2013-02-19
Visit of Professor Lynette H. Ong and students from Toronto University, Canada
On February 19, 2013, Associate Professor Lynette H. Ong and students from Asian Institute of Toronto University, Canada were received by TFD International Cooperation Department Director Dr. Cheng-Hao Pao. After the introduction on the foundation’s history and programs, Dr. Pao answered the questions concerning TFD’s major task, Taiwan’s democratic and human rights development and Taiwan-Canada relations from the group.
 

2013-02-16
TFD attends the Taiwan Journal of Democracy 2013 Special Issue Workshop in Los Angeles
President Teh-fu Huang, Professor T. J. Cheng (editor of Taiwan Journal of Democracy) and research fellow Shihhung Peng attended the Taiwan Journal Democracy2013 Special Issue Workshop in Los Angeles on February 16th. President Huang gave opening remarks. This workshop had invited several outstanding scholars from Asia, Europe and North America, and they presented seven papers related with the differently democratic theoretical models of Arend Lijphart.
 

2013-01-30
Presentation International Visiting Fellow Ms. Yong Chuan Ling
Ms. Yong Chuan Ling, TFD International Visiting Fellow will deliver her presentation “An Assessment for the Gender Equality Mechanism in Taiwan” at the TFD on January 30, 2013, from 3pm – 5pm. All are welcome to attend.(Press Release)
 

2013-01-25
IRI-Asia


2013-01-25
Congratulation for being selected as one of the elite think tanks in Asia by FPRI
Foreign Policy Research Institute (FPRI) of USA has recently published the report of “2012 the Global Go-To Think Tanks Report and Policy Advice”, which reviews 6,603 think-tanks globally. TFD has ranked 8th in Asia and Oceania Think Tanks list (excluding China, Japan, India and South Korea) among 393 think thanks of 44 Asia and Oceania countries, and also ranks the first among 52 think tanks in Taiwan.(Click for more details)


2012-12-17
Visit of Mr. José Ignacio Salafranca Sánchez-Neyra, Member of the Bureau of the EPP Group.
On December 17, 2012, Mr. José Ignacio Salafranca Sánchez-Neyra, Member of the Bureau of the EPP Group, and his advisor Mr. Luis Hermosilla Ibañez were received by TFD Vice-President Dr. George W. Tsai. Following an introduction about the foundation’s history and programs, the two sides discussed topics such as values of democracy, human right promotion, and development of global democracy. Moreover, Mr. Salafranca expected that TFD can cooperate tightly with European Foundation for Democracy.
 

2012-12-13 ~ 2012-12-17
Japan Parliamentary Election Observation
Led by TFD Vice President Dr. Ching-Hsin Yu, from December 13th to December 17th of 2012,the TFD delegates including Professor Chi-Chin Tsai from Dong Hai University, Professor Yi-Yen Chen from National Cheng Chi University, Director Yung-Feng Chen from Dong Hai University, Director Chun-Chih Yang from National Kaohsiung University, Research Fellow Dr. Chung-Li Wu from Institute of Political Science and TFD International Cooperation Department Assistant Research Fellow Garlish Shen, travelled to Japan to observe parliamentary election.
Across Japan Kanto and Kansai Area, the TFD delegates visited candidate headquarters, polling stations, street campaigns and discussed Japan’s current policy, political party overview, and electoral system issues with pundits and media workers.
 

 

2012-12-11
Lecture by Prof. Ronald Inglehart
On December 11, 2012, Prof. Ronald Inglehart, a celebrated political scientist at the University of Michigan and also the director of the World Values Survey (WVS), was invited by Taiwan Foundation for Democracy to give a lecture in the International Conference Room, College of Social Sciences, National Taiwan University. The subject of his lecture was “Cultural Change, Democracy and the Democratic Peace Thesis”. Many people and students participated in this event.
 
 

2012-12-10
2012 Asia Democracy and Human Rights Award Ceremony Agenda
The annual Asia Democracy and Human Rights Award (ADHRA) was established by the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy in 2006 to encourage individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to promoting democracy and protecting human rights through peaceful means in Asia. The 2012 ADHRA will be presented to the End Child Prostitution, Child Pornography and Trafficking of Children for Sexual Purposes (ECPAT International) to recognize her dedication to ending the commercial sexual exploitation of children. H.E. President Ma Ying-jeou will confer the Award on the representative, Ms. Maureen Crombie, Chairwoman of the ECPAT International, at this ceremony on International Human Rights Day.

The information of the event is as follows:
 ▉  Date: Monday, 10 December 2012
 ▉  Time: 9:00 am to 10:00 am (Registration begins at 8:30 am)
 ▉  Venue: Grand Ballroom, 3F, Far Eastern Plaza Hotel Taipei (201 Tun Hwa S. Road, Sec. 2, Taipei)
 ▉  Agenda: Download here


2012-12-10
2012 Asia Democracy and Human Rights Award Ceremony
Taiwan Foundation for Democracy held the annual award ceremony of Asian Democracy and Human Rights Award this morning on December 10th at Far East Plaza Hotel Taipei; and the laureate of this year’s award goes to the Thailand-based ECPAT International. ECPAT International (End Child Prostitution, Child Pornography and Trafficking of Children for Sexual Purposes) is the leading global network working to end the Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children (CSEC). Originated in 1991, as a campaign to stop child sex tourism in Asia, ECPAT has broadened its mandate to include the protection of children from all forms of CSEC, including child prostitution, child trafficking for sexual purposes and sexual exploitation of children in travel and tourism.

President Ma Ying-jeou was invited to offer the award sculpture to Ms. Maureen Crombie, Chairwoman of ECPAT International; and the Legislative Yuan Speaker Wang Jin-pyng, also the Chairman of Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, provided the award grant of 100,000 US Dollars to Ms. Crombie, validating the remarkable performance of ECPAT International.

Ms. Maureen Combie, Chairwoman of ECPAT International expressed that her humility to accept this year’s Award on behalf of ECPAT. NEWS RELEASE
 
   




2012-12-10
Keynote speech of Prof. Ronald Inglehart has been cancelled
Due to Prof. Ronald Inglehart’s flight was delayed by a blizzard for one day, the keynote speech in National Central Library at 2:00 pm on December 9 has been cancelled by the TFD. We apologize for your inconvenience.

2012-12-09
Lecture by Prof. Ronald Inglehart
Prof. Ronald Inglehart is a celebrated political scientist at the University of Michigan. The main fields of his research are democratization and political development. In 1970s, he developed the sociological theory of post-materialism. He is also the director of the World Values Survey (WVS). Since established in 1981, WVS had carried out representative national surveys of the publics of around 100 societies, containing nearly 90 percent of the world's population. As an international quantitative database, WVS has made a lot of contribution to the current social science. Recently, Prof. Inglehart was invited by Taiwan Foundation for Democracy to visit Taiwan and give lectures. He is going to share his insights and observations of Taiwan's democratization and the changes of political cultures with the public in Taiwan.

The information of the event is as follows:
 ▉  Date: Sunday, December 9, 2012
 ▉  Time: 2:00 pm to 3:35 pm (Registration begins at 1:30 pm)
 ▉  Venue: 3F, International Conference Room, National Central Library (20 Zhongshan S. Road, Taipei)
 ▉  Topic: Modernization and Changing Human Motivations
 ▉  Moderator: Dr. Teh-fu Huang, the President of TFD
 ▉  Agenda:Download here


2012-11-26 ~ 2012-12-01
TFD attends UNPO Conference of“EU Strategies, Interventions and Future Prospects for Support to Indigenous Peoples in Taiwan”
Invited by Unrepresented Nations and Peoples Organization(UNPO), from November 26th to December 1st of 2012, TFD Vice President Ching-Hsin Yu and Assistant Professor Dr. Awi Mona (Chih-Wei Tsai) from National Dong Hwa University travelled to Brussels, Belgium to attend the UNPO Conference of “EU Strategies, Interventions and Future Prospects for Support to Indigenous Peoples in Taiwan” and visited partners, scholars, NGO leaders, and bureaucratic of EU. Dr. Yu and Dr. Tsai also delivered a keynote speech concerning Political Participation and Democratization of Taiwan Indigenous Peoples.

2012-11-21
Visit of Chancellor of the National University of Ireland Dr. Maurice Manning
On November 21, 2012, Chancellor of the National University of Ireland Dr. Maurice Manning and Former TD(Teachtaí Dála, member of Irish Parliament). Mr. Thomas Enright
were received by TFD Director of International Cooperation Department Dr .Cheng-Hao Pao. After the introduction on the foundation’s history and programs, the TFD delegate answered the questions concerning TFD’s major task and Taiwan’s democratic development from the group. As the former president of the Irish Human Rights Commission, Dr. Manning expressed that Taiwan can cooperate tightly with EU human right institutions such as Scottish Commission, Danish Commission and Irish Commission, further deepening communication of Taiwan-EU human rights affairs.
 

2012-11-17
TFD attends the Taiwan Journal of Democracy 2012 Workshop in Argentina
President Teh-fu Huang, Professor T. J. Cheng (editor of Taiwan Journal of Democracy) and research fellow Shihhung Peng attended the Taiwan Journal D emocracy2012Workshop in Buenos Aires of Argentina on November 16th. Amb. Matthew Lee, representative of Taipei Commercial and Cultural Office in Argentina, and President Huang gave opening remarks. This workshop had invited several outstanding scholars from Asia, Europe and Latin America, and they presented six papers related with the issue of Democratic Governance: Engagement, Participation, Information and Accountability.
 

 

2012-11-12
Visit from delegates of the “American Youth Scholars and Experts (Eastern United States Chapter)”
On November 12, 2012, delegates of the “American Youth Scholars and Experts (Eastern United States Chapter)”
led by Dr. Iordanis Jordan Petsas, Associate Professor of Economics, University of Scranton were received by TFD Vice-President Dr. Ching-Hsin Yu and Director of International Department Dr. Cheng-Hao Pao . Following an introduction of the foundation’s history and programs, the two sides discussed Taiwan’s election and democratization, cross-strait relations as well as the political participation of minority group.
 

2012-11-12
Visit from delegates of the “American Youth Scholars and Experts (Western United States Chapter)”
On November 12, 2012, delegates of the “American Youth Scholars and Experts (Western United States Chapter)”led by Dr. Greg Autry were received by TFD Vice President Ching-Hsin Yu and Director of International Cooperation Department Dr. Cheng-Hao Pao. After the introduction on the foundation’s history and programs, the two sides exchanged Taiwan’s electoral system, party development as well as Asian democratization issues in Taiwan.
 

2012-11-08
Announcement of the Winner of the 2012 Asia Democracy and Human Rights Award
The annual Asia Democracy and Human Rights Award (ADHRA) was established by the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy in 2006 to encourage individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to promoting democracy and protecting human rights through peaceful means in Asia. The TFD will hold a press conference at the briefing room in Legislative Yuan on November 8th. The TFD Chairman Wang, Jin-Pyng will announce the 2012 Asia Democracy and Human Rights Award laureate at the press conference. The TFD has also invited H.E. President Ma, Ying-Jeou and TFD Chairman Wang, Jing-Pyng to present the award sculpture and grant to the laureate at the official award ceremony on December 10th, International Human Rights Day.

MEDIA ADVISORY


2012-11-08
ECPAT International Wins the 2012 Asia Democracy and Human Rights Award
Taiwan Foundation for Democracy Chairman Wang, Jin-pyng firstly welcomed all journalists to the announcement of the winner of Asia Democracy and Human Rights Award. Chairman Wang then stated that the Asia Democracy and Human Rights Award has become not only an annual event for the TFD, but also a major, indicative award in the Asian region. As the first national democracy foundation in Asia, we have hoped to make contributions to the global community of democracies, in order to repay our obligations to the international community. Therefore, beginning in 2006, the TFD has been awarding the Asia Democracy and Human Rights Award annually to recognize individuals and organizations which have made exceptional contributions through their long-term, active promotion of democracy or advocacy of human rights in Asia through peaceful means. We hope in this way to further deepen democratic development and raise standards of human rights in the region.

As in previous years, a two-stage reviewing process was used to select this year’s Award laureate, ECPAT International based in Bangkok, Thailand. ECPAT International (End Child Prostitution, Child Pornography and Trafficking of Children for Sexual Purposes) is the leading global network working to end the Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children (CSEC). Originated in 1991, as a campaign to stop child sex tourism in Asia, ECPAT has broadened its mandate to include the protection of children from all forms of CSEC, including child prostitution, child trafficking for sexual purposes and sexual exploitation of children in travel and tourism.

ECPAT International will formally receive the 2012 Asia Democracy and Human Rights Award at a ceremony in Shangri-La’s Far Eastern Plaza Hotel Taipei on December 10th, the International Human Rights Day. The Award consists of one sculpture and a US$100,000 grant to support ECPAT International for their ongoing works to end the Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children.

NEWS RELEASE

 



2012-11-08
Seminar on the studies of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women

On November 8, 2012, the TFD held a seminar on the studies of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women in the NTU Alumni’s Club House. In order to shape a basis for future development and an action strategy for integrating practice and theory, many scholars and experts were invited to provide their insights and opinions into these studies.
 
 
 
 
  
 
 

2012-11-03 ~ 2012-11-04
Chairman Jin-pyng Wang Attended the International Conference on “The Maturing of the Taiwan Democracy” and Gave an Opening Remarks

Taiwan Foundation for Democracy (TFD), Institute of Political Science, Academia Sinica (IPSAS), Taiwan's Election and Democratization Study (TEDS), Program for East Asia Democratic Studies in the Institute for Advanced Studies in Humanities and Social Sciences of National Taiwan University, and Election Study Center of National Chengchi University hosted the International Conference on “The Maturing of the Taiwan Democracy” in November 3 to 4, 2012, at National Taiwan University. The purpose of this international conference is to investigate the maturity of Taiwan’s democracy by TEDS 2012 survey data. Experts and scholars of democratization studies were invited to exchange their point of views. This conference effectively enhanced the vision of Taiwan's studies in the area of democratization research.
President of Legislative Yuan, and Chairman of TFD, Mr. Jin-pyng Wang attended this grand meeting and gave a 20 minute opening remarks. He reviewed Taiwan's democratic development in the last half-century, including Taiwan’s fighting for human rights, struggling for freedom, and the stage of democratic consolidation. Taiwan’s election is a model for many developing countries. The transparency, justice, fairness and openness make Taiwan's democracy keep pace with the countries with mature democracy. The 2012 presidential election is a milestone demonstrating voters' ration and self-control, appealing for social justice instead of ethnic identity, and acceptance of a female presidential candidate. These facts show the maturity and consolidation of Taiwan's democratic development. He also pointed out that the diplomatic difficulties and the recession are both challenging Taiwan’s government inside and outside. By this conference, scholars are encouraged to brainstorm the challenges of deepening of Taiwan’s democracy. The text is downloadable in both Chinese and English version.


Chairman Wang Jin-pyng’s opening remarks in Chinese

Chairman Wang Jin-pyng’s opening remarks in English

2012-10-26
Seminar by Mr. Jinhyeok Jang, Dissertation Fellow at TFD
The TFD held a seminar for Mr. Jinhyeok Jang, the TFD’s Dissertation Fellow, at 14:00~16:00 on October 26, 2012. He delivered a presentation entitled ‘A Dimensional Analysis of Bill Cosponsorship Networks in the Legislative Yuan (1992-2012).’
 
 

2012-10-24
Visit from Delegates of Leaders from State of Georgia Government,the United States
On October 24,delegates of leaders from State of Georgia Government,the United States led by Hon. Carol Lynn Hunstein,Chief Justice,Supreme Court of Georgia were received by TFD Vice-President Dr. George W. Tsai and Research Fellow Dr. Allen Peng. Followed by an introduction about the foundation’s history and programs, the two sides discussed the function of political parties, as well as legislative experience in Taiwan.
 

2012-10-19
Visit of Delegates of Human Rights Lawyers from Department of Justice, Canada
On October 19, 2012, delegates of human rights lawyers from Department of Justice, Canada Ms. Erin Brady and Laurie Sargent were received by TFD Vice President Dr. Ching-hsin Yu and Research Fellow Dr. Allen Peng. After the introduction on the foundation’s history and programs, the TFD delegates answered the questions concerning TFD’s major task, Taiwan’s democratic and human rights development and Taiwan-Canada relations from the group.
 

2012-10-14 ~ 2012-10-17
TFD participated in the 7th Assembly of the World Movement for Democracy
World Movement for Democracy (WMD) was initiated by National Endowment for Democracy (NED). This non-governmental activity celebrates a major international conference every two years. This year, the seventh assembly was held in Lima, Peru. The TFD’s delegation Vice President Tsai Woei, Supervisory Board Yeh Yu-Lan, Senior Research Fellow Kao Ying-Mao, Director of International Cooperation Department Pao Cheng-Hao, Assistant Professor of National Dong Hwa University Tsai Chih-Wei, and Assistant Research Fellow Chien Wei-Tsun were attending this conference which was celebrated on 14-17 October.

There were more than 600 participants and academics attending 30 workshops and panel discussion to discuss the issues about global democracy and human right. Together with the Council for the Community of Democracies (CCD), the TFD was co-organizing a workshop on “Civic Education -- It's Not Just About Voting.” Dr. Chen Li-Hua from Taipei Municipal University of Education also delivered her academic research in this workshop which let more people learned about Taiwan’s democracy and education.
 
 

2012-10-09
Visit of Mr. Alvaro Alba, Director of Network Sector of Radio and TV Martí
On October 9, 2012, Mr. Alvaro Alba, Director of Network Sector of Radio and TV Martí, the reporter of Diario Las Americas was received by TFD Director of International Cooperation Department Dr. Cheng-Hao Pao. Following an introduction about the foundation’s history and programs, the TFD delegate answered the questions concerning TFD’s establishment, major task, Taiwan and Asian countries democratic development, and promotion of human right education from visitor.
 

