Taiwan democracy and freedom 結果共34筆

Discover how Taiwan and Guatemala celebrate their shared values of freedom and democracy, and their commitment to facing global challenges together. Read about the nations’ economic ties and future collaboration plans.

Discover how Germany’s planned naval transit through the Taiwan Strait in September 2024 challenges China’s protests and supports Taiwan’s international standing, as stated by Michael Roth.

Explore Taiwan’s response to former President Trump’s comments on defense payments and the reaffirmation of Taiwan-U.S. relations by various American officials.

Discover insights from President Lai Ching-te’s exclusive interview with Time Magazine, where he discusses Taiwan’s stance on cross-strait relations, its international position, and the importance of global support for Taiwan’s democracy and freedom.

Discover the latest on Taiwan’s response to China and Pakistan’s joint statement on the ＂One China＂ principle, emphasizing its independence and democratic values.

Explore the 35th anniversary of the Tiananmen Square protests at the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, where art and activism merge to challenge authoritarianism and commemorate a pivotal moment in the pursuit of democracy.

Explore the latest on Taiwan-China tensions: Taiwan condemns China’s military drills as a threat to democracy and regional stability, vowing to defend its sovereignty. Read more on the escalating situation.

Discover how Taiwan’s Premier Chen Chien-jen calls for unity among political parties and local leaders to celebrate the presidential inauguration of Lai Ching-te, emphasizing democracy and freedom.

Minister of Foreign Affairs Joseph Wu hosts a tea party for NGOs at Taipei Guest House, highlighting Taiwan’s achievements in international cooperation and citizen diplomacy. Over 160 representatives from various fields attend the event themed ＂Necessary, Growing, Outstanding.＂ Wu praises NGO partners for their role in making Taiwan a hub for freedom, democracy, and humanitarian care, as well as attracting globally recognized NGOs to the country. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs pledges to support NGOs in promoting international participation and citizen diplomacy.

Taiwan’s Director-General in Boston, Charles Liao, responds to China’s interference in Taiwan’s elections with military threats and economic bullying. Liao highlights Taiwan’s commitment to democracy and refusal to bow to Chinese pressure. The U.S. State Department, Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the European Union’s European External Action Service congratulate elected officials Lai Ching-te and Hsiao Bi-khim. Despite China’s attempts at interference through disinformation, military intimidation, and economic threats, Taiwanese voters remain resilient in their pursuit of democracy and freedom. Liao’s response is prompted by a Boston Globe article suggesting that the U.S. should prioritize Taiwan as a democratic partner.

Legislative Speaker You Si-kun met with a Lithuanian delegation led by Matas Maldeikis, chairman of the Lithuania-Taiwan parliamentary friendship group. The meeting highlighted Taiwan’s recent election, which had a voter turnout of over 70%, as a clear message from the Taiwanese people to defend democratic freedom and national sovereignty. The delegation included three deputy speakers of the Lithuanian parliament and eight other cross-party lawmakers. Speaker You noted that 2024 is a ＂super election year＂ globally, with Taiwan being the second country to hold elections this year. He also expressed his wishes for Lithuania’s upcoming presidential and parliamentary elections in May and October 2024. The speaker emphasized that elections represent the ＂possibility of choice,＂ ＂freedom to participate in politics,＂ and ＂protection of speech,＂ which are rights unfathomable under authoritarian rule. He called on global democratic allies to unite in facing authoritarian challenges and safeguarding democracy and prosperity worldwide. Speaker You expressed gratitude for Lithuania’s support and highlighted the countries’ cooperation on humanitarian aid, particularly in helping Ukrainian students return to school.

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.

The Taiwanese government, led by Premier Chen Chien-jen, has emphasized its commitment to handling issues with the social media platform TikTok with precision. The government aims to address potential misinformation on social platforms to enhance public literacy and has warned of legal sanctions for spreading false information. The Ministry of Justice Investigation Bureau recently established a Cognitive Warfare Research Center, which has raised concerns about potential infringements on freedom of speech. Chen highlighted the use of TikTok in advancing cognitive warfare efforts in some countries and the need for stricter government scrutiny. Taiwan has already banned the use of TikTok in government sectors since 2020. Chen argued that autocratic nations often exploit democratic societies’ free speech to influence elections through social media. He reiterated Taiwan’s status as a free and democratic country ruled by law, emphasizing the government’s responsibility to protect freedom of speech. Chen also highlighted the threats posed by spreading false or misinformation to reputation, health, privacy, societal stability, and national security. He called on democracies worldwide to approach this issue with caution.

The Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan) to the Holy See commemorated a previous visit by Shih Ming-te, the former Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) chairman, in 2019. Shih expressed elation at the sight of Taiwan’s flag waving in foreign lands and desired to see justice fulfilled and the flag flying everywhere. The embassy’s Facebook post highlighted the contrasting positions of the free world and China’s authoritarian regime toward Taiwan, emphasizing how China undermines Taiwan’s democracy and freedom diplomatically. The post also mentioned the severance of ties between Taiwan and Nauru, reflecting Taiwan’s persistence in democratic transformation and progress despite challenges.

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.

The Democratic Progressive Party’s (DPP) campaign office released a campaign video titled ＂Together, On the Road,＂ featuring President Tsai Ing-wen passing the reigns to presidential and vice-presidential candidates Lai Ching-te and Hsiao Bi-khim. Directed by Lo Ging-zim, the video utilizes advanced virtual studio technology to depict Tsai and Lai driving through Taiwan’s streets and alleys. Symbolically, Tsai hands over the car keys to Lai, signifying the transition of power, while Hsiao Bi-khim joins them in the passenger seat, representing their shared commitment to Taiwan’s democracy and freedom. All three individuals have been members of the DPP’s administrative team during their eight years in power, holding various posts and working tirelessly for Taiwan’s advancement.

