How Many Countries are in the world?

Question

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Answer 1

Now that is a question that's somewhat difficult to answer, as there is no one right answer.

Many sources offer different answers, and depending on the source, there are 189, 191, 192, 193 or 194 independent countries in the world today.

The United Nations has 192 members (including Montenegro and Serbia - the two newest nations) but that number does not include the Vatican, an independent nation.

The US State Department recognizes 193 independent countries around the world. but that list of countries reflects the political agenda of the United States of America. As an example, it does not include Taiwan as China claims that Taiwan (the ROC) is simply a province of China.

The latest World Almanacs use 193 countries, which is probably the best answer, but what about Palestine? Greenland? Western Sahara? The political world is constantly changing and our list of independent nations is shown below. Note that we don't say that our list is the ONLY answer, just that it's our answer.

A complete list of Dependencies and Territories of the world here!

Answer 2

Tough question with no exact answer. Good luck with this one, but here is what I was able to find out for you:

The United Nations, which represents almost (notice the almost) every country in the world, has 189 members. However, Switzerland and Vatican City have chosen not to become members of the United Nations. Therefore, many people believe the number is 191. But not so fast...

Taiwan ostensibly meets all the requirements of an independent country, but, due to political reasons, much of the world refuses to recognize it as such. Taiwan considers itself an independent nation and continues to push for recognition from other countries, but two of the world's powers, the U.S. and China, have yet to be swayed.

If Taiwan is considered an independent country, as it is by the World Almanac and Book of Facts, then there are 192 countries in the world

Answer 3

More than 190, at last count. See the sources below for more information.