2012-10-05 ~ 2012-10-08
TFD participated in the International Young Leaders Academy, Vilnius, Lithuania
The Young Leaders Forum was established as a result of the Vilnius Declaration announced by the Institute of Democratic Politics in Vilnius in 2010. This year, the Young Leaders Forum held “Young Leaders Academy” in Vilnius, Lithuania. Dr. Kwei-bo Huang, Associate Professor from National Chengchi University, and Mr. Tony Huang, an Assistant Research Fellow of Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, attended this conference which was celebrated on 5-8 October.

There were more than 50 officials, young leaders, and academics attending in this conference to discuss the issues about developing leadership skills, democracy building experiences, existing youth policies and practices, etc. Dr. Kwei-bo Huang attended as the moderator of Panel I. Mr. Tony Huang provided a brief introduction concerning the youth participation in public affairs in Taiwan and the current youth policies of Taiwan government.
 
 

2012-10-04
Attended the release of the documentary “Enslaved: An MTV EXIT Special”
Upon the invitation of the organization End Exploitation and Trafficking (MTV EXIT), International Cooperation Director Cheng-Hao Pao represented the TFD at the release of the documentary film “Enslaved: An MTV EXIT Special” on 4 October 2012. This film was produced in partnership with the TFD, the Ministry of the Interior, the American Institute in Taiwan, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the Australian Government’s Agency for International Development (AusAID), and several national and international NGOs. It is hoped that the film’s screening in Taiwan will raise awareness of the fight against human trafficking.

At the event, speeches were delivered by National Immigration Administration Director-General Hsieh Li-Kung and AIT Director Christopher J. Marut. In addition, Director Pao and representatives of invited human rights groups and NGOs discussed possibilities for future cooperation to enhance human rights.
 

 

2012-10-04 ~ 2012-10-07
TFD attended the Young Leaders Program in Jakarta, Indonesia
The Pacific Forum CSIS is an internationally recognized think tank based in Honolulu, Hawaii. Their Young Leaders Program 2012 was held from October 4th to October 7th in Jakarta, Indonesia. Dr. Shih-Yi Chou, Assistant Professor of Political Science at Tunghai University, and Ms. Hung-Ya Lien, TFD’s Assistant Research Fellow, represented the TFD to attend this program.

The Pacific Forum CSIS invited more than 10 young leaders from Taiwan, Southest Asia, Japan, PRC and the US to join the program of this year. Young leaders understood how different states handle foreign affairs by participating this conference. Young leaders were more than conference observers, they also participated in closed-door meetings. Hopefully by means of attending this event, Taiwanese young leaders’ vision could be broadened and an international network could thus be built up.
 

 

2012-09-25
Visited by President of the Shanghai Association of Taiwan Studies
On September 25,2012 delegates of the Shanghai Association of Taiwan Studies (SATS) led by SATS President Dr. Yu Xintian were received by TFD President Dr. Teh-Fu Huang and Vice-President Dr. George W. Tsai. Visitors from SATS expressed particular interest in cross-strait policy after 2012 Taiwan Election. During the meeting, the two organizations discussed future trends in cross-strait political and economic development from Taiwan, Mainland and international perspectives.
 


2012-09-21
Seminar by Dr. Jorge Minaya Vizcarra, International Visiting Fellow at TFD
The TFD held a seminar for Dr. Jorge Minaya Vizcarra, the TFD’s International Visiting Fellow, at 10:00~12:00 on September 21, 2012. He delivered a presentation entitled ‘Approaches to the Political and Legal System of Taiwan.’
 

 

2012-09-18
Visit of Professor Nishitani Hajime and students from Hiroshima University, Japan
On September 18, 2012, Professor Nishitani Hajime and students from Hiroshima University, Japan were received by TFD Research Fellow Dr. Allen Peng. After the introduction on the foundation’s history and programs, the TFD delegates answered the questions concerning TFD’s major task, Asian democratic development, and democratic education and promotion from the students.
 

2012-09-13
Visit of Executive Secretary of National Human Rights Commission of Nigeria
On September 13th, Executive Secretary of National Human Rights Commission of Nigeria, Dr. Ben Angwe and Mrs. Angwe as well as Deputy Director, Mr. Oparah, were received by TFD Vice President, Dr. Ching-Hsin Yu, and Research Fellow of International Cooperation Department, Dr. Allen Peng. The National Human Rights Commission of Nigeria was established to aim at missions such as promotion, protection and enforcement of human rights, providing a forum for public enlightenment and education on human rights, and so forth. After a brief introduction on TFD’s work, both sides exchanged views on history, democracy and each organization’s main tasks. It was a fruitful discussion indeed. Hopefully this will be a beginning of many more cooperation opportunities to come.
 

2012-09-05 ~ 2012-09-07
TFD attended the 2012 CIVICUS World Assembly in Montreal, Canada
The 2012 CIVICUS World Assembly was held on September 5th to September 7th in Montreal, Canada. Dr. Chi-Ting Tsai, Assistant Professor of Political Science at National Taiwan University, and Mr. Patrick Wu, TFD’s Research Fellow, represented the TFD to attend this event. The Assembly theme was “Defining a new social contract – making the future together.” By engaging representatives in participative dialogue, the 2012 CIVICUS World Assembly discussed major issues facing civil society today, such as state transformation, social innovation, and global governance, in order to find common solutions to building a more just world.
 

 

2012-09-05
Visit of delegates of the American Youth Scholars and Experts (Southern United States Chapter)
On September 5, 2012, delegates of the American Youth Scholars and Experts (Southern United States Chapter),led by Assistant Professor Dr. Stephen Halsey from Miami University, were received by TFD Vice President Dr .George W. Tsai, and Research Fellow Dr. Allen Peng. After the introduction on the foundation’s history and programs, the TFD delegates answered the questions concerning TFD’s major task, the US’s democratic development and Taiwan-US relations from the group.
 

2012-09-03
Visit of Professor Nishitani Hajime and students from Hiroshima University,Japan
On September 3, 2012, Professor Nishitani Hajime and students from Hiroshima University, Japan were received by TFD Vice President Dr .Ching-Hsin Yu, International Cooperation Department Director Dr. Cheng-Hao Pao and Research Fellow Dr. Allen Peng. After the introduction of the foundation’s history and programs, the TFD delegates answered the questions concerning TFD’s major task, Asian democratic development, and democratic education and promotion from the students.
 

2012-08-29
Visit from President of Berlin Brandenburg Academy of Sciences
On August 29, President of Berlin Brandenburg Academy of Sciences Professor Dagmar Schipanski was received by TFD Vice-President Dr. Ching-hsin Yu and Director of International Cooperation Department Dr. Cheng-Hao Pao. Following an introduction about the foundation’s history and programs, the two sides had a vibrant discussion about European democratic development, democratic promotion, and human rights issues and further discussed the possible cooperation in the future.
 


2012-08-23
Visit from European Delegation
On August 23, 2012 delegates from European delegation led by Mr. Alt-Haaker Henry were received by TFD Vice-President Dr. George W. Tsai, Director of International Cooperation Department Dr. Cheng-Hao Pao and Research Fellow Dr. Allen Peng. Following an introduction about the foundation’s history and programs, the two sides had a vibrant discussion about cross-strait democratic development, democratic deepening, and human rights issues and further discussed the possible cooperation in the future.
 

2012-08-20
Invited to National Speaker Conference, Chairman Wang Jing-Pyng of Taiwan Foundation for Democracy delivered a speech
Invited by State Legislative Leaders Foundation- SLLF, Legislative Yuan Speaker and Chairman of Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, Mr. Wang, Jing-Pyng delivered a speech in the National Speakers Conference on August 20th in Alaska, USA. After the speech, Speaker Wang met more than 30 State legislative leaders and also had dinner with representatives of overseas compatriots in Alaska.

Presented as the Speaker of Legislative Yuan of Republic of China, Speaker Wang was invited by State Legislative Leaders Foundation (SLLF) as a distinguished guest in the opening ceremony of the 21st National Speaker Conference. Participants in this conference are mainly US State legislative leaders. In the Conference, Speaker Wang made a speech on “Democracy, Efficiency, and Public Interests---Common Perspectives of Taiwan and US Legislative Institutions”. He addressed crucial issues, such as Taiwan’s democratic developments, partisan interactions, and important policy making. Furthermore, he also emphasized the traditional mutual friendship between Taiwan and the US during the speech. Based on the common value of both sides’ parliamentary system in practicing democracy, one can watch and learn from another. Communication can thus be reinforced as well. The speech had won hearty compliments from every guest present. After the ceremony, Speaker Wang also conveyed his warm regards to each participant state legislative leader and exchanged experiences in parliaments of both sides. It is believed that Speaker Wang’s presence has significantly contributed to a more consolidated Taiwan-US friendship.

During this trip, Speaker Wang also has met representatives of overseas compatriots in Alaska. In the meeting, he introduced Taiwan’s current political and social situations on the one hand and expressed consistent regards from the government to fellow compatriots. In addition, Speaker Wang paid utmost respect to them with regard to their immense support to the government. He is also looking forward to see them continue to play the role in bridging the US government and Taiwan.

The SLLF consists of leaders across the State Legislatures (speakers from State Representatives and State Senates) in the US Members of the SLLF seek to improve efficiency in State Legislatures and to reflect public opinions by means of exchanging experiences in parliaments. This mission is shared by the Legislative Yuan in Taiwan. President of the SLLF, Mr. S. Lakis, has visited Taiwan before and convinced that democracy in Taiwan is worthy of recognition. Through this National Speaker Conference, legislative leaders from Taiwan and the US were able to further acquaint with each other. It would be beneficial to both sides in terms of interaction later in days.

Apart from people who helped to put this meeting together, along with Speaker Wang, there were also five Legislators, including Mr. Lin, Yu-Fang; Mr. Lee, Hung-Chun; Mr. Wang, Ting-Son; Mr. Chiau, Wen-Yan; Mr. Chan, Kai-Chin; Director- General of Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Seattle, Mr. Chin, Andy; President of Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, Dr. Huang, Teh-Fu and Vice President, Dr. Yu, Ching-Hsin.

Here is the link for Speaker Wang’s speech.

 


2012-08-08
HOT! Taiwan Journal of Democracy, Vol. 8, No.1
This issue collects seven academic essays and two book reviews. The major topics of academic essays are Argentine democratic politics in an era of global economic crisis, a democracy under stress: Greece since 2010, the Korean welfare state in economic hard times, direct democracy upside down, 2007 electoral reform of Mexico, decline of the Japan socialist party, and the effect of the internet on public opinion toward social movements in Hong Kong.

2012-08-07
Visit from United States Congressional staff members
On August 7, 2012, U.S. Congressional staff members, led by Ms. Hope Goins, were received by TFD Vice President Dr. Ching-Hsin Yu, and Director of the International Cooperation Department, Dr. Cheng-Hao Pao.
After an introduction about the foundation’s history and programs, the two sides discussed topics, such as Taiwan-Middle East relations, democratic growth, and TFD’s international NGO grant program.
 

2012-07-17
Visit of US House of Representative Staff
On July 17th, US House of Representative staff led by Ms. Tera Beach were received by TFD Vice President Dr. Ching-Hsin Yu and Director of International Cooperation Department, Dr. Cheng-Hao Pao. After a brief introduction on TFD’s work, both sides exchanged opinions on issues, such as democracy, Taiwan political culture as well as TFD’s tasks, etc.
 

2012-07-07 ~ 2012-07-11
2012 Meeting of the Governing Council of Community of Democracies
Invited by the Parliamentary Forum for Democracy, this year the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy delegation left for Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia from July 7th to July 11th to attend the Governing Council Meeting of the Community of Democracies (CoD). The delegation consisted of Dr. Yu-Fang Lin, a member of the TFD Board of Trustees, and Dr. Cheng-Hao Pao, director of the TFD International Cooperation Department

Apart from the discussion of CoD’s annual works and budget, this meeting also elected El Salvador as the next presidency. It is worth mentioning that U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, and the President of Mongolia both gave speeches at the closing ceremony. Secretary Clinton praised Taiwan’s democracy and regarded it as model for other countries. After the meeting, Dr. Yu-Fang Lin and Dr. Cheng-Hao Pao were officially invited by the President to attend the state banquet, the dress parade, and the opening ceremony of Naadam. Dr. Lin was invited as the Chairman of National Defense and Foreign Affairs Committee of the Legislative Yuan, while Dr. Pao was invited as the representative of TFD.

The TFD delegation received the Mongolian government’s warmest welcomes and felt greatly honoured. Hopefully, this marks the beginning of many more cooperative opportunities to come.

 
 

2012-06-28
Visit from delegation of the State Legislative Leaders Foundation (SLLF)
On June 28th, 2012, delegates from the State Legislative Leaders Foundation (SLLF), led by Mr. Stephen G. Lakis (President of SLLF), were received by TFD Vice-President Dr. George W. Tsai, Vice President Dr. Ching-Hsin Yu, and Research Fellow Dr. Allen Peng. Following an introduction about the foundation’s history and programs, both the two sides expressed concern about issues of Asia’s political and economic development, U.S.-Taiwan relations, and discussed the possibility of cooperation in the future.
 


2012-06-26
HOT! Taiwan Journal of Democracy, Forthcoming in the July 2012 issue: The Risk of Partyarchy and Democratic Backsliding by Gilles Serra
Mexico will hold the Presidential election on Jul 1st, 2012. The forthcoming in July issue of Taiwan Journal of Democracy collects the article of Gilles Serra which is focused on the analysis of electoral reform and electoral rules in Mexico.

2012-06-25
Visit from delegates of the “American Youth Scholars and Experts (Western United States Chapter)”
On June 25, 2012, delegates of the “American Youth Scholars and Experts (Western United States Chapter)” led by Mr. Ronald McNinch, Distinguished Professor of the University of Guam were received by TFD Vice-President Dr. Ching-Hsin Yu and Research Fellow Dr. Allen Peng. Following an introduction of the foundation’s history and programs, the two sides discussed Taiwan’s election and democratization, cross-strait relations as well as the political participation of women.
 

2012-06-25
Visit from Washington State Congress Leaders
On June 25, 2012 delegates from Washington State Congress Leaders led by Senator Karen Fraser were received by TFD Vice-President Dr. George W. Tsai, Vice President Dr. Ching-Hsin Yu and Research Fellow Dr. Allen Peng. Following an introduction about the foundation’s history and programs, the two sides had a vibrant discussion about Taiwan and the United States’ democratic development, democratic growth, and human rights issues.
 


2012-06-25
Visit from Delegates of “American Council of Young Political Leaders, ACYPL”
On June 25, 2012 delegates from “American Council of Young Political Leaders, ACYPL” led by Legislative Director, Mr. Oliver Kim were received by TFD Vice-President Dr. Ching-Hsin Yu and Research Fellow Dr. Allen Peng. The members of this delegation are think tank experts and young leaders whose expertises include International Relations, Comparative Politics, and law…etc. Followed by an introduction about the foundation’s history and programs, the two sides discussed the function of political parties, oliticalion of political parties,nternational Relation ung Guam as well as legislative experience in Taiwan.
 

2012-06-25 ~ 2012-07-05
2012 Mexico Presidential Election Observation

Invited by Federal Electoral Institute (Spanish: Instituto Federal Electoral, IFE), Taiwan Foundation for Democracy delegation left for Mexico City from June 25th to July 5th this year to observe their presidential election. Led by Dr. I-Chou Liu, Vice Chairman of Central Election Commission, other members include Dr. Teh-Fu Huang, President of TFD, Mr. Shang-Ren Lee, member of Board of Trustees of TFD, Dr. Yung-Mau Chao, Dean of College of Social Sciences in National Taiwan University, Dr. Kuo-Shih Ho, Associate Professor of Department of Spanish Language and Literature in Providence University as well as Ms. Hung-Ya Lien, Assistant Research Fellow of TFD.

According to IFE, there were 696 foreign visitors from 69 countries in the world to witness a new page of Mexican history. This year’s federal election had become the biggest and the most complex one because Mexican people will vote for their new president, congressmen, senators and local governors.

Apart from seminars and round tables, which allowed observers to be familiar with and discuss electoral systems in Mexico and other countries, electoral system reform and other related issues, IFE also arranged international observers to have meetings with presidential candidates, to leave for polling stations on election day, and to head for IFE to witness the preliminary result from quick counting. It is worth mentioning that IFE expressed special thanks to countries where they sent observers to Mexico for the first time, including Taiwan. In addition, Dr. I-Chou Liu was invited to make a presentation on electoral financing and overseeing in Taiwan.

TFD delegation was received by IFE’s warmest welcome and felt greatly honoured. Hopefully this will be a beginning of many more cooperation opportunities to come.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 

2012-06-18
Symposium on significance and Impact of Taiwan's ratification of ICCPR and ICESCR
On June 18, the TFD will hold a symposium with title“The significance and impact of Taiwan's ratification of ICCPR and ICESCR”in the first conference room of college of Social Science, NTU.（Please see the invitation and agenda for details）

2012-06-18
TFD attends the 9th European Association for Taiwan Studies Conference
Invited by the European Association of Taiwan Studies, TFD Vice President Woei Tsai and research fellow Shihhung Peng attended the EATS 9th conference in Sønderborg of Denmark from June18th to 20th. In addition to host the round table sponsored by TFD, Vice President Woei Tsai discussed and exchanged ideas regarding Taiwan democratic issues with European scholars.
 

