Aymag

Aymag is a term referring to an administrative division in Mongolia. It is the highest level of local government in the country, similar to a province or state in other nations. Mongolia is divided into 21 aimags and the capital city, Ulaanbaatar, which functions as an independent municipality. Each aymag is further subdivided into smaller administrative units called soums. The capital city of each aymag is typically named after the aymag itself. The aimags were established during the socialist period and their administrative structures have largely remained consistent since then, reflecting a system of centralized governance with regional administrative bodies. The economy and social life within each aymag are often shaped by its specific geographical location, natural resources, and historical development. For example, aimags in the Gobi Desert region have different economic activities and lifestyles compared to those in the northern steppe regions. The governance of an aymag is overseen by a governor, appointed by the central government, and a local Citizens' Representative Khural, which is an elected legislative body.