TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Freedom House, a prominent democracy watchdog organization, honored Taiwan's government and civil society with its inaugural Beacon Award in Washington D.C. on Wednesday (May 21), Washington time. The recognition celebrates Taiwan's resilience in protecting democratic institutions against mounting pressure from the Chinese Communist Party. The ceremony also acknowledged U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen and Roger Wicker for their contributions to advancing global democracy.
Robert Tuttle, a longtime Freedom House board member, presented the prestigious Beacon Award at the ceremony. Alexander Yu (俞大㵢), Taiwan's representative to the United States, accepted the honor on behalf of the government, while civil society activist Chiang Min-yen (江旻諺) represented Taiwan's non-governmental sector. Yu later emphasized in a Facebook post from Taiwan's de facto embassy that the recognition "reflects the collective efforts" of Taiwan's government, citizens, and civil society organizations, echoing sentiments expressed by President Lai Ching-te (賴清德).
Senators Shaheen and Wicker were honored with the prestigious Leadership Award for their unwavering commitment to democratic movements worldwide. Shaheen, who has represented New Hampshire since 2009, has established herself as a staunch advocate for robust defense policies and transatlantic partnerships while championing democracy initiatives globally. Wicker, Mississippi's senator since 2007 and current chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, has dedicated significant efforts toward advancing democracy and human rights causes, particularly across Europe and Eurasia.
The Leadership Award boasts a distinguished list of previous recipients, including then-Vice President Joe Biden, who now serves as the 46th U.S. President, and the late Senator John McCain, who was widely respected across party lines for his commitment to democratic principles. The addition of Senators Shaheen and Wicker to this prestigious roster underscores the bipartisan nature of U.S. support for global democracy initiatives. ◼