2012-06-15
Seminar by Professor Xiao Tangbiao, International Visiting Fellow at TFD
The TFD will hold a seminar for Professor Xiao Tangbiao, the TFD’s International Visiting Fellow, at 14:00~16:00 on June 15, 2012. He will deliver a presentation entitled ‘The Mobilization Structure of People’s Protests in China—An Analysis of Comparative Case Studies.’ (Please see the invitation for details.)

2012-06-15
Seminar by Professor Xiao Tangbiao, International Visiting Fellow at TFD
The TFD held a seminar for Professor Xiao Tangbiao, the TFD’s International Visiting Fellow, at 14:00~16:00 on June 15, 2012. He delivered a presentation entitled ‘The Mobilization Structure of People’s Protests in China—An Analysis of Comparative Case Studies.’
 

 

2012-06-04
Visit of US Youth Scholars Based in Washington D.C.
On June 4th, Youth Scholars based in Washington D.C. led by Dr. William Reed, Associate Professor, Department of Government and Politics, University of Maryland, was received by TFD Vice President George W Tsai and Research Fellow Dr. Allen Peng. Our guests today are either think tank experts or young and promising professors and post-graduate students whose expertise include international politics and economics, Asia security issues, environmental politics, Chinese economics and its foreign policy, etc. Both sides had a fierce debate upon current situations Taiwan is facing in her democratic system, China’s future democratization as well as other related agendas.
 

2012-05-23
Visit of Delegates of the Canadian Youth Leaders
On May 23, 2012, representatives from the youth leaders from the Canada led by Professor Susan Jean Henders were received by TFD Vice President Ching-hsin Yu, Director of International Cooperation Department Dr. Jonathan Lin and Research Fellow Allen Peng. After the introduction on the foundation’s history and programs, the two sides exchanged Taiwan’s electoral system, party development as well as Asian democratization issues in Taiwan.
 



2012-05-22
Visit of Dr. Zhelyu Zhelev, the former President of Bulgaria
On May 22nd, Dr. Zhelyu Zhelev, the former President of Bulgaria was received by TFD President Teh-Fu Huang, Jonathan Lin, Director of International Cooperation Department and Research Fellow Dr. Allen Peng. Dr. Zhelev has many books and articles published for the past few decades, and the most renowned one is “The Fascism.” To this day, this book has been translated into English, French, Russian, Turkish, Mandarin Chinese and many other languages. Apart from expressing his appreciation of being invited to the foundation, Dr. Zhelev also discussed democracy and totalitarian regimes, etc, with TFD.
 

 

2012-05-04
Visit of Ms. Caroline VerMeulen, Director of the Belgian Office, Taipei
On May 4th, Ms. Caroline VerMeulen, Director of the Belgian Office, Taipei, was received by TFD President Teh-Fu Huang and Jonathan Lin, Director of International Cooperation Department. After learning our main tasks and works here at TFD, Ms. Vermeulen showed a keen interest in learning promoting democracy work at TFD and also discussed possibilities for both sides to work together in the near future.
 


2012-05-01
Visit of Legislative Assistants from the USA
On May 1, 2012, representatives from Legislative Assistants from the USA led byMr. Adam Buckalew were received by TFD Vice President George W. Tsai and Research Fellow Allen Peng. After the introduction on the foundation’s history and programs, the two sides exchanged Taiwan-US relations as well as democratization issues in Taiwan.
 

2012-04-30
Visit of Mr. John Sanbrailo, President of Pan-American Development Foundation
On April 30, 2012, Mr. John Sanbrailo,
President of Pan-American Development Foundation was received by TFD Vice President Dr. George W. Tsai. Both the two sides expressed concern on Latin AmericanDemocratization issues and discussed the possible cooperation in the future.
 



2012-04-27 ~ 2012-04-28
TFD hosted an academic conference with Latvian Academy of Sciences
The Taiwan Foundation for Democracy hosted an academic conference of Democracy and Development－Taiwan and Baltic Countries in Comparative Perspectives with Baltic Centre for Strategic Studies of the Latvian Academy of Science from April 27 to 28 at Riga. TFD President Teh-fu Huang, research fellow Shihhung Peng , and five Taiwan scholars of political science attended this conference and presented papers regarding the field of Taiwan electoral system, constitutional design and economic development. The Taiwan delegate also visited Latvian Institute and Bauska City, and met with member of Riga city council and Mr. Ainars Latkovskis who is the chairman of Latvian-Taiwan Parliamentarian Cooperation Group.
 

 

2012-04-26
Implement of the action strategy of the United Nations CEDAW Convention
Taiwan Foundation for Democracy has invited experts and scholars to discuss how to implement the CEDAW Convention in Taiwan, and study out five indicators such as: " law indicator" social and political indicator "police indicator", "health indicators", "judicial indicators as the basis for evaluating action strategies, while develops the proposal of amending the related law.
 

2012-04-17
Visit of Delegation of EU Think Tanks
On April 17th, delegation of EU Think Tanks led by Amb. Klaus Ebermann, Former Ambassador and Head of EU-delegation to China and Egypt, were received by TFD President Teh-Fu Huang and Research Fellow, Dr. Allen Peng. After learning our main tasks and works here at TFD, both sides have productive and interesting opinion exchanges with regards to ways of promoting democracy and democratic transition in Taiwan, etc.
 

2012-04-14 ~ 2012-04-18
TFD visited Institute for Strategic and Development Studies and other partners
Vice President George W. Tsai and Director of International Cooperation Department Dr. Jonathan Lin visited Institute for Strategic and Development Studies and other partners such as Institute for Strategic and Development Studies (ISDS), Coordinating Council for People's Development and Governance (CPDG Network), Caucus of Development NGO Networks (CODE-NGO), Kodao Productions and Center for People Empowerment in Governance (CENPG) in Philippines from April 14th to 18th. The delegates of TFD and its partners exchanged issues of Asian Demoralization and Democracy Promotion, and discussed possibilities of cooperation in the future.
 

 

2012-04-13
Visit of Mr. Giles Merritt, Founder and Secretary General of Friends of Europe
On April 13th, US, Mr. Giles Merritt, Founder and Secretary General of Friends of Europe, the Brussels-based thank-tank that focuses on high-level EU policy proposals, was received by Director of International Cooperation Department, Dr. Jonathan Lin and Research Fellow, Dr. Allen Peng. After learning our main tasks and works here at TFD, both sides also exchanged opinions upon promoting democracy as well as EU functions, etc.
 

2012-04-10
Visit of Legislative Assistants from the USA
On April 10th, US legislative assistants led by Mr. Gregg Doud, Senior Professional Staff of Senate Agriculture Committee, were received by Director of International Cooperation Department, Dr. Jonathan Lin and Research Fellow, Dr. Allen Peng. After learning our main tasks and works here at TFD, both sides also exchanged opinions upon the status quo of democratization in Taiwan as well as Taiwan’ role in recent Asia democracy development.
 

2012-04-09
Invited to attend the Freedom House event celebrating the 50th issue of the China Media Bulletin
On April 9, 2012, Freedom House celebrated the publication of the 50th issue of the China Media Bulletin at its New York office. Maysing Yang, Vice President of the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, and Andrew Nathan, Professor of Political Science at Columbia University, were both invited to be the guests of honor and gave remarks at the event.
 

2012-03-28
Visit of Ms. Sasha Gong, Chief of the Chinese branch at Voice of America
On March 28th, Ms. Sasha Gong, Chief of the Chinese branch, at Voice of America and Mr. Feng Ji, Chief of External Affairs & Internet Services, were received by Director of International Cooperation Department, Dr. Jon Lin and Research Fellow, Dr. Allen Peng. After getting to learn our main tasks and works here at TFD, both sides also discussed possibility of future co-operation.
 


2012-03-27
Visit of Executive Director Scott Fraser from the Canadian Trade Office in Taipei(CTOT)
On March 27, 2012, representatives from the Canadian Trade Office in Taipei (CTOT) led by Executive Director Scott Fraser were received by TFD President The-Fu Huang and International Cooperation Department Director Dr. Jonathan Lin. After the introduction on the foundation’s history and programs, the two sides discussed the possible cooperation in the future.
 

2012-03-19
Visit of Political Officer Nina J. Robinson from American Institute in Taiwan
On March 19, 2012, political officer Nina J. Robinson from American Institute in Taiwan was received by TFD International Cooperation Department Director Dr. Jonathan Lin. Both the two sides expressed concern on human trafficking and human right issues and discussed the possible cooperation in the future.
 

2012-03-19
The TFD will begin accepting nominations for the seventh Asia Democracy and Human Rights Award starting on April 1, 2012.
Each year, the Asia Democracy and Human Rights Award is awarded to one individual or organization that has made significant contributions to the advancement of democracy or human rights in Asia through peaceful means. As the first national democracy assistance foundation in Asia, the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy is committed to supporting courageous individuals and groups who build democracy, stand up for justice and defend human rights, especially those in our home region.

The Award consists of a sculpture and a US$100,000 grant from the TFD to support the ongoing work of the laureate, to be presented at an official ceremony in Taipei on December 10th, International Human Rights Day.

Nominations are open to the public from April 1st. To submit a nomination, please download the official 2012 ADHRA Nomination Form and refer to the enclosed instructions. All nomination materials are due no later than June 30, 2012.

2012-03-14
Amid-term meeting of ICCPR and ICESCR
Taiwan Foundation for Democracy invites professors from National Taiwan University, National Chengchi University, and Academia Sinica to research into how to implement the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and International Covenant on Economics, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR) in Taiwan. A mid-term meeting took place at the foundation on 14 March and discussed the preliminary research outcomes from the dimensions of ‘Health and Human Rights’, ‘The Elimination of Special Power Relationships’, ‘The Construction of Economic Civil Rights’, ‘Fight to Social Security’, ‘The Evolution of the Idea of Human Rights’ and ‘The Protection of the Human Rights of Non-Citizens’, aiming to further the implementation of ICCPR and ICESCR in Taiwan.
 
 

2012-02-29
Visit of Professor Nishitani Hajime and students from Hiroshima University, Japan

On February 29, 2012, Professor Nishitani Hajime and students from Hiroshima University, Japan were received by TFD International Cooperation Department Director Dr. Jonathan Lin and Research Fellow Dr. Allen Peng. After the introduction on the foundation’s history and programs, both the two sides expressed concern on democratic development and discussed the possible cooperation in the future.
 

2012-02-21
Visit of Deputy Director of General Relations, Canadian Trade Office in Taipei
On February 21, 2012, Ms. Toby Schwartz, Deputy Director of General Relations, Canadian Trade Office in Taipei was received by TFD International Cooperation Department Director Dr. Jonathan Lin. The two sides had a vibrant discussion on both 2012 Taiwan’s presidential and parliament elections also topics on democracy education and discussed the possible cooperation in the future.
 


2012-02-01
Congratulation for being selected as one of the elite think tanks in Asia by FPRI
Foreign Policy Research Institute (FPRI) of US has recently published their report of “The Global "Go-To Think Tanks”: The Leading Public Policy Research Organizations In The World, 2011”, which reviews 6,545 think-tanks in 182 countries worldwide; TFD has ranked 20th in Asian Think Tank list among 1,119 think thanks of 17Asian countries, and also is the only think tank in Taiwan that is being selected. (Click for more details)

2012-01-17
Visit of Cathy Zhang, Vice President of Sound of Hope Radio Network, Inc
On January 17th, Cathy Zhang, Vice President of Sound of Hope Radio Network, Inc, was received by Dr. Allen Peng, of International Cooperation Department. After a brief introduction on the foundation’s history and programs, both sides discussed further cooperation in the near future.
 

2012-01-13
Visit of Delegates of 2012 VIP Election Observation Group
On January 13, 2012, delegates of 2012 VIP election observation group including Chairman of Committee on Foreign Affairs, Lithuania, Emmanuelis Zingeris, Executive Director of Community of Democracies professor Bronislaw Misztal, and Vice President of Latvian Academy of Sciences Dr. Talavs Jundzis were received by TFD President Teh-Fu Huang, Vice-President Dr. George W. Tsai, International Cooperation Department Director Dr. Jonathan Lin and Research Fellow Dr. Allen Peng. Followed by an introduction on the foundation’s history and programs, the two sides had a vibrant discussion on both 2012 Taiwan’s presidential and parliament elections also topics on democracy deepening.
 

2012-01-12
Visit of Mr. Edmundo Jacobo and Mr. Manuel Carrillo, election observers from Instituto Federal Electoral, Mexico
On January 12th, Mr. Edmundo Jacobo and Mr. Manuel Carrillo, election observers from Instituto Federal Electoral, Mexico, were received by TFD President Dr. Teh-Fu Huang and Research Fellow, Dr. Allen Peng, of International Cooperation Department. After a brief introduction on the foundation’s history and programs, both sides exchanged views upon TFD’s work and upon Presidential and Legislative Election this coming Saturday.
 

2012-01-12
Visit of Journalists invited to Observe Elections
On January 12th, journalists from Asia and Middle East invited to observe Taiwan Presidential and Legislative Elections were received by TFD President Dr. Teh-Fu Huang, Vice President George W. Tsai as well as Research Fellow, Dr. Allen Peng, of International Cooperation Department. After a brief introduction on the foundation’s history and programs, both sides shared views on TFD’s work and on Presidential and Legislative Elections this coming Saturday.
 

2012-01-09
HOT! Taiwan Journal of Democracy, Vol7, No.2
This special issue, edited by Juliet Pinto and Sallie Hughes, is media and citizenship. This special issue collects five research essays, one review essay, and three book reviews . The major topics of research essays are young citizenship and political participation, journalism education, citizenship and new media technologies in a global media age, mediated politics in Taiwan, media’s “public sphere” for civil society in Taiwan’s democratic consolidation, and we made that film; there is no filmmaker”.
All articles can be downloaded freely.

2011-12-29
Visit of Mr. Pertti Salolainen, Vice Chair of Foreign Affairs Committee
On December 29, Mr. Pertti Salolainen, Vice Chair of Foreign Affairs Committee along with his partner, were received by TFD President Dr. Teh-Fu Huang and Director of International Cooperation Department, Dr. Jonathan Lin. After a brief introduction on the foundation’s history and programs, both sides shared opinions upon human rights issue in China as well as upon democracy promotion.
 

2011-12-27
Visit of Mr. Ganbat Damba
On December 27, 2011 Mr. Ganbat Damba was received by International Cooperation Department Director Dr. Jonathan Lin. Followed by an introduction on the foundation’s history and programs, the two sides had discussed future trends in Taiwan and the Mongolian People's Republic’s democratic development and also topics on democracy deepening.
 

2011-12-20
Visit of Delegates of Young Leaders from Conservative Party
On December 20, 2011 delegates of the Young Leaders from Conservative Party led by Mr. Andrew Rosindell M.P. were received by International Cooperation Department Director Dr. Jonathan Li. Followed by an introduction on the foundation’s history and programs, the two sides had a vibrant discussion on Taiwan and the United Kingdom’s democratic development and also topics on democracy deepening.
 

2011-12-12
Visit of Ms Rosalia Arteaga, former President of Ecuador
On December 12th, 2011 Ms. Rosalia Arteaga, former President of Ecuador, was received by TFD President Dr. Teh-Fu Huang as well as Director of International Cooperation Department, Dr. Jonathan Lin. After a brief introduction on the history of Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, both sides shared ideas and opinions with regards to education and potential co-operation opportunity issues.
 

2011-12-10
2011 Asia Democracy and Human Rights Award Ceremony
The Taiwan Foundation for Democracy established the annual Asia Democracy and Human Rights Award (ADHRA) in 2006 to support individuals and organizations that have demonstrated outstanding leadership in the peaceful promotion of democratic development and human rights in Asia. The 2011 ADHRA will be presented to Boat People SOS to recognize their dedication to assisting asylum seekers to resettle their lives in various countries and stopping human trafficking through cooperation with state governments and non-governmental organizations worldwide. H.E. President Ma Ying-jeou will confer the Award on the representative, Dr Nguyen D Thang, from BPSOS, at this ceremony on International Human Rights Day.

The information of the event is as follows:
nDate: Saturday, 10 December 2011
nTime: 9:00 am to 10:30 am (Registration begins at 8:30 am)
nVenue: Grand Ballroom, 3F, Far Eastern Plaza Hotel Taipei (201 Tun Hwa S. Road, Sec. 2, Taipei)
nAgenda: Download here


2011-12-10
The 6th Asia Democracy and Human Right Award Ceremony
Taiwan Foundation for Democracy held the annual award ceremony of Asian Democracy and Human Rights Award this morning on December 10th at Far East Plaza Hotel Taipei; and the winner of this year’s award goes to Boat People SOS of US, which dedicates its work on fighting human trafficking, on assisting asylum seekers to resettle their lives in various countries as well as on culturing Asian immigrants for their pursuit of liberty and human rights. President Ma Ying-Jeou was invited to offer the award sculpture to Dr. Nguyen Dinh Thang, the Executive Director of Boat People SOS; and the Legislative Yuan Speaker Wang Jin-Pyng, also the Chairman of Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, provided the award grant of 100,000 US Dollars to Dr. Thang, validating the remarkable performance of Boat People SOS. (Please see more here ) 
 

2011-12-07 ~ 2011-12-08
Participating the 3rd Bali Media Forum 2011
On December7th -8th, Research Fellow Shihhung Peng invited by the Indonesian Press Council and participated the 3rd Bali Media Forum, which focused on the issue of “social media”. Over 30 journalism representatives from over 10 countries of South East Asia and South Asia discussed extensively and exchanged ideas, especially on the development and regulation of social media, and it challenges to the hierarchy of traditional media information.
 
