Taiwan’s government began distributing the latest edition of its public safety guide to all households starting today. The public safety guide aims to enhance citizen awareness of self-defense during wartime or natural disasters. Officials said the nationwide campaign reflects the government’s commitment to social resilience and national security.
The Ministry of National Defense announced the initiative, with All-out Defense Mobilization Agency Director Shen Wei-chih emphasizing its importance. He explained that the guide helps society understand threats and reinforces the need for self-protection in emergencies. The distribution campaign follows President Lai William’s September directive to reach all 9.83 million registered households by January 5.
Copies of the guide will also be available at public welfare events, disaster drills, and national defense education courses. Starting December 19, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will deliver an additional 105,000 English-language editions to embassies and representative offices abroad, said deputy counselor Chao Shih-hsuan.
The printed guide cost NT$42.79 million, or roughly NT$3.8 per booklet, funded by the government’s Secondary Reserve Fund. Distribution expenses are expected to reach NT$20 million. Officials noted that electronic versions in Chinese and English are also downloadable from the All-out Defense Mobilization Agency website.
Shen highlighted that Taiwan’s initiative aligns with similar measures in democracies such as the Czech Republic, Sweden, Finland, and Lithuania. He added that growing threats from extreme weather and geopolitical tensions underscore the importance of preparing the public for crises.
National Security Council Deputy Secretary-General Lin Fei-fan emphasized the guide’s message that Taiwan will never surrender under wartime threats. He also said the handbook warns citizens against disinformation claiming government collapse.
The new edition draws on European public safety models, outlining essentials for go-bags, emergency responses for various scenarios, and survival tips during disasters or war. Officials said the public safety guide reinforces trust in government and promotes resilience while countering enemy disinformation campaigns.
The government plans to explore additional distribution channels to ensure migrant workers and other residents outside standard household registrations can access the guide. Officials emphasized that the public safety guide represents a vital step in strengthening national preparedness and civic responsibility.
