Regime change refers to the process of replacing one government or political system with another. It involves substantial political, social, and economic transformation within a country. It can happen through more aggressive methods like revolution or foreign interventions. Strong countries may engage in regime change for various reasons. Some motivations could include pursuing their National interest, promoting democracy or human rights, ensuring regional stability, or gaining economic advantages. However, it’s important to note that the decision to pursue regime change can be complex and influenced by a variety of factors and different countries may have different justifications for their actions.
Regime change can have a significant impact on the country and its people. It can lead to political instability, social unrest, and economic disruptions. The transition period after the regime change can be challenging as a new leader and institution are established. There may be changes in politics, laws, and government structure, which can affect people’s daily lives. Regime change can have regional and global significance and may alter alliances, geopolitical dynamics, and international relations.
It has some impediments. It can lead to political instability and uncertainty, as the transition to a new government may not always be smooth. It can also disrupt the economy, causing hardship for the population. It can sometimes result in unintended consequences, such as a power struggle or the rise of extremist groups. It’s important to carefully consider the potential drawbacks before pursuing a regime change.
Is Regime Change an American Policy?
This kind of policy is not an official state policy of America, but there have been instances where the United States has been involved in facilitating regime change in other countries. It can be seen as a threat to the targeted government or those who support it. It can destabilize a country and lead to unintended consequences. Strong countries like America engages in regime change for various reasons such as to protect their national interests, promote stability, counter threats, or advantage their ideology.
Regime Change Operation in Iran by the CIA:
The first operation initiated by America was in 1953 in Iran, when the CIA helped through Prime Minister Muhammad Mossadegh. The background of the Operation in Iran in 1953 involves the nationalization of Iran’s oil industries by PM Mossadegh, which threatened the interest of foreign businesses, including those from the United States.
The CIA, with the support of the British Intelligence Agency (BIA), orchestrated a covert operation to remove Mossadegh from power and reinstate the Shah of Iran Muhammad Reza Pahlavi. This intervention was motivated by concern over the potential spread of communism and the desire to maintain the access to Iran’s oil resources.
The regime change had a long lasting consequences for Iran, such as increased anti-western sentiment, the rise of Islamic fundamentalism and strained diplomatic relations. Also the regime change led to the consolidation of power by Shah, who ruled with an authoritarian regime supported by the west. This sparkles resentment among the Iranian public contributed to the eventual Iranian Revolution in 1971.
Strong countries like America have this De facto policy of regime change that exploits the struggling countries. So in my opinion Strong countries don’t have to interfere both externally or internally. So in struggling counties, the public mandate is secure. And the people have the right to select their leaders who rule the government.
This article is written by Ms. Mouzma Batool who is studying International Relations at the National University of Modern languages, Islamabad. She is the head of social media team of the YDF. Moreover, her interests includes diplomacy, International Relations & Global Politics. The views expressed in this article are authors’ own views and do not represent or reflect the views of the Youth Diplomacy Forum.