 

2011-12-05
Visit of Delegates of the “American Youth Scholars and Experts (Eastern United States Chapter)”
On December 5, 2011 delegates of the “American Youth Scholars and Experts (Eastern United States Chapter)” led by Dr. James C. Roberts, Associate Professor of Sociology, University of Scranton were received by TFD Vice-President Dr. George W. Tsai, International Cooperation Department Director Dr. Jonathan Lin and Research Fellow Dr. Allen Peng. Followed by an introduction on the foundation’s history and programs, the two sides had a vibrant discussion on Taiwan and the United States’ democratic development and also topics on democracy deepening.

 

2011-11-21
Visit of Press Council of Indonesia
On November 21, 2011 delegation of Press Council of Indonesia led by Dr. Bagir Manan were received by Director of International Cooperation Department Dr. Jonathan Lin and Research Fellow Dr. Allen Peng. After the introduction on the foundation’s history and programs, both the two sides expressed concern on the relation of media and democratic development and discussed the possible cooperation in the future.
 

2011-11-16
The presentation Dr. Solofo Randrianja, International Visiting Fellow, Taiwan Foundation for Democracy
The Presentation of Dr. Solofo Randrianja, who is the international visiting fellow of Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, presented his paper with the title of “Taiwan and Madagascar, A Comparative Study of democratization processes, what could we learn from Taiwan ?" on November 16th.
 


2011-11-14
Visit of Professor Dennis Hickey, department of Political Science, Missouri State University
On November 14, 2011 Professor Dennis Hickey, department of Political Science, Missouri State University of the United States was received by TFD Research Fellow Dr. Allen Peng. Both the two sides expressed concern on Asian Democratization issues and discussed the possible cooperation in the future.
 

2011-11-02
Announcement of 2011 Asia Democracy and Human Rights Award
The annual Asia Democracy and Human Rights Award (ADHRA) was established by the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy in 2006 to encourage individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to promoting democracy and protecting human rights through peaceful means in Asia. The TFD will hold a press conference at the briefing room in Legislative Yuan on November 2nd. The TFD Chairman Jin-Pyng Wang will announce the 2011 Asia Democracy and Human Right Award laureate at the press conference, and the TFD President Teh-Fu Huang will give a brief introduction about the award winner. The TFD has invited H.E. President Ma Ying-Jeou and House Speaker Wang Jin-Pyng to present the award sculpture and grant to the winner at the official award ceremony on December 10th, International Human Rights Day. MEDIA ADVISORY

2011-11-02
Boat People SOS Wins the 2011 Asia Democracy and Human Rights Award
The Taiwan Foundation for Democracy announced today that the winner of 6th Asia Democracy and Human Rights Award goes to Boat People SOS of the USA.
 

 

2011-11-02 ~ 2011-11-07
2011 Guatemala Presidential Election Observation
From November 2nd to the 7th in 2011, Dr. Hung-Der Fu, Director of College of Social Science in Tunghai University led the Election Observation Group to Guatemala City to observe presidential election along with Dr. Teh-Fu Huang, President of TFD and Dr. Ren-Rang Chyou, Head of Department of Diplomacy in National Chengchi University.

In addition to acknowledging democratic development and democracy consolidation in Guatemala through observing the presidential election in Guatemala City, TFD also gained the perfect opportunity to get to know observers from many other Latin American countries and thus in the hope of looking forward to more co-operation opportunities later in days. Furthermore, TFD has also learned the importance of close relationship with embassies abroad and with countries with diplomatic relations through the observation along the way.
 

 

 

 

2011-10-26
Visit of the Delegation of US Young Scholars and Experts
On the 26th of October, 2011, the Delegation of US West Youth Scholars and Experts were received by the Director of International Cooperation Department, Dr Jon Lin and the Research Fellow, Dr Allen Peng. After having a general idea of how TFD has been promoting human rights and democracy, both sides had a discussion on the Foundation’s work, cross-strait relation as well as political and economic status and human rights issues in Taiwan.
 

2011-10-13
Visit of the Republican National Committee (RNC) from the United States
On the 13th of October, 2011, the Republican National Committee (RNC) from the United States, led by the Treasurer, Mr Tony Parker, were received by President Teh-Fu Huang along with Director of International Cooperation Department, Dr Jon Lin, as well as the Research Fellow, Dr Allen Peng. After having a general idea of how TFD has been promoting human rights and democracy, both sides had a discussion on the Foundation’s work, the outlook of democratization in Mainland China, interaction between the Foundation and Mainland China on democracy issues as well as opportunities for partnership in the near future.
 

2011-10-11
Visit of Former Minister of Defence of the Netherlands Eimert van Middelkoop
On October 11, former minister of defence of the Netherlands Mr. Eimert van Middelkoop was received by TFD Vice-President Dr. George W. Tsai and International Cooperation Department Director Dr. Jonathan Lin. Followed by an introduction on the foundation’s history and programs, the two sides had a vibrant discussion on Taiwan and the Netherlands’’ democratic development and also topics on democracy deepening.
 

2011-10-07
Visit of Deputy Director of Institute of Middle and Far East, Jagiellonian University
On October 7, 2011 Ewa Trojnar, PhD, Deputy Director of Institute of Middle and Far East of Jagiellonia University were received by TFD President Dr. Huang, Teh-Fu., Director of International Cooperation Jon Lin, and Research Fellow Allen Peng. In addition to understand the introduction of the foundation’s history and major programs, both sides discussed the current project of cooperation.


2011-09-27
Visit of Japan Association for Refugees
On September 27, 2011 delegates of the Japan Association for Refugees led by Mr. Brian Barbour were received by TFD Vice-President Dr. George W. Tsai. Followed by an introduction on the foundation’s history and programs, both the two sides expressed concern on Asian refugees issues and discussed the possible cooperation in the future.
 


2011-09-22
Visit of Hiroshima University Professor Nishitani Hajime and students
On September 22nd, 2011 Professor Nishitani Hajime and students from Hiroshima University were received by Director of International Cooperation Department Dr. Jonathan Lin and Research Fellow Allen Peng. Followed by an introduction on the foundation’s history and programs, both of the two sides expressed concerns on Taiwan and Japan’s human rights of minority and women, discussing the possible cooperation in the future.
 



2011-09-20
Visit of Delegates of the “American Youth Scholars and Experts
On September 20, delegates of the “American Youth Scholars and Experts (Southern United States Chapter)” led by Mr. Joel Neaveill, Chief of Staff of Kentucky Governor’s Office of Agricultural Policy, were received by TFD Vice-President Dr. George W. Tsai and International Cooperation Department Director Dr. Jonathan Lin. Followed by an introduction on the foundation’s history and programs, the two sides had a vibrant discussion on Taiwan and the United States’ democratic development and also topics on democracy deepening.
 



2011-09-15
TFD attended the meeting of the Parliamentary Forum for Democracy in Washington, D.C., USA
Vice President George W. Tsai and Research Fellow Patrick Wu were invited to attend the meeting of the Parliamentary Forum for Democracy (PFD) on September 15th on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., USA. The meeting theme was “Strengthening Freedom and Democratic Governance: The Role of the Parliamentary Forum for Democracy.” The major priorities of the PFD are to strengthen democratic parliaments and to stand in solidarity with grassroots democrats struggling for freedom around the world.
 

2011-09-10
TFD attends the Taiwan Journal of Democracy 2011 Workshop in Portugal
President Teh-fu Huang, Professor T. J. Cheng (editor of Taiwan Journal of Democracy) and research fellow Shihhung Peng attended the TJD 2011Workshop in Lisbon of Portugal on September 10th. President Huang also gave an opening remark. This workshop had invited several outstanding scholars from Asia, Europe and Latin America, and they presented five papers.
 



2011-09-10 ~ 2011-09-12
TFD attended the 2011 CIVICUS World Assembly in Montreal, Canada
Research Fellow Patrick Wu attended the 2011 CIVICUS World Assembly on September 10th to September 12th in Montreal, Canada. The Assembly theme was “Civil Society and Global Decision-Making: Doing It Better.” By engaging representatives in participative dialogue, the 2011 CIVICUS World Assembly discussed major issues facing civil society today, such as development effectiveness, climate justice, civil society space, and the role of technology in connecting people, in order to find common solutions to building a more just world.
 

2011-08-30
Visited by President of the Shanghai Association of Taiwan Studies
On August 30, delegates of the Shanghai Association of Taiwan Studies (SATS) led by SATS President Dr. Yu Xintian were received by TFD Vice-President Dr. George W. Tsai. Visitors from SATS expressed particular interest in cross-strait relations and the upcoming 2012 Taiwan Election. During the meeting, the two organizations discussed future trends in cross-strait political and economic development from Taiwan, Mainland and international perspectives.
 


2011-08-24
Visit of President from Council for a Community of Democracies
On the 24th of August, 2011, President Robert LaGamma from Council for a Community of Democracies and Admiral Dennis Blair were received by President Teh-Fu Huang along with Director of International Cooperation Department, Jon Lin. After having a general idea of TFD’s promotion of human rights and democracy, both sides exchange opinions on potential opportunities regarding cooperation on both short-term and long-term projects.
 

2011-08-22 ~ 2011-08-23
2011 Assembly for Democracy in Asia

2011 Assembly of Democracy in Asia

The Assembly for Democracy in Asia (ADA) is an assembly of democrats, including activists, practitioners, academics, policymakers and funders, who have come together to cooperate in the promotion of democracy.

 

This year's ADA has focused on 1) the correlation between democracy and development, 2) the co-existence of different forms of democracies in Great Asia region, and 3) the ideal practice of implementing democracy through diversities.

 

The conference featured political figures and prominent scholars who have made great contributions to democratization in the world. The opening ceremony featured R.O.C. Vice President H.E. Vincent Siew and the Foundation Chairman Wang Jin-Pyng. Keynote speakers included Dr. Larry Diamond of Stanford University, Dr. Marc Plattner of the National Endowment for Democracy(NED), and Dr. Mantas Adomenas from the parliament of Republic of Lithuania. The R.O.C. Premier Wu Dun-Yi had also made an opening remark at the ADA Dinner Banquet. At the final plenary session, the Foundation President Huang Teh-Fu had led conference participants to adopt a declaration on themes including global democracy and sustainable development. The ADA's closing ceremony on August 23^rd was hosted by the Foundation's Vice-Chairman and R.O.C.'s Foreign Minister Mr. Timothy Yang Jin-tien, who had also

attended and delivered a speech at the conference's Culture Night.

 

The information of the event is as follows:

■　Time: August 22^nd-23^rd, 2011

■　Venue: Taipei International Convention Center, 1 Hsin-Yi Rd., Sec. 5, Taipei, Taiwan

■　Agenda:download(ADA Agenda)

■　Other Details:download(ADA –English final)

For more information, please contact the TFD at ada@tfd.org.tw. or +886-2-2708-0100 ext.114 or 120

 

 

 

2011-08-22
The delegates from the 2011 Assembly for Democracy in Asia(ADA) were received by President Ma and Legislative Speaker Wang
On August 22, international delegates of the 2011 Assembly for Democracy in Asia (ADA), including Dr. Larry Diamond, along with TFD President Huang Teh-Fu, were received by President Ma Ying-jeou and Legislative Speaker Wang Jin-Pyng. According to President Ma, the Republic of China's achievement in democratization is the most notable part over its one hundred year of history. He hopes that in the future, Taiwan can play a more pivotal role in Asia's democratization. Legislative Speaker Wang Jin-Pyng, who is also TFD's Chairman, said as Asia's democratization faces numerous challenges, the Foundation should effectively collaborate with the democrats of the international community to further promote global democracy.
 

 

2011-08-12
Visit of Legislative Directors and Legislative Assistants to US Congressmen
On the 12th of August, 2011, Legislative Directors and Legislative Assistants to the US Congressmen were received by Vice President Tsai Chang-Yen along with Director of International Cooperation Department, Jon Lin, as well as Vice Research Fellow, Allen Peng. After having a general idea of TFD’s promotion of human rights and democracy, both sides exchange opinions on Taiwan’s role on democracy development and many other related issues.
 



2011-07-26
Visited by The Delegation of US Youth Scholars and Experts
On July 26, 2011, the Delegation of US Youth Scholars and Experts visited TFD was received by Vice President Dr. George W. Tsai and Director of International Cooperation Department Dr. Jon. Lin. During an hour conversation, both of the two sides have discussed about the TFD’s role on democracy promotion and other related issues.
 

2011-07-19
Visit of delegation from the University of Malaya
On 19 July, Dr. Mohammad Redzuan Othman, Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences of the University of Malaya and Director of the university’s recently established Centre of Democracy and Elections (UMCEDEL) and 3 of his colleagues from the Centre visited TFD and were received by Vice President Maysing Yang. The two organizations shared views on the political developments in Taiwan and Malaysia, and discussed possible cooperation in joint research projects or seminars.
 



2011-07-11
Visit of Directors from Offices of US Senators
On July 11th, 2011, Directors from Offices of US Senators were received by President Huang Teh-Fu along with Director of International Cooperation Department, Jon Lin, as well as Research Fellow, Allen Peng. After having the general idea of TFD’s promotion of human rights and democracy, both sides exchange opinions on Taiwan’s role on democracy development and many other related issues.
 

2011-07-08
HOT! Taiwan Journal of Democracy, Vol7, No.1
This issue collects seven academic essays and three book reviews. The major topics of academic essays are the information and ideological structure in Spatial voting, multiparty democracies and economic growth, Westminster heritage, .forced democratization work, rights of indigenous people, empirical findings from Taiwanese magistrates, and semi- presidentialism in Taiwan.
All articles can be downloaded freely.


2011-07-06
Visit of Chinese Association for Human Rights
On July 6th, 2011, Chinese Association for Human Rights was received by President Huang Teh-Fu. After having the general idea of TFD’s promotion of human rights and democracy, both sides exchange opinions on human rights researches in Taiwan and Mainland China.
 

2011-07-01
Visit of the Delegation of Directors from EU Think Tanks
On July 1st, 2011, Delegation of Directors from EU Think Tanks was received by Vice President Tsai Woei. After having the general idea of TFD’s promotion of human rights and democracy, both sides exchange opinions on democracy promotion work.
 



2011-06-29
Visit of Academic Council on the United Nations Systems, ACUNS

On June 29th, 2011, ACUNS was received by the Vice President Mr Tsai Woei. Both sides discussed about TFD’s promotion of human rights and democracy as well as the issues related to Taiwanese politics and UN related organizations, etc.
 

2011-06-29
Visit of the President of FRIDE

On June 29th, 2011, Dr Richard Youngs, the president of FRIDE, was received by the Vice Research Fellow. After having the general idea of TFD’s promotion of human rights and democracy, Dr Youngs expressed his sincere appreciation to TFD for supporting his research project in the past. Both sides also exchange opinions on democracy promotion.
 

2011-06-28 ~ 2011-07-02
TFD attends the sixth Ministerial Meeting of the Communities of Democracy in Vilnius, Lithuania
Invited by Communities of Democracy (CoD), from June 28th to July 2nd of 2011, Board Member of TFD Shang-Ren Lee, President of TFD Dr. Teh-Fu Huang, Senior Research Fellow Dr. Michael Kao, Director of International Cooperation Department Dr. Jonathan Lin and Assistant Research Fellow Garlish Shen, travelled to Vilnius, Lithuania to attend the sixth Ministerial Meeting of the Communities of Democracy, visiting partners, scholars, NGO participants, and bureaucratic all over the world. Dr. Michael Kao also delivered a keynote speech in civil society forum.
 

 

2011-06-27
Former Canadian MP Hon. David Kilgour and Canadian human rights lawyer Mr. David Matas visit TFD
On 27June, Mr. David Kilgour, a former member of the Canadian Parliament, and Mr. David Matas, a leading Canadian human rights lawyer, visited TFD and were received by Ms. Maysing Yang, Vice President of the TFD. Mr. Kilgour and Mr. Matas expressed their concerns over human rights violations in China, and they and Ms. Yang exchanged views on how democratic countries should help democratization in China. Mr. Kilgour and Mr. Matas both were nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 2010.They were invited to be the keynote speakers in the international conference “Contemporary Human Rights Violations in China” on 26 June, in Taipei, sponsored by TFD.
 



2011-06-15
Visit of Police Services Reformation Committee from the Republic of Guatemala
On June 15th, 2011, Police Services Reformation Committee from the Republic of Guatemala was received by the Director of International Corporation Department ,Mr Jon Lin. Both sides discussed about TFD’s promotion of human rights and democracy as well as the idea of how to reform and improve police system within the Republic of Guatemala.

2011-05-12 ~ 2011-05-14
TFD attends the 8th European Association for Taiwan Studies Conference
Invited by the European Association of Taiwan Studies, President Teh-fu Huang and research fellow Shihhung Peng attended the EATS 8th conference in Ljubljana of Slovenia from May 12th to 14th. In addition to giving a keynote speech, President Huang met with NGO leaders in Slovenia to discuss plans for future cooperation.
 
 


2011-05-05
Presentation International Visiting Fellow Dr. Gerry McBeath

Dr. Gerry McBeath,TFD International Visiting Fellow will deliver his presentation “Environmentalism in Taiwan and its Linkages to Democratization and Environmental Education” at the TFD on May 5, 2011, from 10am – 12am. All are welcome to attend.(Press Release)

2011-04-22
Visited by Chief Representative for Partners and Business Development of Asia Pacific Oxford Economics
On April 22, 2011, Sam Wang, Chief Representative for Partners and Business Development of Asia Pacific Oxford Economics visited TFD was received by Director of International Cooperation Department Dr. Jon. Lin. During an hour conversation, both of the two sides have discussed about the opportunities and strategies to cooperate in the near future.
 


