The number of countries in the world is not fixed either. Still, the most widely cited figure is 195, which includes 193 member states of the United Nations and two non-member observer states: the Holy See (Vatican City) and Palestine. However, other counts exist depending on the source, as some definitions include partially recognized states, dependencies, or territories, which can lead to numbers as high as 249. However, the exact number depends on the criteria for what constitutes a country, which can be complex due to political recognition, sovereignty disputes, and varying definitions. Other sources may include partially recognized states, self-declared nations, or dependent territories, which can increase the total count. For example, the ISO standard lists 249 country codes, which include some entities that are not universally recognized as independent countries.
For it to count as a country, it must have a permanent population and a defined territory, which is a specific area of land with recognized international boundaries. , a government that is capable of carrying out administrative functions and providing public services. External recognition by other countries means that other nations must acknowledge its existence and establish relationships with it. The government must have the ability to engage in diplomatic relations with other countries, such as regulating trade and printing its own currency. This set of criteria, established by the Montevideo Conference, is also a crucial factor in establishing a territory as a country.