Community Contributor

BuzzFeed

The world is your high school and its leaders, your classmates. Let's be judgmental.

The Ultimate Global Leader's Superlative Contest

The following is a (subjective) quiz aimed at gauging your viewpoint regarding global leaders today, including those beloved G20 leaders. The <a href="http://natocouncil.ca/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">NATO Association of Canada's</a> Program Editors (NAoC) have generated several "Superlatives" and a list of leaders for you to match together in the following quiz. Let's see if your matches resemble ours.

This leader hasn't been doing his job so well for the last few years. In fact, many other world leaders think it's time he was "sacked" in 2015.

It's fair to say the conflict that has devastated Syria following pro-democracy protests in 2011, has become one of the worst humanitarian disasters of the 21st century. The United Nations reported in 2015 that this crisis has now become the world’s “collective responsibility." Despite the millions displaced and the hundreds of thousands dead, Assad still remains. His government even took to twitter recently to ask its followers to post pictures of their fabulous #summerinsyria. Unsurprisingly, the twitter-sphere offered Assad some real pictures of Syria in the summer, complete with piles of rubble, starving civilians and scraps of weapons. Assad has passed the point of bowing out gracefully, and The Institute of War claims in a new report that Assad is strategically keeping the Syrian Arab Army (SAA) in “all corners” of the country in the hopes that the multiple non-state militant groups currently fighting will continue to radicalize and isolate themselves, losing popular support. Essentially, exploding from within. For most world leaders however (except Russia and Iran), it’s time Assad found another job.

The "Duck" Assad

Most Likely to be Fired

This leader, once (arguably) loved by many, has pushed everyone away. Ultimately living a life of tear-jerking isolation thanks to recent policies and inaction.

Erdogen has increasingly isolated himself, both from the European Union and from NATO. The epitome of this isolation was showcased in 2014 when Turkey lost out to Spain and New Zealand for non-permanent member status on the UN Security Council. As examined by the BBC in November 2014, Erdogen took missteps during the Arab Spring and backed the wrong people, including the Muslim Brotherhood. He has also failed to prevent potential jihadists from traveling through his borders, generating a headache for Europe and the Middle East. He has severed a “working” relationship with Israel and was pretty much slapped in the face by Obama for not allowing the US to utilize Turkish bases for airstrikes against ISIS. He also scowled at the thought of Western powers arming the Kurds, which they ignored. In June 2015, the Prime Minister announced plans to utilize its military against ISIS in Syria, something its allies have been requesting for quite some time now. This is just a tiny band-aid on the giant, bloody gash ripping through Turkey’s political relationships however. It appears the old saying is proving true, “The Turk has no friend but the Turk.”

"Imam Beckenbauer" Erdoğan

Most Likely to be Forever Alone

This leader has a hand in everything, in fact the country runs at his command. He epitomizes the parental phrase, "Because I said so!"

Yeah, this shouldn't be a surprise. If you know anything about Russia today, then you know that President Putin pretty much controls everything. Right down to Russia's largest social network: VK. Also, what other President fishes, horseback rides, shoots, drinks, and apparently rides bears? If he hadn't illegally annexed Crimea, according to international law, or casually "meddled" in the Ukraine, as well as stifled any popular dissent in his country, you could've said he was the perfect male-lead from a sappy Valentine's Day movie.

"Grey Cardinal" Putin

Most Well-Rounded

This leader beat the odds in 2014-2015 and was elected (or re-elected) to office. You may disagree with their politics, but votes don't lie! Well, ideally...

Controversial, we know. Let's put it this way, PM Netanyahu wasn't supposed to win majority in the 2015 Israeli Election. At least not in the landslide that he did according to many pre-election surveys and exit polls. Analysts attributed his massive win to the rhetoric given the week leading up to the election, that appealed heavily to the ultra-nationalist Israeli right. He played on the fear many had of Arabs voting en masse who hold Israeli citizenship, as well as the possibility of a Palestinian State which the opposition, the Zionist Union, had indicated it would support. Netanyahu has an inexplicable charm with certain voters and knows when to use it. Surprisingly, even after stating he would not support a Palestinian state he flipped and indicated that a state would be possible, just not at this moment. Needless to say, his charm hasn't been working on U.S. President Barack Obama and other government leaders eager for a two-state solution and a nuclear deal with Iran.

