Forbes' list of the world's 100 most powerful women may be the only one of its kind to include both political figures such as presidents, first ladies and monarchs, along with cultural icons like talk show hosts and pop superstars.
The 2011 list includes a list of impressive world leaders. German Chancellor Angela Merkel tops the list, followed closely by U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Brazilian President Dilma Rouseff.
"Across their multiple spheres of influence, these women have achieved power through connectivity, the ability to build a community around the organizations they oversee, the countries they lead, the causes they champion and their personal brands," Forbes is quoted by Reuters as saying.
How the list will shift in future years remains to be seen, but GOP presidential hopeful Michele Bachmann joins the list at #22, while U.S. first lady Michelle Obama drops to #8 after topping last year's ranking.
GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann is the 22nd most powerful woman in the world:
So who's the most impressive? Take a look at the 10 most powerful female world figures below:
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