The San Francisco overseas Chinese community hosted a New Year flag-raising ceremony, with Fremont Mayor Lily Mei encouraging the next generation to run for office and speak out for Asians. Mei also urged the community to vote robustly in the upcoming T U.S.-Taiwan relations and reminded them not to underestimate individual power. Director-General Scott Lai of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in San Francisco reviewed Taiwan’s accomplishments last year, highlighting its rise in various indices, ranking second in freedom in Asia and sixth in global competitiveness. Lai also noted the meeting between Morris Chang, founder of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), and key U.S. officials at the 2023 Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, praising it as a symbol of U.S. executive branch support for Taiwan. However, Lai acknowledged challenges lie ahead for Taiwan, particularly in its tourism, sightseeing, and restaurant industries’ recovery, as well as social issues such as declining birthrates and wealth disparity. Lai assured that the government would take a more proactive and responsible stance to make positive changes felt by the public.

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.

The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) announced that over 97% of Hong Kong residents applying for residence permits in Taiwan have been approved, with nearly 75% of them obtaining permanent residency permits. From 2018 to October 2023, around 46,564 Hong Kong residents and 6,196 Macau residents have acquired residence permits in Taiwan. MAC official Lu Chang-shui stated that the government welcomes and values those who aspire to settle in Taiwan, emphasizing that the rigorous review of applications aims to protect Taiwan’s systems and environment rooted in freedom, democracy, and openness. Lu also mentioned that the government provides assistance and guidance to applicants whose settlement applications are still under observation.

Kuomintang (KMT) presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih emphasizes a ＂middle-of-the-road＂ approach for Taiwan, distancing himself from the ＂localized Blue＂ faction and asserting his own identity. In an interview with Chinese Television Service (CTS), Hou advocates for the ＂1992 Consensus＂ that opposes Taiwan’s independence and supports the ＂One-China policy,＂ while upholding democracy and freedom. He emphasizes a middle way for Taiwan, seeking shared prosperity and unity. Hou emphasizes that Taiwan’s future should be determined by its 23 million inhabitants. He expresses satisfaction with Jaw Shaw-kong as his running mate, praising Jaw’s more confrontational approach. Although a potential collaboration with Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) candidate Ko Wen-je fell through, Hou remains optimistic about a potential alliance with Jaw.

Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) vice-presidential candidate Hsiao Bi-khim expresses concerns about Taiwan’s political climate and her hesitation to return to the country for public office. She describes a ＂dark political vortex＂ and emphasizes the need to defend democracy, freedom, and basic rights. Despite the challenges, Hsiao pledges steadfast efforts alongside presidential candidate Lai Ching-te to guide Taiwan and offer its people more opportunities. She aims to concentrate on state affairs and constructive national debates, avoiding distractions and external disturbances. Hsiao’s commitment reflects the underlying tensions in Taiwan’s political landscape and her determination to maintain stability and progress for the country.

President Tsai Ing-wen has endorsed DPP presidential candidate Lai Ching-te and his running mate Hsiao Bi-khim, calling them ＂Taiwan’s best choice.＂ Tsai praised Hsiao’s resilience and highlighted their shared grassroots-level political representation and legislative experiences. She expressed confidence in their ability to navigate Taiwan through complex international relations, while upholding democracy and freedom. Tsai believes that Lai and Hsiao can propel Taiwan onto the international stage and continue its democratic journey. The endorsement comes at a critical juncture as Taiwan prepares for the high-stakes presidential election.

A civil alliance of local NGOs in Taiwan has launched a new moral code for reporting on Taiwanese elections. The code emphasizes fairness, accuracy, professional tones, respect for privacy, and media transparency. The initiative aims to enhance public trust in the media as elections approach. The alliance, consisting of Reporters Without Borders, Citizen Media Watch, and the Taiwan Media Watch Foundation, received widespread support from labor unions in the new media industry. The director of RSF Taipei Bureau highlighted the challenges faced by Taiwanese media, including political polarization and excessive commercialization. As the presidential campaigns intensify, more media organizations are expected to participate. The director of the Taiwan Media Watch Foundation emphasized the importance of press freedom in Taiwan’s democracy, warning of the negative impact manipulative activities could have on the democratic environment.

President Tsai Ing-wen emphasized Taiwan’s commitment to protecting freedom, democracy, and regional peace at the 2023 Taipei Security Dialogue. The event focused on key issues including China’s challenge to the global order and democracy, the influence of the Ukrainian-Russian war on global relations, and China’s expanding global influence. Tsai discussed strengthening self-defense capabilities, restoring compulsory military service, increasing the defense budget, and highlighted Taiwan’s first domestically produced submarine prototype. She drew examples from Ukraine’s resistance against Russian invasion and conflicts in the Middle East to highlight the impact of ＂grey zone＂ activity on stability in the Indo-Pacific region. Other attendees included high-ranking officials from Taiwan’s government and diplomats and experts from various countries.

Taiwan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Joseph Wu, delivered a speech at Riga Stradins University in Latvia, clarifying Taiwan’s position amid tensions with China. Despite enduring military intimidation, diplomatic isolation, and economic threats from China, Taiwan remains committed to achieving peace through open conversation while being pragmatic and prepared for potential risks. Wu praised the diplomatic relationship between Taiwan and Latvia, as both countries share similar paths to democracy and the establishment of sovereign statehood. However, both countries face unprecedented security challenges, with a standoff between democracy and autocracy driving the current international conflict. Wu emphasized that established democracies cannot ignore the expansion of authoritarianism, which seeks to undermine the rules-based international order. In light of President Tsai’s decision to restore one-year military service, Wu stressed the importance of being armed to protect Taiwan’s freedom, as the cost of losing it is unbearable for a democratic society.