how many countries still have a monarchy

About 43 countries still have a monarchy, based on commonly cited current counts. That usually includes both constitutional monarchies and absolute monarchies.

Quick note

The exact number can vary a little depending on how a source counts shared monarchies or special cases such as the Vatican and the Commonwealth realms. But 43 is the most widely reported figure.

What that means

• Most of these are constitutional monarchies, where the monarch is mostly ceremonial.

• A smaller number are absolute or near-absolute monarchies, where the monarch still holds real governing power.

• Monarchies are spread across Europe, the Middle East, Asia, Africa, the Caribbean, and Oceania.

If you want, I can also list the countries that still have a monarchy.