As an expert in political science and international relations, I would like to approach the question of identifying dictatorships with a nuanced and comprehensive understanding. It's important to note that political systems are complex and can change over time, and the term "dictatorship" can be subjective, depending on the criteria used to define it. Generally, a dictatorship is characterized by a concentration of power in the hands of a single individual or a small group, with limited political freedoms and often a lack of respect for the rule of law. When we talk about current dictatorships, it is crucial to differentiate between various types of authoritarian regimes. Some may be military juntas, where the armed forces hold power, while others might be one-party states, where a single political party exercises control over the government. Additionally, personalist dictatorships are characterized by a single leader who holds absolute power and often rules by decree. The countries you mentioned—Zimbabwe, Uzbekistan, and North Korea—have been identified by various sources as having authoritarian or dictatorial characteristics. However, it's essential to understand the context and the specific political dynamics within each country. For instance: - Zimbabwe has undergone significant political changes in recent years. While it has been led by a single party for a long time, with Robert Mugabe's rule being particularly noted for its authoritarian nature, the political landscape has shifted, and the country's status as a dictatorship is a subject of debate. - Uzbekistan has also seen changes in leadership, with the death of long-time president Islam Karimov in 2016 and the subsequent rise of Shavkat Mirziyoyev. While the country still exhibits many characteristics of an authoritarian regime, there have been some reforms and a degree of opening up to the international community. - North Korea is often cited as one of the most closed-off and repressive regimes in the world, with the Kim family maintaining a tight grip on power for several generations. The country operates under a strict one-party system, and there is widespread consensus that it is a dictatorship. It's also worth noting that there are other countries where the government exercises significant control over the population, and while they may not fit the traditional definition of a dictatorship, they still have limited political freedoms and human rights abuses. The classification of a country as a dictatorship can be influenced by various factors, including the level of international scrutiny, the country's relationship with other nations, and the internal dynamics of power. In conclusion, identifying countries as dictatorships requires a careful analysis of the political, social, and economic context within each nation. It is a complex issue that goes beyond simply listing countries, as the nature of political power and the degree of freedom afforded to citizens can vary widely. read more >>

In a dictatorship, power rests with one supreme ruler. This list answers the questions, "Which countries are ruled by dictatorship?" and "Which countries are governed by dictatorship?" Current dictatorships include Zimbabwe, Uzbekistan, and North Korea.read more >>