Publicly discussing the issue of Taiwan is becoming increasingly taboo in some quarters, as there is a growing fear of offending Beijing. This heightened sensitivity is exemplified by the coercive tactics Beijing employs in an effort to steer governments, including Taiwan’s President, into forming more favorable policies aligning with the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) stance on Taiwan.
The situation was brought to light by Taiwan’s diplomatic representative to Australia who warned that Beijing’s efforts to pressure the government will likely persist following the presidential election. For example, after the election, Nauru announced it would switch ties from Taiwan to Beijing, and the CCP carried out more military exercises in the region.
Amidst such political activities, the disinformation campaign waged by Beijing during election campaigns has led to a shift in voter mindset and, according to the Taiwanese representative, may have played a role in the election result. Such is the influence that Beijing wields that even in Australia, it is considered sensitive to openly discuss the Taiwan issue, given the fear of offending the CCP leadership.
Beijing’s ambassador to Australia also issued a warning against siding with Taiwan after the presidential election, declaring that any move violating the one-China principle would damage China-Australia relations. However, the historical background of Taiwan traces its self-governance back to 1949 following the Chinese Civil War.
The CCP’s attitude towards Taiwan has expanded to other countries, forcing them to adopt a certain perspective on the Taiwan issue. Meanwhile, the ongoing “thaw” between the CCP and the Australian government has led to closer relations, making Australia more susceptible to Beijing’s influence, particularly on sensitive topics like Taiwan’s independence.
The fact that public discussions on Taiwan’s independence, along with other sensitive topics, are frowned upon in Australian society should be seen in the context of China being Australia’s largest export market. This dynamic makes the narrative around Taiwan a contentious topic where Beijing’s influence is deeply felt in Australia.