North Korea is a Juche one-party state (various interpretations). In terms of political and civil liberties, North Korea ranks 3rd. Citizens in North Korea experience little to no civil liberties and political rights. Citizens are not free to express themselves and enjoy neither political freedom nor representative government. Countries with this political situation are dangerous for investment as an authoritarian government may have over-control over economic affairs. Prime Minister is Kim Jong Un.

According to the World Bank Group, North Korea's Government Effectiveness Index is -1.65. This indicates that the government of North Korea is very ineffective. The government is unable to provide civil and public services to its citizens and has fostered a situation that is contributing to political and social unrest. In North Korea, legislative power rests with a Supreme People's Assembly. The Global Peace Index (GPI) for North Korea is 2.977. In 2013, North Korea received US$98.1 million in development aid. In 2014, foreign aid was $118.5. North Korea is a member of the United Nations (UN). On September 17, 1991, it became a full member of the United Nations.