Taiwan Insider: Recent Episodes
Natalie Tso, Andrew Ryan, RTI
Taiwan Insider is your best weekly intro to what's happening in Taiwan! New video episodes drop every Thursday night, with audio available as part of the regularly scheduled programming on Fridays.
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Tune into to see why the issue of transitional justice is so key to understanding Taiwan.
Today we look at Taiwan’s microchip industry. We speak with industry insider Dave Adelman, Managing Director of Siltronic AG in Taiwan, one of the world’s leading makers of silicon wafers. about the global competition for the chips that power the world.
The ruling DPP only won 5 out of 22 local leadership positions. Insider speaks with National Chengchi University Political Scientist Lev Nachman about his analysis.
How will Saturday’s local elections affect Taiwan? Insider speaks with Political Columnist Courtney Donovan Smith about the China factor and how these elections may affect upcoming presidential elections.
Taiwan’s borders are open and one of the must-see places are the traditional markets. Taipei’s oldest traditional market - Nanmen market is such a treasure that it’s being renovated. Meanwhile, the 270 stalls have moved to a temporary home nearby.
RTI intern Rebecca Gardner, a student at Oxford University, couldn’t wait to take her friends to check it out.
Democracy is under attack around the world by authoritarian governments. Natalie Tso speaks with National Endowment for Democracy (NED) President Damon Wilson about the threats to democracy and how people can fight back.
PLUS:
- The role Taiwan and China are playing in US midterm elections (@VOANews report)
- Creative Halloween costumes
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What does XiJinping have in mind for Taiwan? Insider speaks with Senior Fellow at the Atlantic Council Michael Schuman, about Xi’s recent remarks and cross-strait tensions.
More and more people in Taiwan identify as Taiwanese than ever before. We’ll be hearing from young people in Taiwan about why they say they are Taiwanese. We’ll also be looking into interesting Taiwanese traditions and historical sites. And on Hashtag Taiwan, Leslie talks about what Tesla CEO Elon Musk said about Taiwan.
It’s official! Taiwan is doing away with quarantine for inbound travelers starting October 13. We’re going to show you some attractions you might want to see when you come to Taiwan! Later, in Hashtag Taiwan, Leslie will dive into the controversy surrounding Taiwanese celebrities celebrating China’s National Day.
Natalie interviews an 82-year old man who's sailing around Taiwan. In Hashtag Taiwan, Leslie talks about a Taichung business that's encouraging blood donations with some delicious bait.
US President Joe Biden said US troops would defend Taiwan if China attacked. The US Senate Foreign Affairs Committee passed the Taiwan Policy Act that would give Taiwan military assistance, and global lawmakers are telling their governments to sanction China if it attacks Taiwan. Finally, in Hashtag Taiwan, Leslie goes over images from two major earthquakes that hit the country this past weekend.
Was US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit worth China's escalation of military activity near Taiwan? Insider speaks with prominent DPP politician Lin Fei-fan who recently wrote in the Washington Post about the need for the free world to unite to defend Taiwan about his thoughts on how democracies can support Taiwan.
As Taiwan inaugurates its Ministry of Digital Affairs, Insider looks into the controversies behind a recent digital services bill proposed by the Cabinet.
There’s been a spike in work scams tricking people in Taiwan to go to Cambodia and subjecting them to forced labor and abuse. Stas speaks to two experts about how people get tricked, abused and how they can escape. Natalie also speaks with AIT’s Jason Hwang about why the US put Taiwan’s fishing industry on its dirty list for forced labor. And in Hashtag Taiwan, we take a look at who’s been behind all of the scamming and how they get in touch with the victims.
China held unprecedented military drills near Taiwan this past week. What does that mean for Taiwan now? Natalie spoke with prominent China watcher Bonnie Glaser to get her take. Later, people in Taiwan tell us what they think of China's drills. Finally in Hashtag Taiwan, Leslie talks you about an interesting argumument China is using to claim Taiwan as its own.