2011-04-22
Macau Wisdom Convergence
On April 22, 2011, Macau Wisdom Convergence were received by Vice President Dr. Tsai, Chang-yen, both of the two sides discussed about how to strengthen Macau-Taiwan Relations and the purpose of Macau Wisdom Convergence.
 


2011-04-06 ~ 2011-04-10
2011 Peruvian Presidential Election Observation
Invited by Peruvian Jurado Nacional de Elecciones (JNE), President Teh-fu Huang, Professor Yung-tai Hung, and Professor Ren-rang Chyou went to Peru for the Presidential and Congress election which was held on April 10. During the five day visit, President Huang not only shared opinion on the election with observers from other countries, but also exchanged democratization experience in Taiwan with JNE.
 

2011-03-30
Visited by Former Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Asia-Pacific Randy Schriver

On March 30, 2011, Randy Schriver , Former Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Asia-Pacific and Former Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for South Asia Christina Rocca and John Gastright, and Executive Director of 2049 Project Institute Mark Stokes visited TFD were received by Vice President Dr. George W. Tsai and the director of International Cooperation Department Dr. Jon. Lin. During an hour conversation, both of the two sides discussed about US-China-Taiwan Relations and the democratization processes in Taiwan, as well as the current joint projects that TFD is working on with this institute.
 

2011-03-28
Visited by Dr. Wen-Shin Yeh of UC Berkeley
On March 28th, Dr. Wen-Shin Yeh, the director of School of East Asia Study at UC Berkeley, visited TFD and were received by the President Dr. Teh-Fu Huang, the director of Domestic Affair Department Dr. Yu-Tzung Chang, and the director of International Cooperation Department Dr. Jonathan Lin. During an hour conversation, Dr. Yeh and Dr. Huang have discussed about the opportunities and strategies to cooperate in the near future through academic exchanges and conference.
 

2011-03-22
Visited by Shanghai Institute for East Asian Studies
On March 22, 2011, Experts on Cross-Strait Relations from Shanghai Institute for East Asian Studies visited TFD and received by President Teh-fu Huang and Vice President Chang-yan Tsai. During the one hour visit, the Shanghai Institute for East Asian Studies and TFD shared the opinions on political and economic development in Taiwan and mainland China, and also looked forward to cooperate with each other in the future.
 


2011-03-21
Presentation TFD International Visiting Fellow Ms. Hu Lan

Ms. Hu Lan 胡嵐,TFD International Visiting Fellow andthe Ohio State University Ph.D. Candidate delivered her presentation “A Statist Approach on Authoritarian Survival” at the TFD on March 21, 2011, from 9:30am – 11am.

See press release.
 

2011-03-17
Taiwan Journal of Democracy Call for Papers: Media and Citizenship Special Issue

This call for papers is intended to explore the interface of citizenship with media, building on other work on media and political engagement. Papers here may explore conceptual and analytical bridges to such key notions as agency, identity, deliberation, practice, civic interests and expression, or civic culture, among others. Please note this call is not region specific.

2011-03-07
Congratulation for being selected as one of the elite think tanks in Asia by FPRI
Foreign Policy Research Institute (FPRI) of US has recently published their report of “The Global "Go-To Think Tanks” : The Leading Public Policy Research Organizations In The World, 2010”, which reviews over 6000 think-tanks in 100 countries worldwide; TFD has improved its previous ranking from 23rd to 17th in Asian Think Tank list, and also is the only think tank in Taiwan that is being selected. (Click for more details)


2011-02-17
Visited by Presdeint Jansa of SDS, Slovenia

On February 17, 2011, Janez Jansa, former premier of Slovenia and the president of Slovenia Democratic Party (SDS, opposition party), and Dr. Mihael Brejc, visited TFD were received by the director of International Cooperation Department Dr. Jon. Lin and research fellow Dr. Allen Peng. During an hour conversation, president Jansa and Dr. Lin have discussed about the democratization processes in Slovenia and China, as well as the current joint projects that TFD is working on with University of Ljubljana.

2011-02-11
Visited by Executive Director of Students for a Free Tibet (SFT)
On February 11th, Mr. Tenzin (Tendor) Dorjee, Executive Director of Students for a Free Tibet (SFT) visited TFD and they were received by International Cooperation Department research fellow Allen Peng. During an hour conversation, SFT delegates and TFD staff have discussed about the current situation of NGOs and the Tibetan cultural development issues, exploring the opportunities of cooperation in the near future.



2011-02-06 ~ 2011-02-14
Visited Cuba Democratic Directorate and USC
In order to increase visibility and enhance the existing relationship with our partners, President Dr. Teh-Fu Huang, accompanied by the director of International Cooperation Department Dr. Jonathan Lin, visited the Cuba Democratic Directorate at Miami and University of Southern California (USC) at Los Angeles. During both visits, Dr. Huang received warm welcomes as well as feasible proposal that will further support the democracy on both practical and academic levels.

2011-01-28
HOT! Taiwan Journal of Democracy, Vol6, No.2
This issue collects seven academic essays and three book reviews. The major topics of academic essays are the field of democratic theory, biology, politics and democracy, democracy in Norway and Finland, voting shift and democratic consolidation in Taiwan and South Korea, election and voting in Singapore, and political parties and quest for political stability in Nigeria.
All articles can be downloaded freely.

2011-01-27
Visited by Director of Diplomatic Academy of Czech Republic
On January 27th, Mrs. Vera Jerabkova, Director of Diplomatic Academy of Czech Republic, and Representative Juraj Koudelka, visited TFD and they were received by the director of International Cooperation Department Dr. Jonathan Lin and research fellow Bo Tedards. During an hour conversation, Czech delegates and TFD staff have discussed about the current situation of NGOs and human rights development in Czech and other regions of the world, and opportunities to cooperate in the near future.



2011-01-25
Visited by CIVICUS (World Alliance for Citizen Participation)
On January 25th, Mr. Jeffery Huffines, the UN Representative of CIVICUS, visited TFD were received by the director of International Cooperation Department Dr. Jon. Lin. During an hour conversation, Mr. Huffines and Dr. Lin have discussed on how to assist the civil society of Taiwan in the near future.


2011-01-21
Visited by CAMSA (Coalition Against Modern Slavery in Asia)
On January 21st, Dr. Thang Nguyen, the executive director of Boat People SOS and representative of CAMSA, visited TFD were received by the director of International Cooperation Department Dr. Jon. Lin. During an hour conversation, Dr. Nguyen and Dr. Lin have discussed about the opportunities and strategies to cooperate in the near future.


2011-01-07
Visited by Norwegian Parliament members
On January 7th, a delegation of Norwegian Parliament Members visited TFD were received by President Dr. Teh-Fu Huang, director of International Cooperation Department Dr. Jon. Lin and Research Fellow Dr. Allen Peng. During an hour conversation, the delegates and Dr. Huang discussed about the current challenges of democracy, as well as increasing the participation of college students toward public affairs.



2011-01-04
Visited by Delegates of University of St. Thomas
On January 4, 2011, Dr. Hans Stockton, Professor of University of St. Thomas, led a delegation of students visited TFD were received by director of International Cooperation Department Dr. Jon. Lin, Research Fellow Dr. Allen Peng, and assistant research fellow Ms. Garlish Shen. During an hour conversation, Dr. Lin and Dr. Peng have answered all the questions about the operations of TFD, as well as the democratization process of China.



2010-12-21
Visited by Asian Network of Free Elections (ANFREL)
On December 21st, Ms. Somsri Hanauntasuk, director of ANFREL, visited TFD were received by acting director of International Cooperation Department Dr. Jon. Lin and Research Fellow Dr. Allen Peng. During an hour conversation, Ms. Hanauntasuk and Dr. Lin has discussed about the current political situation of Thailand, as well as the opportunities to cooperate in the near future.
 


2010-12-20
Presentation TFD Presentation International Visiting Fellow Dr Taru Salmenkari
Dr Taru Salmenkari, TFD International Visiting Fellow will deliver her presentation “East Asian NGOs and Habermasian public spheres” at the TFD on December 20, 2010, from 10am – 12am. All are welcome to attend.(Press Release)


2010-12-10
The 5th Asia Democracy and Human Right Award Ceremony
Taiwan Foundation for Democracy held the 5th Asia Democracy and Human Right Award Ceremony on December10, 2010. The 2010 Asia Democracy and Human Rights Award would be given to India’s Rescue Foundation
(See TFD announcement of award winner (2010/11/8))
(See TFD Press Release)

2010-12-08 ~ 2010-12-09
Participating the 2nd Bali Media Forum 2010
On December 8th -9th, Research Fellow Allen Peng participated the 2nd Bali Media Forum, which focused on the issue of “Ethical Journalism”. Over 30 journalism representatives from over 10 countries of South East Asia and South Asia discussed extensively and exchanged ideas, especially on the development of press council in different countries, which suggested participates to create a network of supporting the independent press councils.




2010-12-02
Visited by Canadian Scholars
On December 2nd, two Canadian scholars, Dr. William Black and Ms. Magda Seydegart, visited TFD were received by President Teh-Fu Huang, Dr. Jolan Hsieh of National Dong Hwa University, Dr. Bruce Liao Cheng-chi University, acting director of International Cooperation Department Dr. Jonathan Lin, and Dr. Allen Peng. During a 2-hour conversation, Dr. Huang have answered delegates’ questions regarding human rights challenges in Taiwan, the implementation of UN covenants into Chinese common laws, and other related issues.


2010-12-01
Presentation TFD International Visiting Fellow Dr Bharati Puri 璞莉
Dr Bharati Puri 璞莉, International Visiting Fellow, Taiwan Foundation for Democracy and Assistant Professor of Philosophy, Dept of Humanities and Social Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi,will deliver her presentation “Sacred and the Secular: Religion in the Public Sphere of Taiwan” at the TFD on December 1, 2010, from 10am – 12am. All are welcome to attend.(press release)


2010-11-30
Visited by Hungarian scholars

On November 30th, a delegation of Hungarian scholars visited TFD were received by President Teh-Fu Huang, acting director of International Cooperation Department Dr. Jon. Lin and Dr. Allen Peng. During an hour conversation, Dr. Huang have answered delegates’ questions regarding democratization in Asia, consolidation of democracy, and other related issues.

2010-11-26
Visit by the Hong Kong Media Electoral Observation Group
On November 26, the Hong Kong Media Electoral Observation Group visited TFD and was received by Ms. Angel Wu, Director of the Domestic Affairs Department and Mr. Patrick Wu, Research Fellow of the Domestic Affairs Department. After a briefing on the TFD’s mission and tasks, they exchanged opinions and views on the democratization in Taiwan as well as in other Chinese societies.


2010-11-25
Visit by the Chinese Dissidents Electoral Observation Group
On November 25, the Chinese Dissidents Electoral Observation Group visited TFD and was received by Ms. Maysing Yang, Vice President of the TFD.Ms Yang introduced the TFD’s mission and tasks and Dr. Ching-Hsin Yu, Research Fellow of the Election Study Center, National Chengchi University briefed on the 2010 Metro City Election in Taiwan.


2010-11-25
Visited by British Social Science Researchers

On November 25th, a delegation of British researchers in field of social science visited TFD were received by Vice President May-sing Yang, and acting director of International Cooperation Department Dr. Jon. Lin During an hour conversation, VP Yang have answered delegates’ questions regarding democracy challenges, the relationship between economic development and democratization, and other related

 

2010-11-24
Visit by the CALD Electoral Observation Group
On November 24, the CALD (Council of Asian Liberals and Democrats) Electoral Observation Group visited TFD and was received by Ms. Maysing Yang, Vice President of the TFD. Ms Yang introduced the TFD’s mission and tasks and Dr. Eric Chen-hua Yu, Assistant Research Fellow of the Election Study Center, National Chengchi University briefed on the 2010 Metro City Election in Taiwan.


2010-11-15
Rescue Foundation 2010 Asia Democracy and Human Rights Award Laureate

The Taiwan Foundation for Democracy announced today that the winner of 5th Asian Democracy and Human Rights Award is the Rescue Foundation of India, a non-governmental organization to recognize their ongoing work in rescuing teenage girls from human trafficking, and assisting them to restore their normal lives.

TFD announcement of award winner (2010/11/8)

Rescue Foundation Website: http://www.rescuefoundation.net 

2010-11-12
Visited by Scholars on African Studies
Five scholars on African Studies, visited TFD were received by acting director of International Cooperation Department Dr. Jon. Lin and Research Fellow Dr. Allen Peng. During an hour conversation, the scholars have exchanged ideas and answered delegates’ questions regarding cooperation between TFD and African NGOs and improving democratization in Taiwan and Africa.
  


2010-11-08
2010 Asia Democracy and Human Rights Award Press release
Press release

2010-11-04
Visited by Experts on United Nation’s Affairs
Two experts on UN’s affairs, Mr. Goldthwait and Mr. Miller, visited TFD were received by President Teh-Fu Huang, acting director of International Cooperation Department Dr. Jon. Lin and Research Fellow Dr. Allen Peng. During an hour conversation, Dr. Huang have exchanged ideas and answered delegates’ questions regarding democracy challenges, the relationship between economic development and democratization, and conditions for improving democratization.
  


2010-10-18
TAIWAN FOUNDATION FOR DEMOCRACY CONGRATULATES DR. LIU XIAOBO FOR RECEVING THE NOBEL PEACE PRICE, AND CONDEMN THE COUNTRIES ENPRISONING HUMAN RIGHTS ACTIVISTS
Taiwan Foundation for Democracy congratulates Dr. Liu Xiaobo who received the Nobel Peace Price of 2010 for his “long and non-violent struggle for fundamental human rights in China”. We believe that by receiving the Nobel Peace Prize is Dr. Liu’s active promotion on democracy and human rights protection being recognized, and that his current imprisonment simply symbolizes China, like Myanmar and other undemocratic countries, as the nemesis of universal values of democracy and basic human rights.

Dr. Liu’s action on actively protecting the basic human rights and promoting democracy started from 1980s. He also participated in 1989’s Tiananmen Square incident and was recognized as the “Four Gentlemen of Tiananmen Square” for persuading students to leave the square saving hundreds of lives. In 2008, Dr. Liu participated actively in the writing of Charter 08. Then, along with more than three hundred Chinese citizens, he signed Charter 08, a manifesto released on the 60th anniversary of the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (10 December 2008) calling for greater freedom of expression, human rights, and for free elections. However, late in the evening of December 8th, 2008, two days before the official release of the Charter, he was taken away from his home by police, and being indicted by charges of "inciting subversion of state power" on December 23rd, 2009.

On October 8th of this year, the Nobel Committee awarded him the Prize "for his long and non-violent struggle for fundamental human rights in China". US President Barack Obama in a statement praised Liu’s accomplishment, “[b]y granting the prize to Mr. Liu, the Nobel Committee has chosen someone who has been an eloquent and courageous spokesman for the advance of universal values through peaceful and non-violent means, including his support for democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.”Dr. Liu’s being awarded not only provides a great encouragement to democracy and human rights activists, but also validates that the democracy and human rights are universal values beyond the differences between races, cultures, and ideologies.

On the other hand, like Dr. Liu, Nobel Peace Prize Winner Aung San Suu Kyi also suffered the false imprisonment at her own country, Myanmar. The democratic activist who is considered as the most notable, and suitable person to govern Myanmar had been detent by militant government for more than 7 years, and no individual should be detent for more than 5 years under Myanmar’s laws; such unfair treatment not only illustrated Myanmar as an authoritarian regime, but also damaged Myanmar’s reputation as a country without the rule of law.

For the reasons above, WFDA strongly urges both Chinese and Myanmar governments for unconditional release on Dr. Liu Xiaobo and Aung San Suu Kyi immediately. We believe that democracy and human rights are universal values of the 21st century, and it is an unjustified behavior to arrest people promoting them, moreover, by releasing these two Nobel Peace Prize winners, Chinese and Myanmar government can send a sign as to their improvement on human rights condition domestically and change their images significantly in the international community.


2010-10-13
Visited by Dr. Fang-long Shih ,London School of Economics and Political Science
On October 13th, Dr. Fang-long Shih, research fellow and co-director Taiwan Research Programme of LSE, visited TFD and was received by research fellow Allen Peng . Dr. Shih came to Taiwan for field research; she shared her academic findings with TFD and discussed the possibility of future cooperative plans.
 

2010-10-08
Presentation TFD International Visiting Fellow Mr Paul Rockower洛保羅
Mr Paul Rockower 洛保羅, TFD International Visiting Fellow and holder of Master’s of Public Diplomacy, University of Southern California, will deliver his presentation “Taiwan’s Public Diplomacy Outreach” at the TFD on October 08, 2010, from 3pm – 5pm. All are welcome to attend. (Press Release)

2010-10-05
The speech “ Is everyone Happy with Democracy ? The East Experience” by Professor Stefan Wolle
On 5 October, from 10:00a.m. to 12:00 noon, the speech “ Is everyone Happy with Democracy ? The East Experience” by Professor Stefan Wolle will take place at the International Conference Hall, College of Social Sciences, National Taiwan University, No. 21, Xuzhou Rd., Taipei, Taiwan. The organizers of the event are the European Union Center in Taiwan, the German Institute Taipei, and the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy.( Agenda, Registration Form, Press Release 1 , Press Release2 and Map)

2010-09-28 ~ 2010-09-30
TFD delegates attending Council for a Community for Democracies Mongolia Roundtable Meeting
On September 28, 2010, the Council for a Community for Democracies (CCD) Mongolia Roundtable meeting was held in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. Vice President Kwei-Bo Huang, accompanied by Deputy Director of International Cooperation Department Jonathan Lin and Associate Research Fellow Katrina Kung, attended the meeting. During the meeting, delegates from different countries discussed the agenda related to the issues of development, democracy, and women’s rights.
  
