List Of Top 10 Longest- Serving Prime Ministers In The World: Narenda Modi Is Also In The List

Top 10 Longest Serving PMs in the World: In any nation's political system, prime ministers are usually considered the most influential figures. Prime ministers have direct authority over the administration, policies and course of the government, in comparison to presidents or monarchs who may serve as symbolic representatives of the country. Many prime ministers have had brief tenures around the world as a result of elections, unstable political environments, or changing alliances. But some leaders were able to stay in office for a very long time, turning into historical icons as well as political figures. These longest-serving prime ministers left a lasting impression on their countries.

From the Middle East to Europe and Asia, some were reformers, some were controversial Prime Ministers, and some were renowned for their innovative policies. Some leaders, like Jawaharlal Nehru and Helmut Kohl, led their countries through significant changes, while others, like Sir Robert Walpole of Great Britain and Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa of Bahrain, ruled for decades.

Here is the list of the world's 10 longest-serving prime ministers, emphasising their accomplishments, legacies, and the factors that have contributed to their historical significance.

1. Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa (Bahrain) – 50 Years

Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa (Image: Reuters)

With almost 50 years in office from 1970 to 2020, Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa was the world's longest-serving prime minister of Bahrain. By enhancing infrastructure, education, and healthcare, he significantly contributed to the development of modern Bahrain. Bahrain transformed from a tiny Gulf state into a burgeoning financial centre under his direction. Despite regional difficulties, he maintained tight ties with Western countries and made sure the country was politically stable.

2. Sir Robert Walpole (Great Britain) – 21 Years

Sir Robert Walpole (Image: Museum of Prime Ministers)

Sir Robert Walpole, who held the position for almost 21 years, from 1721 to 1742, is frequently considered the first de facto prime minister of Great Britain. Following financial scandals such as the South Sea Bubble, his leadership contributed to the stabilisation of Britain. Walpole promoted economic stability domestically, preserved peace overseas, and bolstered the Whig party's power. His lengthy tenure laid the groundwork for the contemporary parliamentary system.

3. William Pitt the Younger (Great Britain) – 18 years

William Pitt the Younger was one of the youngest and most significant leaders in British history, serving for more than eighteen years, first from 1783 to 1801 and then from 1804 to 1806. He led Britain during the French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars and was appointed prime minister at the age of just twenty-four. Pitt prioritised government reform, economic growth, and debt reduction. During difficult times, his leadership was essential to preserving Britain's dominance.

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4. Jawaharlal Nehru (India) – 16 years

Jawaharlal Nehru (Image: Indian National Congress)

India's first prime minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, held office from 1947 until he died in 1964 and became 4rth longest serving PM in the world. By encouraging democracy, secularism and scientific advancement, he established the groundwork for contemporary India. Nehru promoted space and nuclear research, established organisations like the Indian Institutes of Technology, and played a key role in industrialisation. During the Cold War, he promoted peace and neutrality on a global scale by supporting the Non-Aligned Movement.

5. Helmut Kohl (Germany) – 16 Years

Helmut Kohl (Image: Reuters)

Helmut Kohl was Germany's longest-serving post-war chancellor, holding the position for 16 years, from 1982 to 1998. The 1990 reunification of East and West Germany was his greatest accomplishment. Kohl was also instrumental in establishing the euro currency and fortifying the European Union. He became a well-respected world leader because of his vision of a united Europe.

6. Indira Gandhi (India) – 15+ Years

Indira Gandhi (Image: Indian National Congress)

India's first and only female prime minister, Indira Gandhi, held office for more than 15 years during two terms. She is renowned for centralising power and exercising fearless leadership. The victory in the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971, the nationalisation of banks, and the development of India's nuclear program are some of the major accomplishments. But during the Emergency (1975–1977), her tenure was also criticised. She was shot dead by her own bodyguards on 31 October 1984, but she is still regarded as one of India's most influential leaders.

7. Konrad Adenauer (Germany) – 14 years

Konrad Adenauer (Image: Getty Images)

Germany's first post-war chancellor, Konrad Adenauer, held the office for 14 years, from 1949 to 1963. After World War II, he rebuilt Germany and turned it into a thriving democracy. Adenauer led Germany into NATO and improved relations with the US and Western Europe. Germany's economic miracle (Wirtschaftswunder) was made possible by its policies.

8. Yasuhiro Nakasone (Japan) – 12 years

Yasuhiro Nakasone (Image: Reuters)

From 1982 to 1987, Yasuhiro Nakasone led Japan as prime minister for 12 years. He was renowned for his audacious reforms, which included the privatisation of significant state-owned businesses like Nippon Telegraph and Telephone and Japan Railways. In addition, Nakasone maintained tight relations with the United States, particularly with President Ronald Reagan, and fortified Japan's defence policies. Under his direction, Japan was able to modernise and make its presence known internationally.

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9. Narendra Modi (India) – 2014 to Present (11+ years and ongoing)

Since 2014, Narendra Modi has held the position of Prime Minister of India. His administration has prioritised digital transformation, economic reforms, and enhancing India's standing internationally. Swachh Bharat, Atmanirbhar Bharat, Digital India, and Made in India are important programs. India has seen a push toward renewable energy, improved foreign relations, and rapid infrastructure growth under his leadership. Modi also used widespread vaccination campaigns to address global issues like COVID-19.

10. Margaret Thatcher (United Kingdom) – 11 years

Margaret Thatcher (Image: Reuters)

One of the most important leaders of the 20th century, Margaret Thatcher, was the first female prime minister of the United Kingdom. She held the position for 11 years, from 1979 to 1990. She promoted free-market principles, lowered government intervention, and enacted significant economic reforms. She is known as the "Iron Lady." She remained steadfast in her opposition to the Soviet Union while leading the nation during the Falklands War. Britain's politics and economy were altered by her policies.

Here are in tabular form for your ease; let's check out the top 10 longest-serving prime ministers in the world;