Cross-Strait Tensions and Their Impact on Taiwan's Domestic Politics and Security Policy

Abstract

The effects of increased tensions between the People's Republic of China & Taiwan concerning the latter's sovereignty upon Taiwanese political & security policy are investigated. Two factors that have augmented resistance to Chinese-Taiwanese reunification in present-day Taiwan are identified: the Chinese state's threats of military action against pro-independence movements in Taiwan & Taiwanese politicians agitation of cross-Taiwan Strait relations as a means of enhancing their political prospects. It is asserted that these determinants have reduced the ideological differences between Taiwan's premier political parties, the Kuomintang & the Democratic Political Party, & that both parties are becoming pro-sovereignty; moreover, it is stated that these factors have likely eliminated the possibility of establishing a pro-unification movement in Taiwan. In addition to accelerating the modernization of Taiwan's military, it is shown that cross-Taiwan Strait tensions have forced the US to deepen strategic relations with Taiwan even though it continues to publicly advance a "one China" policy. References. J. W. Parker