"Bibi" Netanyahu

Most Charming

This leader is, what the kids are calling these days, a "baller." They have led significant global negotiations and generates personal respect as well as national prominence.

Chancellor Merkel is everywhere lately. She appears to be one of the only leaders in the political elite that the media actually likes. Merkel is referred to as "the decider" in the European Union and was instrumental in patching up the Euro Crisis since 2009. Although she has faced stark opposition to her leadership style and "Germany mentality" when it comes to austerity, she has remained strong and arguably, 'shut up the haters' with her success. Unfortunately for Greece, she "holds the purse strings" as stated by the Telegraph in 2015. Merkel has also been able to maintain a working relationship with Russia's President Putin. A feat applaudable in and of itself. Following the annexation of Crimea, she recognized the importance of maintaining dialogue with Putin and seems to be the only leader able to do so. Merkel was also instrumental in peace talks between Israeli and Palestinian leadership in early 2015, however the talks have ultimately gone nowhere. What else is new? Thanks for trying though Merkel.

"Mutti" Merkel

Most Likely to Win a Marathon

This leader is terrible with money. Inheriting his country's problems is no excuse in the world of creditors. Don't be surprised if their debt problems end like a scene from the Godfather.

Oh Greece. You are one of the world's oldest civilizations but yet falter to the same human tendency: spending on borrowed money. Tsipras, elected PM just last year, inherited a massive debt, over €242.8bn, thanks to wasteful spending, massive tax avoidance and the 2009 financial crisis. Tsipras has been rendered both a "political genius" and a "mad man" for taking on the Troika: the IMF, the European Commission and the European Central Bank, with Chancellor Merkel breathing down his neck. On Sunday, Greece held a referendum in which over 60% of the nation said "No" to new austerity measures imposed by the Troika. Potentially changing Greece's economy forever. Analysts say this indicates Greece will leave the Eurozone and go it alone, reinstating the Drachmas, while Tsipras believes this move will actually increase Greece's leverage during negotiations. Hm. . . Good luck Tsipras.

"Epimanes" Tsipras

Most Likely to go Bankrupt

This leader is like that kid in elementary school that sat up front, raised his hand to every question and eagerly ate the salad at lunch his mom made for him. Genuinely nice, intelligent and just, a cool politician. Rare, we know.

I know, this was a hard one. Mujica even beats the Pope when it comes to being one of the most beloved, outspoken and giving leaders of all time. Although no longer President, Mujica's legacy remains in Uruguay. He is best known as the most progressive and humble president in world politics. During his term he donated most of his salary, continued to live in a quant country house and sponsored several laws that epitomized "leftist" policies in South America. Including creating a state-run marijuana program, legalizing same-sex marriage and abortion.   
Mujica is a former guerilla fighter who spent a combined 13 years in jail and argues he only takes what he needs. In 2015 he told BBC, "This world is crazy, crazy! People are amazed by normal things and that obsession worries me!"  
Oh yeah, I forgot to mention he drives an '87 blue Volkswagon Beetle and vows to remain active in politics despite nearing 80 years old. You do your thing Mujica.

"The World's Best, and Poorest President" Mujica

Most Well-Mannered

This leader epitomizes the "I don't care" and YOLO attitude. One could say they're a little unpredictable and because of this, the rest of the world laughs and cringes in fear at their behavior.

