How many countries are there?

How many countries are there? By most accounts, 195. There are 192 members of the United Nations. Therefore the number 192 is too often used to represent the number of countries in the world. There are 61 dependent areas, and six disputed territories. Places commonly confused as being countries include Puerto Rico, Bermuda, Greenland, Western Sahara, and even the components of the United Kingdom (such as Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and England - they're not countries, states, or nation-states).

The one outsider, Taiwan meets most of the requirements of independent country or state status. However, due to political reasons, it fails to be recognized by much of the world, so some count 196. Kosovo, Montenegro, then East Timor are the world's youngest.

Although another way to look at it is Uganda is the world's youngest country, since 50% of the population are under 14. By those rights Italy is the oldest. Here's a good brain-teaser... which country land-locks two other countries within it's borders? Answers on the back of a postcard. If you fancy taking a quiz, here's a good quick one.

Some may be interested in the travelers' century club, an American based travel club which does count the likes of Wales, Bermuda and Antarctica (in-fact they count that last one seven times!). Their rules established in 1970 define 315 separate destinations as being 'countries'. Visited over 100 of these so defined countries and you too can pay a $100 joining and annual membership fee ($50) for your own self-satisfaction and a news letter!

Here's an official list for anyone interested: