Top 10 highest-paid political leaders in the world: Global politics is often characterised by its leaders’ significant responsibilities and influence. While the primary focus is usually on the policies and decisions made by these leaders, their compensation packages have also garnered attention in recent years. Among the highest-paid government leaders, a select few stand out for their exceptional salaries.
Notably, Singapore’s Prime Minister, Lawrence Wong, is the highest-paid government leader, earning over $1.6 million per year. His annual salary package includes a 13th-month bonus and other benefits, making it significantly higher than other world leaders.
Next on the list is Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu, earning an annual salary of approximately $695,000. His position was established in 1997 during Hong Kong’s transition from British to Chinese sovereignty, replacing the office of the Governor of Hong Kong, who served as the representative of the British monarch during the territory’s colonial era.
Interestingly, Ursula von der Leyen, the 13th president of the European Commission and a German politician, is also among the highest-paid leaders in the world, earning a salary of $364,000, despite not being the leader of an individual country.
Explore the list of the top 10 highest-paid leaders from various countries and political systems, showcasing the significant variation in compensation for the highest-ranking government officials around the world.
| Rank | Government | Name | Leader’s Annual Salary | Designation |
| 1 | Singapore | Lawrence Wong | $1.61M | Prime Minister |
| 2 | Hong Kong | John Lee Ka-Chiu | $695K | Chief Executive |
| 3 | Switzerland | Viola Amherd | $530K | President |
| 4 | United States of America | Joe Biden | $400K | President |
| 5 | Australia | Anthony Albanese | $390K | Prime Minister |
| 6 | Germany | Olaf Scholz | $367K | Chancellor |
| 7 | Austria | Karl Nehammer | $307K | Chancellor |
| 8 | Canada | Justin Trudeau | $292K | Prime Minister |
| 9 | New Zealand | Christopher Luxon | $288K | Prime Minister |
| 10 | Japan | Fumio Kishida | $256K | Prime Minister |
