President William Lai pledged that Taiwan will protect democracy and resist rising authoritarian pressure. He delivered the remarks during a World Human Rights Day event at the National Human Rights Museum in New Taipei City.
Lai said Taiwan understands freedom because its democracy was earned through struggle. He described Taiwan as a model of democratic development in Asia and said that protecting rights requires constant vigilance.
He stressed that Taiwan belongs to its people, and only strong national security can guarantee long-term safety. Lai said the nation must not return to martial law or repeat past systems of political suppression. He repeated that Taiwan must protect democracy as external threats grow.
Lai also highlighted the government’s progress on transitional justice. He noted that more than 4,000 victims of past persecution have received formal certificates restoring their honor. He said the gesture cannot repair lost years, but it acknowledges state wrongdoing and builds trust.
Moreover, Lai plans to expand public education on Taiwan’s authoritarian-era history. Lai said preserving memory helps avoid repeating mistakes and strengthens shared values.
Minister of Culture Li Yuan announced new cultural initiatives during the ceremony. He said Taiwan will showcase human-rights-focused films across Europe and continue identifying historical injustice sites for public recognition. He noted that cultural projects like these help protect democracy by keeping history visible.
Minister Li added that memorial sites and exhibitions, including ongoing programs at Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, show Taiwan’s progress from repression to open civil society.
Lai said Taiwan remains ready to share its experience with democracies facing similar pressure. He emphasized that Taiwan values peace, rule of law, and cooperation with like-minded partners.
Moreover, he closed by reaffirming that Taiwan will protect democracy and resist any force seeking to weaken its freedoms. He said defending rights is not optional but essential to Taiwan’s identity and future.