Diplomacy — the word calls to mind lavish banquets, grand embassies and fancy speeches. But times have changed and in the battle for global influence, politics is turning to social media. Chiayo Kuo, founder of the Taiwan Digital Diplomacy Association, explains how this new form of statecraft works.
PLUS:
- What is digital diplomacy?
- Will BA.5 stall Taiwan’s reopening?
- Taiwanese movie scares its way onto Netflix
CONNECT WITH US
RTI: https://www.facebook.com/RadioTaiwanInternational
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Former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was assassinated last Friday while giving a campaign speech in the city of Nara. People remember Abe fondly in Taiwan.
Abe was one of Taiwan’s most vocal supporters. I speak with international relations professor Tetsuo Kotani to find out what his death means for the two countries moving forward.
Between Taiwan and Japan, close to Okinawa, are a group of islands that Taiwan, Japan, and China claim. Earlier this week, Chinese and Russian naval vessels sailed close to the islands, causing both Taiwan and Japan to raise an alarm. But, why do all three countries want the islands so badly?
In this week’s episode, we’re going to show you how Taiwan's new reusable cup policy works and ask some shop employees the effect this it might have. Then, Stas Butler speaks with Greenpeace Taiwan about Taiwan’s plastic problem. Finally in Hashtag Taiwan, Leslie tells you about Taiwan’s ghoul problem.
The RTI team takes a trip out to Maokong to learn a bit about traditional Taiwanese tea. Later, Voice of America interviews Americans about their opinions on Taiwan. Finally, Leslie talks about an unsung Taiwanese hero.
This week, we give you an inside look at one of Taiwan's most iconic landmarks. Stas Butler tells you about a new 3+4 quarantine plan for incoming travelers. And in Hashtag Taiwan we’re going to be taking a look at some ugly Taiwanese houses.
Hear about China and how they're influencing democracies with their authoritarianism. Natalie speaks with Ian Easton, the author of the final Struggle: Inside China's Global Strategy. We also look at Taitung's famous international hot air balloon festival. And in Hashtag Taiwan, Leslie shows how a picture blasted President Tsai Ing-wen to internet memedom.
The US and Taiwan have launched a new framework for bilateral trade.
Later, learn about the scuffle that broke out in the legislature this week over a controversial amendment. Stas talks with Brian Hioe about what it means for former President Chen Shui-bian. We also give you the latest outlook on Taiwan’s outbreak and COVID analyst Chase Nelson tells us about long COVID. And in Hashtag Taiwan, Leslie talks about Zongzi, the Dragon Boat Festival treat.
President Joe Biden said the US would defend Taiwan if China attacked — and not for the first time. Staś Butler speaks with political scientist Kharis Templeman about why Biden keeps saying that. Later, experts weigh in on the possibility of herd immunity in Taiwan. And in Hashtag Taiwan, Leslie talks about how the country fits into the 15th anniversary of Google’s Street View service.
As COVID cases surge in Taiwan, Natalie speaks with NTU public health professor Chan Chang-chuan about how Taiwan can live with COVID. Emma takes you on a trip to Guanziling, famous for its muddy hot springs. And in Hashtag Taiwan, Leslie tells us about the change in the US State Department’s policy towards Taiwan.
The Swedish Parliament has approved a name change for Sweden’s trade office in Taipei. Swedish Member of Parliament Boriana Aberg tells Natalie why they want to call it the House of Sweden and why Sweden could be joining NATO soon. Later, in honor of Mother’s Day, we take a look at how mothers are doing this year. And in Hashtag Taiwan, we’re celebrating National Bubble Tea Day.
COVID is surging in Taiwan and a member of the RTI team has it. Natalie talks with Stas about what it feels like to have COVID-19. Next, Emma takes you to the Narrow Door Cafe, a hidden gem in the historic district of Taiwan’s oldest city. And, in Hashtag Taiwan, Leslie bids farewell to a COVID-19 measure that touched everyone’s lives.
