Taiwan needs to constantly improve and seek excellence to enjoy a presence in the fast-moving and competitive international environment. How the government enhances its administrative
efficiency is imperative to Taiwan's future development. A constitution is a country's foundation. The current constitutional system has proved to be outdated both in theory and in practice, becoming an obstacle in the country's efforts to push forward social reforms and transform the government. To bridge the gap between the current Constitution and reality, the creation of a
new constitution that works for Taiwan is a matter of urgency.
Writing a new constitution is essential to deepening Taiwan's democracy. It will require the knowledge and wisdom of academics, as well as the active participation of citizens. During the process of writing a new constitution, it is very important to take different views into account, especially those of various ethnic groups and people of diverse backgrounds. By participating in the process, citizens not only gain a first-hand experience of politics but also receive a constitutional education, increasing understanding of the system and love and respect for it.
Most democracies with a smoothly functioning constitutional system attach great significance to constitutional education. Taiwan should also take the writing of a new constitution as an opportunity to promote constitutional education.
Starting with the government and schools, the education should extend to the whole society to strengthen the concept of obedience to the law, establish correct views on democracy and the rule of law, respect the development of a multi-cultural society and shape Taiwanese consciousness of national identity. This bottom-up approach with real public participation will cultivate mature democratic beliefs and facilitate sound constitutional development.
Taiwan urgently needs a new constitutional system and culture. Writing a new constitution is not just about renewing the constitutional structure. It is also about upgrading the content and promoting understanding of the new constitution. By so doing, the spirit of a new constitution can truly be part of everyone's life, thus making the constitution a product of people's collective effort and participation.
Chen Lung-chu is the chairman of the Taiwan New Century Foundation.
Translated by Jennie Shih
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