The fifth edition of the World Congress of Taiwan Studies (WCTS) will take place in Taipei starting May 21. Academia Sinica announced the three-day conference, which promises to be an important event for Taiwan scholars. The gathering will feature two prominent keynote speeches.
Paul Jen-kuei Li, a research fellow at Academia Sinica’s Institute of Linguistics, will deliver the first keynote. His speech, titled “The Diversity of Formosan Languages and Austronesian Homeland,” will examine the origins and dispersal of Austronesian peoples. Li will focus on these issues from a linguistic perspective, providing insight into Taiwan’s historical roots.
The second keynote will be presented by Wu Yu-shan, a distinguished research fellow at Academia Sinica’s Institute of Political Science. Wu’s topic, “Taiwan: Thriving in a World of Geopolitics and Mercantilism,” will explore Taiwan’s geopolitical challenges and opportunities in today’s global climate.
The conference will feature 155 different events, covering a wide range of topics. These include literature, history, economics, archaeology, and Indigenous studies. Scholars from around the world will engage in interdisciplinary discussions, sharing their insights on Taiwan’s role in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
The World Congress of Taiwan Studies began in 2012 with the goal of fostering international academic exchanges. The event provides a platform for researchers to discuss Taiwan from various perspectives. Over the years, participation has grown significantly. What began with just over 100 scholars has now expanded to several hundred.
By promoting in-depth dialogue, the congress aims to elevate Taiwan studies worldwide. It also strengthens the academic network and encourages collaborative research. Taiwan’s importance on the global stage continues to be a central theme, especially as its economic and geopolitical influence grows.
Overall, the World Congress of Taiwan Studies will continue to serve as a vital forum for academic exchange. It highlights Taiwan’s significance in various fields and fosters a deeper understanding of the island’s history and future.
