judicial bodies of public power (limited monarchy).
States with this form of government, in particular, include Australia, Belgium, Great Britain, Denmark, Spain, Canada, New Zealand, Norway, Sweden, Japan, etc.

In these countries, on the basis of constitutions, formally or actually state power is divided into legislative, executive and judicial.

Signs of a limited monarchy:

1) the power of the monarch is limited by the presence and activities (competence) of representative, executive and judicial bodies of state power;
2) the government is formed from representatives of the parties that won the parliamentary elections;
3) executive power is exercised by the government, which is responsible to parliament;
4) the head of government is the leader of the party that has the majority of seats in parliament;
5) laws are adopted by parliament, and their signing by the monarch is a formal act.

Limited monarchies are divided into dualistic And parliamentary.
She believes that a dualistic monarchy is characterized by the fact that, along with the legal and actual independence of the monarch, there are representative bodies with legislative and control powers.

“Dualism consists in the fact,” writes L.A. Morozova, “that the monarch cannot make a political decision without the consent of parliament, and parliament cannot make a political decision without the consent of the monarch.”
The scientist explains this by saying that “although the monarch does not legislate, he is endowed with the right of absolute veto, that is, he has the right to approve or not approve laws adopted by representative bodies.” (Bhutan, Jordan, Morocco)

Signs of a parliamentary monarchy:

a) the powers of the monarch are formally and actually limited by the competence of the highest legislative body;
b) the monarch performs only representative functions as head of state;
c) the government is formed by parliament and is responsible to it;
d) executive power belongs entirely to the government.
The states of the parliamentary monarchy include: Great Britain, Belgium, Holland, Denmark, Spain, Norway, Sweden, Japan, etc.

In the modern world there are just over 230 states and self-governing territories with international status. Of these, only 41 states have a monarchical form of government, not counting several dozen territories under the authority of the British Crown. It would seem that in the modern world there is a clear advantage on the side of republican states. But upon closer examination, it turns out that these countries mostly belong to the third world and were formed as a result of the collapse of the colonial system. Often created along colonial administrative boundaries, these states are very unstable entities. They can fragment and change, as can be seen, for example, in Iraq. They are engulfed in ongoing conflicts, like a significant number of countries in Africa. And it is absolutely obvious that they do not belong to the category of advanced states.

Today, the monarchy is an extremely flexible and diverse 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 monarchical system and the territories under their crown:

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

• * Bahrain - King Hamad ibn Isa al-Khalifa (since 2002, emir 1999-2002)
• * Brunei - Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah (since 1967)
• * Bhutan - King Jigme Khesar Namgyal Wangchuk (since 2006)
• * Jordan - King Abdullah II (since 1999)
• * Cambodia - King Norodom Sihamoni (since 2004)
• * Qatar - Emir Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani (since 1995)
• * Kuwait - Emir Sabah al-Ahmed al-Jaber al-Sabah (since 2006)
• * Malaysia - King Mizan Zainal Abidin (since 2006)
• * United Arab Emirates UAE - President Khalifa bin Zayed al-Nahyan (since 2004)
• * Oman - Sultan Qaboos bin Said (since 1970)
• * Saudi Arabia - King Abdullah ibn Abdulaziz al-Saud (since 2005)
• * Thailand - King Bhumibol Adulyadej (since 1946)
• * Japan - Emperor Akihito (since 1989)

• * Lesotho - King Letsie III (since 1996, first time in 1990-1995)
• * Morocco - King Mohammed VI (since 1999)
• * Swaziland - King Mswati III (since 1986)

* Tonga - King George Tupou V (since 2006)

Dominions

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

• * Antigua and Barbuda Antigua and Barbuda
• * Bahamas Bahamas
• * Barbados
• * Belize
• * Grenada
• *Canada
• * Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
• * Saint Kitts and Nevis
• * Saint Lucia
• * Jamaica

• * Australia
• * New Zealand
• * Niue
• * Papua New Guinea
• * Solomon islands
• * Tuvalu

Asia holds first place in the number of countries with monarchical statehood. This is a progressive and democratic Japan. Leaders of the Muslim world - Saudi Arabia, Brunei, Kuwait, Qatar, Jordan, Bahrain, Oman. Two monarchical confederations - Malaysia and the United Arab Emirates. And also Thailand, Cambodia, Bhutan.

