The American factor of democratization of Taiwan

The diplomatic status and geopolitical situation of Taiwan determine its huge dependence on foreign factors. Politico-social development of the island is not an exception. It seems that foreign factors inspired democratization of Taiwan which occurred from 1986 to 1996, but precursors of it had been forming since 1972. By correlating some relevant foreign affairs with Kuomintang policies and politico-social reforms in Taiwan in the exact period, we are able to unveil some foreign factors, that had great influence on the democratization of Taiwan. Foreign factors analysis, as well as domestic reforms assessment should begin with determination of key objectives of Taiwan foreign policy. These goals are aimed at preserving Taiwan de facto independence. Specifically, they are strategic, military and economic security arrangements. Foreign factors analysis allows us to emphasize the "American factor" as a key factor that had a great influence on Taiwan. Because Taiwan relied greatly on America in matters of defense, economic and trade cooperation, Taiwan authorities had to consider the USA's opinion on many vital subjects, including domestic policies. America's expectations of Taiwan democratization issue, its role and policy in the Pacific region, its relations with other countries in the region (with China, first of all), its position on some key issues - all these variables were taken in account by Taiwan authorities when planning its policy. It is highly possible that the influence of the USA contributed to the exclusion of Taiwan from the UN. In turn, it fostered democratic reforms and a politico-social transformation that are subjects in this paper. Severance of diplomatic relations and denunciation of the Defense treaty between the USA and Taiwan was a great challenge to Taiwan, because it relied on support of American troops in case of an attempt of China to invade the island. The establishment of Sino-American diplomatic relations that followed also fostered the democratization of Taiwan. Other foreign factors, which had slightly less influence on democratization of Taiwan, should be mentioned as well. The "Chinese" factor is one of them. Its indirect influence was huge, though direct influence is hard to evaluate due to the absence of formal relations between China and Taiwan. In order to escape diplomatic isolation Taiwan should strive to preserve contacts and relations of any form and kind with other nations, as well its membership in international organizations, or, otherwise, its independent existence will be under a giant threat.

Keywords

Authors

References