The situation in Iraq was not unique in the Arab world. Saudi Arabia has also been a source of constant concern to in recent years. The Saudi royal government is another example of family politics. Government positions have been monopolized by the royal family, which exerts oppressive leadership over its people. However, the people of Saudi Arabia have, through various channels, been gaining a better understanding of the fact that the Saudi political situation is unreasonable. This has begun to shake the nation's rulers.
Iraq may also serve as an example to Taiwan. As the nation continues to democratize and the transfer of political power becomes more routine, the relationship between civilian and military leaders has become increasingly delicate. Respecting military expertise and maintaining both the military system and military cohesion while creating new defense policies and an army with full combat capabilities is a great challenge for civilian leaders.
The relationship between civilian and military leaders has also led to great controversy in the US during the recent war. As a superpower with abundant resources, however, the US has been able to withstand the effects of the controversy over the relationship between civilian and military leaders. Taiwan, however, may not be able to withstand such controversy.
Arthur Ding is director of Research Division III at the Institute of International Relations at National Chengchi University.
Translated by Perry Svensson
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