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

Third place goes to the countries of Polynesia, and fourth place to Africa, where currently only three full-fledged monarchies remain: Morocco, Lesotho, Swaziland, plus several hundred “tourist” ones.

However, a number of republican countries are forced to put up with the presence of traditional local monarchical or tribal formations on their territory, and even enshrine their rights in the constitution. These include: Uganda, Nigeria, Indonesia, Chad and others. Even countries such as India and Pakistan, which abolished the sovereign rights of local monarchs (khans, sultans, rajas, maharajas) in the early 70s of the 20th century, are often forced to accept the existence of these rights, which is called de facto. Governments turn to the authority of 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 amount of stability and balance in the political, social and national structure of society. That is why even those countries where it exists only nominally, say, Canada or Australia, are in no hurry to get rid of the monarchy. 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 consolidated in one hand and that political circles do not fight for it, but work in the name of the interests of the entire nation.

Moreover, historical experience shows that the best social security systems in the world were built in monarchical states. And we are talking not only about the monarchies of Scandinavia, where even Soviet agitprop in monarchical Sweden managed to find a version of “socialism with a human face.” Such a system has been built in the modern countries of the Persian Gulf, where there is often much less oil 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 rigid, sometimes absolutist, political system, in the absence of parliamentarism and a constitution, when all the mineral resources of the country belong to one ruling family, from poor Bedouins herding camels, the majority of 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, just a few points can be given. Any citizen of the country has the right to free medical care, including that 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 maintenance, at any higher educational institution in the world (Cambridge, Oxford, Yale, Sorbonne). Young families are provided with housing at the expense of the state. The monarchies of the Persian Gulf are truly social states in which all conditions have been created for the progressive growth of the well-being of the population.

Turning from flourishing Kuwait, Bahrain and Qatar to their neighbors in the Persian Gulf and the Arabian Peninsula, who abandoned the monarchy for a number of reasons (Yemen, Iraq, Iran), we will see a striking difference in the internal climate of these states.

Who strengthens the unity of the people?

As historical experience shows, in multinational states the integrity of the country is primarily associated with the monarchy. We see this in the past, in the example of the Russian Empire, Austria-Hungary, Yugoslavia, and Iraq. The monarchical regime that comes to replace it, as was the case, for example, in Yugoslavia and Iraq, no longer has the same authority and is forced to resort to cruelties 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 collapse. This happened 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, and Saudi Arabia. Thus, the year 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 entities. In multilingual Belgium, a joke was even born that the unity of its people is held together by only three things - beer, chocolate and the king. Whereas the abolition of the monarchical system in 2008 in Nepal plunged this state into a chain of political crises and permanent civil confrontation.

The second half of the 20th century gives us several successful examples of the return of peoples who experienced 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 civil war, economic crisis and right-wing dictatorship, it returned to a monarchical form of government, taking its rightful place among the family of European nations. Another example is Cambodia. 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 Hoxha Sukarto (1921-2008), is experiencing a true monarchical renaissance. One of the local sultanates was restored in this country two centuries after it was destroyed by the Dutch.

Restoration ideas are quite strong in Europe, first of all, this applies to the Balkan countries (Serbia, Montenegro, Albania and Bulgaria), where many politicians, public and spiritual figures constantly have to speak out on this issue, and in some cases, provide support to the heads of the Royal Houses, formerly in exile. This is proven by the experience of King Leki of Albania, who almost carried out an armed coup in his country, and the stunning successes of King Simeon II of Bulgaria, who created his own national movement named after him, 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 was part of the coalition government.

