Political Evolution in Post-Martial Law Taiwan:Issues, Problems, and Prospects

Abstract

The political evolution of the Republic of China on Taiwan has continued since the termination of martial law in 1987. The dominant position of the Kuomintang has been further weakened by the growth of Political pluralism and intra-party division. A two-party system has emerged as the opposition Democratic Progressive Party has made substantial electoral gains. However, there are also new opportunities for the growth of a third force in Taiwan`s growing social pluralism. There is still ideological divergence on such,questions as national identity, unification versus secession, the direction of constitutional reform, and last but not least, the appropriate policy for managing cross-Strait relations. The lack of consensus on important policies has continued to be a destabilizing factor in domestic politics. The special session of the National Assembly open in late April to deliberate the third phase of constitutional changes and is expected to last three months. Major constitutional revisions will be made and they are bound to have an important impact on future political development in Taiwan.