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The Pursuit of Our Democracy

Democracy in Taiwan is still young. After martial law were lifted in 1987, Taiwan started the first chapter of democratization. Before this milestone, though, cultural activists began to inquire, discuss, and push the boundary of political systems and social limits. They drove a series of political reforms, and created the democratic momentum in Taiwan. Loud street demonstrations and underlying movements have both moved us towards freedom and democracy. While political systems in Taiwan are young, we are motivated by common ambitions ahead.

On July 15, 1987, the government of the Republic of China officially announced the lifting of martial law. The front page of the United Daily News mentioned that this marked a new chapter in constitutional democracy, which would lead to a more open society and greater happiness for the people."Source: United Daily News, "A New Chapter in Constitutional Democracy" (July 15, 1987)

The Clamor of Collective Will

The Steps of Democracy. After the lifting of martial law in 1987, Taiwan officially entered the chapter of democratization. Looking globally, the transition from authoritarianism to democracy is never an easy journey; it is often accompanied by intense conflict and regret. What is worth celebrating is that Taiwan took relatively calm and stable steps towards democracy, achieving significant political reforms such as lifting martial law, amending the constitution, reforming the parliament, implementing direct presidential elections, and experiencing the first peaceful transfer of power between political parties. These achievements stem from the Taiwanese people's pursuit of democracy and freedom, and it is this steadfast commitment to these values that has allowed us to progress steadily forward.

From Desks to Streets. Reflecting on many of the key moments in Taiwan's democratic progress, it becomes clear that they began with explorations and disturbances within the cultural and artistic spheres, prompting social reflection, sparking widespread discussion, and even leading to action in the streets. A century ago, the Taiwan Cultural Association advocated for the establishment of a Taiwanese parliament, introducing new ideas through culture, liberating minds, and transforming lives. The lifting of martial law was not accomplished in an instant either; it was the result of accumulated discussions and challenges, beginning with freedoms related to personal appearance, language, and creative expression.

Every gathering in the streets, every convergence of diverse wills, symbolizes an opportunity for change.

138 years ago, the importance of youth education was already being discussed in the Taiwan Prefecture Church Bulletin. Source: Taiwan Prefecture Church Bulletin (June 1885), P3, Establishing a Middle School.

Dedicated to promoting the petition movement for the establishment of a Taiwanese parliament, the Taiwan Minpao also expressed hopes for the character and culture of Taiwanese youth, aiming to shift the political landscape through cultural change. Source: "Hopes for Taiwanese Youth" (April 15, 1923), Taiwan Minpao, Page 3. National Taiwan Museum of History's Modern Taiwan Newspaper Archive.

Before martial law was lifted, public opinion had already begun discussing bodily autonomy and the significance of lifting the ban on hairstyles. Source: China Times, "What is the Significance of Lifting the Ban on Hairstyles? Establishing Student Autonomy, Schools' Unshirkable Responsibility" (February 18, 1987).

During the Wild Lily Student Movement, students gathered to demand government reforms, which directly influenced Taiwan's political process. Source: United Daily News, "Constitutional Movement: Mass Gathering Declares Indefinite Continuation" (March 19, 1990).

The democratization process also included direct presidential elections and constitutional amendments by citizens. People also began discussing whether young people should have the right to participate in politics. Source: Liberty Times, "18-Year-Old Citizens' Right: The First Constitutional Referendum" (November 26, 2022).