Taiwan’s Journey to Democracy: A Modern Success Story

Author: Hsin-Yu Chen

Since the late 1980s, Taiwan has emerged as a leading example of a successful transition from authoritarian rule to liberal democracy in the post–World War II era. While not without its imperfections, Taiwan’s democratic system stands out in Asia and beyond. The country boasts stable political institutions, a functioning legal system, a vibrant and independent media landscape, and an active, resilient civil society.

One of the most notable outcomes of Taiwan’s democratic evolution has been the development of a distinct national identity. This identity is rooted not in ethnicity, but in shared civic values, shaped by the island’s unique historical experiences and the principles of its democratic governance.

Post-war Transformation: From Authoritarianism to Democracy

Taiwan’s path to democracy is a powerful story of resilience, struggle, and transformation. After World War II, Taiwan was handed over from Japanese colonization to the Republic of China (ROC). However, tensions quickly escalated between the local population and the new ROC authorities, which led to the February 28 Incident in 1947. This brutal crackdown on civilian protests caused the deaths of thousands and marked the beginning of decades of authoritarian rule.

In 1949, following the Chinese Civil War, the Kuomintang (KMT) government retreated to Taiwan and imposed martial law — a period known as the White Terror. For nearly 38 years, political dissent was harshly suppressed. Thousands of Taiwanese were imprisoned or executed for suspected opposition to the regime. Freedom of speech, press, and assembly were tightly controlled. For decades, KMT maintained tight control over politics, silencing opposition and curbing freedoms.  

In 1990, the Wild Lily Student Movement became a turning point. Thousands of students gathered in Taipei to demand democratic reforms. Their peaceful protests inspired public support and prompted then-President Lee Teng-hui, the first Taiwan-born leader, to initiate major political changes. Under Lee’s leadership, martial law was lifted, opposition parties were legalized, and Taiwan held its first direct presidential election in 1996, laying the foundation for liberal democracy.

Taiwan Today: A Model of Resilient Democracy

Since then, Taiwan has witnessed multiple peaceful transfers of power between parties. The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), once a symbol of opposition, now plays a central role in Taiwan's democracy. Tsai Ing-wen, elected in 2016 and re-elected in 2020, became Taiwan’s first female president. Her administration has emphasized social reforms, transitional justice, and maintaining Taiwan’s de facto sovereignty in the face of external pressure. In 2024, her successor and long-time ally, Lai Ching-te, was elected president, continuing the DPP’s progressive and democratic agenda.

Today, Taiwan is one of Asia’s most vibrant democracies, marked by strong institutions, a free press, and active civic participation. Though its democratic journey is ongoing, Taiwan stands as a resilient model of democratic transformation, rooted in historical memory and a shared commitment to freedom and self-determination. The hard-earned democracy has made Taiwan stronger and become the cornerstone of its unique national identity.