This one was a dead give-away. Jong-un, the Supreme Leader of North Korea, recently took the place of his late father, Kim Jong-il - another YOLO expert. North Korea, also known as the "Hermit Kingdom," is a very secretive society controlled by an even more secretive government. Rumors of mass starvation, executions, nuclear weapons, conspiracy theories, and surreal government-sponsored military parades routinely flood international media. So far, he has proven to lead like his father continuing what Vanity Fair called the provocation cycle: "ramping up provocative behavior, such as launching missiles or conducting nuclear tests, followed by charm offensives and offers to begin a dialogue during." Something the entire world witnessed following the fallout from the Hollywood film, "The Interview." Experts argue however, that Jong-un manages the state apparatus well and in such a way that evokes loyalty, giving just enough people prosperity to keep the machine running. He has implemented economic and agricultural reform, and many have noticed a slight opening of the Hermit Kingdom. There is still the fear however, that he may just be a spoiled child with exclusive access to the deadliest weapons in the world and a nation full of dependent people. Ready to say YOLO at any moment. Let's hope not.

"Outstanding Leader" Jong-un

Most Likely to Say YOLO

This leader finds it difficult to maintain a relatively "good" public image, thanks to inner political rifts, social upheavals and insistent foreign meddling. They probably sing in the shower, "it's not that complicated, I'm just misunderstood."

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is a paradoxical place, sitting in the midst of ancient history and tradition, while dealing with modernity. It's no wonder its king is just as perplexing. King Salman holds the hopes of both progressives and conservatives in his hands. After succeeding the throne in 2014 from his late brother, King Abdullah, experts were unsure of the nation's future. King Abdullah was arguably a "progressive" king, loosening the reign of control in Saudi society but also tightening it when necessary. King Salman, so far, has been just as confusing. The jailing of Raif al-Badawi, a liberalist blogger, shows the continued Saudi policy of oppression for certain liberal ideas, but his appointment of young technocrats encourages hope for innovation and progression. The "Saudi Cables" released by Wikileaks this year have shown King Salman's continued fear of democratization in the country due to social uncertainties but regional experts argue change will come, just at a sustainable pace. Unfortunately, security issues stemming from unrest in Yemen and domestic threats inspired by ISIS, will make any social changes difficult. Not to mention the Kingdom's enduring fear of an influential Iran. If King Salman wants change, he has to balance it with the religious authority, security, stability and the royal family's dynamics. We may misunderstand him, but he knows what he's doing. Maybe.

King "Decisive Salman" Al Saud

Most Misunderstood

This leader has given many other world leaders heartburn. Although relatively secretive, their recent expansionist moves, economic policies and military investments threaten the current hegemonic world order. It must be said though, "with great power comes great responsibility."

Oh yes, I'm getting slightly political with this one. Actually, I do not mean to imply that China is "taking over the world," as some hard-line American conservatives would like to argue. However, Jinping has certainly continued increasing China's global influence and put it on par with Russia and the United States. Always a growing economic powerhouse, China's foreign political influence has stretched beyond that of central and southeast asia. As Henry Paulson told Foreign Policy Magazine in April 2015, "..It’s becoming more difficult and more complex because we are dealing with a new China, (one that) is much more assertive on the international stage.” He reiterated however that countries like the US need to have a working, reciprocal relationship with China as the Chinese recognize their own limitations. Many in the West are genuinely worried over Chinese political partnerships, including with Russia, as well as it's military maneuvers in the South China Sea, essentially challenging countries such as Japan, the Philippines, and Vietnam. Jinping may also be positioning himself to stay in power well into 2027, breaking the tradition of a 10-year-tenure. Fostering Chinese interests abroad will not disappear anytime soon, especially if this strategic leader has anything to say about it. Good luck..?

“Xi Dada” Jinping

Most Likely to (Try) and Rule The World

This leader is struggling to maintain their diplomatic composure. You can't really blame them, dealing with a partisan government, social divisions and blood-thirsty media will do that. They're definitely a ticking time-bomb.

