How many countries are there in the world?

 As of my last update in September 2021, there were 195 countries in the world. However, please note that geopolitical situations can change over time, and the number of countries may vary due to factors such as political changes, territorial disputes, and international recognition. It's always a good idea to verify this information with a reliable and up-to-date source as the number may have changed since my last update.