When people think of world leaders, they often imagine experienced individuals with decades of wisdom — typically over 50 years old. However, a new generation of leaders is changing that narrative. These young and dynamic figures are proving that leadership isn’t just about age, but about vision, courage, and the ability to connect with the modern world.
Here’s a list of the 10 youngest world leaders, all under 50, who are already leaving a mark on global politics.
1. 🇫🇷 Gabriel Attal (34) – France
Gabriel Attal made history as the youngest Prime Minister of France at just 34. Appointed earlier this year, he’s not only the youngest but also the country’s first openly gay prime minister. A member of the Socialist Party since the age of 17, Attal quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a government spokesman during the COVID-19 pandemic.
2. 🇨🇱 Gabriel Boric (37) – Chile
In 2021, Gabriel Boric became the youngest president in Chile’s history, winning the presidency with a record-breaking 55% of the vote. His political journey began in 2013 as a deputy for District 28 and culminated in his nomination as presidential candidate by Convergencia Social.
3. 🇹🇭 Paetongtarn Shinawatra (37) – Thailand
The daughter of controversial political figure Thaksin Shinawatra, Paetongtarn rose to prominence during Thailand’s turbulent political climate. She was elected as the youngest prime minister on August 16, 2024, shortly after her political ally was dismissed from office.
4. 🇸🇦 Mohammed Bin Salman (38) – Saudi Arabia
Mohammed Bin Salman, known as MBS, became Crown Prince in 2017 and has since become one of the most influential leaders in the Middle East. His leadership includes control over Saudi Aramco and the Council of Economic and Development Affairs, pushing for modernization through his Vision 2030 program.
5. 🇰🇵 Kim Jong-un (40) – North Korea
Kim Jong-un has been in power since 2011, taking leadership at just 27. Though controversial, he remains one of the most influential figures on the global stage. He was educated in Switzerland and is believed to be born in 1984.
6. 🇽🇰 Vjosa Osmani (41) – Kosovo
Vjosa Osmani broke barriers by becoming Kosovo’s President in 2021. Previously, she served as the first female Speaker of the Assembly. She holds a law degree from the University of Prishtina and advanced degrees from the University of Pittsburgh.
7. 🇬🇪 Irakli Garibashvili (41) – Georgia
A former Prime Minister of Georgia, Garibashvili began his career in politics as the Interior Minister in 2011. He resigned in early 2024, but his influence remains strong in the Georgian political sphere.
8. 🇹🇲 Serdar Berdimuhamedov (41) – Turkmenistan
Serdar, the son of former president Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow, has held several key positions including governor of Ahal province and head of the Ministry of Industry and Construction. He took over the presidency in 2022, continuing his family’s legacy.
9. 🇸🇻 Nayib Bukele (42) – El Salvador
Nayib Bukele became President of El Salvador at the age of 38. Known for his modern and social-media-driven leadership style, Bukele previously served as mayor and launched major urban transformation projects. His presidency has gained global attention for bold moves like adopting Bitcoin as legal tender.
10. 🇶🇦 Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani (43) – Qatar
The Emir of Qatar since 2013, Sheikh Tamim succeeded his father and played a pivotal role in hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup. A graduate of the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the UK, his leadership focuses on modernization and international diplomacy.
✨ Conclusion
These young leaders are reshaping how we think about leadership in the 21st century. With bold policies, modern perspectives, and fresh energy, they are bringing innovation to governance and inspiring a new generation of change-makers around the world.
