Republic of Yugoslavia

“Any movement in history which attempts to perpetuate itself, becomes reactionary” - Josip Broz Tito

Although Tito led the former republic of Yugoslavia as Prime Minister and President (later President for Life) from 1944 until his death in 1980 under what some criticized as anauthoritarian rule, he was widely popular and was "seen by most as a benevolent dictator".

Jordan

“Successful reform is not an event. It is a sustainable process that will build on its own successes - a virtuous cycle of change” – King Abdullah II of Jordan

Despite ruling over a monarchy, King Abdullah is often seen as a reformist and progressive leader whom is seen to many as a 'benevolent' monarch. As one of only two Arab nations that recognize Israel, his regime has been at the cornerstone of the Israeli-Palestinian peace process.

Republic of Turkey

“Victory is for those who can say "Victory is mine". Success is for those who can begin saying "I will succeed" and say "I have succeeded" in the end” - Mustafa Kemal Ataturk

Known affectionately as 'Ataturk' by many, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk is credited with removing foreign influence from former Ottoman territory, and is looked fondly upon as 'the father' of modern Turkey. He passed a series of societal reforms such as allowing women to vote, removing Islam as the state religion, and adoption of a Western criminal code.

Singapore

“I did some sharp things to get things right – too harsh – but a lot was at stake. But at the end of the day, what have I got? Just a successful Singapore” - Lee Kuan Yew

Known to be the man who transformed Singapore from a poor agrarian society into one of Asia's wealthiest nations, is often called a 'benevolent dictator.' As a leader who was in power for thirty one years, he implemented some laws that were deemed to be autocratic, and attempted to dismantle the political opposition. Despite this he is often looked upon favorably for his transformation of Singapore, and is considered by many to one of the most successful political pragmatists. 

Sultanate of Oman

“We continue to stand against injustice and darkness and remain on the side of justice, light and harmony. Mankind will only enjoy happiness and a sense of security if there are justice and respect for all those qualities that guarantee human beings their legitimate rights. First and foremost among these being their right to dignity, liberty and independence” - Qaboos bin Said al Said

A key ally for many Western governments, the Sultan of Oman is often seen as a benevolent dictator. Under his long running leadership, the country has modernized and has experienced an increasing quality of life.

Rwanda

“We cannot turn the clock back nor can we undo the harm caused, but we have the power to determine the future and to ensure that what happened never happens again” - Paul Kagame

Leading the country since the end of the Rwandan Genocide, he has been credited with the recovery and reformation of Rwanda. The country is known to be relatively free from corruption, stable, and safe, particularly when compared to its unstable neighbors. Despite successes in a variety of areas, his regime has been criticized for crackdowns on media freedom, fraudulent elections, and discrimination against the Hutu majority. 

Republic of Belarus

“You need to control the country, and the main thing is not to ruin people's lives” - Alexander Lukashenko

Alexander Lukashenko is the current president of Belarus. His rule may be described as authoritarian; nevertheless, under his rule, corruption in Belarus has virtually disappeared. Belarus has a low income gap, and enjoys one of the Highest Development Index in the former Soviet Union.