Swedish and EU lawmakers are in Taiwan. Stas Butler speaks to co-chair of the delegation MEP Charlie Weimers. Later, learn about the defense ministry's new Civil Defense Handbook and a new performance from Cloud Gate Dance Theater. Finally, in Hashtag Taiwan, Leslie finds the answer to an age-old question that’s divided Taiwan.
RTI expands its shortwave Russian broadcasts to Ukraine and Russia and Natalie speaks with the head of RTI’s Russian Service about what listeners are saying. Later, Stas talks about the spike in COVID cases in Taiwan. Finally, in Hashtag Taiwan, Cardi B tells you why she recommends Taiwanese dessert.
Natalie speaks with military expert Michael Hunzeker about what a territorial defense force would mean for Taiwan. Then, take a look at tracer round fire lighting up the night sky over one of Taiwan’s outlying islands. And, in Hashtag Taiwan, Leslie talks about one Taiwanese man’s journey to help Ukraine.
Taiwan wants to go Net Zero carbon by 2050. Staś speaks to members of the Taiwan Youth Climate Coalition to find out what that will take. Later, find out more about the magnitude 6.6 earthquake that hit Taiwan on Wednesday.
How can we fight disinformation? Stas speaks with a Cambridge Professor about a new game he's developed to vaccinate people from fake news. Later, learn more about the debate over whether to lengthen military conscription in Taiwan and also how Taiwan is supporting Ukrainian refugees.
To celebrate International Women's Day, Natalie talks with the first woman to win Best New Director at the Golden Horse Awards, Fiona Roan, about her film American Girl and her thoughts for women today. Later, RTI asks women in Taiwan about their experiences of womanhood. In Hashtag Taiwan, Leslie shares all about Taiwan's latest superhero: Captain Underpants.
On this episode, we have an interview with a prominent Ukrainian writer currently in Ukraine who tells us how morale is in the country's western region. Stas and Leslie talk to people at a demonstration in Taipei supporting Ukraine. Then, in Hashtag Taiwan, Leslie delves into the internet's reaction to the Russia-Ukraine war.
Russia is invading Ukraine. Today we speak with two prominent experts about the conflict’s implications for Taiwan. Next, we bring you the details about an award-winning documentary about Hong-Kong’s fight for democracy premieres in Taipei on Friday. Then RTI Correspondent Harrison Kaye will tell you about the Pingxi Sky Lantern festival, and how one enterprising woman wants to make it more eco-friendly. Finally, in Hashtag Taiwan, we’re going to take a look at the latest album from Taiwan’s Cathay United Bank.
Today we take you to Taiwan's indigenous roots and indigenous people tell us about the challenges of preserving their unique identities and culture. Next, Stas explains how Taiwan plans to shorten its quarantine period. lAter, you'll hear about the most popular YouTubers in Taiwan and what's made them famous. And, in Hashtag Taiwan, Leslie gives you the lowdown on Taiwan's Lantern Festival.
Taiwan is ending a 10-year-long ban on food imports from Fukushima, Japan, the site of a nuclear meltdown in 2011. Staś speaks with nuclear energy professor Lee Min to better understand the science behind the decision. Then, Emma talks about Taiwan’s lantern festival which is taking place all February in Kaohsiung City. And, in Hashtag Taiwan, Leslie Liao discusses Taiwan at the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics.
Happy Year of the Tiger! We take you to a Year of the Tiger exhibit at Taipei’s famous Dihua Street. Next, we hear from people in the US about how they celebrate the Lunar New Year. We also do a blind taste test of Taiwan’s unique Lunar New Year snacks. Plus, in Hashtag Taiwan, Leslie gives you a look at some of the New Year goodies that places are giving out!
Vertical farming is a new green trend that’s happening in Taiwan - you can even try it on your own apartment balcony! Stas talks to our partners at VOA about that process. We’ll also tell you about upcycling basketballs and an Omicron subvariant in Taiwan. Finally, in Hashtag Taiwan, Leslie talks about about Lithuanian rum and chocolate in Taiwan.
