Is it 195 or 197 countries?

Global Recognition: Understanding the Number of Countries

The world is a diverse and complex tapestry of nations, each with its own unique history, culture, and identity. Determining the exact number of countries in the world can be a challenging task, as there is no single universally accepted definition of what constitutes a country.

The United Nations and Its 193 Member States

The United Nations (UN) is an intergovernmental organization that plays a central role in global affairs. As of 2023, the UN has 193 member states, which are recognized as sovereign states by the international community. These states have all undergone a rigorous process of admission to the UN, which involves meeting certain criteria and gaining the support of the existing member states.

Observer States within the UN System

In addition to its member states, the UN also has two observer states: the Holy See (Vatican City) and Palestine. Observer states are non-member states that are granted limited participation in the work of the UN and its specialized agencies. They have the ability to attend meetings, make statements, and submit proposals, but they do not have the right to vote on resolutions or participate in the decision-making process.

The Holy See

The Holy See is the central governing body of the Catholic Church. It is based in Vatican City, a tiny city-state located within Rome, Italy. The Holy See is recognized by 183 UN member states and maintains diplomatic relations with 180 countries. It has played a prominent role in international diplomacy and conflict resolution for centuries.

Palestine

Palestine is a disputed territory that has been the subject of ongoing conflict and negotiation between Israel and the Palestinians. In 2012, the UN General Assembly voted to grant Palestine non-member observer state status. Palestine is recognized by 138 UN member states and has established diplomatic relations with many countries.

Conclusion

The number of globally recognized nations currently stands at 195. This includes 193 UN member states, as well as two observer states, the Holy See and Palestine. These nations represent the diverse tapestry of human civilization and play a vital role in shaping the world we live in.