Written by Coleton Hast. Taiwan’s pursuit of sovereign AI raises questions about whose sovereignty it serves. This article examines how projects such as TAIDE and the Indigenous Languages Research and Development Foundation’s language tools incorporate Indigenous data. It argues that representation alone is insufficient without Indigenous control over data and governance of AI development.
Written by Sin Lee and Chan-Yuan Wong. This article argues that Taiwan’s AI and net-zero transitions risk creating a K-shaped economy, as large firms gain better access to capital, technology, talent, and renewable energy while SMEs struggle with upgrading costs. It examines how unequal access to green electricity could constrain SMEs’ participation in global supply chains and proposes policy support.
Written by Scott M. Moore. This article assesses whether Taiwan’s energy system can sustain an “AI Shield” built on its dominance in semiconductor manufacturing. Although the aggregate generation capacity is adequate, outdated grids, rising data-centre demand, dependence on imported gas and affordability disputes create vulnerabilities. The article suggests major energy upgrades, expanding renewables, and lowering energy prices.
Written by Pam Kennedy. This article examines whether Taiwan’s central role in producing AI-capable semiconductors creates a durable “AI shield” by increasing Western, especially US, security interests. It argues that the shield is narrower and more fragile than often assumed, vulnerable to AI investment slowdowns and chip-supply diversification, and should not replace broader international partnerships.
Written by Vasja Hafner. This article argues that the Wild Lily Movement not only created repertoires that have been repeatedly reused in subsequent movements, using occupation of public space as the primary way to articulate democratic legitimacy, but also helped create a structural gap in the constitutional architecture. The same protest repertoire is now being used to contest the institutional order.
Written by Wai Yan Phyo Naing. The latest Trump-Xi summit highlights the risks of treating Taiwan as a bargaining chip amid shifting US-China relations. This article argues that Taiwan should avoid romanticising Taiwan-US relations and assess commitments through concrete actions, strengthen asymmetric defence and societal resilience, and deepen cooperation with regional partners to preserve deterrence and regional stability.
