Taiwan Faces Rising Pressure from China

As Taiwan's new President Lai Ching-te faces ongoing military threats from China, the island's precarious political situation is highlighted by Beijing's aggressive responses to perceived pro-independence stances. Despite President Lai's measured rhetoric, China has issued stern warnings, viewing his approach as a challenge to its sovereignty. In the face of these pressures, Taiwan is also recognized for its expertise in combating disinformation, showcasing a balanced method that could serve as a model for other democracies. Taiwan's diplomatic strategy emphasizes 'total diplomacy', leveraging economic aid to secure recognition from smaller nations, amidst a broader context of international isolation due to China's influence. Former Digital Affairs Minister Audrey Tang has pointed out the importance of diverse communication networks in countering disinformation, vital for maintaining social coherence. The historical context of Hong Kong's autonomy loss under Xi Jinping has further solidified Taiwan's resolve to maintain its democratic identity.