Despite questionable remarks by its president, Lithuania is still standing with Taiwan. Lithuanian MP Matas Maldeikis tells Natalie why in today’s show. Stas Butler finds out what was behind the migrant workers' protest this week. The government is setting up a pet unit to take better care of Taiwan’s furry friends. In Hashtag Taiwan, Leslie talks about a website hack that flew Taiwan's colors.
Is Taiwan ready for Nuclear weapons? Natalie speaks with prominent China expert Gordon Chang on why he thinks Taiwan should be a nuclear power. Then, we’ll take a look at defense exercises that have been going on in Taiwan this week. Finally, in Hashtag Tawan, Leslie will tell you about an earthquake that shook not only the ground, but also the internet.
Who made a difference for Taiwan this year? Join us as we hear from the movers and shakers that have impacted Taiwan. From diplomats to athletes to philanthropists, you’ll be inspired at how these people inspired Taiwan
Leslie Liao takes us back through some of the most memorable #moments and social media trends in Taiwan in 2021.
Taiwan’s gearing up for a referendum on Saturday where trade, nuclear energy and the environment are at stake. Stas Butler speaks with pro and anti nuclear activists about if Taiwan should operate its fourth nuclear power plant. Next, Emma Benack examines an exhibit about the female criminal mind. Finally, in Hashtag Taiwan, Leslie Liao tells you about how maps have stirred trouble for Taiwan.
We've got a Taiwan Insider exclusive for you! Parliamentarians from Lithuania, Estonia, and Latvia are in Taiwan! Natalie Tso sat down with delegation head Matas Maldeikis, and human rights defender Lithuanian MP Dovilė Šakalienė to talk about why Lithuania is embracing Taiwan, despite Chinese opposition. Emma Benack met with Cloud Gate Theater Director Wang Shih-wei to talk about the troupe's latest work. Finally, in Hashtag Taiwan, Leslie Liao talks about a Twitter war between Chinese and Lithuanian Officials.
Natalie Tso talks to French ally, Senator Alain Richard, about why he's promoting French-Taiwan ties. Next, Stas Butler speaks with Stanford political scientist Kharis Templeman and NTU Professor Tao Yi-fen about tensions in US-China ties. Finally, Leslie Liao explains how cross-strait tensions contributed to a high-profile divorce.
Find out what President Joe Biden and Xi Jinping said about Taiwan during their virtual summit earlier this week.
Members of the US Congress visited Taiwan this week, not long after Members of the European Parliament made a landmark visit.
The EU has sent Members of Parliament to Taiwan for the first time. Natalie speaks with the Czech Republic MEP who initiated the trip, Markéta Gregorová, about why they came. Stas talks with China analyst Dr. Ivana Karaskova about the significance of this trip. Finally, in Hashtag Taiwan, we're going over a hip hop dance video from KMT officials. This is Taiwan Insider.
There's been alot of great news about EU-Taiwan ties lately. Now, Foreign Minister Joseph Wu is on a rare high profile trip to Europe.
It's a historic moment. The EU Parliament has passed its first ever report calling for stronger ties with Taiwan.
The Wall Street journal says US troops are in Taiwan? Natalie talks to military strategist Alexander Huang about what that means.
Lithuanian products are selling out across Taiwan, as people show their gratitude for Lithuania’s decision to host a Taiwanese Representative Office. But what is there to buy? Natalie and new RTI host Emma Benack head to a Lithuanian chocolate store to find out for themselves.
Find out how Taiwan is facing the new Chinese ban on its wax apples and sugar apples in this episode of Taiwan Insider.
Lithuania has received an outpouring of support from lawmakers around the world as it faces up to diplomatic and economic sanctions from China. That comes after Lithuania and Taiwan decided to strengthen bilateral ties. Lithuanian lawmaker Dovilė Šakalienė tells Insider why her country is ready and willing to take the heat.
