Challenges Facing Taiwan's Civil Society in 2021: Energy Policy and the China Factor

In July 2020, China imposed Hong Kong's National Security Law, sharply escalating international tensions. The United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and other countries responded with sanctions, reversing decades of comparatively friendly policies toward China. Taiwan also faces political interference from the Chinese government-from influence operations within society to diplomatic pressure abroad-and its democratic system remains under continuing challenge.

The "Global Outlook from an Island" traveling lecture series starts from Taiwan's perspective and aims to build a knowledge base for civil society and young people on developments in Hong Kong and China, cross-strait issues, and international relations. It will also consider political changes that may unfold over the coming year, develop a broader framework for understanding Taiwan's position toward China and the world, and explore appropriate responses by government and civil society.

▰ Challenges Facing Taiwan's Civil Society in 2021: Energy Policy and the China Factor

Energy policy remains one of Taiwan's most persistent public debates. From the 2018 referendum to another referendum in 2021, the nuclear-power question has never gone away. Whether the Tsai administration's transition toward a nuclear-free energy mix and reduced reliance on coal can proceed smoothly will make 2021 a critical year. At the same time, when China and Russia are among the few major economies still expanding nuclear-power construction, Taiwan's choice of energy sources will also shape which countries' technologies it depends on. Developing renewable energy and closer links with European industry is therefore also part of Taiwan's engagement with the international community.

With most of its energy resources dependent on imports, how should Taiwan respond to a rapidly changing international environment? Join us to explore the question.

Online Registration

Time

November 6 (Fri.), 7:00-9:00 p.m.

Venue

Judicial Reform Foundation, Taichung Office

Speakers

Speaker
Tsai Chung-Yueh / Deputy Executive Director, Citizen of the Earth, Taiwan; a Hualien native who has long worked on environmental issues and the energy transition

Moderator
Chang Hua-Che / Specialist, Judicial Reform Foundation Taichung Office

Notes

• Participants must wear a mask. Anyone with a forehead temperature exceeding 37.5°C will not be admitted.
• Eating and drinking are prohibited at the event venue due to the pandemic.
• If a natural disaster or other force-majeure event occurs (based on official work-and-school suspension announcements), the organizers may cancel or postpone the event for safety reasons.
• The organizers reserve the right to modify the event program as necessary.

Organizers

Economic Democracy Union
Judicial Reform Foundation, Taichung Office