Revolution, Resources, and Cultural Preservation

The Mongol Empire was founded in the 13th century by Chinggis Khaan, and the Mongolian People’s Republic was established in 1924, with the current constitution being set in 1992. After the decline of the Mongol Empire, the country first declared its independence from the Manchu Dynasty in 1911 and achieved it in 1921. However, shortly after, Mongolia came under the control of the Soviet Union, which helped Mongolia gain its independence from China. In 1946, the independence was recognized by the Nationalist Government of China, and the current constitution as we know it was set in February 1992.

Three decades ago, the peaceful Mongolian Democratic Revolution led to the overthrowing of the Mongolian People’s Republic. Since then, the state has transitioned into a market-led system. Discussions of the country’s economy are nearly impossible without mentioning the two largest sectors: mining and agriculture. The government jointly works with the largest mining companies in the world on Mongolian mining. In recognition of Mongolia’s rich natural resources, both domestic and foreign direct investment has flown into the mining sector. Likewise, the steppe nation is also abundant in livestock with 66 million in total, making it so that there are over 20 heads of livestock per person in Mongolia.

Political Structure of Mongolia

(2024 Update)

Mongolia operates as a unicameral republic with a semi-presidential and semi-parliamentary system. The head of state is the President, directly elected by the public. The President has significant constitutional powers, including appointing judges and ambassadors, and vetoing laws passed by the parliament. However, the State Great Khural (Mongolia’s parliament) can override a presidential veto with a two-thirds majority vote.

Electoral Reform Brings Record Women to Mongolian Parliament

The State Great Khural now comprises 126 members, elected for the 2024–2028 term. For the first time, 94 male and 32 female members were elected, with the proportion of female parliamentarians increasing to 25%, a record in Mongolia’s history. This marks an 8% increase in female representation compared to the previous parliament.

This milestone reflects the impact of the 20% gender quota established prior to the 2016 and 2020 elections, as well as consistent efforts across all sectors to support women’s political participation. Over the past 32 years, a total of 608 members have served in parliament, including 544 men and 64 women, with the highest female representation previously recorded at 17.1%.

In the ninth regular parliamentary election of 2024, the largest in Mongolia’s history, 19 political parties, 2 alliances, and 1,341 candidates registered. The election was conducted using a mixed system, with 48 members elected by proportional representation and 78 members by majority representation.

According to the Inter-Parliamentary Union, Mongolia previously ranked 129th globally for female representation in parliament, with 17 female members. With the election of 32 female members, Mongolia is now projected to rank between 96th and 99th, an improvement of 27 to 30 places.

Diplomatic Relations

Mongolia has established diplomatic relationships with 192 countries, reflecting its commitment to fostering global partnerships. It maintains an active international presence, with embassies in 31 capitals worldwide. Mongolia’s foreign policy emphasizes strong ties with neighboring powers, particularly China and Russia, while also fostering partnerships with countries such as the United States, Japan, and members of the European Union.

Territorial Division

Mongolia is divided into 21 provinces (aimags), further subdivided into 348 districts (soums), including urban districts. The capital city, Ulaanbaatar, operates as an independent municipality and serves as the political, economic, and cultural hub of Mongolia.

Mongolia’s political system continues to evolve, reflecting its democratic values, growing international presence, and ongoing commitment to gender equality and inclusive representation in governance.

 

Economic Overview of Mongolia

(November 2024)

Mongolia, a country of rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, also holds vast economic potential. Once centered on herding and agriculture, its economy has expanded with the discovery of extensive mineral resources like coal, copper, and gold. While still classified as a lower-middle-income economy, recent developments in mining and trade highlight the country’s growing global relevance.

Key Economic Insights for Visitors:

  • Economic Growth: Mongolia’s GDP grew by 7.1% in 2023, driven by mining, especially coal exports. Projected growth for 2024 is 4.8%.
  • Major Sectors: Mining contributes 21.8% of GDP, agriculture 16%, and services play a significant role, including retail, trade, and transportation.
  • Livestock: With 64.7 million animals, herding remains integral to Mongolian culture and economy, offering visitors unique insights into nomadic life.
  • Exports: Coal dominates exports, with record volumes shipped to China, Mongolia’s key trading partner.

Notable Mining Projects:

  1. Erdenet Mining Corporation: One of Asia’s largest ore processing facilities.
  2. Oyu Tolgoi: A world-class copper and gold mine, expected to produce 500,000 tons of copper annually.
  3. Tavan Tolgoi: Home to one of the world’s largest coal deposits, fueling Mongolia’s growing export market.