Find out why more Americans are supporting Taiwan and what prominent Taiwan expert Brown Professor of Political Science at Davidson College, thinks of this new trend in this episode.
The world’s eyes are on Afghanistan as US forces end their decades-long military presence in the country. The Taliban’s rapid return to power has some people wondering: can Taiwan rely on US support? Professor Hal Brands of John Hopkins University tells Insider why Taiwan shouldn’t be too worried.
Find out how Lithuania and the US are standing up for Taiwan, and all about the dinosaur that got vaccinated, in this week's Taiwan Insider.
They’ve done it again: Taiwan’s Olympic team delivered yet another round of stunning performances last week, taking home Taiwan’s first medals in a number of sports. Taiwan Insider introduces you to #TeamTaiwan’s history-makers. Also, find out why an Olympic badminton game has got Taiwan’s internet users talking about a new national flag.
On the anniversary of the Tiananmen Square Incident, with protests raging around the world against racism and authoritarianism, we pause to take a close look at why we protest. We listen to the words of Dr. Martin Luther King, and find out what psychologists say propels us to hit the streets.
A WHO official caused a stir after evading a question about Taiwan’s membership in the global health body. In an interview with RTHK, Assistant Director-General Bruce Aylward appeared to evade the question and hang up. In today’s show, find out how Taiwan responded, and why the WHO needs Taiwan.
Faced with non-stop coverage of the COVID-19 outbreak, and news of Taiwan’s first fatality, it’s hard not to feel overwhelmed. In today’s show, we’ll not only bring you the latest developments, we’ll also delve into why the virus is causing so much anxiety.
Public anxiety over the new coronavirus is high with people hoarding face masks. Tune in to find out how effective masks really are and their history in Taiwan. Deutsche Welle Correspondent William Yang also offers insight into the real situation in Wuhan and how China is suppressing online discussion of the virus .
Happy New Year from all of us at Taiwan Insider! Today we’re bringing you 10 great ideas from Taiwan for the coming year, including an innovative way to combat mosquitos, an app that can help you disconnect from your cell phone, and even a fun way to burn twice as many calories as running! So join us, armed with these great ideas, as we head towards a greener, smarter, more inclusive future!
Taiwan Insider is counting down the new year with a collection of our favorite stories from 2019! Our inaugural year was jam-packed full of stories that made us want to smile, sing, dance, or even cry. Which was your favorite? Join for this special look at the year that was 2019!
Six days remain before Christmas, and 23 days before the elections. In today’s Taiwan Insider we’ve got both the holidays and the elections on our mind! We’ll take a closer look at the three candidates’ televised platforms and how they’re faring in the polls. Plus we’ll show you two fascinating holiday-related destinations.
For some, this question is a constant source of anxiety. Yet others are unfazed. This week, find out why Taiwan has doubled it’s presidential protection and is concerned about a “decapitation” of the nation’s central command. Natalie Tso talks with a defense expert, Tamkang University Professor Alexander Huang, to find out why the military is beefing up its hardware.
Chinese defector Wang Liqiang says he was a spy and helped China manipulate Taiwan’s elections. Find out how his case has rocked Taiwan and how China is responding!
Election fever has hit Taiwan and is affecting people’s work and mental health. This episode looks at this phenomenon. Also, we take a closer look at the growing number of Southeast Asian immigrants and how they’re changing Taiwan.
James Soong is shaking up the presidential race by running for a 4th time... and he’s says it’s going to be his last. What’s his motivation? Also, women top the lists of legislators-at-large for almost every party. This week’s Taiwan Insider serves up an explainer on legislators-at-large, and a look at the latest election stories.
ROAR. That’s what Taiwan’s economy did in Q3, even though forecasters were predicting a meow. In today’s show, find out how the country has risen to the top of the four Asian Tigers, with an economic growth rate surpassing South Korea, Singapore and Hong Kong! It turns out that the US-China Trade War has brought some unexpected benefits to Taiwan.