Among the currently existing monarchies, there are many that are openly absolutist in essence, although they are forced, as a tribute to the times, to dress up in the garb 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. Just sixty years ago it was a large village, which by an absurd accident gained independence. However, now, thanks to the activities of Prince Franz Joseph II and his son and successor Prince Hans Adam II, this is one of the largest business and financial centers, which has managed not to succumb to promises of creating a “single European house”, 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 outdated, but progressive and attractive, forcing them to be equal to them in a number of parameters.

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

Without a king at the head

There is a fairly common situation in the world when there is no monarchy in a country, but there are monarchs (sometimes they are located outside the country). The heirs of royal families either lay claim (even formally) to 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.

The monarchy ceased to exist in 1918 after the collapse of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The contender for the throne is Archduke Otto von Habsburg, son of the deposed Emperor Charles.

The monarchy ceased to exist in 1944 after the communists came to power. The pretender to 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 Mohammed Zahir Shah, who returned to the country in 2002 after many years in Italy, but did not actively participate in political life.

Benin Republic,

Traditional kings (Ahosu) and tribal leaders play an important role in its life. The most famous is the current reigning 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 served as Prime Minister of Bulgaria under the name of Simeon of Saxe-Coburg Gotha.

Botswana

Republic since independence in 1966. The deputies of one of the chambers of the country's parliament - the House of Chiefs - include the chiefs (Kgosi) of the eight largest tribes in the country.

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

Theocracy (some analysts consider it a form of monarchy - an absolute theocratic monarchy - but it should be borne in mind that it is not and cannot be hereditary).

The republic has been a nominal monarchy since 1946; before that, since 1918, 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. There are a number of traditional states on the territory of the country, the rulers of which have the titles of rajas.

The monarchy in the country finally ceased to exist in 1955, when, following a referendum, a republic was proclaimed in South Vietnam. Previously, in 1945, the last Emperor Bao Dai had already abdicated the throne, but the French authorities returned him to the country in 1949 and gave him the post of head of state. The contender for the throne is the emperor's son, Prince Bao Long.

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

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

Germany

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

The monarchy officially ended as a result of a referendum in 1974. King Constantine of Greece, who fled the country after the military coup in 1967, currently lives in the UK. In 1994, the Greek government stripped the king of his citizenship and confiscated his property in Greece. The royal family is currently challenging this decision at the International Court of Human Rights.

Republic since 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 Georgiy Iraklievich Bagration-Mukhransky, Prince of Georgia.

The monarchy existed until the overthrow of King Ahmad Fuad II of Egypt and Sudan in 1953. Currently, the former king, who was just over a year old at the time of the loss of the throne, lives in France.

The monarchy ended in 1958 as a result of a revolution in which King Faisal II was killed. Claims to the Iraqi throne are made by Prince Raad bin Zeid, brother of King Faisal I of Iraq, and Prince Sharif Ali bin Ali Hussein, grandnephew of the same king.

Iran The monarchy ceased to exist in 1979 after the revolution that overthrew Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. The contender for the throne is the son of the deposed Shah, Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi.

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.

The republic emerged from the unification of North and South Yemen in 1990. In North Yemen, the monarchy ceased to exist in 1962. The sultanates and principalities in South Yemen were abolished after the declaration of independence in 1967. The contender for the throne is Prince Akhmat al-Ghani bin Mohammed al-Mutawakkil.

Republic since independence in 1960. The country is home to a large number of traditional sultanates, the heads of which often occupy high government positions. Among the most famous traditional rulers is Sultan Bamuna Ibrahim Mbombo Njoya, Sultan (baba) of the kingdom of Rey Buba Buba Abdoulaye.

Congo (Democratic Republic of Congo, former Zaire)

Republic since independence in 1960. There are a number of traditional kingdoms throughout the country. The most famous are: the kingdom of Cuba (on the throne is King Kwete Mboke); the kingdom of Luba (king, sometimes also called emperor, Kabongo Jacques); the state of Ruund (Lunda), headed by the ruler (mwaant yaav) Mbumb II Muteb.

Congo (Republic of Congo)

Republic since independence in 1960. In 1991, the country's authorities restored the institution of traditional leaders (reconsidering their decision 20 years ago). The most famous of the leaders is the head of the traditional Teke kingdom - King (UNKO) Makoko XI.

