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 (i.e. executive branch) is fulfilled by the listed head of government and the head of state. In one-party states, the ruling party's leader (i.e. General Secretary) is usually the de facto top leader of the state, though sometimes this leader also holds the presidency or premiership. In some countries like Andorra and Vatican City (Holy See), a clergy member also acts as the head of state for both countries (Bishop of Urgell as Co-Prince of Andorra and the Pope) and head of government for the latter (President of the Governorate of Vatican City State). 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. The following states control at least part of their territory and are recognised by at least one UN member state. The following states control their territory, but are not recognised by any UN member states.

Other governments

These alternative governments control part of their territory and are 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. These alternative governments do not control their territory but are recognized as legitimate by at least one UN member state.

Sui generis entities