Fireworks, a parade, and speeches mark the National Day celebrations. Learn about Taiwan’s current and past national day flags, and why National Day is celebrated on October 10!
Protests in Hong Kong became violent on China’s National Day with protesters throwing petrol bombs and police opening fire with live ammunition, one of which hit a teenage boy in the chest. In today’s show, renowned HK journalist Frank Ching offers insight into how China will try to end the unrest in Hong Kong.
Taiwan said “So long” to it’s largest diplomatic ally in the Pacific -- the Solomon Islands -- on Monday. Rumors of a break in ties had been swirling ever since the nation’s pro-China prime minister took office in April. The move brings Taiwan’s diplomatic allies down to 16.
Can you smell the fragrance of BBQ hanging thick in the air? By this Friday, Sept. 13, you’ll know it’s Mid-Autumn Festival in Taiwan by the proliferation of road-side grillers.
Taiwan was concerned about a few storms this week - Typhoon Lingling and the possibility that the Solomon Islands, Taiwan’s biggest South Pacific ally, could break diplomatic ties. In this episode, we take a closer look at that prospect and explain the phenomenon of typhoons in Taiwan.
As the US and China raise tariffs, we look at the trade war’s impact on Taiwan, including an influx of investment from global tech giants and returning Taiwanese companies.
What if the government gave you US$1,000 every month? If Andrew Yang is elected, that could become a reality. Yang is the first Taiwanese-American to run for US president, and he’s pushing a Universal Basic Income (UBI) to solve the crisis of jobs being replaced by automation.
As Taiwan braces for Typhoon Lekima, China lashes out against the Golden Horse Awards and Taipei Mayor Ko Wen-je shakes up politics with his new Taiwan People’s Party.
Caught! National security officers brought US$200,000 worth of cigarettes back to Taiwan on Monday along with President Tsai’s delegation. The agents used special government privileges to bypass customs.
It’s official! The controversial populist mayor of Kaohsiung, Han Kuo-yu, will face off against incumbent President Tsai Ing-wen in Taiwan’s 2020 presidential elections. The main opposition party -- the Kuomintang (KMT) -- made the announcement on Monday following nation-wide telephone polls.
More than 3,000 people who were wrongly executed or convicted of a crime during the White Terror period in Taiwan have been exonerated. Lawmakers have also passed a new law that declassifies sensitive files. This could shed further light on some of the darkest moments in Taiwan’s history.
In about six months, the people of Taiwan head to the polls to vote for president. But who will run against President Tsai Ing-wen, who has already fought off a challenger from within her own Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) to win the nomination? All eyes are on the Kuomintang (KMT) primaries which will be decided by polls next week, and which of the five candidates for the nomination will rise to the top.
Citizens in Taiwan took to the streets this week to protest “red media” -- or, Chinese influence in Taiwan’s news outlets. Taiwan’s media landscape is vast with many contenders. Some are regarded as more China-friendly than others. In this week’s Taiwan Insider, Andrew Ryan and Natalie Tso break down the political leanings of 18 of Taiwan’s most prolific media outlets.
Taiwan and Hong Kong have both been exercising their democracy this week. Two million Hong Kongers hit the streets last Sunday in what some say was the largest protest the city’s ever seen. It was a continuation and extension of public outcry over a Chinese extradition bill. This week also saw an apology from Hong Kong’s chief executive, who has suspended, but failed to withdraw the bill.
Today’s Taiwan Insider takes a deep dive into the story that launched the largest protests that Hong Kong has seen since its handover to China in 1997. It may seem like this story is taking place far away, but you’ll want to hear how it’s connected not only to Taiwan, but to anyone who passes through the city.
The US has put top Chinese smartphone maker Huawei on a blacklist due to data security concerns, then signing a 90-day temporary license for Huawei to work with US companies. Google has also blocked Huawei’s access to future Android updates. Could this be the beginning of a new tech cold war?
