human rights 結果共47筆

U.S. Secretary of State Blinken to visit China, urging restraint during Taiwan’s presidential inauguration and discussing key issues such as drug prohibition, AI security, human rights, and Russia sanctions, while the U.S. reaffirms its consistent Taiwan policy and support for cross-strait dialogue.

Kuomintang Chairman Eric Chu warns against the misuse of Taiwan’s five national security laws for infringing human rights and manipulating elections. Amidst discussions on cross-strait relations and following Ma Ying-jeou’s visit to China, Chu calls for amendments to these laws, criticizing their use as tools for political suppression by the DPP. He advocates for dialogue and peace in cross-strait interactions, urging the DPP to prioritize human rights and constructive engagement over ideological rigidity.

Taiwan intends to follow the U.S. lead and outlaw the import and export of goods made using forced labor. With a preliminary resolution to alter the ＂Human Trafficking Prevention Act＂ by the Ministry of the Interior to establish a legal foundation, the Executive Yuan has called for many inter-ministerial discussions.  Following the amendment’s completion and implementation, the Ministry of Labor will be in charge of identifying goods made using forced labor. Border control will be managed by the Ministry of Finance’s Customs Administration. ＂Import and export are both prohibited. A representative of the administration stated, ＂The regulation is bidirectional.

The Ministry of Labor clarifies remarks about Indian migrant workers by Minister Hsu Ming-chun, emphasizing no discrimination. Taiwan and India aim to address labor shortages through a recent MOU. Taiwan’s labor policies uphold human rights and equal treatment, rejecting discrimination. The MOL promotes labor cooperation with India and urges the public to focus on constructive bilateral cooperation.

The 12th annual Gong Sheng Music Commemoration in Taipei commemorates the 77th anniversary of the 228 Massacre, exploring its lasting impact on Taiwan’s history. The event features music performances, interactive exhibits, and insightful talks by scholars and activists, shedding light on the importance of transitional justice in healing historical wounds.

Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an, descendant of Chiang Kai-shek, announces intention to engage with democratic society at 228 Incident commemoration events, advocating for human rights and education. The 228 Incident, a bloody conflict in 1947 under the Chinese Nationalist Government’s rule, led to Taiwan’s 38-year martial law period. Mayor Chiang’s involvement signifies a significant step towards transitional justice in Taiwan.

President Tsai Ing-wen mourns the passing of lawyer and legislator-at-large candidate Chen Chun-han, praising his dedication to Taiwan and advocacy for the disabled during his funeral in Hsinchu City’s Life Memorial Park.

The farewell ceremony for human rights lawyer and Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) legislative candidate Chen Chun-han was held in Hsinchu City. Dean Kyle Logue of the University of Michigan Law School paid tribute to Chen’s dedication to human rights issues and his impact on the university community. Prof. Lin Chih-chieh of National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University shared Logue’s eulogy, highlighting Chen’s passion for research and commitment to improving the rights of the disabled in Taiwan. The ceremony celebrated Chen’s academic achievements and his warm personality, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew him.

The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) completed the legal investigation into the Kinmen speedboat case, determining no need to detain the two Chinese survivors. The survivors were repatriated in the interest of human rights. MAC clarified the repatriation process and procedures followed by the Fuchien Kinmen District Prosecutors Office and Coast Guard Administration. The incident involved a speedboat pursuit by the Coast Guard Administration in Kinmen waters, resulting in two deaths.

Renowned human rights lawyer Chen Chun-han, a legislator-at-large from the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), passed away at the age of 40 due to complications from a cold. Despite living with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), Chen earned law doctorates from National Taiwan University, Harvard University, and the University of Michigan. DPP caucus whip Ker Chien-ming and his office are assisting with the funeral arrangements to ensure Chen’s life ends on a fulfilling note. Chen’s passing has left many in shock and mourning, not only for his political role but also for his exceptional contributions as a champion of life in the face of adversity.

Human rights lawyer Chen Chun-han, a legislative-at-large candidate for the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), responds to a controversy involving the online talk show ＂The Night Night Show with Hello.＂ Chen appreciates the show’s apology for allowing mainland China media personality Wang Zhian to mimic disabled individuals, which was seen as a dig at the DPP and indirectly at Chen. Despite thinking the apology came late, Chen commends Hello and his production team for planning a special segment to discuss the issues faced by disabled and rare disease patients in Taiwan. Chen emphasizes that the core of the criticism lies in whether society can tolerate discrimination against the disabled and respect their right to political participation. He states that this is a human rights issue that transcends ideological and party lines. Chen also mentions that voters needn’t feel obligated to vote for the DPP in 2028, highlighting Taiwan’s democratic freedom and the importance of supporting any political party based on personal beliefs. However, he adds that if Hello and his team find the DPP under Lai Ching-te’s leadership satisfactory within the next four years and genuinely wish to support it, they would be welcomed.

