TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Former President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) said Taiwan must strengthen its democracy as China increases military, information, and economic pressure, CNA reported Wednesday.
Speaking in an interview with French magazine L’Express, Tsai said Taiwan must fight false information and improve government work to give young people real opportunities.
She said China has increased pressure through military drills, Taiwan Strait median line crossings, gray zone activity, false information, damage to undersea cables, and other tactics.
Tsai said Taiwan’s preparations are based on three pillars: self-defense, stronger public resilience, and cooperation with democratic partners.
“Taiwan must show any potential attacker that coercion will not work and that aggression would carry a high cost,” she said.
Tsai added that all sides should manage cross-strait ties carefully and work with the international community to protect peace and stability.
She said Taiwan has worked for years to improve its ability to withstand pressure. This includes storing key supplies, diversifying energy sources, strengthening communications, protecting critical infrastructure, and keeping public services running.
Tsai said Taiwan is now better prepared than at any time in its modern history. She added that Taiwan does not underestimate the challenges it faces but will not let those challenges define it.
“False information,” Tsai said, “is part of a wider effort to influence public opinion.” She said authoritarian countries use social divisions and public frustration to weaken trust in democratic systems.
Tsai said economic problems can also create risks for democracy, including housing costs, wages, education opportunities, career development, and uncertainty about the future.
She said China tries to appeal to young people through jobs, education exchanges, business opportunities, and targeted messages. She added that some online influencers also try to make China appear more attractive.