  

2010-09-28
Visited by British Parliament members
On September 28th, a delegation of British Parliament members visited TFD were received by President Teh-Fu Huang and Ms. Regina Su. During an hour conversation, Dr. Huang have answered delegates’ questions regarding what role the TFD will play in future democratization not only in Taiwan but in Asia.
  

2010-09-28
Visited by Swedish Sami Parliament members
On September 28th, a delegation of Swedish Sami Parliament members visited TFD were received by Vice President Maysing Yang and Ms. Regina Su. During an hour conversation, Vice President Yang have answered delegates’ questions regarding political participation of Taiwanese indigenous people, and also got to understand how the Sami Parliament works.
  

2010-09-27
Participate Global Center for Development and Democracy Meeting
On September 27th, research fellow Allen Peng participated the “social business” meeting, hosted by Global Center for Development and Democracy in Lima ,Peru. During this meeting, TFD delegate discussed with GCDD people for cooperation in future time.
  

2010-09-23
Visit by Chancellor Manning of the National University of Ireland
Dr. Maurice Manning, Chancellor of the National University of Ireland and President of the Irish Human Rights Commission, was received at the Foundation on the afternoon of September 23, 2010, by Vice-President Maysing Yang, Deputy-Director Jon Lin, Associate Research Fellow Katrina Kung and Program Officer Ben Hlavaty. On special invitation for formal discussion were Prof. Yen Chen-Shen of the Institute of International Relations, National Chengchi University, and Prof. Teng Yean-Sen of the School of Law, Soochow University. Once understanding the Foundation’s work and objectives, Chancellor Manning shared the experiences of Ireland’s work toward human rights and democratic consolidation for a better future. During the meeting, both sides discussed in depth the abolition of capital punishment, minority rights, political asylum and the establishment of a Human Rights Commission in Taiwan.

2010-09-13
Visited by Norwegian Parliament members
On September 13th, a delegation of Norwegian Parliament members visited TFD were received by President Teh-Fu Huang, acting director of International Cooperation Department Dr. Jon. Lin and Ms. Katrina Kung. During an hour conversation, Dr. Huang have answered delegates’ questions regarding democracy challenges, the relationship between economic development and democratization, and issues related to rise of China.
  

2010-09-02
Visited by Asia Society - Asian 21 Young Leaders Initiative Delegation
On September 2nd, a delegation of 15 members of Asia Society visited TFD were received by VP Cheng-yen Tsai, Research Fellows Dr. Jon. Lin and Dr. Allen Peng. During an hour conversation, Dr. Tsai have answered delegates’ questions regarding democracy challenges, characteristics of democracy, and democratic indicators of Taiwan’s democracy
 

2010-08-27
Visit to the TFD by Professor Nishitani Hajime of Hiroshima University in Japan
Professor Hajime Nishitani of Hiroshima University in Japan will be visiting the TFD on Friday, 8/27, and will be received by Deputy Director Jonathan Lin, Secretary Regina Su, and Research Fellow Allen Peng of the International Department. Professor Nishitani came to Taiwan upon invitation by the National Chengchi University to speak on human rights. On the topic of human rights, the TFD’s meeting with Professor Nishitani will help to establish better relations for future interactions with Japan.
 

2010-08-11
Visit by Okinawa Prefecture Parliamentarian Mr. Toma Morio and President Araki
Okinawa Prefecture Parliamentarian Mr. Toma Morio and President Araki paid a visit to the Foundation on the afternoon of August 8, 2010, to be received by Foundation Vice-President Maysing Yang and Director of Domestic Affairs Angel Liu. While going over the Foundation’s background and objectives, both parties agreed upon possible future discussion and exchange.
   

2010-08-04 ~ 2010-08-06
Internet Services Temporarily Halted
The Foundation will be moving and setting up its mainframe computer from 15:00, Wednesday, August 4, 2010, to 15:00, August 6, 2010, Taipei time. The Foundation’s website and related Internet services will be halted during this period.

2010-08-02
HOT! Taiwan Journal of Democracy, Vol.6, No1
This issue contains seven academic essays and three book reviews that cover regions from the Middle East and North Africa to South Asia, the role of Muslims and Islam in democratization and a statistical analysis of voting behavior. Furthermore, an observation of 19 Latin American nations over the last 30 years addresses which route of democratization these nations have been taking. Finally, political economic trade-offs are highlighted in new democracies that instigate transitional justice mechanisms.
All articles can be downloaded freely.

2010-07-31 ~ 2010-08-04
Participate 2010 Global Forum of Direct Democracy
Pres. Huang, accompanied by acting director Dr. Jonathan Lin and research fellow Dr. Allen Peng,, attended the 2010 Global Forum of Direct Democracy in San Francisco upon the formal invitation of Bruno Kaufmann, IRI Europe’s president,. During the conference, TFD delegates were able to meet many democracy activists around the world and exchanged ideas as how to implement direct democracy in grassroots level.
   

2010-07-30
Presentation TFD International Visiting Fellow Dr Chevelle Hall 侯雪菲
Dr Chevelle Hall 侯雪菲, TFD International Visiting Fellow and Assistant Professor at Hampton University, will deliver her presentation “Sport and Democracy” at the TFD on July 30, 2010, from 3pm – 5pm. All are welcome to attend. Press release
   

2010-07-29
Visited Prof. Larry Diamond at Stanford Univ.
Dr. Larry Diamond, the world-famous scholar on democracy promotion and international relationship, held an annual summer fellowship program for the past 3 years. Pres. Huang was invited by Dr. Diamond to visit the program and obtain the experience of holding such a program, which TFD can replicate such an experience in the future
 

2010-07-25 ~ 2010-07-26
Visited NED and its affiliates at Washington, DC
Pres. Huang, accompanied by acting director Dr. Jonathan Lin and research fellow Dr. Allen Peng, visited NED and its affiliated organizations in Washington, DC upon the formal invitation of NED’s president, Dr. Carl Gershman. During the visit, Dr. Huang and Dr. Gershman had an 90 minutes conversation on deepening the understanding and sharing the common belief on democracy.
   

2010-07-20
Arrival of International Visiting Fellow Dr. Chevelle Hall (侯雪菲)
Dr. Chevelle Hall (侯雪菲) of Hampton University will begin her fellowship on July 20, 2010.

2010-07-12 ~ 2010-07-15
Internet Services Temporarily Halted
The Foundation will halt Internet Services from 5pm to 9am Taiwan time. We apologize for the inconvenience.

2010-07-09
U.S. Politics Scholars’ Visit
A delegation of US Politics scholars visited on Friday July 9th, greeted by International Department Deputy Director Jonathan Lin, Researcher Peng Shih-hung, and Fellow Katrina. The scholars are experts on US policies and their potential impacts. The two sides the political and economic situation of Taiwan, democracy and human rights development, cross-strait relations, and foreign policy issues.
 

2010-07-09
Visit from the delegation of the Taipei Representative Office in Singapore
On Friday July 9th, Luo Jialiang visited the TFD on behalf of the Taipei Representative Office in Singapore, greeted by TFD President Huang Teh-Fu and International Department Deputy Director Jonathan Li. The two sides discussed the possibility of further future cooperation between the TFD and the Taipei Representative Office in Singapore.
   

2010-07-05
Visit TECRO in Warsaw, and meet with Representative David Yi-min Liu
On July 5th, President Huang and Research Fellow Jonathan Lin visited the TECRO in Warsaw, Poland, and received by Representative David Yi-min Liu. During the 90 minutes conversation, Dr. Huang and Rep. Liu exchanged the ideas and discussed the possible further collaborations
  

2010-07-02
Participate in High Level Democracy Meeting at Krakow, Poland
On July 2nd, 2010, the High Level Democracy Meeting was held in Krakow, Poland. President The-Fu Huang, accompanied with Dr. Michael Ying-mao Kau and Dr, Jonathan Lin, was invited in this 3-day meeting and discussed the agendas regarding what threats faced by democracy in 21st century.
  
  
  

2010-06-29
International Journalists visited TFD
On Tuesday, June 29th, 2010, 5 journalists from different international media visited TFD, and they were received Dr. Jonathan Lin and Dr. Allen Peng. During a 75-minute conversation, Dr, Lin and Dr. Peng have answered delegates’ questions regarding ECFA, Cross-strait relationship, and Beijing’s influence on Taiwan’s democracy.
 

2010-06-28
Political Scholars of US universities visited TFD
On Monday, June 28th, 2010, a group of professors from universities of US, led by Prof. John Hsieh, visited TFD and were received by President Dr. Teh-Fu Huang. During a 90-minute conversation, Dr. Huang and delegates have exchanged their ideas on better promotion of democracy through education and agreed on possible collaboration in the future.


2010-06-25
The business delegation from Melbourne, Australia visited TFD

The business delegation from Melbourne, Australia was personally received by President Huang Deh-Fu (黃德福) on Friday, June 25, 2010. The head of the delegation, Liu Guo-Qiang and members of the delegation discussed with President Huang the development and implementation of democracy in Taiwan and future visions of peace, among other topics.

2010-06-23
Mr. Thor Halvorssen visited TFD
On Tuesday, June 22, 2010, Mr. Thor Halvorssen, the founder of the Oslo Freedom Forum, visited the TFD, received by Jonathan Lin and VP Tsai. Through an hour and half meeting, groundwork was laid for future cooperation between the TFD and the Oslo Freedom Forum, such as being partners through sponsorship or participating in the upcoming Oslo Freedom Forum in Norway.
 

2010-06-14
The UBC delegation visited TFD
On June 14th, 2010, Dr. Yves Tiberghien of UBC (University of British Columbia) led a group of 12 delegates visited TFD, and they were received by Vice President Chang – Yen Tsai, Research Fellow Dr. Jonathan Lin, and Assistant Research Fellow Dr. Allen Peng. During a 30-minutes long conversation, Vice President Tsai represented TFD to welcome their visit, and answered several questions from the Canadian delegates regarding the issue of the decision making process of TFD, the treatment of indigenous people in Taiwan, and TFD’s relationship with China.
 

2010-06-03
Ms. Birgitt Ory, Director General of Deutsches Institute, and Mr. Sven Meier, Media and Public Affairs Officer of Deutsches Institute, Visits TFD
On 3 June, Ms. Birgitt Ory, Director General of Deutsches Institute, and Mr. Sven Meier, Media and Public Affairs Officer of Deutsches Institute, visited TFD and were received by Dr. Teh-Fu Huang, President of TFD. After a briefing on the TFD mission and tasks, Ms. Ory and Dr. Huang exchanged ideas and opinions of building links and co-organizing activities between two organizations and both expressed their optimistic anticipation of future cooperation.


2010-06-03
Courtesy call for former United Nations ambassador of Romania Dr. Pavel Suian
Former United Nations ambassador of Romania Dr. Pavel Suian and Dr. Ferdinand Siem Tjam visited the Foundation on the morning of June 3, where he was received by Dr. Michael Kau and VP Maysing Yang. Both sides discussed possibilities of Taiwan-Eastern Europe academic exchanges.
 

2010-06-01
Arrival of Visiting Fellows Mr. Paul Rockower 洛保羅, Dr. Taru Salmenkari石達如 and Dr. Bharati Puri璞莉
Mr. Paul Rockower of the University of Southern California, Dr. Taru Salmenkari of the University of Helsinki and Dr. Bharati Puri of the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi will begin their fellowships at the Foundation on June 1, 2010.

2010-05-28
TFD Visited by Dr. Schopflin, MEP
On May. 28th, Dr. Gyorgy Schopflin, a member of European Parliament, visited TFD and was received by President Huang. During an hour-long conversation, president Huang and Dr. Schopflin have discussed and share the knowledge on the issues such as the local democratization in Taiwan, the cross-strait relationship with China, and the influence of family to democracy in Taiwan.
 

2010-05-21
Courtesy Call for the World Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce
Jecy Lu of the World Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce, along with a number of other chamber members and a legislator, arrived at the Foundation on the morning of May 21, 2010, for a courtesy call from President Tehfu Huang. Affiliates include Honorary President Tony Yen of the African Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce, Legislator Wu Song-pi, Vice-President Ming-Cheng Su of the Taiwanese Chamber of Commerce of North America, Honorary President Jason Lin of the Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce Oceania, and Honorary President Lu Wei-Ming of the Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce in Latin America.
 

2010-05-20
Mr. William Hawkins, board member of AAI, visited TFD in the afternoon of May, 20th.
Mr. William Hawkins, board member of AAI, visited TFD in the afternoon of May, 20th, and was received by Research Fellow Dr. Jonathan Lin and Associate Research Fellow Patrick Wu. During the hour-long meeting, Mr. Hawkins illustrated AAI’s intention for further collaboration and discussed about the possibilities of working with TFD more closely in the near future.
 

2010-05-13
Ms. Anita Botti, Deputy Director of the Secretary’s Office of Global
On 13 May, Ms. Anita Botti, Deputy Director of the Secretary’s Office of Global Women’s Issues of the U.S. State Department, and Ms. Deanna Kim, Political Officer of AIT, visited TFD and were received by Dr. Michael Kau, Senior Fellow of TFD, and Ms. Maysing Yang, Vice President of TFD. Ms. Li-Feng Lee, Secretary General of the ECPAT (End Child Prostitution in Asian Tourism) Taiwan, was invited by TFD to meet Ms. Botti. In the meeting, opinions and views on issues of the human trafficking in Asia were exchanged and shared.
 

2010-05-04
Arrival of Dissertation Fellow Mr. Kurt Munroe 孟可德
Mr. Kurt Munroe 孟可德, PhD candidate at National Sun Yat-sen University, arrived at the Foundation on Tuesday, May 4, to start his three-month dissertation fellowship.

2010-04-27
Presentation TFD Dissertation Fellow Mr Hopong To杜浩邦
Mr Hopong To杜浩邦, TFD Dissertation Fellow and PhD candidate at The Australian National University, will deliver his presentation “Policymaking in Semi-presidential Democracies: The Case of Budgeting in Taiwan” at the TFD on April 27, 2010, from 10am – 12nn. All are welcome to attend. (Press release)
 

2010-04-27
Visit of Senators of Australia
On 27th April. Sen. David Johnston, Sen.Birmingham, and Sen. Cash from Senate of Australia visited TFD and were received from President Huang. The two organization discussed Taiwanese and Australian views of democracy, as well as how does TFD assist on democratic developments both domestically and internationally.
 

2010-04-20
Awards Ceremony for Taiwan Finalists in the Democracy Video Challenge
Media Advisory
 
 

2010-04-19 ~ 2010-04-23
TFD hosts the International Republican Institute’s Egyptian delegation to study Taiwan’s party politics
The Taiwan Foundation for Democracy hosted a study tour for a visiting delegation of political party and civil society leaders from Egypt from 19-23 April 2010. The delegation was organized and sponsored by the International Republican Institute (IRI) with the aim of enabling its Egyptian partners to learn about Taiwan’s experience of transition to democracy and the subsequent development of party politics and elections. The delegation consisted of six leaders from three Egyptian political parties and two human rights organizations, as well as IRI’s Egypt Country Director and two IRI staff.

The TFD arranged a full schedule of briefings and meetings for the delegation. The core of the trip was one full day each at the national headquarters of the Kuomintang Party (KMT) and Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), which provided an in-depth exposure to the operations of both parties. The delegation also visited the Legislative Yuan and had an audience with Speaker Wang Jin-pyng (the Chairman of the TFD) to learn about the functioning of Taiwan’s legislature. In addition, the group visited the Central Election Commission, the Election Study Center of National Chengchi University, and Citizens Congress Watch to hear the views and learn about the experiences of independent commissions, academic experts, and civil society regarding Taiwan’s democratic development. On the last day, the group was received by the Chinese Muslim Association at the Taipei Mosque to learn about the Muslim community in Taiwan.

Members of the delegation described Taiwan’s experience as extremely relevant, not only because its transition was so recent, but especially because it was so rapid and peaceful. The TFD hopes that Taiwan’s experience can be shared more widely around the world in the years to come.

 
 
 
 

2010-04-13
Presentation by TFD International Visiting Fellow Ms Viviane Bayala 魏薇安
TFD International Visiting Fellow and Global Unification International Under-Secretary of Information, Burkina Faso, Ms Viviane Bayala will deliver a presentation titled “NGO Contribution to Human Rights Protection in Taiwan” on Tuesday, April 13, 2010, 10:00 – 12:00 at the TFD. Please see the press release. All are welcome to attend.

2010-04-11 ~ 2010-04-14
TFD participates in the Sixth Assembly of the World Movement for Democracy
The Taiwan Foundation for Democracy is participating in the Sixth Assembly of the World Movement for Democracy in Jakarta, Indonesia, April 11-14, 2010.
Together with the European Partnership for Democracy, the TFD is co-organizing a workshop on “Actors In Democracy Assistance: What Have We Learned from the Asian and European Experiences?”, to be moderated by Dr. Michael Y.M. Kau, TFD Senior Fellow. Dr. Kau will also be speaking on the panel, “The Contribution of the Community of Democracies to Global Democratization: the Second Decade.”

The World Forum for Democratization in Asia, which is coordinated through the TFD, is also co-organizing a series of three regional workshops on media freedom, labor and migrant workers’ rights, and human rights mechanisms in Asia.

For more information about the Sixth Assembly of the WMD, please click here.

