There are 193 countries that are recognized members of the UN as well as two UN observer states. The two UN observer states are the Holy See (also known as the Vatican) and the Palestinian Authority. Additionally, there are six countries that have obtained partial recognition from UN member states

Number of Countries in the World
As of now, there are 195 countries in the world. This total includes 193 member states of the United Nations and 2 observer states.
United Nations Member States
- The United Nations (UN) is an international organization founded in 1945.
- It currently has 193 member countries, each recognized as sovereign states.
Observer States
- The two observer states are:
- Holy See (Vatican City): A city-state surrounded by Rome, it is the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church.
- Palestine: Recognized as a non-member observer state, Palestine consists of the West Bank and Gaza Strip.
Disputed Territories
- Some regions may claim independence but are not universally recognized as countries. Examples include:
- Taiwan: Operates as an independent government but is claimed by China.
- Western Sahara: A territory with ongoing disputes between Morocco and the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic.
Conclusion
The count of 195 countries can change due to geopolitical shifts, independence movements, or changes in recognition status. Understanding the global landscape is crucial for students to grasp international relations and cultural diversity.
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