The Most Successful Prime Minister in the World, Ranked

Choose the Prime Minister you think is the most successful!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on May 7, 2024 06:58
Assessing the effectiveness of global leaders can provide valuable insights into different styles of governance and policy impact. By rating prime ministers from around the world, we can gather public opinion and weigh their successes in a comprehensive and nuanced manner. This process allows us to appreciate the diverse strategies implemented to tackle various national and international challenges. On this site, your votes help shape the continuously updated rankings of these prominent leaders. This dynamic assessment offers an engaging way for users to contribute their viewpoints and learn about the achievements and failings of these prime ministers. By participating, you not only broaden your understanding of global politics but also influence how these leaders are perceived internationally.

What Is the Most Successful Prime Minister in the World?

  1. 1
    92
    votes
    Lee Kuan Yew
    Robert D. Ward · Public domain

    Lee Kuan Yew

    Lee Kuan Yew
    Singapore's first Prime Minister, credited with transforming the tiny island nation into a thriving economic power in just a few decades.
    Lee Kuan Yew was the first Prime Minister of Singapore, serving from 1959 to 1990. He is widely considered one of the most successful Prime Ministers in the world, credited with transforming Singapore from a small, underdeveloped nation into a modern, prosperous city-state in just a few decades.
    • Economic Development: Implemented policies to attract foreign investment, promote exports, and develop key industries, leading to rapid economic growth and high living standards.
    • Education Reform: Revamped the education system, emphasizing meritocracy, bilingualism, and vocational training, which played a crucial role in building a skilled workforce and supporting economic development.
    • Public Housing: Implemented a successful public housing program, providing affordable and quality housing for all Singaporeans.
    • Clean Governance: Focused on eradicating corruption and promoting efficiency in the government, creating a transparent and accountable system.
    • National Security: Prioritized national security and built a strong military, while also forging regional partnerships to ensure stability in Southeast Asia.
    Lee Kuan Yew in other rankings
  2. 2
    19
    votes

    Sir Robert Menzies

    Robert Menzies
    Australia's longest-serving Prime Minister, leading the country through World War II and spearheading significant social and economic reforms.
    Sir Robert Menzies was a prominent Australian politician who served as the Prime Minister of Australia for a record period of time. He is widely regarded as one of the most successful Prime Ministers in the world due to his long tenure and significant achievements during his leadership.
    • Birthdate: December 20, 1894
    • Deathdate: May 15, 1978
    • Political Party: Liberal Party of Australia
    • Prime Ministerial Tenure: April 26, 1939 - August 26, 1941, December 19, 1949 - January 26, 1966
    • Total Number of Terms: 6
  3. 3
    21
    votes
    British Prime Minister during World War II, widely regarded as one of the greatest leaders of the 20th century.
    Winston Churchill in other rankings
  4. 4
    19
    votes
    Germany's first female Chancellor, credited with steering the country through economic and political challenges, including the European debt crisis and the refugee crisis.
    Angela Merkel is a prominent German politician and businesswoman, widely recognized for her leadership as Chancellor of Germany. She has been described as one of the most powerful women in the world and is known for her influential role in shaping European politics. Merkel's leadership qualities and commitment to economic stability have earned her respect in the business community.
    • Nationality: German
    • Current Position: Chancellor of Germany
    • Powerful Women Ranking: Consistently listed in Forbes' Most Powerful Women list
    • Economic Stability: Known for her commitment to maintaining economic stability in Germany
    • Political Influence: Significant role in shaping European politics
    Angela Merkel in other rankings
  5. 5
    19
    votes
    Jawaharlal Nehru
    AFP staff · Public domain

    Jawaharlal Nehru

    Indian National Congress
    India's first Prime Minister, instrumental in shaping the country's foreign policy and leading the nation through the challenges of independence.
    Jawaharlal Nehru was the first Prime Minister of India from 1947 to 1964. He played a crucial role in the Indian independence movement and was a key figure in shaping modern India.
    • Date of Birth: November 14, 1889
    • Date of Death: May 27, 1964
    • Political Party: Indian National Congress
    • Years in Office: 1947-1964
    • Significant Achievements: Architect of modern India, advocate of secular democracy, key role in drafting the Indian constitution
    Jawaharlal Nehru in other rankings
  6. 6
    15
    votes

