Can Saudi Arabia Aspire to Superpower Status: What Does It Need to Improve?
The question of whether Saudi Arabia can become a superpower is one that has been debated extensively. While the country has made significant strides in economic and social development, achieving the status of a global superpower is a daunting challenge. Let's explore what Saudi Arabia needs to do to increase its chances of reaching such a status.
What Is a Superpower?
A superpower is defined by the ability to project force anywhere in the world, as stated in dictionary definitions. This projection includes military, economic, and cultural influence. A hypothetical Saudi Arabia that aspires to superpower status must be capable of exerting significant influence and exerting pressure on global affairs through its military and economic might.
Current Capabilities and Limitations
Saudi Arabia is currently a regional power with considerable economic and cultural influence, particularly in the Middle East. However, achieving a global superpower status requires a significant leap in several key areas:
Military Capabilities
Air Force: Saudi Arabia heavily relies on foreign contractors for aircraft maintenance and does not have its own capability at scale. While the country has invested in advanced weaponry, it lacks the extensive auditing and maintenance infrastructure that comes with a comprehensive air force. Naval Forces: Saudi Arabia lacks a significant blue-water navy and has no aircraft carriers. This is a critical limitation as naval power is essential for projecting force globally. Defense Industry: The country has almost zero defense industry capability, which means it is highly dependent on importing weaponry and technology from other nations.Population and Workforce
Population: A superpower typically requires a large population to support its numerous interests and needs. Saudi Arabia currently has a population of around 34 million, which is not sufficient to sustain a global superpower. Worker Quality: The literacy and scientific capabilities of its residents are also crucial. A strong scientific and technological workforce is necessary to drive innovation and support advanced military and economic projects. Gender Equality: For full military and economic participation, Saudi Arabia would need a more inclusive workforce, particularly in the defense and military sectors. The country's current restrictions on women entering certain professions create a significant obstacle.Economic and Scientific Infrastructure
Universities: World-class universities are crucial to driving innovation, research, and development. Saudi Arabia has made efforts to create such institutions, but it needs to strengthen and expand its scientific and technological education system. Resource Endowment: While oil and gas are significant resources, a diversified economy is necessary for sustained long-term economic growth. Saudi Arabia must diversify its economy away from oil dependency.Beyond Military Power
Being a superpower goes beyond military capability. It also involves:
Cultural Influence: Cultural and soft power can be just as important as hard power. Saudi Arabia has tried to promote its culture through religion, art, and media, but it needs to be more inclusive and open to global influences. International Cooperation: Building alliances and partnerships with other nations can help in projecting influence and fostering global stability. Economic Power: Strong economic ties with other nations can enhance a country's standing on the global stage. Saudi Arabia should focus on building trade relationships and investing in global markets.Conclusion
The path to becoming a superpower is fraught with challenges, and for Saudi Arabia, it is a rigorous and long-term endeavor. While the country has the potential to become a regional power, the transition to a superpower status is far from certain. Addressing the limitations in military, economic, and cultural spheres will be crucial for Saudi Arabia to make progress in this direction.
For more insights into the challenges and opportunities for Saudi Arabia, you can refer to the article US Should Remind Saudi Arabia Which Country Is the Superpower.