Top 20 Most Powerful Prime Ministers In The World (2024)

A prime minister is the head of the cabinet and the leader of the ministers in the executive branch of government, often in a parliamentary or semi-presidential system. They can make important decisions and shape their countries and the world.

Some of the top most powerful Prime Ministers in the World include Narendra Modi (India), Li Qiang (China), Mikhail Vladimirovich Mishustin (Russia), Olaf Scholz (Germany), Rishi Sunak (UK), Han Duck-soo (South Korea), Élisabeth Borne (France), Fumio Kishida (Japan), Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum (UAE), and Benjamin Netanyahu (Israel).

Top 20 Most Powerful Prime Ministers In The World

1.      Narendra Modi – India

Narendra Modi is considered the most powerful prime minister in the world. Narendra Modi, born in 1950 in Vadnagar, Gujarat, India, rose from humble beginnings to become a formidable force in Indian politics.

After studying political science at Gujarat University, he commenced his journey as a tea seller and actively participated as a volunteer in the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), a prominent Hindu nationalist organization.

Modi’s political career gained traction with his election to the Gujarat Legislative Assembly in 1981. Notably, he served as Chief Minister of Gujarat from 2001 to 2014, earning accolades for his governance style and developmental initiatives. In 2014, Modi assumed the mantle of Prime Minister of India, taking charge of the nation, its economic progress, and social well-being.

2.      Li Qiang – China

Li Qiang is the second most powerful prime minister in the world and also the current prime minister of China.

Li Qiang’s tenure as the 8th Premier of the People’s Republic of China has been defined by a relentless pursuit of progress. Before becoming Premier in March 2023, Li served as the party secretary for Shanghai City from 2017 to 2022, where he laid the groundwork for pro-business policies and led Shanghai’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

As a key figure in the “New Zhijiang Army,” Li’s alliance with Xi Jinping’s faction is emblematic of his support for economic reforms. During his time as Premier, he has championed China’s growth on the global stage, emphasizing innovation, sustainability, and continued economic development.

3.      Mikhail Vladimirovich – Russia

Mikhail Vladimirovich Mishustin assumed the role of Prime Minister of Russia on January 16, 2020, during a period of significant political change. Before his appointment, he served as the director of the Federal Taxation Service, where he displayed his expertise in financial matters.

Mishustin’s leadership has been marked by navigating Russia through various challenges, including the complexities of constitutional changes and the COVID-19 pandemic. His focus on economic stability and governance has played a vital role in shaping Russia’s political landscape.

4.      Olaf Scholz – Germany

Olaf Scholz took office as Chancellor of Germany on December 8, 2021, bringing with him a wealth of political experience. Before assuming this role, he served as Vice Chancellor, Federal Minister of Finance, and as the First Mayor of Hamburg.

Scholz’s tenure as Chancellor has been characterized by a commitment to addressing both national and global issues. From climate change to economic reform, his steadfast leadership has cemented his status as a global statesman.

5.      Rishi Sunak – UK

Rishi Sunak’s ascent to the position of Prime Minister of the United Kingdom in 2022 marked a historic moment, as he became the first British Asian Prime Minister. His political journey began with roles as a backbencher and a junior minister before serving as Chancellor of the Exchequer.

As Prime Minister, Sunak’s focus on navigating the UK through challenges like Brexit, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the cost of living crisis demonstrates his unwavering commitment to his nation. His leadership style combines fiscal responsibility with a dedication to the well-being of the British people.

6.      Han Duck-soo – South Korea

Han Duck-soo’s distinguished career led him to the role of Prime Minister of South Korea, a position he now holds for the second time since May 2022. His political journey began at the National Tax Service and the Economic Planning Board.

Han’s enduring impact on South Korean politics stems from his resilience and dedication to the nation. As a seasoned diplomat, economist, and politician, he has navigated complex issues, both domestically and on the international stage, leaving an indelible mark on South Korea’s political landscape.

7.      Élisabeth Borne – France

Élisabeth Borne, a French politician, assumed office as Prime Minister of France in May 2022. She is a member of President Emmanuel Macron’s party, Renaissance. Born in Paris, Borne’s personal history is deeply rooted in her family’s experiences during World War II, with her father fleeing to France to join the resistance.

This family history shaped her upbringing. She went on to attend Lycée Janson-de-Sailly in Paris, then pursued higher education at the École Polytechnique and the École nationale des ponts et chaussées. Her career path led her to hold various significant positions in the French government, ultimately culminating in her appointment as Prime Minister.

8.      Fumio Kishida – Japan

Fumio Kishida, a Japanese politician, assumed the role of Prime Minister of Japan in 2021. He was born into a political family in Shibuya, Tokyo, with a history marked by connections to prominent politicians. Kishida spent part of his childhood in the United States, attending elementary school in New York.

He later graduated from Waseda University, studying law. His political career began in 1993 when he was elected to the House of Representatives. Over the years, he served in various positions, including as Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister of Defense. Kishida’s return to leadership positions solidified his status as a prominent figure in Japanese politics.

9.      Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum – UAE

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, a prominent Emirati royal and politician, currently serves as the ruler of Dubai and holds positions as Vice President, Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

He is renowned for his contributions to Dubai’s development, overseeing the growth of the city into a global hub and the establishment of government-owned enterprises like Emirates Airline and DP World. Sheikh Mohammed’s rule, characterized by authoritarian governance, has been marked by both acclaim for Dubai’s progress and international scrutiny for allegations related to the treatment of his daughters.

10. Benjamin Netanyahu – Israel

Benjamin Netanyahu, known as “Bibi,” is an Israeli politician who has held the office of Prime Minister of Israel for multiple non-consecutive terms. He is also recognised as one of the most influential prime ministers in the world. He is also the chairman of the Likud party. Born in Tel Aviv, Netanyahu’s upbringing included periods in both the United States and Israel.

His early career included military service in the elite Sayeret Matkal special force and later, economic consultancy. Netanyahu’s political rise began when he became the chairman of Likud in 1993, leading to his election as Prime Minister in 1996. Subsequently, he played significant roles in various governments and led Israel through critical periods, including his involvement in diplomatic agreements during Donald Trump’s presidency.

11. Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud – Saudi Arabia

Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, commonly known as MBS, is the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia. He is a prominent figure in the Saudi royal family and is considered the de facto ruler of Saudi Arabia as well as one of the most influential prime ministers in the world.

Born to Prince Salman bin Abdulaziz, MBS has played critical roles in Saudi politics, including serving as the Minister of Defense. His rule has been marked by both domestic reforms aimed at improving Saudi Arabia’s global image and international controversies, such as the Jamal Khashoggi case. MBS is known for his ambitious Vision 2030 program, which seeks to diversify Saudi Arabia’s economy and initiate social reforms.

Others are:

12. Justin Trudeau (Canada)
13. Denys Shmyhal (Ukraine)
14. Giorgia Meloni (Italy)
15. Anthony Albanese (Australia)
16. Pedro Sánchez (Spain)
17. Alain Berset (Switzerland)
18. Ulf Kristersson (Sweden)
19. Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani (Qatar)
20. Mark Rutte (Netherlands)

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Conclusion

Being a prime minister is a significant role in the nation. The most powerful prime ministers we highlighted in this article are very influential leaders.

They have a lot of power and they make decisions that affect their countries and the whole world. Whether it’s their strong economies or their smart ways of dealing with other countries, these prime ministers have a big influence.