Yeah, he really is about to lose it. Why was the "Anger Translator" skit by the comedy sketch, Key and Peele, so funny? Because it's realistic. Even if you wholeheartedly disagree with President Obama's politics you have to recognize the strain working in Washington puts on your mind, body and soul. Obama has had to continuously work against a partisan Congress, watch his foreign policy plans (or lack thereof) go to shambles and face constant constitutional challenges against his namesake bill - Obamacare. Honestly, I would have lost it after the Senate snowball incident. When Oklahoma Senator James Inhofe declared global warming and climate change to be a scam because of the snowstorms that hit the U.S. in 2014. \*facepalm\*  
Jokes aside, the recurring mass-shootings in the United States have particularly pushed President Obama beyond his limit. During his presidency, around 7 mass shootings have occurred and the recent Charleston massacre showed the President at his tipping point. He stated in his speech, "At some point, we as a country will have to reckon with the fact that this type of mass violence does not happen in other advanced countries. It doesn’t happen in other places with this kind of frequency.”  
Here's to Obama keeping sane until January 2017, inauguration time for the next White House victim.

"No Drama" Obama

Most Likely to Lose It

This leader is a prime target for hackers. It seems citizens everywhere have unending aggression and mistrust towards them, while others adore their policies. Who better for a hacking controversy?

Tony Abbott, what a guy? Eh? Why do I think it's time his government got hacked because well, Anonymous and other hacking groups, tend to dislike leaders who knowingly commit human rights abuses and/or have sketchy records and/or are dedicated to policies that push their countries backwards, not forwards. To many Australians, Abbott is guilty of all of these things. Australia has many issues to deal with, one most notably being the illegal migrant smuggling occurring on its shores. However, Abbott's fix has been to detain these migrants in jail-like centres and he even suggested boat buy-back schemes with countries like Indonesia. Not the best ideas if you want to treat people humanly and actually stem the flow of illegal migration. Abbott has been regarded as "erratic" and the Council on Foreign Relations named him the "most incompetent leader of any industrialised democracy" in 2015. This title stems from Abbott's unclear and incoherent policy making, leading many to think he doesn't quite understand complex political issues or consults with his ministers. Within 18 months there will be a new election and although Abbott's approval ratings are low now, he continues to capitalize on Australians' fears regarding security threats and economic stability. Therefore, it's projected his government may have a shot at winning another term. Hmm, I smell a hacking coming.

"Mad Monk" Abbott

Most Likely to be Hacked, Continuously

This one speaks for itself. There's an eery similarity. . . why is their hair so perfect!?!

HE DOES! So what if he's a politically dividing figure? That doesn't mean he can't resemble Ken! The hair, the eyes, the plastic like complexion. It's just too perfect. Okay, maybe not that perfect but close enough it's weird. Despite Canada's stagnant economy and controversial legislation (C-51, C-24), it looks like Harper will win another term in the upcoming October 2015 election. According to new polls by EKOS research released in June, Canadians do not feel their country is headed in the right direction (52%) or that Harper is that great (62%) but they might vote for him anyway. This is primarily because the Conservative Party relies on the senior vote and they are holding steady to Harper. This particularly group also has the highest voter turnout rate for federal elections. As of now, Harper is the only leader able to portray himself as experienced enough to solve the country's growing security problems, but as those issues fade from voter's peripheral, his popularity may continue to decline. With approval ratings and global events changing daily however, there is no telling what could happen. This election may turn out to be exciting after all!

"Automaton" Harper

Most Likely to Win a Ken Look-a-Like Contest

Politics aside, this global leaders know how to spice things up in the fashion department, whether it's cultural or personal. I'd definitely buy an inspired skinny jean from their fall fashion line.

This was tough. All of these leaders have magnificent fashion sense, but the Queen takes it. Hands down. She does have about 63 years of practice in the fashion department as the longest-reigning monarch in British history, beating Queen Victoria's reign (also a trend-setter). Queen Elizabeth II has graced us with her royal presence at thousands of events, and each time wore an unforgettable outfit. She has literally worn every single color imaginable, and in patterns we never conceived before. The fashion magazine, Vogue, did a special edition on the Queen's fashion status in April 2015, stating: "Over the years, the Queen has become famous for wearing bright, block colours, pearl necklaces, pristine white gloves, headscarves and plaid skirts. Now her style is iconic, with Agyness Deyn naming the Queen as her fashion inspiration and Dolce & Gabbana basing an entire collection around her signature looks." Personally, Queen Elizabeth's style during the 1960s was impeccable. What true class only aspires to resemble. If the Queen can wear all the colors of the rainbow, then so can you! Stay classy Lilibet.

