TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — China is promoting a “Taiwan defeatism narrative” to erode public confidence and normalize its worldview, portraying Taiwan as weak and dependent, according to a new report from the Information Operations Research Group.
When releasing the latest study on Tuesday, IORG Co-director Yu Chih-hao (游知澔) said the narrative is a long-term information manipulation strategy that ties current events to claims Taiwan is incompetent and will inevitably fail. It seeks to weaken public confidence and make people feel they must rely on other countries or acquiesce to China, per Liberty Times.
Yu highlighted four main observations. First, the narrative spreads through diplomacy, defense, livelihood, and democracy, shaping the impression Taiwan cannot act independently.
Second, surveys show that those with dual identities, optimism about economic ties with China, feelings of political powerlessness, or dislike of the ruling party are more susceptible.
Third, its long-term spread reflects collective psychological patterns such as low confidence, poor crisis education, and identity conflicts.
Fourth, this worldview echoes CCP propaganda, portraying “accepting China” as the solution to Taiwan’s problems. The narrative often emerges at strategic moments, such as Han Kuang military exercises or major elections, to create biased negative impressions.
The report found that CCP propaganda frequently cites statements from opposition politicians in Taiwan. It also incorporates specific language to appear relatable while influencing public discourse.
IORG’s nationwide survey last year found 46% of respondents were pessimistic about Taiwan’s economic and security outlook. While not all endorse the narrative, they represent a potential audience.
Analysis also showed that TikTok users tend to have a more favorable view of China and are more likely to accept the narrative’s economic dimension. Yu stressed that such manipulation exploits emotions like anxiety and helplessness, making the public more vulnerable and creating conditions for Beijing to divide Taiwan.
To counter this, IORG recommends the Cabinet strengthen information governance and open data quality, while the education system promotes media literacy. The legislature should improve platform governance laws and advance parliamentary transparency.
Meanwhile, civil society should expand interdisciplinary research and civic education. Citizens should boost digital literacy and engage in fact-based discussions to collectively reinforce democratic resilience.
