The Top 10 Powerful Countries in the World in 2024

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The power of a nation on the global stage is not solely determined by its natural wealth or its military forces. Numerous factors impact a country's standing in the global power hierarchy, including economic resources, military might, political sway, and technological prowess.

The most powerful nations in the world are those that consistently dominate news headlines, captivate policymakers, and shape international trade patterns. They actively assert their dominance on the global stage.

Here is the list of the top 10 powerful countries in the world in 2024 as reported by US News and World Report:

1. United States

The United States of America is the preeminent economic and military force globally. Its cultural footprint permeates the globe largely due to its pervasive popular culture manifested in music, movies, and television. In terms of GDP, the U.S. economy is the largest globally, and it also possesses the most advanced technology.

2. China

China is the most populous nation globally and is regarded as the second-largest country by land area. It has also emerged as one of the fastest-growing economies since former leader Deng Xiaoping initiated reforms back in 1978.

China has also made significant technological advances, particularly in artificial intelligence and 5G, making itself a global tech leader.

3. Russia

Russia leverages its vast natural resources and military prowess to exert significant influence in global geopolitics. According to Forbes India, the country is presently concentrating on its space program and is poised to launch numerous missions, including the Venera-D Venus lander, to explore the moon and other celestial bodies.

4. Germany

Germany is the most populous country in the European Union. It boasts one of the largest economies and is one of the foremost importers globally. Its role in the international arena has steadily improved since reunification. The service industries of telecommunications, health care, and tourism, as well as industry and agriculture, contribute the greatest amount to the country’s economy.

5. United Kingdom

As a highly developed country, the UK wields a significant influence in global politics, economics, science, and culture. The country is focusing on post-Brexit trade deals and negotiations in an effort to forge new economic partnerships. It is also making strides in the technology industry, with London as its startup hub.

6. South Korea

South Korea continues to be a global frontrunner in technology and innovation, being home to some of the foremost technology companies. This contributes to its robust position in the global economy. It is embracing renewable energy sources to curtail carbon emissions and promote green energy initiatives.

7. France

It is hard to exaggerate France's impact on the world in the past and present. France is one of the oldest countries in the world with a pervasive influence in politics, economics, science, and, perhaps most significantly, culture.

8. Japan

Japan boasts one of the world’s most formidable passports, offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 194 countries, placing it at the apex in the latest Henley Passport Index. It also holds the position of the world's fourth-largest economy with a GDP of US$4.23 trillion. 

Japan is reportedly focused on advancing chip manufacturing, AI, and electric vehicles to dominate the next wave of technology.

9. Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia relies on oil production as its primary source of wealth and influence, exporting over U$300 billion worth of oil annually. The country holds 17 percent of the world's crude oil reserves or approximately 267.192 million barrels.

As the closest U.S. ally among Arab countries, Saudi has great influence in OPEC. Substantial investments are being made in tourism and projects such as NEOM city to attract tourists and investors, with Saudi Arabia hosting the 2034 FIFA World Cup.

10. United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates or UAE is one of the ten most powerful countries in the world. It is currently concentrating on its space program, with plans to dispatch a mission to the moon to explore the lunar surface. The country also plays a crucial part in the global oil industry, contributing to its robust position in the global economy.

SHARISYA KUSUMA RAHMANDA

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