    Margaret Thatcher

    Margaret Thatcher
    Britain's first female Prime Minister, known for her tough stance on unions and economic policies that helped to transform the British economy.
    Margaret Thatcher, also known as the Iron Lady, was a prominent figure in British politics and the first female Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. She served as the PM from 1979 to 1990 and is widely regarded as one of the most successful and influential political leaders of the 20th century.
    • Political Career: Leader of the Conservative Party (1975-1990) British Prime Minister (1979-1990)
    • Economic Reforms: Implemented free-market economic policies known as Thatcherism Privatization of state-owned industries Reduced government intervention in the economy
    • Foreign Policy: Played a significant role in international relations, particularly during the Cold War Developed a close relationship with US President Ronald Reagan Stood firm in the Falklands War against Argentina
    • Social Policies: Implemented several controversial social policies, including reducing the power of trade unions Introduced the poll tax, which sparked protests
    • Political Philosophy: Strong advocate of individual liberty, free markets, and limited government Believed in the importance of personal responsibility and self-reliance
    Margaret Thatcher in other rankings
  7. 7
    14
    votes
    South Africa's first black President, credited with leading the country out of apartheid and into democracy.
    Nelson Mandela was a South African anti-apartheid revolutionary, politician, and philanthropist who served as President of South Africa from 1994 to 1999. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential and inspiring figures of the 20th century.
    • Born: July 18, 1918
    • Died: December 5, 2013
    • Political Affiliation: African National Congress (ANC)
    • Imprisonment: Spent 27 years in prison (1962-1990)
    • Awards and Recognition: Nobel Peace Prize (1993), Bharat Ratna, Presidential Medal of Freedom, and more
    Nelson Mandela in other rankings
  8. 8
    17
    votes
    Japan's longest-serving Prime Minister, credited with revitalizing the country's economy and taking a strong stance on national security issues.
    Shinzo Abe in other rankings
  9. 9
    21
    votes

    Atal Bihari Vajpayee

    Government of India
    India's first Prime Minister from a non-Congress party, known for his economic reforms and efforts to improve relations with Pakistan.
    Atal Bihari Vajpayee was a prominent Indian politician who served as the Prime Minister of India three times. He is considered one of the most successful Prime Ministers in the world, known for his leadership, statesmanship, and ability to unite diverse political ideologies.
    • Tenure: Prime Minister of India from May 16, 1996, to June 1, 1996, as well as from March 19, 1998, to May 22, 2004.
    • Political Party: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)
    • Infrastructure Development: He launched several ambitious infrastructure projects, including the National Highways Development Project (known as Golden Quadrilateral) to improve road connectivity in India.
    • Nuclear Tests: He conducted a series of nuclear tests in 1998, establishing India as a nuclear power.
    • Foreign Policy: Vajpayee initiated the Peace Process with Pakistan in 1999 and invited Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif for a historic bus journey from Lahore, fostering diplomatic relations.
    Atal Bihari Vajpayee in other rankings
  10. 10
    5
    votes
    Canada's current Prime Minister, known for his progressive policies and efforts to promote diversity and inclusion.
    Justin Trudeau in other rankings

Missing your favorite Prime Minister?

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Discussion

Ranking factors for successful Prime Minister

  1. Economic growth and stability
    The Prime Minister's ability to manage the economy and promote growth and stability is critical in determining their success.
  2. Leadership qualities
    The ability to inspire and motivate the public, build consensus, and navigate complex political situations is very important.
  3. Domestic policy achievements
    The Prime Minister's ability to implement social reforms, improve infrastructure, and address societal issues is important in assessing their success.
  4. Foreign policy achievements
    The Prime Minister's ability to successfully negotiate international agreements, improve relations with other countries, and promote national interests on the global stage is crucial.
  5. Popularity and public approval
    The Prime Minister's popularity among citizens, their approval rating, and their ability to maintain the support of their political party and coalition partners should be considered.
  6. Effective communication skills
    A successful Prime Minister should have excellent communication skills to efficiently spread the policies and vision for the country.
  7. National Security
    It is also important to consider the Prime Minister's ability to maintain and improve the country's national security.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most successful Prime Minister in the world. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or Minister is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 4057 views
  • 208 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each Minister once every 24 hours. The rank of each Minister is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

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More information on most successful prime minister in the world

In the world of politics, the role of a Prime Minister is one that carries significant weight and responsibility. Prime Ministers are tasked with leading their respective countries, making crucial decisions, and managing the affairs of the nation. While every Prime Minister is unique, some have left an indelible mark on history, making them stand out as the most successful Prime Ministers in the world. Over the years, many Prime Ministers have risen to prominence for their exceptional leadership skills, political acumen, and vision for their countries. From Winston Churchill to Angela Merkel, these leaders have made significant contributions to their respective nations and have inspired others to follow in their footsteps. In determining the most successful Prime Minister in the world, various factors must be considered, including their impact on their country's economy, political stability, and overall development. Additionally, their achievements in the areas of foreign policy, social welfare, and human rights must also be taken into account. While opinions on the most successful Prime Minister may vary depending on one's political ideology, there is no denying the immense impact that these leaders have had on their countries and the world at large.

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