Why Some Countries Still Have Kings: Understanding Modern Monarchies

 It might surprise you, but more than 40 countries around the world still have kings, queens, emperors, or sultans today. From ancient royal dynasties in Europe to modern ruling families in Asia and the Middle East, monarchies continue to exist — and even thrive — in the 21st century.

But what does “having a king” actually mean in modern politics? Are these rulers powerful, or are they just national symbols? Let’s take a closer look at how different types of monarchies work, and why some nations continue to hold onto their royal traditions.

What Exactly Is a Monarchy?

A monarchy is a system of government where the head of state is a monarch — usually a king, queen, emperor, or sultan. Most monarchs inherit their position by birth, often staying in power for life.

However, monarchies today vary widely in their structure and power. Some monarchs rule with absolute authority, while others serve as figureheads under a democratic government.

In short: not all kings are created equal.

 Absolute Monarchies: Power Without Limits

In an absolute monarchy, the monarch holds complete control over the state. There are no democratic elections, and the ruler’s authority comes from divine right, family lineage, or long-standing tradition.

The king or queen makes the laws, enforces them, and serves as the ultimate judge — combining all three branches of government in one person.

    Modern Examples of Absolute Monarchies

  • Saudi Arabia – The Al Saud royal family governs with total authority. King Salman (and his heir, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman) controls politics, religion, and the economy.

  • Brunei – Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah serves as both monarch and prime minister. He also acts as the supreme religious leader of the country.

  • Eswatini (Swaziland) – King Mswati III has the power to appoint ministers, dissolve parliament, and rule by decree.

These monarchies are rare today, but they survive mainly in regions where tradition, religion, and centralized authority remain strong pillars of society.

Constitutional Monarchies: The Monarch as a Symbol

In contrast, a constitutional monarchy limits the monarch’s power under a constitution or law. Here, the monarch “reigns but does not rule.”

Elected officials — not the king or queen — run the government. The monarch serves as a ceremonial head of state, representing unity and continuity rather than political control.

    Well-Known Constitutional Monarchies

  • The United Kingdom – King Charles III is the head of state, while the prime minister leads the government. The British royal family’s role is largely symbolic but deeply rooted in national identity.

  • Japan – Emperor Naruhito is considered “the symbol of the state and of the unity of the people.” Japan’s constitution strictly prohibits him from political involvement.

  • Sweden, Spain, Denmark, Norway, the Netherlands, Thailand, and Cambodia – Each has a monarch who fulfills cultural and diplomatic duties without legislative power.

These monarchies often maintain popularity because they blend tradition and democracy, giving people both a sense of history and the freedom of modern governance.

Mixed or Semi-Constitutional Monarchies: Sharing the Crown

Between the extremes lies a middle ground — the semi-constitutional or mixed monarchy. In these systems, monarchs still play active roles in politics or religion, even while democratic institutions exist.

     Examples of Mixed Monarchies

  • Morocco – King Mohammed VI wields strong influence over religion, the military, and national policy, though the country also has an elected parliament.

  • Jordan – King Abdullah II appoints the prime minister and can dissolve parliament.

  • Liechtenstein – Prince Hans-Adam II (and now his son, the regent Alois) can veto laws and dismiss the government.

  • Bhutan – King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck has guided his country’s gradual shift from monarchy to democracy while retaining moral authority.

These examples show how monarchies can adapt — balancing old traditions with new political realities.

Unique Monarchies Around the World

Some monarchies have special or unusual systems:

  • Malaysia – A federal monarchy, where nine hereditary rulers take turns serving as the national king (Yang di-Pertuan Agong) every five years.

  • Vatican City – The Pope is both the religious and political leader, technically making the Vatican an elective theocratic monarchy.

  • Andorra – A co-principality, where the President of France and the Bishop of Urgell (Spain) share the title of head of state.

Why Monarchies Still Exist Today

You might ask: Why haven’t monarchies disappeared?

The answer lies in their ability to evolve and represent stability. In many countries, royal families serve as:

  • Symbols of national unity in times of crisis

  • Guardians of culture and heritage

  • Diplomatic figures that promote tourism and global goodwill

At the same time, critics argue monarchies are outdated and costly, with no place in modern democracy. The debate continues — but their endurance proves that monarchy still resonates with millions around the world.

 Comparing Types of Monarchies

Type of MonarchyWho Holds Real PowerPolitical SystemModern Examples
Absolute MonarchyThe monarchAuthoritarianSaudi Arabia, Brunei, Eswatini
Constitutional MonarchyElected leadersParliamentary democracyUK, Japan, Sweden, Spain
Mixed / Semi-ConstitutionalShared between monarch and governmentHybridMorocco, Jordan, Liechtenstein, Bhutan
Special SystemsVariesUnique (religious or rotational)Malaysia, Vatican City, Andorra

The Crown Still Shines

Monarchies have survived revolutions, wars, and the rise of democracy. While their forms have changed, their symbolic power endures. Whether as unifying figures or political rulers, monarchs continue to fascinate — blending history, tradition, and modern governance in a way no other institution can.

Even in our age of presidents and parliaments, the crown still shines — not just as a relic of the past, but as a living symbol of continuity and identity.


By Vanlec

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