Queen "Lilibet"

Most Likely to Have a Clothing Line

This leader is the bomb-diggity. According to a December 2014 international survey, this guy is winning the global popularity contest.

Are you shocked? Well, perhaps if you're living in the West you are, but there are many other parts of the world that regard President Jinping as a popular figure who has performed well as a leader. This is according to the GMO Research International, a Tokyo based global research marketing firm, which conducted a survey in 2014. The survey had 26,000 respondents across five continents and 30 countries. Domestically and abroad he has been pretty successful, and China is now considered one of the most strategically important countries in the world. The survey results generally align with geopolitics and reflect the kind of information filtered within nations about other countries. Within China, negativity about its own government may be limited, therefore a domestically high score of Jinping is expected but internationally he scored well. Indicating that he is somewhat highly respected across the board.

Mr. Global Leader 2014-2015

This female leader actually beat Mr. Global Leader as the most popular international leader in the GMO survey. Ladies, if you're looking for an inspirational figure to follow on Twitter - here you go.

My girl Merkel! Okay, so she's not perfect and there is that little problem regarding her knowledge of Greece's unsustainable debt, but she still beats out any other global leader in my book. She is this generation's Margaret Thatcher, only a little less "ironclad" and capitalistic. A female leader who can outmaneuver the boys in a man's game? I'll applaud to that!

Mrs. Global Leader 2014-2015

We, at the NAoC, are extremely proud of you. Either you are up to date with international politics or you're just really good at guessing. Either way, give yourself a pat on the back and we look forward to seeing your op-ed pieces in Foreign Policy Magazine.

It's official, you're a political pundit.

You probably won't gain thousands of Twitter followers with your international politics banter, but you could possibly appear on shows like "Fox and Friends" as an analyst. YAY!

Oh yeah, definitely nerd status.

Just kidding, there's no judging here. But maybe wander over to our website at natocouncil.ca and read some articles. We'd like to turn you into a political know-it-all.

Um, do you like politics?

Thank you for completing our quiz! We hope you learned a bit about world politics. If not, we know you at least enjoyed the multiple pictures of Angela Merkel drinking. What a boss.You can find other articles, quizzes and news updates by visiting our website: <a href="http://natocouncil.ca/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">natocouncil.ca</a> or subscribing to our multiple social media outlets including <a href="https://twitter.com/natocanada" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheAtlanticCouncilOfCanada" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/TheAtlanticCouncil" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Youtube</a> and <a href="https://instagram.com/nato_canada/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. Enjoy!

Disclaimer: The opinions and ideas expressed in this piece do not reflect that of the NATO Association of Canada (NAoC) as an organization. The NAoC is an independent non-governmental organization established to foster a better understanding of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization's goals, including NATO's aim of achieving "peace, prosperity and security."

About BuzzFeed Community

Community Brand Guidelines

BuzzFeed Community

Sorry, this content is no longer supported.

BuzzFeed Community Guidelines

BuzzFeed Community Leaderboard

BuzzFeed News has breaking stories and original reporting on politics, world news, social media, viral trends, health, science, technology, entertainment, and LGBTQ issues.

All the best animals on the internet. The snuggle is real.

BuzzFeed has breaking news, vital journalism, quizzes, videos, celeb news, Tasty food videos, recipes, DIY hacks, and all the trending buzz you’ll want to share with your friends. Copyright BuzzFeed, Inc. All rights reserved.

BuzzFeed News | Breaking News | Original Reporting | News Analysis

Animal Pictures and Videos - Adorably from BuzzFeed

Name

Thanks for subscribing!

Stay up to date with our latest BuzzFeed video. Enter your email to subscribe!

Oops! Upload an image or add text to submit.

BuzzFeed has the hottest, most social content on the web. We feature breaking buzz and the kinds of things you'd want to pass along to your friends.

The Ultimate Global Leader's Superlative Contest

Share This Article