China influence operations in Taiwan

For one of the first times ever, the flag of the Republic of China and the Taiwan independence flag have been flown side by side. 

Despite China’s 30-year propaganda campaign that peace would be ensured if cross-strait disputes were settled internally, Beijing’s actual behaviors suggest otherwise.

A visit by a group of Taiwanese youths to some obscure historical sites is more than just a travel outing. It is part of a calculated propaganda strategy.

From military espionage to pro-China Taiwanese influencers to local government officials, the Lai Ching-te government is seeking to curb infiltration by Beijing. 

Besides military tactics and economic statecraft, China leverages cultural and ethnic connections with Taiwan to achieve its political objectives. 

While disinformation – largely from the CCP – is widely recognized as a challenge for Taiwan, the exploitation of climate change skepticism adds a new facet to the issue.

Taiwan bears the brunt of foreign information manipulation from China. In response, it has embraced transparency and civic participation.

Taiwan issued a national alert following the launch of a satellite from China. Beijing has seized on the controversy to advance its own interests.

The Taiwanese government and civil society’s tough, yet successful, battle against Chinese propaganda can be a lesson for democracies in the CEE region.

Taiwan’s resiliency highlights the importance of its participation in global efforts to fight coronavirus misinformation.