List of current heads of state and government
This is a list of current heads of state and heads of government. In some cases, mainly in presidential systems, one leader is head of state and head of government. In other cases, mainly in semi-presidential and parliamentary systems, the head of state and the head of government are different people. In semi-presidential and parliamentary systems, the head of government role is fulfilled by the listed head of government and the head of state.
In one-party states, the ruling party's leader is usually the de facto top leader of the state, though sometimes this leader also holds the presidency or premiership. In Afghanistan, Andorra, Iran, and Vatican City, a clergy member also acts as the head of state. In Afghanistan, this is the supreme leader; in Andorra, this is the bishop of Urgell, Co-Prince of Andorra; in Iran, this is the supreme leader; and in Vatican City, this is the pope.
The list includes the names of recently elected or appointed heads of state and government who will take office on an appointed date, as presidents-elect and prime ministers–designate, and those leading a government-in-exile if internationally recognised.
Member and observer states of the United Nations
Other states
The following states are in free association with a UN member state.| State | Associated with | Head of state | Head of government |
 Cook IslandsAlternative governmentsThis alternative government controls part of its territory and is recognised as legitimate by at least one UN member state.These alternative governments control part of their territory, but are not recognized as legitimate by any UN member states. This alternative government does not control its territory but is recognized as legitimate by at least one UN member state. This alternative government does not control its territory and is not recognized as legitimate by any UN member states. ''Sui generis'' entities |