American Chamber of Commerce in Taipei has released its annual Taiwan White Paper. AmCham Taipei has been a part of Taiwan’s business landscape for over 60 years. Since 1996, it has published the ‘Taiwan White Paper’ annually. The yearly report gives an assessment of Taiwan’s economy,recommendations for over 20 sectors, a review of progress on last year’s issues and recommendations to the US.
Taiwan is the first country in Asia to pass same-sex marriage legislation. Lawmakers approved the bill on May 17th, paving the way for legal marriages to take place as early as May 24, 2019. In today’s program, we tell you five things you need to know to understand the bill’s dramatic route to passage.
Taiwan is about to make a historic decision on same-sex marriage as the May 24 deadline approaches. Lawmakers are rushing to pass one of three draft bills in order to satisfy a ruling the high court filed two years ago. Voting will take place on Friday.
China’s vice premier is in Washington this week for a two-day trade negotiation with the Trump administration. How have the on-going trade talks affected Taiwan?
Taiwan’s food scene used to be a “best-kept secret,” but it seems like the world is catching on. A new Netflix show Street Food features an episode about an unexpected Taiwanese food destination: Chiayi. Also, this year’s Michelin Guide to Taipei features 24 street food eateries in its Bib Gourmand list. In today’s Taiwan Insider, we’ll share some of the culinary delights that made the list.
As the world celebrates Earth Day, a look at saving the earth and sea through banning plastic bags and soon... plastic straws. Taiwan’s politicians are cozying up with the goddess of the sea, Mazu. Also, an interview with FilmEQ.org founder Louise Watt about gender equality in Asian films.
Taiwan Relations Act turns 40 this month. We have an exclusive interview with AIT (American Institute in Taiwan) as the US and Taiwan commemorate 40 years of the TRA. We also explain what this important document is, and what it does.
Tensions heat up in the Taiwan Strait after two Chinese jet planes cross the median line, something that hasn’t happened in more than 20 years. In today’s show, we have analysis from Tamkang University Professor Alexander Huang and the US response from AIT spokesperson Amanda Mansour.
PLUS Trending: Taiwan’s foreign minister’s humorous response to a Chinese tweet CT scans for Taiwan’s cats (and other pets) And a temporary neon makeover for a 100-year-old Taipei landmark
Taiwan may lose South Pacific allies if the people of the Solomon Islands elect China-leaning leaders next week. Taiwan Insider talks about this potential crisis with Institute of International Affairs Research Fellow Yen Chen-shen, who explains if he thinks Beijing will lure more of Taiwan’s allies before the presidential election.
PLUS Taiwan and China’s historic battle for diplomatic allies Find out what percent of Taiwan’s exports go to China Trending: Is that really President Tsai hanging out with rivals at a restaurant? Once destroyed by a typhoon, a beautiful forest reopens to the public March 31
More from “Taiwan Insider” at https://www.facebook.com/pg/TaiwanInsider/videos/
This is the very first episode of Taiwan Insider, a weekly news round-up from Radio Taiwan International (RTI) in Taipei, Taiwan.
In our top news this week, hosts Andrew Ryan and Natalie Tso give a background to the LGBTQ rights and same-sex marriage debate in Taiwan, where the legislature passed a draft bill this week to legalize same-sex marriage. Rights guaranteed by the draft bill, titled “The Enforcement Act of Judicial Yuan Interpretation No. 748,” include property inheritance rights, medical decisions rights, and adoption rights for the biological children of a same-sex spouse. Foreign nationals are excluded from the bill.
To celebrate Women’s Day, we also have an interview with two inspiring female entrepreneurs, Mae O’Malley, founder of Paragon Legal (San Francisco, CA) and Vivian Chiang, a co-founder at Orbit Baby and Speed Smith (Delaware, US).
More from “Taiwan Insider” at https://www.facebook.com/pg/TaiwanInsider/videos/