PPower on the global stage is multifaceted and includes political influence, economic resources, and military might. Each country’s power shows its strength in several aspects, including economic and political influence, strength in international alliances, and effective military power. The ranking of the 10 most powerful countries in the world in 2024 is compiled by US News using the following methodology.
Methodology for ranking the most powerful countries in the world in 2024
US News’ power subranking is based on an “equally weighted average of scores” from five specific attributes that indicate a country’s power, namely:
- A leader,
- Economic influence,
- Political influence,
- Strong international alliances and
- A strong military.
In addition, the ranking model was developed by BAV Group, a unit of global marketing communications company WPP, and researchers led by Professor David Reibstein of the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, all in collaboration with US News & World Report.Read also: The 10 largest economies in the world in 2024
Top 10 most powerful countries in the world 2024
| Power rank and country | GDP |
Population* |
region |
|---|---|---|---|
| #1 United States | 28.78 trillion US dollars | 34.5 Crores | North America |
| #2 China | 18.53 trillion US dollars | 141.9 crores | Asia |
| #3 Russia | 2.06 trillion US dollars | 144.4 crores | Asia |
| #4 Germany | 4.59 trillion US dollars | 8.45 crores | Europe |
| #5 United Kingdom | 3.5 trillion US dollars | 6.91 crores | Europe |
| #6 South Korea | 1.76 trillion US dollars | 5.17 crores | Asia |
| #7 France | 3.13 trillion US dollars | 6.65 crores | Europe |
| #8 Japan | 4.11 trillion US dollars | 12.37 crores | Asia |
| #9 Saudi Arabia | 1.11 trillion US dollars | 3.39 crores | Asia |
| #10 United Arab Emirates | 527.8 billion US dollars | 1.10 crore | Asia |
* Population data (as of August 23, 2024) come from Worldometer*Source of GDP data is the IMFNow for a deeper look at the 10 most powerful countries in the world in March 2024:Read also: The 10 richest people in the world in 2024
United States:
- CAPITAL: Washington, DC
- GDP PER CAPITA, PPP: USD 85,373
- AREA: 9,833,517 KM²
The US, a global superpower, continues to lead in various sectors such as technology, finance, and entertainment. The Biden administration is focused on infrastructure development and climate change initiatives. In addition, the US is home to several leading technology companies, which contributes to its strong position in the global economy.Read also: Top 10 countries with the strongest military strength
China:
- CAPITAL: Beijing
- GDP PER CAPITA, PPP: USD 25,026
- AREA: 9,596,960 KM²
China ranks second among the top 10 most powerful countries in the world in 2024. China’s Belt and Road Initiative is expanding in scope and more and more countries are joining the project. The aim of this initiative is to boost economic development and trade by connecting Asia to Africa and Europe through land and sea networks. China is also making significant technological advances, particularly in the areas of artificial intelligence and 5G, positioning itself as a global technology leader.Read also: The 10 most spoken languages in the world
Russia:
- CAPITAL: Moscow
- GDP PER CAPITA, PPP: USD 38,295
- AREA: 17,098,242 KM²
Russia plays a significant role in global geopolitics, leveraging its vast natural resources and military capabilities. The country is also focused on its space program and is planning several missions in the coming years, including the Venus lander Venera-D. The goal of these missions is to explore the Moon and other celestial bodies to contribute to our understanding of the Universe.Read also: The 10 smallest countries in the world
Germany:
- CAPITAL: Berlin
- GDP PER CAPITA, PPP: USD 67,240
- AREA: 357,022 KM²
Germany is at the forefront of the European Union’s green energy initiatives. The country is focused on transitioning to renewable energy sources and reducing carbon emissions. Germany is also focusing on digital transformation in various sectors, including manufacturing and healthcare, with the aim of improving efficiency and productivity.Read also: The 10 highest valued currencies in the world in 2024
United Kingdom:
- CAPITAL: London
- GDP PER CAPITA, PPP: USD 58,883
- AREA: 243,610 KM²
Britain is focused on post-Brexit trade deals and negotiations and aims to build new economic partnerships. The country is also making progress in the technology industry, with London being a central hub for start-ups. These start-ups are working on innovative solutions in various fields, contributing to the UK’s economic growth.
South Korea:
- CAPITAL: Seoul
- GDP PER CAPITA, PPP: USD 59,330
- AREA: 99,720 KM²
South Korea continues to lead the world in technology and innovation. The country is home to several leading technology companies, which contributes to its strong position in the global economy. In addition to reducing carbon emissions, South Korea is also relying on renewable energy sources to promote green energy initiatives.Read also: Top 10 richest countries in the world by GDP per capita in 2024
France:
- CAPITAL: Paris
- GDP PER CAPITA, PPP: 60,343
- AREA: 643,801 KM²
France is focusing on its digital transformation and green energy initiatives. The country is working on modernizing its industry and transitioning to renewable energy sources. France also plays an important role in European Union policy and regulation, contributing to the bloc’s economic and political stability.Read also: Top 10 Largest Companies in the World by Market Capitalization in 2024
Japan:
- CAPITAL: Tokyo
- GDP PER CAPITA, PPP: USD 54,183
- AREA: 377,915 KM²
Known for its automobile and electronics production, Japan is the world’s fourth-largest economy with a GDP of $4.11 trillion. The country is currently focusing heavily on the growth of chip manufacturing, artificial intelligence and electric vehicles to dominate the next wave of technology. However, the country is also under pressure because its population is aging and shrinking, leading to skills shortages and demands for higher wages.
Saudi Arabia
- CAPITAL: Riyadh
- GDP PER CAPITA: 70,335
- AREA: 2,149,690 KM²
Oil production remains Saudi Arabia’s main source of wealth and power. In fiscal 2023, Saudi Aramco reported revenue of $440.88 billion and a 25 percent drop in profits to $121.3 billion. Saudi Arabia has 17 percent of the world’s proven crude oil reserves, about 270 billion barrels. As the United States’ closest ally among Arab countries, Saudi Arabia wields considerable influence over OPEC countries in the region. Saudi Arabia is investing heavily in tourism and mammoth projects such as NEOM City to attract tourists and investors. The country is also set to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
United Arab Emirates:
- CAPITAL: Abu Dhabi
- GDP PER CAPITA, PPP: USD 96,852
- AREA: 83,600 KM²
The UAE is focused on its space program and is planning a mission to the Moon. The goal of this mission is to explore the lunar surface and contribute to our understanding of the Moon. The UAE is also a major player in the global oil industry, which contributes to its strong position in the global economy.Read also: The 20 happiest countries in the world in 2024
FAQ
1. What will be India’s rank among the most powerful countries in 2024?As of August 2024, India ranks 12th in the list of most powerful countries. This ranking is based on various factors, including economic conditions, strong international alliances, and military strength. India ranks 5th in the global GDP ranking after the United States, China, Germany, and Japan.
2. What influence does a country’s leadership have on its power ranking?A country’s leadership significantly influences its power ranking. Effective leadership can drive economic growth, foster strong international relations, and improve military capabilities. Leaders who are respected on the world stage can increase their country’s prestige and power.3. What influence does the population size of a country have on its power ranking?The size of a country’s population can affect its power ranking. A larger population can mean a larger labor force, which in turn boosts economic growth. But it’s not just size that contributes to a country’s power; the population’s human capital, education, and skills also contribute.
4. Which country experienced the greatest increase in the power ranking in 2024?The United Arab Emirates has seen a significant rise in power rankings in 2024, making it to the list of the 10 most powerful countries in the world. It is known for its strong economy, strategic location, and influential role in the Middle East.