(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, they are usually classified as part of the Japanese imperial family. The contender for the Korean throne is the representative of this family, Prince Kyu Ri (sometimes his last name is written as Lee). On the territory of the DPRK, there is a de facto hereditary form of government, 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 Adjumani Kuassi Adingra).

The monarchy ended in 1975 as a result of the communist revolution. In 1977, all members of the royal family were sent to a concentration camp (“re-education camp”). The king's two sons, Prince Sulivong Savang and Prince Danyavong Savang, were able to escape from Laos in 1981-1982. There is no official information about the fate of the king, queen, crown prince and other family members. According to unofficial reports, they all died of starvation in a concentration camp. Prince Sulivong Sawang, as the eldest surviving male of the clan, is the formal contender for the throne.

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 official heir of the king (the adopted son of his cousin), Prince Mohammed al-Hasan al-Rida.

Republic since 1966 (from the declaration of independence in 1964 until the proclamation of the republic, the head of state was the Queen of Great Britain). An important role in the political life of the country is played by the paramount leader (inkosi ya makosi) Mmbelwa IV of the Ngoni dynasty.

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 had already become a republic once for a short time). The formal contender for the throne, although he never declared his claims, is Prince Mohammed Nureddin, the son of Sultan Hassan Nureddin II of the Maldives (reigned 1935-1943).

The monarchy ceased to exist in 1867 after the execution by revolutionaries of the ruler of the empire proclaimed in 1864, Archduke Maximilian of Austria. Earlier, in 1821-1823, the country had already once been an independent state with a monarchical form of structure. Representatives of the Iturbide dynasty, whose ancestor was the Mexican emperor during this period, are pretenders to the Mexican throne. The head of the Iturbide family is Baroness Maria (II) Anna Tankle Iturbide.

Mozambique

Republic since independence in 1975. The country is home to the traditional state of Manyika, whose ruler (mambo) is Mutasa Paphiwa.

(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 Taw Paya, grandson of the last king Thibau Min.

Republic since independence in 1990. A number of tribes are governed by traditional rulers. The role of traditional leaders is evidenced by the fact that Hendrik Witbooi served as deputy head of government for several years.

Republic since independence in 1960. There are a number of traditional states on the territory of the country. Their rulers and tribal elders choose their political and religious leader, who bears the title of Sultan of Zinder (the title is not hereditary). Currently, the title of the 20th Sultan of Zinder is held by Haji Mamadou Mustafa.

Republic since 1963 (from independence in 1960 until the proclamation of the republic, the head of state was the Queen of Great Britain). There are about 100 traditional states on the territory of the country, the rulers of which bear both the familiar-sounding titles of Sultan or Emir, as well as more exotic ones: Aku Uka, Olu, Igwe, Amanyanabo, Tor Tiv, Alafin, Oba, Obi, Ataoja, Oroje, Olubaka, Ohimege (most often this means “leader” or “supreme leader”).

Palau (Belau)

Republic since independence in 1994. Legislative power is exercised by the House of Delegates (Council of Chiefs), which consists of the traditional rulers of Palau's 16 provinces. The greatest authority is enjoyed by Yutaka Gibbons, the paramount chief (ibedul) of Koror, the main city of the country.

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 due to an armed uprising. The contender for the throne is Dom Duarte III Pio, Duke of Braganza.

The monarchy ceased to exist after the February Revolution of 1917. Although there are several contenders for the Russian throne, most monarchists recognize Grand Duchess Maria Vladimirovna, the great-great-granddaughter of Emperor Alexander II, as the legal heir.

The monarchy ceased to exist after the abdication of King Michael I in 1947. After the collapse of communism, the former king visited his native country several times. In 2001, the Romanian parliament granted him the rights of a former head of state - a residence, a personal car with a driver and a salary of 50% of the salary of the country's president.

Along with Montenegro, it was part of Yugoslavia until 2002 (the remaining republics left 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, gained statehood 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.

