The world’s most powerful nations always remain in the headlines, keep policymakers engaged, and shape the global economic order. These nations closely monitor defence budgets and foreign policies. Whenever these countries make promises, others either have confidence in them or fear that they will keep their word. Let’s learn about the world’s most powerful nations and where India ranks on the list.
Nations are competing for global supremacy
According to US News and World Report, several nations are competing for global supremacy and power by balancing economic strength, political influence, and defence capabilities. The report stated that the United States is the world’s most powerful nation in 2025, while China and Russia secured the second and third positions respectively.
Saudi Arabia and Israel ranked ninth and tenth respectively on the list.
US continues to shape the world economic order
With strong industrial diversity, heavy expenditure on defence, and a dominant IT sector, the United States has maintained its position as a global leader and continues to shape the world economic order. China secured the second position due to its robust presence in Artificial Intelligence (AI), while Russia maintained its position at third place owing to its natural resources and defence capabilities.
As per the World Population Review, the United Kingdom is rapidly establishing itself as a global startup hub, while Germany is leading in the green energy sector. Meanwhile, France is focusing on modernising its industrial zones to increase efficiency and competitiveness.
Japan and South Korea secured spots
According to US News and World Report, despite the challenges of an ageing population, the Asian nations Japan and South Korea secured spots on the list. South Korea is emerging as a leader in renewable energy, while Japan is heavily investing in semiconductors and electric vehicles.
Saudi Arabia is witnessing growth in its assets due to surging demand in the tourism and oil sectors, while Israel is registering growth driven by advancements in new technologies and robust defence capabilities.
India failed to make the cut
The world’s most populous nation and the world’s fifth-largest economy, India failed to make the cut this year in the list of the top ten. India ranks at the 12th position among the world’s most powerful nations. India’s expected gross domestic product is $3.55 trillion, and its population stands at 1.43 billion.
World ranking report is based on five factors
The world ranking report is based on five factors that define the world’s most powerful nations: economic strength, political influence, strong international alliances, and military capabilities.
According to Forbes, this ranking has been prepared by Professor David J. Reibstein of the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, along with a team of researchers and US News and World Report.