Challenges and Opportunities:

Mongolia faces climate challenges like the dzud, impacting agriculture and livelihoods, but its resilience and focus on diversification provide optimism for the future. Travelers can witness a country balancing traditional ways of life with modern economic ambitions, making Mongolia a fascinating destination not just for its landscapes but for its evolving story.

 

Tourism in Mongolia

Mongolia is actively working to diversify its economy, aiming to develop tourism as a key economic sector alongside its resource-driven industries. While tourism was historically limited under the Communist regime, it has steadily grown since the Democratic Revolution of 1990. With much of the country’s wildlife and natural beauty remaining pristine, combined with a 6,000-year-old nomadic culture, Mongolia offers unique and captivating experiences for travelers.

continues to emphasize tourism as a priority sector. To enhance the quality and appeal of Mongolia’s tourism, the government has implemented several measures:

“Visit Mongolia Year” (2023–2025)

The government declared 2023–2025 as the “Visit Mongolia Year,” launching a series of initiatives to boost tourism. In 2023, Mongolia welcomed 651,061 tourists, contributing $1.2 billion USD (4.4 trillion MNT) to the domestic economy.

The government organized 69 events, including 23 flagship programs aimed at enhancing the visitor experience. Specific programs targeted tourists from China, Russia, South Korea, and Japan, while comprehensive marketing campaigns increased Mongolia’s online visibility globally.

Efforts included improving the legal environment for tourism, promoting Mongolia internationally, and implementing policies to attract tourists year-round. For instance:

  • Winter Tourism: The “Blue Bear” program was launched in Khuvsgul province to attract winter tourists.
  • Local Tourism Development: The “One Tourist, One Sheep” program was initiated to promote community-based tourism and support local livelihoods.
  • Tax Incentives: Foreign tourists are exempted from value-added tax (VAT) and can receive refunds on certain purchases, making travel to Mongolia more appealing.

Language and Accessibility

Starting in 2019, tour guides were required to speak English, Chinese, and Russian to address the linguistic needs of major visitor demographics. Additionally, several domestic airports have expanded to accommodate international flights, improving accessibility to remote regions of the country.

“Go Mongolia” Campaign

As part of the efforts to increase tourist inflows in 2024, Mongolia plans to roll out the “Go Mongolia” campaign in key target markets. This campaign will showcase the country’s unique attractions, from its breathtaking landscapes to cultural treasures, and promote Mongolia as a year-round travel destination.

Infrastructure and Policy Support

The National Tourism Council has taken steps to address pressing issues in the tourism sector by establishing a dedicated working group. This team will regularly report to the government to ensure timely decisions on challenges and opportunities. To further support tourism, policies to develop infrastructure and create a comfortable experience for visitors are being prioritized.

Visitor Numbers and Growth

Mongolia’s tourism recovery post-pandemic has been promising. By 2024, the government projects international arrivals to approach one million, supported by infrastructure improvements, tax incentives, and promotional efforts.

Mongolia’s commitment to eco-tourism, cultural preservation, and sustainable development ensures the balance between promoting its rich heritage and meeting the needs of modern travelers. With a long-term focus on the “Visit Mongolia Year” initiatives and “Go Mongolia” campaign, the country is set to solidify its position as a premier travel destination in the coming years.

Wildlife of Mongolia

Mongolia boasts a rich and diverse plant life, forming a significant part of Central Asia’s vegetation. The country is home to plant species from Siberia’s coniferous taiga forests, Central Asian steppes, and deserts. Over 3,000 vascular plants, 920 lichens, 437 mosses, 875 fungi, and various algae species have been recorded. However, around 150 species are endemic, and over 100 plant species are considered endangered.

Mongolia’s wildlife is equally diverse, featuring species from the Siberian forest, steppe, and desert. The country is home to 136 mammal species, 76 fish species, 8 amphibians, 22 reptiles, and approximately 400 bird species. Wolves, wild boar, elk, roe deer, and brown bears inhabit the central and northern regions, while marmots, muskrats, foxes, steppe foxes, and sables can be found at the border of the steppe and forest.

In the Altai Mountains, apart from wolves and wild cats, lynxes, snow leopards, and wildcats thrive. The region also shelters the world’s largest sheep, the Argali, and the Siberian ibex. Mongolia’s four corners are rich in fascinating wildlife.

Additionally, Mongolia is home to some of the world’s rarest animals, including the Gobi Bear (Mazaalai), Przewalski’s horse (Takhi), the last remaining wild horses, and a diverse bird population. The country’s 2,000 lakes attract an abundance of bird species. While eastern Mongolia is particularly known for birdwatching, exotic birds like the Altai snowcock and mute swan can still be seen across the countryside.