Pius IkeIn a world shaped by rapid technological change, climate urgency, and shifting geopolitical alliances, the role of prime ministers has never been more critical. These leaders are not just heads of government—they’re architects of national destiny, global influencers, and symbols of resilience. As we step into the final quarter of 2025, it’s time to spotlight the top 10 most popular prime ministers who have earned admiration both at home and abroad.
This list is based on approval ratings, leadership impact, and global recognition, drawing from recent data and expert analyses.
Top 10 Most Popular Prime Ministers in the World
1. 🇮🇳 Narendra Modi – India
Approval Rating: 71%
Years in Office: Since 2014
Narendra Modi continues to dominate Indian politics with unmatched popularity. His leadership has propelled India into a global economic and military power, strengthened ties with the U.S. and Japan, and positioned India as a counterweight to China.
Domestically, Modi has driven massive infrastructure projects, digital transformation, and nationalist policies. His ambitious vision for India’s development—through initiatives like “Make in India,” “Digital India,” and the expansion of renewable energy—has earned him widespread acclaim.
Internationally, Modi is a key figure in the Quad alliance and a vocal advocate for Global South representation. His ability to blend traditional values with modern governance makes him one of the most influential leaders of the decade.
2. 🇨🇦 Justin Trudeau – Canada
Approval Rating: High
Years in Office: Since 2015
Justin Trudeau remains a progressive icon in North America. His leadership is marked by a strong emphasis on diversity, inclusivity, and climate action. Trudeau’s government has passed landmark legislation on gender equality, indigenous rights, and carbon pricing.
Despite facing political challenges and criticism over ethics issues, Trudeau’s global image remains positive. He’s often seen as a liberal counterbalance in international forums and a champion of democratic values.
His charisma, youth appeal, and commitment to social justice continue to resonate with Canadians and global observers alike.
3. 🇦🇺 Anthony Albanese – Australia
Approval Rating: High
Years in Office: Since 2022
Anthony Albanese has redefined Australia’s global role through climate leadership, regional diplomacy, and defense partnerships. His government has deepened ties with ASEAN and the Quad, countering Chinese influence in the Pacific.
Domestically, Albanese has advanced indigenous rights, green energy initiatives, and housing reforms. His balanced leadership style and progressive agenda have earned him high approval ratings and growing international recognition.
Albanese’s ability to navigate complex regional dynamics while maintaining a strong domestic agenda makes him a standout leader in the current year.
4. 🇳🇿 Jacinda Ardern – New Zealand
Approval Rating: Strong
Years in Office: 2017–2023 (Legacy Influence)
Although Jacinda Ardern stepped down in early 2023, her legacy continues to inspire. Her empathetic leadership style, strong communication skills, and decisive action during crises—such as the Christchurch mosque shootings and the COVID-19 pandemic—earned her global admiration.
Ardern’s focus on well-being, mental health, and social equity set a new standard for compassionate governance. She remains a role model for leaders worldwide and is frequently cited in leadership studies and global forums.
Her influence years after her tenure is a testament to the enduring power of authentic, values-driven leadership.
5. 🇯🇵 Fumio Kishida – Japan
Approval Rating: Moderate to High
Years in Office: Since 2021
Fumio Kishida has elevated Japan’s global role by expanding defense capabilities and deepening alliances with the U.S., India, and Australia. His leadership in the Indo-Pacific is crucial amid rising tensions with China.
Domestically, Kishida has focused on economic revitalization, technological innovation, and demographic challenges. His calm diplomacy and strategic posture have earned him respect across G7 nations.
Kishida’s ability to balance tradition with modernization makes him a key figure in maintaining regional stability and advancing Japan’s global influence.
6. 🇩🇪 Angela Merkel – Germany (Legacy Influence)
Approval Rating: Historically High
Years in Office: 2005–2021
Angela Merkel may have stepped down, but her legacy remains powerful. Widely regarded as one of the most influential leaders in modern history, Merkel’s steady leadership and pragmatic approach to governance continue to shape European politics.
Her handling of the European debt crisis, support for refugees, and commitment to climate action earned her global respect. Merkel’s influence in 2025 is reflected in the continued stability of Germany and the EU’s resilience amid global challenges.
She remains a symbol of integrity, rationality, and long-term vision.
7. 🇬🇧 Rishi Sunak – United Kingdom
Approval Rating: Mixed
Years in Office: Since 2022
Rishi Sunak leads post-Brexit Britain with a focus on financial stability, trade expansion, and defense modernization. His background in finance informs his pragmatic approach to economic challenges.
Internationally, Sunak has strengthened ties with NATO and Commonwealth nations while navigating complex EU relations. Domestically, he faces challenges related to inflation, immigration, and political polarization.
Despite mixed approval ratings, Sunak’s global diplomacy and tech-forward policies have positioned the UK as a resilient and adaptive power in a shifting geopolitical landscape.
8. 🇪🇸 Pedro Sánchez – Spain
Approval Rating: Moderate
Years in Office: Since 2018
Pedro Sánchez has steered Spain through economic recovery, social reforms, and EU integration. His government has focused on labor rights, climate policy, and digital transformation.
Sánchez’s leadership style is pragmatic and coalition-driven, often navigating complex political alliances. He’s a strong advocate for European unity and has played a key role in shaping EU policy on migration and energy.
His moderate popularity reflects both his achievements and the challenges of governing in a fragmented political landscape.
9. 🇮🇪 Leo Varadkar – Ireland
Approval Rating: Moderate to High
Years in Office: 2017–2020, 2022–Present
Leo Varadkar is known for his inclusive leadership and economic policies. As Ireland’s first openly gay prime minister, he’s broken barriers and championed progressive reforms.
Varadkar’s government has focused on housing, healthcare, and tech innovation. He’s also strengthened Ireland’s position within the EU and attracted foreign investment.
His popularity stems from a blend of charisma, competence, and commitment to social progress.
10. 🇩🇰 Mette Frederiksen – Denmark
Approval Rating: High
Years in Office: Since 2019
Mette Frederiksen is applauded for her pragmatic governance and strong stance on climate and welfare. Her leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic was decisive and widely praised.
Frederiksen has prioritized green energy, education, and social cohesion. Her ability to maintain high approval ratings while implementing bold reforms makes her one of Europe’s most respected leaders.
She represents a new wave of Nordic leadership that blends efficiency with empathy.
Honorable Mentions
While these ten leaders stand out, others are making waves in the current year:
- Friedrich Merz (Germany) – Newly elected, facing challenges with low approval ratings
- Yoon Suk-yeol (South Korea) – Rising influence in East Asia
- Emmanuel Macron (France) – Struggling with low domestic approval despite global visibility
What Makes a Prime Minister Popular?
Popularity in politics is a complex mix of:
- Domestic approval ratings
- Crisis management skills
- Economic performance
- Global diplomacy and alliances
- Media presence and public communication
Presently, leaders who combine strategic vision with emotional intelligence are gaining traction. The most admired prime ministers are those who can unite their nations while engaging constructively with the world.
Final Thoughts
The world is watching these prime ministers not just for what they do at home, but for how they shape global narratives. From climate action to digital transformation, their decisions ripple across borders.
As citizens, voters, and global observers, it’s essential to recognize leadership that uplifts, innovates, and inspires. These ten prime ministers exemplify what it means to lead in a complex, interconnected world.