Parade Magazine's Ranks the World's Worst Dictators

This week, Parade magazine runs its third annual ranking of the world's worst dictators.

First off, it's great to see one of most-read magazines in the world (which typically runs dull celebrity puff pieces) cover such an important topic. Second, Parade's cover story is a reminder that we don't know enough about the ruthless dictators who control the lives of hundreds of millions of people around the world. Third, despots from the Middle East once again make a good showing on the list.

#1 this year is Sudan's Omar al-Bashir. General Bashir earns top honors for perpetrating genocide in western Sudan. Congrats, Omar (who, incidentally, is 61 years old)!

#5 is again Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Abdullah, who holds steady in the middle slot. The article provides an interesting tibdit of news: Abdullah is 81. He must be doing some serious dying of the mustache and goatee.

#6 is the world's wackiest despot, Muammar al-Qaddafi. Last year, Muammar only received a "dishonorable mention," so it's good to see him rejoin the elite ten. Can anyone guess Muammar's age? If you guessed 62, you're in the money! So just think of him as an overachieving baby-bomber, er.. baby-boomer.

NOTE: Parade's website archives the 2003 and 2004 rankings.