While many international observers lauded the second change of political power in 2008 as evidence that Taiwan has become a democracy, we need to remember that Taiwan’s fledgling democracy is still young and relatively frail. Constant vigilance is warranted and we need to voice concern when basic human rights, justice and values of freedom and democracy are placed on a sliding slope.
China is continuing to threaten Taiwan’s existence as a free and democratic nation. Using the carrot of an economic cooperation framework agreement and the stick of its military might, Beijing will continue to try to influence political decision-making in Taiwan in its favor.
At this critical juncture, we need to remember the long road to democracy traveled and protect the legacy left by Taiwan’s democratic opposition and by a statesman such as Lee.
Nat Bellocchi is a former chairman of the American Institute in Taiwan and a special adviser to the Liberty Times Group. The views expressed in this article are his own.
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