The monarchy ended in 1957, the year after independence was declared. 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.

Republic since 1963 (from independence in 1962 until the proclamation of the republic, the head of state was the Queen of Great Britain). Some traditional kingdoms in the country were eliminated 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 confederation of Sultans of Lanao (Ranao) as a political force representing the interests of certain segments of the island's population. At least six people representing two clans claim the throne of the Sultanate of Sulu (located on the archipelago of the same name), which is explained by various political and financial benefits.

The monarchy was abolished in 1871. The heirs of various families claim the French throne: Prince Henry of Orleans, Count of Paris and Duke of France (Orléanist pretender); Louis Alphonse de Bourbon, Duke of Anjou (legitimist pretender) and Prince Charles Bonaparte, Prince Napoleon (Bonapartist pretender).

Central African Republic

After gaining independence from France in 1960, a republic was proclaimed. Colonel Jean-Bedel Bokassa, who came to power in 1966 as a result of a military coup, proclaimed the country an empire and himself emperor in 1976. In 1979, Bokassa was overthrown and the Central African Empire once again became the Central African Republic. 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 in Chad, two should be highlighted: the Bagirmi and Wadari sultanates (both were formally liquidated after the declaration of independence and restored in 1970). Sultan (mbang) Bagirmi - Muhammad Yusuf, Sultan (kolak) Vadari - Ibrahim ibn Muhammad Urada.

Montenegro See Serbia

The monarchy ceased to exist in 1975 after the abolition of the post of emperor. The last of the reigning emperors was Haile Selassie I, who belonged to the dynasty, the founders of which are considered to be Menelik I, the son of Solomon, king of Israel, by the Queen of Sheba. In 1988, in a private ceremony in London, Haile Selassie's son, Amha Selassie I, was proclaimed the new Emperor of Ethiopia (in exile).

South African Republic

Since 1961 (from independence in 1910 until the proclamation of the republic, the head of state was the Queen of Great Britain). Tribal leaders (amakosi) play an important role in the life of the country, as well as the ruler of the traditional kingdom of KwaZulu, Goodwill Zwelithini KaBekuzulu. 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 former South African President Nelson Mandela. The leader of the tribe is also a well-known politician, leader of the Inkatha Freedom Party, Mangosuthu Gatshi Buthelezi from the Buthelezi 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 features of the African monarchy.

African autocrats.

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

The scions of the dynasties that entered the history of Africa before the beginning of the twentieth century are the bearers of the secret power with which “modern governments” must coexist.

Unlike the Indian maharjas, they have survived the upheavals of history and exist, as it were, in a parallel world that remains very real. However, for some Africans they represent a backward, archaic system that has succumbed to 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 taken into account.

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

Benin. Agboli-Agbo Dejlani. King of abomi. A former policeman, he had to wait six years for retirement before finally being 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 required by rank.

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

Cameroon. Fon (king) Banjuna is the brother of 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, Kamga Joseph is now the 13th von of his tribe.

Ghana. Ocediyo ado Danqua III. A graduate of the University of London and an economic adviser to the Ghanaian government, King Akropong has spent the last sixteen years living in the "holy places" of the Akuarem-Ason, one of the seven major 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 or cross cultivated fields. And no one has ever seen him eat.

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

Nigeria. Oba Joseph Adekola Ogunoye. Olowo (king) of the Ovo tribe. 600 years ago, the first monarch of the dynasty fell in love with a beautiful girl who turned out to be a goddess. She became his wife, but demanded that every year the people hold festivals in her honor with a sacrifice. This still happens, but human sacrifices - necessarily a man and a woman - were replaced by a sheep and a goat.

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

These are Their African Majesties. 21st century.

FORMS OF GOVERNMENT

Table 5. Two main forms of government

Table 6. Countries with a monarchical form of government.