Chinese media personality Wang Zhian’s derogatory comments about a disabled person have sparked controversy. The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) expresses regret that Wang has yet to admit his error and announces they will no longer respond to his remarks. Despite apologizing, Wang’s attempt to politicize and mask his derogatory comments is criticized by DPP spokesperson Justin Wu. The DPP emphasizes their zero-tolerance policy against discrimination and warns against shifting focus away from the issue. Despite writing a letter to the DPP, Wang still fails to admit his mistake, leading to the DPP’s decision to refrain from responding further. The DPP highlights that the disabled legislator-at-large candidate, Chen Chun-han, is highly regarded within the Tsai Ing-wen administration for his expertise in human rights law. The DPP remains committed to advocating for marginalized groups and people with disabilities, and calls for society’s joint effort in upholding dignity and equality for all.

President-elect Lai Ching-te of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) had a virtual call with Marshall Islands President Hilda Heine, celebrating their successful elections and shared values of democracy, freedom, and human rights. President Heine praised Taiwan as a beacon of democracy and expressed hope to attend Lai’s inauguration ceremony. Both leaders highlighted the 26-year diplomatic relations between Taiwan and the Marshall Islands, emphasizing successful cooperation in various sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, renewable energy, education, climate change adaptation, and information technology. Lai expressed his intention to collaborate with the Marshall Islands in addressing climate change.

Taipei 101 lights up to honor the late Shih Ming-te, former DPP chairman, with a light display showcasing messages of mourning and gratitude. President Tsai Ing-wen acknowledges Shih’s dedication to democracy and his role in Taiwan’s democratic movement. She highlights his involvement in Formosa Magazine, promoting democracy, freedom, and human rights. Tsai emphasizes Taiwan’s transition to an open democracy and its position as a key member of the international democratic alliance. She expresses gratitude for Shih’s contributions and vows to unite all forces in building a better Taiwan.

Presidential candidates from the Kuomintang (KMT) and the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) held simultaneous campaign rallies in New Taipei City. KMT candidate Hou Yu-ih criticized DPP candidate Lai Ching-te for allegedly belittling the Republic of China (Taiwan) and accused the DPP of corruption. Lai emphasized human rights during his visit to the Luchou Lee Family Historic Estate and promised support for renovating the residence of Lieutenant General Lee, a figure in the resistance against Japanese occupation who was falsely accused and executed during the KMT-led era. Lai highlighted his commitment to economic development and human rights protection.

James Lee, Director of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in New York, stresses the importance of democracy for Taiwan during a New Year’s celebration. Learn how Taiwan’s democracy plays a crucial global role.

President Tsai Ing-wen criticizes China’s one-sided trade barriers and emphasizes that bilateral trade relations should not be used as a political tool in her New Year’s address. The tariff preference for certain products under the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA) has been suspended as of Jan. 1, 2024. Tsai notes China’s intervention in elections and expresses confidence in the people of Taiwan to make wise decisions. She argues that Taiwan’s industries already have global exposure and are gradually reducing reliance on China. Tsai believes that while the economic benefits of the ECFA are limited, diversifying risks and global positioning are important for Taiwan’s industries. She highlights that China often imposes unilateral trade barriers on other countries for political reasons, citing examples of punitive tariffs and import bans on Lithuania and Australia due to their friendly relationship with Taiwan and criticism of China’s human rights policy in Xinjiang.

Premier Chen Chien-jen celebrated the release of Human Rights Stamps by Chunghwa Post, showcasing Taiwan’s advancements in human rights. The event was attended by notable figures such as Chen Chu, Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission, and Wu Hong-mo, Chairperson of Chunghwa Post. Premier Chen, an avid philatelist, emphasized the universality of human rights and the power of stamps in raising awareness. Taiwan’s progress in human rights was highlighted, including the implementation of the National Human Rights Action Plan in 2022, incorporating five out of nine major human rights conventions into domestic laws. Taiwan’s junior high students also achieved top scores internationally in civic education assessments, particularly excelling in gender equality, ethnic equality, immigrant rights, and environmental awareness. Chen Chu recalled a previous stamp featuring Eleanor Roosevelt during martial law in 1964, introducing the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The new set of four stamps features acronyms of major human rights documents, each illustrated with distinct colors and symbols representing their respective themes. Wu expressed hope that these stamps would showcase Taiwan’s human rights achievements as they circulate.

Several civic groups in Taiwan, including the Modern Women’s Foundation and the Garden of Hope Foundation (GOH), are urging presidential candidates to prioritize violence prevention as an investment to end violence against women. According to the United Nations, one-third of women globally experience physical or sexual abuse at least once in their lives. The Modern Women’s Foundation Executive Secretary, Wu Zi-ying, highlighted the lack of investigation on these issues within Taiwan. Social work and policy professor Wang Pei-ling revealed that around 70 percent of individuals aged 18 to 74 in Taiwan have experienced online gender-based violence, with image-based violence accounting for 4.6 percent. Wang also emphasized the increasing number of male victims, which now stands at 20 percent. GOH CEO Wang Yueh-hao called on the government to promote interdepartmental initiatives and establish think tanks for gender violence prevention, emphasizing that gender violence is a violation of human rights.

