The number of states in the world depends on the definition of "state."
- If "state" refers to sovereign countries or nations recognized internationally, there are about 195 countries recognized by the United Nations as of 2025. This includes 193 UN member states and 2 observer states (such as the Holy See and Palestine).
- If "state" refers to subnational entities or administrative divisions within countries (such as U.S. states, Australian states, or Indian states), the number is much larger. Estimates suggest there are between 3,600 and 5,200 such states, provinces, or equivalent divisions worldwide across roughly 200 nations.
Thus, for sovereign states (countries), the count is around 195, while including internal states or provinces globally, the number ranges in the thousands. If the question aims at the number of countries in the world, the answer is 195. If the question is about internal states or provinces, the estimate is between 3,600 and 5,200.
