The Power of Choice: Taiwan's Nationality Struggle

The struggle between China and Taiwan is often framed as one of the most infamous geopolitical rivalries across East Asia. Various governments continue to debate sovereignty, and the world’s powers continue to weigh their interests in the Taiwan Strait. Yet, beyond the many policies and headlines, Taiwan’s future is actually deeply personal — grounded in questions of identity, belonging, and recognition.

The victor of this debate, gets to define themselves as they please. With China continuing to assert its “One China” policy — refusing to recognize Taiwan as a separate state, Taiwan asserts a distinct sense of nationhood. According to a 2023 National Chengchi University poll, over 60% of Taiwan’s population now identifies solely as Taiwanese. With results drastically different from three decades ago — where less than 20% of Taiwan's population identified under Taiwanese nationality — it is clear that for many young people, this isn’t just politics.

To fully understand the power accompanying this choice, I turned to Stella, who grew up in Taiwan and carries her own perspective on identity. When I asked whether she feels more Taiwanese or Chinese, there was no hesitation in her answer:

“I feel more Taiwanese in a sense; I was born there and all my families are there.”

— Stella, a Taiwanese Citizen

Her words not only reflect the political, but deeply personal and rooted issue of identity. For Stella, Taiwan is not defined by its status on the world stage, but by the place she calls home and the family who gives that home a personal meaning.

Stella, a Taiwanese Citizen

When I asked Stella what makes her proud to be Taiwanese, she pointed out the values that often get overlooked in policy debates: the safety of the country, its healthcare system, and its food. “Taiwan is a safe country,” she told me. “We have a very good healthcare system, and very good food!”

Her response demonstrates how lived experiences shape identity. Taiwan’s public healthcare system has earned global recognition. In the 2021 Numbeo Health Care Index, Taiwan ranked first in the world for overall quality and accessibility. Add to that world-famous night markets, democratic freedoms, and reputation as one of the safest countries to travel — Taiwan presents a vibrant nation that defies Beijing’s narrative that it is just a province.

Still, this identity is lived under a constant fear. China’s military presence in the Taiwan Strait has intensified, with Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense reporting over 1,700 aircraft assaults in 2023 alone. Beijing also aims to isolate Taiwan diplomatically: today, only 12 countries officially recognize Taiwan as a sovereign state, initially over 30 just two decades ago. For many Taiwanese citizens, this denial can feel like an attack not just on politics, but on their very rights as individuals.

Taiwan remains a country of over 23 million people who define themselves, live their lives, and take pride in who they want to be. At the heart of the debate, it is about dignity and the right to exist. Stella’s reflections remind us that real power comes from the ability to choose.

To learn more or support initiatives focused on Taiwan’s democracy and identity, consider the work of the Global Taiwan Institute, which promotes dialogue and education on Taiwan’s international role. You can also visit the Resource Hub under One of Many’s Take Action tab for more ways to encourage research and advocacy on Taiwan's democracy and culture.