President Tsai Ing-wen presented the Asia Democracy and Human Rights Award to Amihan V. Abueva at a ceremony in Taipei. Abueva, the Regional Executive Director of the Child Rights Coalition Asia, was recognized for her advocacy against violence on children, including human trafficking and sexual exploitation. Tsai commended Abueva’s selflessness and bravery in creating a safer world for children and highlighted Taiwan’s efforts to incorporate international child rights standards into domestic law. Legislative Speaker You Si-kun emphasized Taiwan’s commitment to democracy and human rights, stating that the award reflects the country’s support for democratic values.

The National Human Rights Museum has unveiled a new animated short film titled ＂PIGGY 1/2: A World Apart,＂ created by acclaimed animator Fish Wang. The film explores the theme of transitional justice in a future world inhabited by anthropomorphic animals. It took nearly three years to complete and follows the journey of a young exile named ＂Ban Po＂ as he questions state mechanisms and protects his loved ones. Wang aims to challenge viewers’ understanding of transitional justice and spark discussions on human rights. Wang’s previous works include the celebrated short ＂Gold Fish＂ and the award-winning ＂Ghost of the Dark Path.＂ The museum director expressed gratitude towards Wang and his team for their creative efforts and highlighted the museum’s commitment to promoting human rights through artistic expressions. The release of ＂PIGGY 1/2＂ is anticipated to enhance Taiwan’s societal grasp of human rights values and honor those who fought for these causes.

The Group of Seven (G7) leaders convened via video conference to discuss the Taiwan Strait, affirming its importance for international security and prosperity. They reiterated their commitment to the One China policy and called for a peaceful resolution to cross-strait issues. The G7 also expressed readiness to establish a stable relationship with China and voiced opposition to China’s militarization activities in the South China Sea. Human rights concerns in Xinjiang, Tibet, and Hong Kong were also discussed. The G7 condemned North Korea’s missile testing activities and addressed various other topics such as nuclear safety in Japan, the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity, and climate change. The discussions highlighted the G7’s attention to urgent global crises, including the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine and the Gaza crisis.

Hsiao Bi-khim, the vice-presidential candidate for Taiwan’s Democratic Progressive Party, expressed her opposition to using war as a solution to cross-strait issues. She emphasized the necessity of dialogue as the only viable method for resolution. Hsiao voiced her support for the four pillars of peace proposed by DPP’s presidential candidate, Lai Ching-te. These pillars include strengthening Taiwan’s deterrence capabilities, ensuring economic security, establishing partnerships with global democratic nations, and maintaining a stable, principled cross-strait relationship. Hsiao has been blacklisted by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) due to her support for Taiwanese independence, but she highlighted that other international advocates for democracy and human rights have faced similar sanctions from the CCP. Despite this, Hsiao remains committed to protecting Taiwan’s democracy and maintaining an open attitude towards cross-strait dialogue. She emphasized the importance of preserving the status quo and seeking global support to uphold peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.

DPP chairman and presidential candidate Lai Ching-te has proposed including mainland Chinese students in Taiwan’s healthcare system, citing medical human rights and the strengthening of the epidemic prevention system. Lai’s plan, which treats mainland Chinese students as international students and includes them in the National Health Insurance (NHI) system, has faced objections from some party legislators. However, Lai has stated that after providing necessary clarification, fellow party members have generally accepted the idea. Lai has emphasized the human rights perspective of his proposal and distinguished it from criticism of the Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) for nominating a legislator connected with China. Lai believes that including mainland Chinese students in the NHI system will make the healthcare network more comprehensive, especially after three years of pandemic prevention efforts.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) spokesperson, Jeff Liu, urged Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to oppose any changes to the status quo in the Taiwan Strait to China. Taiwan hopes that Australia will defend its shared interests and values with Taiwan while maintaining stable relations with China. This comes after Albanese’s meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, who claimed that China does not engage in exclusivist blocs or confrontational politics. MOFA disagreed with this statement, citing China’s behavior in the Taiwan Strait and the South China Sea. Liu emphasized the shared interests of Taiwan and Australia in upholding freedom, democracy, human rights, the rule of law, and ensuring peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and the South China Sea. He also highlighted the common Trans-Pacific Partnership interests between the two nations. Liu further noted the steady development of relations between Taiwan and Australia, with Taiwan becoming Australia’s fifth-largest trading partner and fourth-largest export market, while Australia is Taiwan’s leading supplier of energy and mineral resources.