2010-04-02
Rights Service Fellow Dr. Jens Damm's達嚴思Presentation
Dr Jens Damm達嚴思, TFD Democracy and Human Rights Service Fellow and Assistant Professor at the Graduate Institute of Taiwan Studies, Chang Jung Christian University, will deliver his presentation “Tongzhi in Contemporary Taiwan” at the TFD on April 2, 2010 from 3 – 5pm. (Press release)

2010-04-01
Handover Ceremony for the President of the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy

PRESS RELEASE (2010/03/18) 
PRESS RELEASE (2010/04/01) 
 
 
 

2010-03-30
Vice-President Maysing Yang to attend “Gender Focal Point Network (GFPN) in Economy and Cooperation” on behalf of the Foundation
The Foundation for Women’s Rights Promotion and Development will hold the conference “Gender Focal Point Network (GFPN) in Economy and Cooperation” at the Taiwan Women’s Center on March 30, 2010. This conference is to prepare for “The APEC Symposium on GFPN Strategies: Integrating Gender Perspectives to APEC Forums” this May where domestic and international speakers will share and analyze their experiences, sensitize participants to gender-related issues, and compose a strategic action-plan to integrate gender perspectives. Vice-President Maysing Yang will attend on behalf of the Foundation.

2010-03-09
Presentation by TFD fellow Dr. Stephen Lakkis賴信道
Dr Stephen Lakkis, Adjunct Assistant Professor for Systematic Theology, Taiwan Theological College, will deliver a presentation titled “Burning but Not Consumed: The impact of the Presbyterian Church of Taiwan on the development and promotion of Taiwanese democracy and human rights” on March 09, 2010, 15:00 – 17:00 at the TFD. Please see the press release. All are welcome to attend.

2010-02-17 ~ 2010-02-19
TFD attends the 2010 Washington Human Rights Summit
PRESS RELEASE
February 16, 2010

TFD attends the 2010 Washington Human Rights Summit

The Taiwan Foundation for Democracy has been invited to the “2010 Washington Human Rights Summit: Affirming Fundamental Freedoms,” which will be held at the Newseum in Washington, D.C., from February 17 to 19. The summit is jointly organized by Freedom House and Human Rights First, two prominent human rights organizations based in the United States, and will bring together human rights advocates from around the world with U.S. policymakers, journalists and experts to discuss the current state of human rights and democracy worldwide, especially with regard to the freedoms of expression and association. The conference will produce an action plan for the Obama Administration, other governments and multilateral institutions on the defense of democratic values and basic human rights.

Wen-Cheng Lin, TFD President, will be speaking in the afternoon of February 19 on the topic, “Affirming Fundamental Freedoms: The Role of Democracies.” He will be sharing the panel with Michael Posner, U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights and Labor; Maria Leissner, Sweden’s Ambassador for Democracy; and María del Luján Flores, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Uruguay to the Organization of American States. The session will be moderated by Jennifer Windsor, Executive Director of Freedom House.

The TFD is sponsoring the 2010 Washington Human Rights Summit, along with the MacArthur Foundation, the Carter Center, the Canadian Embassy to the U.S., the British Embassy to the U.S., Irish Aid, the Middle East Partnership Initiative of the U.S. Department of State, the Open Society Institute, and the U.S. Agency for International Development.

For the summit agenda and more information, please visit: http://www.humanrightssummit.org/

2010-02-10 ~ 2010-02-12
TFD attends the Fifth Dublin Platform for Human Rights Defenders
The Taiwan Foundation for Democracy has been invited to attend theFifth Dublin Platform for Human Rights Defenders, which is being held in Dublin Castle from February 10 to 12. Mrs. Maysing Yang, TFD Vice President, is attending the conference on the Foundation’s behalf. (Press release) 
 
Photo (left): Mrs. Maysing Yang with Ms. Navi Pillay, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, and Mr. Nan-yang Lee, Representative of the Taipei Representative Office in Ireland.
Photo (right): Mrs. Yang with Mr. Maurice Manning, President of the Irish Human Rights Commission and Representative Lee.
Press Release


2010-02-04
TFD joins Donor Conference on North Korea
The TFD participated in the “International Donor Conference on North Korea: Development, Human Rights, and Democracy”, co-organized by the Institute for Far Eastern Studies of Kyungnam University and the National Endowment for Democracy. The following day, the TFD delegation joined a closed-door donors consultation. For more information, see our press release.

2010-02-04
Visit by former President of the United Nations Correspondents Association
J. Tuyet Nguyen, former President of the United Nations Correspondents Association, visited the TFD on Feb. 4, 2010. Other members of the delegation included: Denise Scotto, who has formerly served on the United Nations NGO Committee on the Status of Women; Lennox Daniel, former Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN for St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Manuel E. Felix, President of the Latin America-Taiwan Friendship Association in New York. They were received by TFD Senior Fellow Michael Y.M. Kau.
 

2010-02-04
Visit to the TFD by delegation of U.S. Republican foreign policy experts
A delegation of U.S. Republican foreign policy experts, led by former Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Randall G. Schriver, visited the TFD on Feb. 4, 2010. They were received by TFD Senior Fellow Michael Kau.

2010-01-21 ~ 2010-03-31
TFD listed in “The Global ‘Go-To Think Tanks’: The Leading Public Policy Research Organizations in the World”
In the recently published “The Global ‘Go-To Think Tanks’: The Leading Public Policy Research Organizations in the World, 2009” by the world-renowned Foreign Policy Research Institute (FPRI) in the USA, out of a database of some 6,305 from 170 nations worldwide, the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy has received the honor of listing number 23 in all of Asia and the only one of Taiwan’s total of 52 think-tanks to make the list of “Top 40 Think Tanks in Asia.” (more)

2010-01-12
Visit of Norwegian Progress Party Delegation
On 12 January, Hon. Siv Jensen, MP and leader of the Progress Party, and 3 of her colleagues visited TFD and were received by Senior Fellow Kau. Ambassador Kau and the delegation exchanged views on strengthening relations between Taiwan and Norway, especially in the field of democracy and human rights.

2010-01-12
Visit of the Foreign Affairs Committee delegation of the Hungarian National Assembly
On January 14, the Hon. Zsolt Nemeth, Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee in the Hungarian National Assembly, led a delegation of Hungarian MPs to visit the TFD. They were received by Dr. Michael Kau, TFD Senior Fellow, and met with other Taiwanese experts and scholars of European affairs. The two sides exchanged views on the democratization experiences of Hungary and Taiwan, and discussed possible avenues for future cooperation.

2010-01-11
Visitor from the Heritage Foundation
On 11 January, Mr. Walter Lohman, Director of the Asian Studies Center at the Heritage Foundation in the US, visited the TFD to discuss future cooperation building on the conference co-sponsored by the two organizations and the Institute for National Policy Research in 2009.

2010-01-09
Visit of Boat People SOS delegation
On 9 January, Dr. Thang D. Nguyen and 4 of his colleagues from Boat People SOS, an American NGO working to provide human rights training for overseas Vietnamese, visited TFD and were received by President Lin. The two organizations discussed possible cooperation in the region, as well as the future establishment of a BPSOS program in Taiwan.

2009-12-22
HOT! Taiwan Journal of Democracy, Vol.5, No.2
This issue features various topics on Europe’s Democratization: Three “Clusters” Compared, Beyond Lustration: Truth-Seeking Efforts in the Post-Communist Space, Lustration and the Survival of Parliamentary Parties, Democracy Sanctions: An Assessment of Economic Sanctions as an Instrument of Democracy Promotion, The Emergence of New Politics in Malaysia: From Consociational to Deliberative Democracy, Voting with Their Feet: The Relationship between Political Efficacy and Protest Propensity among Hong Kong Residents, Political Support from Election Losers in Asian Democracies. All articles can be downloaded freely.

2009-12-11
Arrival of TFD International Visiting Fellow Ashley Esarey
International visiting fellow Dr. Ashley Esarey of Columbia University will start his one-month fellowship with the TFD.

2009-12-10
2009 Asia Democracy and Human Rights Award Ceremony
The award ceremony of the 2009 Asia Democracy and Human Rights Award will be held on December 10th, International Human Rights Day. This year’s award laureate is Mr. Kim Seong-Min, founder and director of Free North Korea Radio. For more information, please refer to the TFD press release.

2009-12-08
Presentation by international visiting fellow Mr. Arturo Lopez-Levy
TFD International Visiting fellow Mr. Arturo Lopez-Levy, PhD candidate at the University of Denver, will present “Anything but Shock Therapy: Comparing Democratic Transition and Consolidation in Mexico and Taiwan” at 10am on December 08, 2009. All are welcome to attend.  (Press release)

2009-11-26 ~ 2009-12-01
Electoral Observation Mission to Honduras
Consorcio Justicia and the Latin American and Caribbean Network for Democracy, with the support of the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, the Government of Canada, the National Endowment for Democracy and Freedom House, will dispatch six accredited electoral experts to observe the election in Honduras from November 26 to December 01. The Network will also hold a press conference in Tegucigalpa and promote dialogue. Please click on the weblink for further details. http://www.justiceconsortium.org

2009-11-25
2010 Democracy Video Challenge
The American Cultural Center is holding a briefing to introduce the 2010 Democracy Video Challenge, of which TFD is a national partner. For details (in Chinese) click here. The global website for the Challenge is http://www.videochallenge.america.gov/

2009-11-10 ~ 2009-11-12
Democracy and Human Rights: Civil Society Forum in Managua, Nicaragua
Consorcio Justicia and the Latin American and Caribbean Network for Democracy, with the support of the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, the Government of Canada, the National Endowment for Democracy and Freedom House, will hold a civil society forum titled “Democracy and Human Rights” in Managua, Nicaragua from November 10 to 12. Please click on the weblink for further details. http://www.justiceconsortium.org

2009-11-09
Unveiling Ceremony of a segment of the Berlin Wall
“Unveiling Ceremony of a segment of the Berlin Wall” which is organized by Memorial Foundation of 228 and Taiwan Foundation for Democracy will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, 9 November 2009 at the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy. The government officials, diplomats and experts in Taiwan and other guests are warmly invited to attend the event, to witness this historic moment. Also, Mr. Jörn Mothes, Former East German civil rights activist, is invited to have a keynote speech at the ceremony. (Press Release)

2009-11-04
Democracy, Human Rights and Freedom of Expression: Washington, DC
Consorcio Justicia and the Latin American and Caribbean Network for Democracy, with the support of the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, Freedom House and George Washington University and as part of the support for Latin American NGO activities in the Inter-American Human Rights Commission, will hold “Democracy, Human Rights and Freedom of Expression” in Washington, DC on November 04. Please click on the weblink for further details. http://www.justiceconsortium.org

2009-11-04
Arrival of TFD International Visiting Fellow
Mr. Hopong To of the Australian National University will begin his dissertation fellowship titled “Policymaking in Semi-presidential Democracies” on November 4, 2009.

2009-11-03
Visit by Hon. General Dr. Falak Jamani, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives of Jordan.
As the first woman promoted to the rank of general in any Middle Eastern country, and the first woman to win election to the Jordanian parliament without relying on the quota system, Hon. Jamani shared experiences in promoting women’s political participation with TFD Board Member Atty. Dagmar Mei-nu You and Vice President Maysing Yang.

2009-11-03
Visit by 9-member delegation from the Junge Union of Germany
The Junge Union is the youth wing of Germany’s ruling Christian Democratic party, and the largest youth membership organization in Europe. Discussion with the TFD focused on the importance of values, especially democracy and human rights, in foreign policy.

2009-11-02 ~ 2009-11-06
International Assembly for Migrants and Refugees
The International Assembly for Migrants and Refugees (IAMR) is an international conference of grassroots migrants parallel to the 3rd Global Forum on Migration and Development (GFMD). This year, the IAMR will take place in Athens, Greece.

2009-10-29
Freedom of Expression in the Andean Region: Forum of Latin American Experts in Lima, Peru
Consorcio Justicia and the Latin American and Caribbean Network for Democracy, with the support of the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, the Government of Canada, the National Endowment for Democracy and Freedom House, will hold a forum of Latin American experts titled “Freedom of Expression in the Andean Region” in Lima, Peru on October 29. Please click on the weblink for further details. http://www.justiceconsortium.org  

2009-10-16
Courtesy call for Danish parliamentarian Jeppe Kofod
Danish parliamentarians Jeppe Kofod and Karsten Lauritzen will have a courtesy call at the TFD.

2009-10-16
Seminar on Understanding Contemporary Democratic Governance in Finland
Sponsored by the Taiwan International Studies Association together with the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, the seminar “Understanding Contemporary Democratic Governance in Finland” will be held on October 16 at the Foreign Service Institute, MOFA in the International Conference Hall. All are welcome to attend. Please visit the website for more information, or book tickets through ArtsTicket venues. http://www.tisanet.org/conference/finland.html  

2009-10-16 ~ 2009-10-25
2009 Women Make Waves International Film Festival
Sponsored by the Taiwan Women’s Film Association together with the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, the 16th Women Make Waves International Film Festival will be held from October 16 – 25 at the Shin Kong Cineplex in Ximending, Taipei. http://wmwff2009.pixnet.net/blog

2009-10-14
“Democracy Building in Asia” Symposium
The Heritage Foundation, the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, and the Institute for National Policy Research will co-organize a “Democracy Building in Asia” Symposium on October 14 at the Shangri-la’s Taipei Far Eastern Plaza Hotel. Topics to be covered include: Legislative Optimization and Tools of Democracy; Free and Fair Elections; Ensuring Liberal Freedoms; and Judicial Reform and Rule of Law. To attend, please contact Ms. Chen at INPR (02-2357-9687). Agenda and RSVP Form.

2009-10-12 ~ 2009-10-16
Disabled Peoples’ International regional training in Lima
With partial funding from the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, Disabled Peoples’ International – Latin America Region will hold a regional training in Lima from October 12 – 16, 2009. Visit their website for more information.

2009-10-09
Fifth Former Presidential Meeting on the Social Agenda for Democracy in Latin America to be held in Lima, Peru
The Global Center for Development and Democracy is holding the “Fifth Former Presidential Meeting on the Social Agenda for Democracy in Latin America” on October 9, 2009. Ms. Bi-khim Hsiao, board member of the TFD, is invited to participate in the meeting.

2009-10-08 ~ 2009-10-11
Canadian Asian Studies Association Conference to be held in Vancouver
With the support of the Japan Foundation, Air Canada, and the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, the Canadian Asian Studies Association will hold the conference “Can-Asian, eh? Diaspora, Indigeneity and the Trans-Pacific” at the Vancouver Pinnacle Marriott Hotel from October 08 – 11. The panel list can be found at http://canadianasianstudies.concordia.ca/htm/2009panels-e.htm 

2009-10-02
Courtesy call for AIT official
Rick Parrish of the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) is scheduled to arrive at the TFD for a courtesy call on October 2 at 10:30am.

2009-10-02
Courtesy call for director-general of ELIAMEP
Director-General of the Hellenic Foundation for European and Foreign Policy (ELIAMEP) Prof. Thanos Dokos is scheduled to arrive at the TFD for a courtesy call on October 2 at 3:00pm.

2009-09-25
Mr. Alexander Pavlov, Deputy Representative Of the Representative Office in Taipei for the Moscow-Taipei Coordination Commission on Economic and Cultural Cooperation, Visits TFD
On 25 September, Mr. Alexander Pavlov and his colleagues visited TFD and were received by Ms. Maysing Yang, Vice President of TFD. Ms. Yang introduced TFD’s history and mission and Mr. Pavlov expressed his optimistic anticipation of more cultural and economic cooperation between Taiwan and Russia.
 

2009-09-16 ~ 2009-09-18
WFDA Third Biennial Meeting to be held in Seoul
The World Forum for Democratization in Asia (WFDA) is holding its third Biennial Meeting from 16-18 September 2009, in Seoul, South Korea. The theme of the conference is "Sustaining Democratization in Asia: Challenges of Economic and Social Justice."
Further conference information and latest updates are available on the conference website: http://biennial.wfda.net

2009-09-01
HOT! Taiwan Journal of Democracy, Vol.5, No.1
Christoph Zuercher is the guest editor of the essays of this issue. This issue features various topics on External Democracy Promotion in Post-Conflict Zones: A Comparative-Analytical Framework, Democracy as a Fortuitous By-product of Independence: UN Intervention and Democratization in Namibia, Going in the “Right” Direction? Promotion of Democracy in Rwanda since 1990, Learning the Right Lessons from Mozambique’s Transition to Peace, Bosnia and Herzegovina: State building and Democratization in the Time of Ethnic-Politics and International Oversight, Assessing Kosovo’s Postwar Democratization: Between External Imposition and Local Self-Government, Tajikistan: Stability First, The Impact of Counter-Terrorism Objectives on Democratization and State building in Afghanistan, Timor-Leste: A Relapsing “Success” Story, External Democracy Promotion in Post-Conflict Zones: Evidence from Case Studies.
All articles can be downloaded freely.


2009-08-24 ~ 2009-08-26
Pacific Forum CSIS Young Leaders in Taiwan
The Pacific Forum CSIS Young Leaders Program supports the participation of 14 Young Leaders in the Asia-Pacific Security Forum (APSF) that will be held August 24-25, 2009 in Taipei, and to engage in separate dialogues with NGOs during their stay in Taiwan.

2009-08-18
Overseas Chinese Scholar Group visits

On 18August, 5 members of the Overseas Chinese Scholar Group visited TFD and were received by Mr. Bo Tedards, Director of the International Cooperation Department, and Ms. Angel Wu, Director of the Domestic Affairs Department. Mr. Tedards and Ms. Wu introduced TFD’s history and tasks and exchanged opinions and views on issues of the social, economic, cultural, and political development in the Chinese speaking countries with the group.
 

