Mongolia is the world’s most sparsely populated country, with only 3.5 million people spread over an area almost as big as Queensland. Landlocked between two dominant powers, Russia and China, this once mighty nation has been influenced by the military, political and economic power of its neighbours since the 1600s. 1.5 million people live in the country’s capital Ulaanbaatar, with the remaining population spread across a nation famous for its picturesque grassy steppes, the Gobi Desert, snow-capped mountains, and expansive lakes. 

Mongolia is a unitary parliamentary republic; the President is directly elected, and the Prime Minister is chosen by the parliament. There is only one house of Parliament. 

With one of the world’s fastest growing economies, its economic growth is volatile as it relies on the resource sector, with coal, copper and gold among key exports. Food and agriculture are also a large part of the Mongolian economy, given Mongolia’s large land area and relatively small population. Mongolia faces extreme environmental challenges, including desertification, harsh winters, and the environmental impacts of mining operations. 

The Mongolian Armed Forces (MAF) consists of the Mongolian Ground Force, the Mongolian Air Force, and the Mongolian National Guard (responsible for special security tasks and ceremonial duties). There is no navy. Military spending is estimated to be only 0.7% of GDP.