Written by Raian Hossain. This article examines Taiwan’s relations and engagement in South Asia, with reference to the cases of India and Bangladesh. It argues that Taiwan has great potential in the region. Taiwan should strategise to interact with different South Asian countries based on their own merit and limitations and find areas of mutual interest to increase its regional footprint.
Written by Chen-Dong Tso. This article reviews the cross-Strait strategy of the Biden administration after President Lai characterised the two sides of the Taiwan Strait as “mutual non-subordination”. The administration adopted a nuanced approach of both restraint and support, which the incoming Trump administration might not follow.
Written by Jess Marinaccio. This article highlights the cases of the Federal States of Micronesia, Solomon Islands, and Honduras, where restoring diplomatic relations with Taiwan has become a talking point in election campaigns. While many analysts are concerned about Taiwan’s “diplomatic zero” situation, this article argues that the possibility of restoring broken diplomatic ties remains open for Taiwan’s recently departed allies.
Written by Karen Huang. This article explores the growing use of PRC terms in Taiwan Mandarin and the social reactions to this trend. While some Taiwanese view this trend as a natural result of language contact, others perceive these terms as a form of cultural invasion. The debate among Taiwanese netizens reflects broader concerns about cultural identity, political influence from China, and the implications for younger generations in Taiwan.
Written by Weixiang Wang. This article examines how nationalistic Chinese key opinion leaders and pro-Beijing Taiwanese influencers contribute to negative public perceptions of Taiwan in China. It highlights their role in shaping narratives that not only worsen opinions of Taiwan but also increase tolerance for hardline, possibly military, actions toward Taiwan.
Written by Jonathan Leung. This article examines the ideological transformation of the New Party through its theme song, The Earth Thunders. It argues that the party abandons the ROC identity and liberal ideologies and moves closer to China and Chinese nationalist sentiments. The slight modification of the lyrics portrays this counter-cultural move.
Written by Mark Gerard Murphy. This article reflects on the intersection of Chinese martial arts and nationalism in both Taiwan and Mainland China. It demonstrates how martial arts were closely tied to nationalist sentiments in different periods of history of both, but each followed distinct paths of development that reflected their respective cultural pride and national identity.
Written by Chieh-Ting Yeh. This articles argues that China has been exploiting the Olympic Games for its nationalism and as a battleground to squash Taiwan’s national status. It demonstrates how Taiwan stands as a stark contrast to China through embodying the values of the Olympic Games, including sportsmanship and resolving conflicts through mutual understanding.
Written by Marcus P. Chu. This article reviews Taiwan’s journey of participation in the Olympics, from the representation of the ROC to Chinese Taipei. It highlights the Nagoya Resolution and Lausanne Agreement as fundamental to Taiwan’s participation. Such a formula is challenged by recent ongoing demands for name rectification, which raises questions about Taiwan’s future in the Olympics.
Written by Jess Marinaccio. This article examines the 53rd Leaders Meeting of the Pacific Islands Forum, taking place from 26 to 30 August 2024. It highlights the several controversies that Taiwan was embroiled in during the Meeting, particularly in regard to Taiwan’s position as a PIF “development partner” despite objections from China.
Written by Ping-Yang Chao. This article examines China’s Grey Zone Conflict strategy employed since the Tsai Ing-wen’s presidency. These incursions became more frequent and intensive particularly after the visit of former US House speaker Nancy Pelosi. China is attempting to establish a “new normal” and intimidate Taiwan without triggering war and international intervention.
Written by Brian Hioe. This article compares the Bluebird Movement to the 2014 Sunflower Movement, emphasizing how both large-scale protests were fundamentally driven by concerns over China’s influence rather than purely about domestic issues.
Taiwan Insight 