Taiwan’s immigration authorities have revoked the dependent-based residence permit of a Chinese social media influencer after she publicly advocated for military force to annex Taiwan.
The influencer, Liu Zhenya, known online as “Yaya in Taiwan”, had posted content on Douyin supporting unification through military action. Taiwanese authorities launched an investigation after receiving reports that her rhetoric aligned with United Front propaganda.
Government Cites National Security Concerns
Liu was summoned for questioning by Taiwan’s National Immigration Agency (NIA) and later discussed the interrogation in a video. She questioned whether freedom of speech was restricted in Taiwan, expressing concerns that her spousal residency permit might be revoked.
On Tuesday, the NIA confirmed that Liu’s social media content openly advocated for the use of force to unify Taiwan with China. Statements such as “The mainland no longer needs any other reasons to unify Taiwan by force” were deemed a threat to national security and social stability.
As a result, the NIA revoked Liu’s residence permit under Article 14 of the Cross-Strait Act. Additionally, she is banned from reapplying for dependent residency in Taiwan for the next five years.
Authorities Warn Against Undermining Taiwan’s Democracy
Liu has been given time to make care arrangements for her family members in Taiwan before her departure. The NIA emphasized that while freedom of speech is respected, remarks that threaten Taiwan’s security and democratic values will not be tolerated.
The agency urged the public to refrain from making inflammatory statements for online traffic or financial gain, condemning any behavior that undermines Taiwan’s democratic system.
