The Military and Political Power in Developing-Arab Countries: Intellectual Vision in the Post-Cold War Environment

Abstract

This study identifies the relationship between military and political power in developing countries, focusing on Arab countries, within the theoretical frameworks that emerged in the post-Cold War era. This period was marked by external dynamics that encouraged the strengthening of political elites against a military background, thus facilitating democratic reforms in many of these countries. In the Arab context, the theoretical approach to the link between the military and political power has evolved over two distinct periods: before and after the outbreak of the Arab Spring revolutions of 2011. Before these revolutions, the army played a dominant role in political power in most republics, serving as an extension of the rulers of monarchies and some republics. However, during the revolutions, the army faced a changing landscape, navigating between support for existing political systems and alignment with the rebel public, often influenced by tribal affiliations. The study concludes that successful democratic transitions in some Asian developing countries occurred when the political elite mobilized to control public policy, including military affairs. This contrasts with the situation in many developing countries, where the military elite has retained dominance over public policy, national security and the internal organization of the military. In Arab countries, it is clear that the military holds considerable influence over real political power, operating behind a civilian facade in most republics. It acts as a stabilizing force, providing security for the monarchies in exchange for privileges, a crucial factor influencing the outcome of the Arab revolutions. Consequently, the study suggests that genuine democratic transitions in Arab and developing countries require the removal of the military from direct political power.