Mainland	A country	Type of monarchy
Europe	Andorra	principality (KM)
	Belgium	kingdom (KM)
	Vatican	papacy (ATM)
	Great Britain	kingdom (PM)
	Denmark	kingdom (KM)
	Spain	kingdom (KM)
	Liechtenstein	principality (KM)
	Luxembourg	grand duchy (GD)
	Monaco	principality (KM)
	Netherlands	kingdom (KM)
	Norway	kingdom (KM)
	Sweden	kingdom (KM)
Asia	Bahrain	emirate (KM)
	Thailand	kingdom (KM)
	Nepal	kingdom (KM)
	Kuwait	hereditary emirate (HE)
	Malaysia	Sultanate (OM)
	Japan	empire (KM)
	Butane	kingdom (OM)
	Jordan	kingdom (KM)
	Qatar	emirate (AM)
	UAE	emirate (OM)
	Oman	Sultanate (AM)
	Brunei	Sultanate (ATM)
	Saudi Arabia	kingdom (ATM)
	Cambodia	kingdom (KM)
Africa	Lesotho	kingdom (KM)
	Morocco	kingdom (KM)
	Swaziland	kingdom (AM)
Oceania	Tonga	kingdom
KM - constitutional monarchy; PM - parliamentary monarchy; OM - limited monarchy; AM - absolute monarchy; ATM is an absolute theocratic monarchy.

On the modern political map, 30 countries of the world have a monarchical form of government.

Monarchy is a form of government in which power is concentrated in the hands of one person and is inherited.

IN absolute monarchy the power of the monarch is almost limitless (Bhutan, Oman, UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, etc.)

Head theocratic monarchy is a religious leader (there are three of them in the world - the Vatican, Saudi Arabia, where the king is simultaneously the head of the religious community of Sunni Muslims, and the Sultan of Bahrain).

IN constitutional monarchies The power of the monarch is limited by the constitution, and in parliamentary- parliament.

Republic- a form of government in which the separation of powers is carried out; all supreme bodies of state power are elected by direct vote of the people or by a representative elected body of power (parliament). In presidential republics, unlike parliamentary ones (Germany, Finland, Italy, Turkey), the powers of the head of state and head of government are concentrated in the hands of the president (for example, the USA, France, Romania, Mexico, Argentina, Brazil).

Great Britain is the world's oldest constitutional monarchy. The King (now Queen Elizabeth II) is considered the head of state, the judiciary, the commander-in-chief of the armed forces, the secular head of the state Anglican Church, as well as the British-led Commonwealth, whose members are more than 50 countries that were formerly part of the British Empire (India, Canada, Sri Lanka). Lanka, South Africa, Kenya, Uganda, etc.); and in 15 of the Commonwealth countries, he is, however, formally considered the head of state (Canada, Australia, New Zealand, etc.).

Problems and tests on the topic "Forms of Government"

• Countries of the world - Population of the Earth 7th grade

  Lessons: 6 Tasks: 9

• The work of flowing waters, glaciers and wind

  Lessons: 6 Assignments: 8 Tests: 1

• Relief of the Earth - Lithosphere - the rocky shell of the Earth, grade 5

  Lessons: 4 Assignments: 10 Tests: 1

• Relief of the ocean floor - Lithosphere - the rocky shell of the Earth, grade 5

  Lessons: 5 Assignments: 8 Tests: 1

• Continents, parts of the world and oceans - General characteristics of the nature of the Earth, grade 7

  Lessons: 3 Assignments: 11 Tests: 1

Leading ideas: the level of economic and social development of a country is largely determined by its geographical location and history of development; the diversity of the modern political map of the world - a system that is in constant development and the elements of which are interconnected.

Basic concepts: Territory and border of the state, economic zone, sovereign state, dependent territories, republic (presidential and parliamentary), monarchy (absolute, including theocratic, constitutional), federal and unitary state, confederation, gross domestic product (GDP), human index development (HDI), developed countries, G7 Western countries, developing countries, NIS countries, key countries, oil-exporting countries, least developed countries; political geography, geopolitics, GGP of the country (region), UN, NATO, EU, NAFTA, MERCOSUR, Asia-Pacific, OPEC.

