Written by Hsiao-Man Cavalli and Lily Y.H. Lin. This article explores how emotions shape the study of Taiwan’s party politics, examining how researchers’ embodied experiences can deepen understanding of political differences. Through reflections on collaborative research, it highlights how acknowledging emotions fosters more nuanced, inclusive, and relational approaches to conducting and interpreting Taiwan Studies.
Written by Chikara Yanome Toda. Geographically distant but democratically aligned, Taiwan and Mexico both navigate the complex challenge of indigenous political representation. While Taiwan uses identity-based, nationwide reserved seats, Mexico relies on territorial districts requiring community recognition. This article explores how Taiwan’s stable national presence and Mexico’s localised accountability offer vital, cross-regional lessons for modernising minority representation in both democracies.
Written by Brian Hioe. This article suggests that the state of play for cross-strait relations has taken an unexpected turn in the past months. In a relatively short time, Cheng Li-wun was not only able to secure a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, but indirectly caused US President Donald Trump to echo her language on cross-strait relations through Xi.
Written by Jonathan Leung. This article reviews the formation of Taiwan Go Go Front and analyses its prospects in 2026 and beyond. It suggests that TPP’s rise is the major reason for the alliance’s formation, as small parties struggled for attention. The 2026 local election is a relatively easier task for the alliance to coordinate their nominations.
Written by Aleksandrs Gross. This article examines Cheng Li-wun’s leadership through the eyes of the younger generation. Not only did her statements on identity and Taiwan’s future fail to resonate with younger people, but she also failed to address livelihood issues such as high housing prices, inflation and employment pressure, which are seen as the most critical issues for younger Taiwanese.
Written By Paula Perez. This article analyses the promises and positions of Cheng Li-wun. It argues that Cheng offers nothing new in terms of its identity claims and the 1992 Consensus and questions who is the audience Cheng is speaking to. However, she brings something other leadership candidates did not, personifying the redemption of a generation who she claims is misled by de-Sinicised education.
