China is a single-party state governed by the Communist Party of China (CPC), with President Xi Jinping consolidating significant power. The government maintains strict control over political expression, media, and civil society. China's foreign policy emphasizes sovereignty and non-interference, often clashing with Western nations on human rights issues.

India is a federal parliamentary democratic republic. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the government has faced criticism for policies perceived as discriminatory against minorities and for increased restrictions on press freedoms. Despite these concerns, India maintains a robust electoral democracy.

In August 2024, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's government was ousted following mass student-led protests. An interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, has pledged to hold national elections by December 2025. The political landscape remains tense, with former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia returning to Dhaka, adding pressure for timely elections.

Germany is a federal parliamentary republic. In 2025, Friedrich Merz became Chancellor following the collapse of Olaf Scholz's coalition. Merz's administration emphasizes stricter migration policies and aims to reassert Germany's leadership role in Europe, facing challenges from rising far-right sentiments.

A federal republic and global superpower, the U.S. plays a leading role in international diplomacy, defense (NATO), and economic institutions. Its politics are highly polarized domestically, but its foreign policy generally promotes liberal democratic values, human rights, and free trade.

A constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system, the UK is a permanent UNSC member and global diplomatic power. Post-Brexit, it seeks to redefine its international role, supporting NATO and Ukraine while navigating domestic political fragmentation.

A one-party communist state, Vietnam blends market reforms with tight political control. It maintains an independent foreign policy, balancing relations between China and the U.S., and is increasingly important in regional trade and security dynamics in Southeast Asia.

A federal parliamentary republic with frequent political instability, Pakistan’s military continues to exert significant influence behind the scenes. It has complex relations with neighbors India and Afghanistan, and is a vocal advocate for Muslim causes, including the rights of Kashmiris and Palestinians.

Indonesia is a democratic republic with a history of political stability since the fall of authoritarian rule in 1998. While it has made democratic gains, challenges persist, including corruption, human rights issues, and separatist movements in regions like Papua.

Nigeria is a federal republic and Africa's most populous country. It faces challenges like corruption, insurgency in the northeast, and ethnic tensions. Nigeria plays a significant role in regional politics and is a key player in African Union initiatives.

Brazil operates as a federal republic under a presidential system. President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, re-elected in 2022, emphasizes social inclusion and environmental protection. Brazil maintains a non-aligned foreign policy, balancing relations with Western countries and emerging powers like China and Russia. 

Mexico is a federal republic with a history of single-party dominance transitioning to a multi-party system. The country faces significant challenges from drug cartels and corruption. Mexico maintains close economic ties with the United States and is an active member of international organizations.

Ethiopia is a federal parliamentary republic based on ethnic federalism. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's government has faced significant internal conflicts, notably the Tigray conflict, leading to humanitarian crises. Efforts toward political reforms continue amid challenges to national unity.

A constitutional democracy and a regional power in Africa, South Africa champions multilateralism and development cooperation. Domestically, it struggles with inequality and political corruption. It maintains a non-aligned foreign policy, often seeking a balance between the West and emerging powers.

A presidential republic under Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Turkey has increasingly centralized power and suppressed dissent. It plays a key regional role, balancing relations with NATO, Russia, and the Middle East, and often asserts an independent and sometimes controversial foreign policy.

A democratic republic with a presidential system, the Philippines faces ongoing issues with corruption, internal insurgencies, and human rights criticisms, especially from past administrations. It maintains strong U.S. ties but is also navigating increasing pressure from China in the South China Sea.

France is a semi-presidential republic with a history of political stability. However, the 2024 legislative elections resulted in a hung parliament, leading to governmental instability. President Emmanuel Macron's administration faces challenges in forming a stable government amid a fragmented political landscape.

Japan is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary government. It maintains a pacifist constitution but has been increasing its defense capabilities in response to regional threats. Japan is a key ally of Western countries in Asia and plays a significant role in global economic and technological sectors.

Canada is a parliamentary democracy with a strong history of respecting political rights and civil liberties. In 2025, Mark Carney became Prime Minister, succeeding Justin Trudeau. The Liberal Party's re-election has sparked debates over policies related to immigration, economic management, and foreign relations.

An absolute monarchy led by the Emir, Qatar has used its wealth from natural gas to wield outsized influence globally, including through media (Al Jazeera) and diplomacy. It maintains a neutral foreign policy, mediates regional disputes, and hosts U.S. military forces, while also being criticized for labor rights abuses.