Skills and abilities: Be able to classify countries according to various criteria, give a brief description of groups and subgroups of countries in the modern world, assess the political and geographical position of countries according to plan, identify positive and negative features, note changes in GWP over time, use the most important economic and social indicators for characterization (GDP, GDP per capita, human development index, etc.) of the country. Identify the most important changes on the political map of the world, explain the reasons and predict the consequences of such changes.

The term “monarchy” is of Greek origin (from the gr. monos - one, only, archos - ruler, monarchia - autocracy, autocracy).

Monarchy is a form of government in which the supreme state power is concentrated in the hands of the sole head of state - the monarch, who acquires his post, as a rule, by inheritance and occupies it for life.

In the modern world, two forms of monarchy remain: absolute and constitutional.

An absolute monarchy is a form of government in which all state power is concentrated in the hands of the monarch. The main feature of an absolute monarchy is the concentration of legislative, executive and judicial powers in the hands of a hereditary monarch (he has the right to individually make laws, appoint and dismiss ministers at his discretion, and rule the highest court).

In the modern world, the number of absolute monarchies is small: Bahrain, Brunei, Vatican, Qatar, Kuwait, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman.

In the theory of constitutional law, it is generally accepted that absolute monarchies are not characterized by a constitution and parliament. In modern absolutist monarchies, as experience shows, there can be constitutions. A number of absolute monarchies have constitutions granted by the monarchs (Basic Nizam in Saudi Arabia 1992,
Oman 1996, United Arab Emirates 1996, etc.), because they do not in any way limit the power of the monarch.

Quite rarely, some monarchies have attempted to create parliamentary institutions (in Kuwait such a body is elected only by literate men; in Brunei it consists mainly of persons appointed by the monarch). But according to their competence, such parliaments are advisory in nature. Their decisions require the approval of the monarch.

A constitutional monarchy is a form of government in which the power of the monarch is effectively limited by the constitution. Constitutional monarchy exists in two types, differing in the degree of limitation of the power of the monarch: dualistic and parliamentary monarchies.

A dualistic monarchy is a historically transitional, intermediate form from an absolute monarchy to a parliamentary one. The dual nature of power lies in the fact that legislative power belongs to parliament, which is elected by subjects or a certain part of subjects (qualified suffrage), executive power belongs to the monarch, who can exercise it directly or through a government appointed by the monarch himself.

Thus, the signs of a dualistic monarchy are:

The presence of an elected or partially elected and partially appointed body of popular representation - parliament;

Parliament has limited powers, the leading role in the life of the state is played by the monarch;

The monarch appoints the government;

The government is actually responsible for its activities to the monarch, and not to parliament;

The monarch exercises the right to dissolve parliament;

The monarch retains the right of absolute veto over laws passed by parliament;

The monarch can issue emergency decrees that have the force of law and introduce a state of emergency in the country;

The monarch, being the head of state, is also the commander-in-chief of the country's armed forces.

The dualism of monarchical power leads to instability and instability of this monarchical form of government.

Examples of dualistic monarchies are Jordan and Morocco.

A parliamentary monarchy is characterized by the fact that the head of state (monarch) actually has nominal, symbolic power, which comes down to representative powers, certain rituals, ceremonies, and traditions.

Signs of a parliamentary monarchy:

The presence of the institution of monarchy with a real limitation of the power of the monarch by the constitution or laws;

Parliament has broad powers;

The right of parliament to form the government;

Responsibility of the government to parliament;

The right of parliament to make laws and major government decisions;

Formally, the monarch has the right of veto on acts of parliament, but either he does not use this right, or uses it at the direction of the government;

Acts emanating from the monarch require a countersign or ministerial seal, that is, approval (signature) by the prime minister or minister, meaning the minister assumes legal and political responsibility for the act.

The parliamentary monarchies are Great Britain, Spain, Belgium, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Monaco, Liechtenstein, Japan, as well as member states of the British Commonwealth (Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Barbados, Papua New Guinea, Jamaica, etc. .), recognizing the Queen of Great Britain as head of state.