Which are the world's most influential countries?

HO RULES THE WORLD? THE TOP 20 IN FULL From MailOnline

1. Great Britain

The Olympic opening ceremony reminded the world of Britain's influence around the globe and achievements such as the National Health Service and the internet. It 'united the nation', 'restored pride in the Union Jack' and was 'a brilliant advert', the magazine said. There have also been continuing sporting and cultural successes this year, whether it be Andy Murray winning the US Open or the new James Bond film.

2. United States of America

Continues to lead the world in investment in world food and health initiatives, plus tackling climate change. But overseas occupations and unmanned drone strikes, plus an insular outlook during the recent election, lost the US its top spot.

Insular: The American presidential election, won by Barack Obama, left America looking inwards rather than to the world, Monocle said

3. Germany

Enormous business strength and economic leadership in Europe, academic prowess through institutions such as the Goethe Institute and the popularity of the Bundesliga, the football top flight, make Germany the 'undisputed leader' of the EU. However, with this comes a reliance from other, ailing countries to prop up the Eurozone.

4. France

Remains the world leader in arts galleries, museums and cuisine but plagued by economic uncertainty and a new President struggling to make an impression on the world stage. 

5. Sweden

Viewed in a positive light around the world as a friendly and functional country, plus reaping the benefits of a growing base of entrepreneurs. Still struggles to get past stereotypes like ABBA and IKEA, however, in international perceptions. 

6. Japan

Is becoming less insular and gradually opening up to the world in fashion, retail and food markets. Japanese pop music is also a big export and its craftsmen are more in demand than ever. 

7. Denmark

Massive popularity of television series such as Borgen has added to existing strengths in music, art, architecture and design. 

8. Switzerland

Continues to be reliable and capable of doing the dull stuff well. The world leader in investments and banking, and a producer of professional people. 

9. Australia

Increasingly influential in Pacific affairs but need to hone its diplomatic skills to appear friendlier to the outside world. Also needs to tone down attitudes to migrants. 

10. Canada

A resilient economy that has weathered the worst of the global crisis. Also flexing its military muscles more. 

11. South Korea

Now known for more than just good technology, the emergence of K-Pop, as exemplified by Psy's Gangnam Style, is a ready-made export.

Worldwide influence: The Korean singer Psy (right) and his Gangnam style was enjoyed the world over, even by UN secretary general Ban Ki-Moon

12. Norway

Won worldwide respect for its dignified reaction to the murders of Anders Behring Breivik and also for its responsible re-investment of oil wealth. 

13. Finland

With Helsinki named as the world design capital, Finnish architects have been shouting from the rooftops. Great reputation as a nation of problem solvers and an increasingly important air hub for Europe.

14. Italy

Home to the best fashion designers in the world and excellent cuisine, but handicapped by continuing economic jitters.

15. Holland

Dutch embassies are finally starting to project the country as a place of attractive contemporary culture.

16. Spain

Spain's sunshine, cinema and food remain popular with people the world over, but the Eurozone crisis has struck hard.

17. Brazil

Greatest strength is its 'welcoming' and 'fun-loving' people who are driving an economic surge. Still troubles with corruption, however.

18. Austria

Record breaking jumper Felix Baumgartner has helped shed Austria's old-fashioned image this year. 

Moderniser: Felix Baumgartner's record-breaking jump from the edge of space helped shed Austria's old-fashioned image

19. Belgium

'Does the dull stuff well' - for example, politics and diplomacy - but may not exist in ten years given the momentum of Flemish independence movements. 

20. Turkey

Businesses have been attracted by Istanbul, while its airlines continue to expand. In a difficult geographical position with the ongoing conflict in Syria though.

Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2234726/Britain-tops-global-soft-power-list.html#ixzz2CfFvHfJ2
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