2009-08-14
International Visiting Fellow Dr. George Katsiaficas to deliver presentation at the TFD
International Visiting Fellow Dr. George Katsiaficas尹光現, Visiting Professor of the Department of Sociology at Chonnam National University, will deliver his presentation titled, “Comparing Development and Democratization in Taiwan and South Korea,” on Friday, August 14, 2009, 15:00 – 17:00 at the TFD. Prof. Hawang Shiow-duan黃秀端 will serve as the moderator and Dr. Jens Damm達嚴思 will serve as the discussant. All are welcome to attend.( Press Release)


2009-08-06
Afghani Nurses visit TFD
On 6 August, The Afghani nurses who attend the training program organized by the Taiwan Nurse Association visited TFD and were received by Mr. Bo Tedards, Director of the International Cooperation Department, and Ms. Angel Wu, Director of the Domestic Affairs Department. Mr. Tedards and Ms. Wu introduced TFD’s history and tasks and exchanged opinions and views on the importance of democracy with Mr.Zeya and his group. Mr. Zeya expressed that they are truly impressed by Taiwan’s democracy and prosperity.

2009-07-29 ~ 2009-07-31
2009 Cross-Straits High School Debate
The Taiwan Secondary Education Association, together with the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, will hold the 2009 Cross-Straits High School Debate from July 29 to August 31 at the Taipei Chenggong High School. Audiences from all walks of life are welcome.

2009-07-25 ~ 2009-08-01
30th Asian Medical Students’ Conference, 2009
The Medical Students’ Association – Taiwan, together with the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, will hold the 30th Asian Medical Students’ Conference, 2009, from July 25 to August 1. These eight days will be used to discuss medical research and study. http://210.70.26.7/~mv/sky/

2009-07-09 ~ 2009-07-13
Engendering Indigenous Issues
The Kaohsiung County Indigenous Women’s Growing Association, together with the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, will hold “Engendering Indigenous Issues: Dialogues between the Local and the Global” on July 9 – 13. The venue will be Namaxia Township, Dakanuwa Village, Wuna Mountain Village.

2009-07-08 ~ 2009-07-12
Training on Democracy and Human Rights of Indigenous Peoples of North East India
The Indian Confederation of Indigenous and Tribal Peoples – North East Zone, with the support of the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, is holding training program for indigenous and tribal peoples from July 8 - 12 at Guwahati, Assam, India.  http://www.icitp-nez.org

2009-07-06 ~ 2009-07-12
Global Initiatives Symposium in Taiwan
National Taiwan University (NTU) and the Global Initiatives Symposium Host Team, together with the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, will hold the week-long Global Initiatives Symposium from July 6 – July 12 at NTU. The topic is “Challenges and Opportunities, the Global Economy in the Transition Phase”. http://gis-taiwan.ntu.edu.tw/  

2009-07-04
Home Rule and Democratic Development: City Mayor and County Magistrate Elections
The Political Science Department of Tunghai University, together with the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, will hold the “Home Rule and Democratic Development: City Mayor and County Magistrate Elections” symposium on July 4 at the Assembly Hall of the Shengzheng Building, Tunghai University. All are welcome to attend. http://www2.thu.edu.tw/~politic/97/index.html

2009-06-23
First Joint Meeting of the Third Term Boards of Trustees and Supervisors of TFD
The Taiwan Foundation for Democracy held the first joint meeting of the third term Boards of Trustees and Supervisors on 23 June 2009, 10:30am, at the Howard Plaza Hotel in Taipei.  (Press Release)

2009-06-19
Free Burma's Political Prisoners
The Taiwan Labor Front, together with the Taiwan Youth for Democracy in Asia, will hold the “Free Burma’s Political Prisoners” concert on June 19th, 7pm at the No. 4 Park in Zhonghe. All are welcome to attend. DM

2009-06-12 ~ 2009-06-13
Specialized Community Workshop “Democracy on the Streets”
The Graduate Institute of Sociology, Sun Yat-sen University, together with the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, will hold “Specialized Community Workshop: ‘Democracy on the Streets’” on June 12th – 13th in Conference Room 3001 of the College of Social Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University. All are welcome to attend. http://www.gios.nsysu.edu.tw/plan_cont.asp?id=54  

2009-06-10 ~ 2009-06-20
Taiwan Provincial Consultative Council: 7th and 8th Exhibition of Taiwan History (1981 – 1989)
The Taiwan Provincial Consultative Council, with the assistance of Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall and the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, is holding “The History of Taiwan Home-Rule Series”. This is the 7th and 8th Exhibition of Taiwan History (1981 – 1989) from the Taiwan Provincial Consultative Council. The exhibition is being held in the South Room of the Chungshan Exhibition Hall of Taipei’s Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall. All are welcome to attend. (Press Release)

2009-06-05
“Democratic Governance” Discussions on Theory and Practice
The Department of Public Management and Policy, Tunghai University, together with the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, will hold “2009 ‘Democratic Governance’: Discussions on Theory and Practice” on June 5th at the Assembly Hall of the Shengzheng Building, Tunghai University. All are welcome to attend. http://www2.thu.edu.tw/~deptpuad/NEWS/preee980605.htm

2009-06-02
TFD Postdoctoral Fellow Stephen Lakkis
Stephen Lakkis, Assistant Professor for Systematic Theology at Taiwan Theological College, of Melbourne, Australia started his seven-month postdoctoral fellowship, titled "The Role of Western Christian Mission and the 'Presbyterian Church in Taiwan' in the Development and Promotion of Democracy and Human Rights in Taiwan," at the Foundation on June 02, 2009.

2009-06-01
Globalization: International Studies Seminar on Democracy, Systems and Transition
The College of Social Sciences, Chengchi University, together with the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, will sponsor “Globalization: International Studies Seminar on Democracy, Systems and Transition”, to be held on June 1st and 2nd. All are welcome to attend. http://www.nccu.edu.tw/news/detail.php?news_id=1100

2009-06-01
On-Campus Films: Observing contemporary society in China / Twentieth anniversary of June 4th
Chang Fo-chuan of the Human Rights Research Center, Soochow University, together with the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, will sponsor “On-Campus Films: Observing contemporary society in China / Twentieth anniversary of June 4th”. The film exhibit will start making rounds to all domestic junior college campuses on June 1st. All are welcome to attend. http://www.hrp.scu.edu.tw/  

Advance Notice
http://www.hrp.scu.edu.tw/video_resource/entry.jsp?id=1243004556575-3df595a1-d19c-43b1-8aed-58a29bb0  


2009-06-01 ~ 2009-06-20
9th World Refugee Day
The Chinese Association for Human Rights, Taipei Overseas Peace Service, with the assistance of the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, is holding the 9th World Refugee Day. The following activities will be held on their respective dates: June 3rd – “Refugee Day Lecture Series: Refugees and Cultural Legacy”; June 5th – “Showing and Discussion on Refugees on the Thai-Myanmar Border: a Documentary Film”; June 19th – “The Urgency of Enacting Refugee Law to Protect Refugees’ Right to Life: A Forum”. All are invited to attend and gain understanding of these issues in honor of World Refugee Day, held by the United Nations Refugee Agency. All activities are free of charge. http://www.cahr.org.tw/listnews.asp?idno=2664

2009-05-22 ~ 2009-05-23
“Investigation into Taiwan Elections and Democratization” 2009 International Studies Seminar
The Election Study Center, Chengchi University, together with the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, will hold the International Studies Seminar “Investigation into Taiwan Elections and Democratization” on May 22nd and 23rd at the International Assembly Hall on the fifth floor of the All-Purpose Building at Chengchi University. All are welcome to attend. www.tedsnet.org/cubekm1/front/bin/ptdetail.phtml

2009-05-21 ~ 2009-05-22
Democratic Consolidation and NGOs International Studies Seminar
The Department of Political Science, Chinese Culture University, together with the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, will hold “Democratic Consolidation and NGOs International Studies Seminar” on May 21st and 22nd at the Gymnasium’s International Assembly Hall at Chinese Culture University. TFD Chairman Wang Jin-pyng will attend and deliver the speech “Democratic Consolidation and NGOs”. All are welcome to attend. http://www2.pccu.edu.tw/CRYAPS/cn/index.htm  

2009-05-13
Lecture by Professor Burdett Loomis of the University of Kansas, USA
The Foundation, along with the American Institute in Taiwan, will hold a lecture titled “Civility and Deliberation in the United States Senate,” to be delivered by University of Kansas Professor Burdette Loomis on May 13, 2009, Wednesday, from 3:00pm to 4:30pm at the AIT’s American Cultural Center. Interested persons and media outlets can contact Ms. Li Shih-huai to register.(more)

2009-05-11 ~ 2009-05-13
2nd East Asian Human Rights Forum 2009: Democratization and Security Sector Reform in East Asia: Challenges, Opportunities and Way Forward for Human Rights Protection
This year’s East Asian Human Rights Forum is being held at the Taipei Garden Hotel by the Taiwan Association for Human Rights with the assistance of the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy. The East Asian Human Rights Forum started in 2007 to provide Northeast and Southeast Asian members a place to exchange dialogue regarding the current human rights situation in the East Asian region, sharing corresponding tactics for common issues being faced today and developing solidarity for the safeguarding of human rights.

2009-04-30 ~ 2009-05-01
Organize the Asia Roundtable of the Community of Democracies Non-governmental Process: “The Implications of the Financial and Economic Crisis on Democratic Governance in Asia”
The World Forum for Democratization (WFDA) and Yappika will organize the Asia Roundtable of the Community of Democracies Non-governmental Process in Jakarta, Indonesia from April 30 to May 1, 2009. The theme of the conference is “The Implications of the Financial and Economic Crisis on Democratic Governance in Asia.” The Taiwan Foundation for Democracy is a member of WFDA’s Steering Committee and acts as WFDA’s Secretariat.
http://www.yappika.or.id/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=171&Itemid=1

 

2009-04-06
Taiwan Journal of Democracy is regarded by the London School of Economics (LSE) eJournal Taiwan in Comparative Perspective as being a periodical of high merit with regards to research in democratic politics.
England’s London School of Economics has published the second volume of their eJournal Taiwan in Comparative Perspective, in which is found critical reviews of the Taiwan Journal of Democracy. The periodical crosses regional, national and cultural boundaries in an interconnected, globalizing world, containing scholarly essays of comparative studies on the experiences of a wide range of newly democratizing nations, free of cultural and partisan bias. It also serves as a platform for both local and overseas scholars to exchange these varied experiences in democratization, being a periodical that truly encompasses diverse theories for comparative analysis.(more)

2009-03-26
Courtesy call for the United Nations Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) committee members
Courtesy call for the United Nations Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) committee members Ms. Hanna Beate Schopp-Schilling of Germany and Ms. Heisoo Shim of the Republic of Korea will be held on March 26, 2009 at 2:00pm.

2009-03-23 ~ 2009-03-24
Participation in the Community of Democracies seminar on “The Implications of the Current Financial and Economic Crisis on Democratic Governance” and CD Nongovernmental Process International Steering Committee Meeting
Upon the invitation of the Portuguese Government, currently the Chair of the Community of Democracies (CD), TFD Senior Research Fellow Michael Kau and Vice President Maysing Yang attended a CD seminar on “The Implications of the Current Financial and Economic Crisis on Democratic Governance” in Lisbon from March 23 to 24, 2009. A separate meeting of the International Steering Committee of the CD Nongovernmental Process was held in the evening of March 23. As a member of the ISC, Dr. Kau urged the ISC to support Taiwan’s participation in the CD by calling on the CD Convening Group to invite Taiwan’s Foreign Minister to CD Ministerial Meetings.

2009-03-20
Presentation by TFD Fellow-Dissertation Fellowship Anna Rudakowska
Taiwan Foundation for Democracy International Fellow Anna Rudakowska, presents her Research result at the TFD On 20 March 2009 with the topic「Values in the European Union policies towards cross-strait relations」which on the values such as democracy and human rights in the discipline of IR in general and in the analysis of the EU’s foreign policy. Following the presentation, Professor Shou-Cheng Lai and Professor Kuan-Hsiung Wang from National Taiwan Normal University shared their thoughts about Ms. Anna’s research with the audience. (Event announcement)

2009-03-06
Members of Federation for a Democratic China visits TFD
On March 6, 2009, TFD’s vice president, Dr. Li-Wen Tung received eight members of Federation for A democratic China (Australia), the Party for Freedom and Democracy in China(USA).
Dr. Tung and the guests broadly exchanged their views concerning the forthcoming 20th Anniversary of Tiananmen Square Incident.

2009-03-03
Courtesy call for Director Christopher Deloire of the School of Journalism in Paris, France
Courtesy call for Director Christopher Deloire of the School of Journalism in Paris, France on March 3, 2009 at 4:30pm.

2009-02-28 ~ 2009-03-01
Participation in “ASEAN People’s Assembly Assessment Conference”
The “ASEAN People’s Assembly Assessment Conference” was organized by the Institute for Strategic Development Studies (ISDS) in Manila from February 28 to March 2, 2009. Dr. Chyungly Lee, Associate Research Fellow at the Institute of International Relations in National Chengchi University, and TFD Program Officer Ms. Amy Hsieh attended the conference and spoke on Taiwan’s potential role in the ASEAN People’s Assembly

2009-02-26
American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) political officer Jeffrey M. Martin courtesy call
Courtesy call for AIT political officer Jeffery M. Martin on February 26, 2009 at 11:00am.

2009-02-20 ~ 2009-03-30
The Foundation listed in The Global “Go-To Think Tanks”: The Leading Public Policy
In the recently published The Global “Go-To Think Tanks”: The Leading Public Policy Research Organizations in the World, 2008 by the world-renowned Foreign Policy
Research Institute (FPRI) in the USA, the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy is listed as one of the 407 outstanding think-tanks out of a database of some 5,550 from 170
nations worldwide. The Foundation has received the honor of listing number 21 in all of Asia and stands alone as being chosen out of Taiwan’s total 37 think-tanks. (more)

2009-02-18
Courtesy call for United Nations Population Fund former president Mr. Kunio Waki
President Lin Wen-cheng and Director of International Cooperation Bo Tedards received United Nations Population Fund former president Mr. Kunio Waki at the Foundation on February 18, 2009. After an explanation of the Foundation’s establishment, goals and work, both sides worked toward a workable Taiwan model in accordance with the United Nations Human Rights system.

2009-02-10 ~ 2009-02-11
HOT! Taiwan Journal of Democracy, Vol. 4, no. 2

This issue features various topics on Democratization in Central Europe, “Neighborhood Effects” of Democratization in Europe, Independent and Broader Civil Society in East-Central European Democratizations, Corruption and Democracy: The “Color Revolutions” in Georgia and Ukraine, The Third Wave in East Asia: Comparative and Dynamic Perspectives, The Structure of Taiwan’s Political Cleavages toward the 2004 Presidential Election: A Spatial Analysis, Civil Society and Democratization in Hong Kong: Paradox and Duality.
All articles can be downloaded freely.

2009-02-02 ~ 2009-02-12
Chairman Wang's Visit to Europe a Success, Delivers Speech to European Parliament

Taiwan Foundation for Democracy (TFD) Chairman Wang Jin-pyng, heading a visit by the Republic of China Legislature from February 2 – 12, received European Parliament- Taiwan Friendship Group Chairman Georg Jarzembowski as well as an invitation to the Italian Parliament. Approximately ten legislatures from both the ruling and opposition parties made the visit to the European Parliament (EP) and Italy, at one point taking the opportunity to strengthen formal diplomatic relations with the Vatican, accompanied by TFD Vice President Tsai. The Taiwan legislators also paid a visit to the Italian president of the Senate, the governor of Catania, major figures of the Belgium Senate, the president of the EP and other European leaders. Chairman Wang also received the Highest Recognition Award bestowed by the EP-Taiwan Friendship Group for his contributions to Taiwan democracy and human rights. His formal address to the EP, attended by 29 EP members, was the first time that the Taiwan legislative speaker had  done so since its establishment. During his speech, the audience broke out into enthusiastic applause six times, a resounding success in diplomacy for Taiwan. Chairman Wang delivered the speech in Chinese and in English.

2009-01-13
Freedom House Global Release of Freedom in the World 2009 Report in Taipei
Internationally-renowned NGO Freedom House is holding the global release of their flagship publication, Freedom in the World, on January 13, 2009 in Taipei, Taiwan, hosted by the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy (TFD). This marks the first time that Freedom House launches such a report in Asia. (more) (Press Release) (Letter of Acknowledgement)

2008-12-10
Afghan activist Dr. Sima Simar to receive the 2008 Asia Democracy and Human Rights Award (ADHRA)
TAIPEI, 10 November 2008 – Taiwan Foundation for Democracy (TFD) Chairman Wang Jin-pyng announced today that Dr. Sima Samar, Chairperson of the Afghanistan Independent Human Rights Commission and founder of the Shuhada Organization, has been selected as the winner of the 2008 Asia Democracy and Human Rights Award (ADHRA). Samar is recognized for her contributions to advancing human rights and especially women’s rights and welfare in Afghanistan. She will formally receive the Award sculpture and a grant of US$100,000 at a ceremony in Taipei on December 10th, International Human Rights Day. (more)

2008-12-06 ~ 2008-12-07
2008 Democracy Cup — Junior college national debate competition
We wish to assist scholars absorb knowledge on democracy and nurture democratic society, thus helping them become citizens capable of making independent decisions. At the same time, we urge all citizens to monitor domestic and international democratic affairs, the development of human rights and other related subjects, and strengthen public concern. On 06 – 07 December 2008, the Foundation will hold the 2008 Democracy Cup — Junior college national debate competition. (regulations) (sign-up form)

The minutes of the delegation meeting
The delegation announced on November 07 that the name list of competitors has been completed. Regarding deposits, the name list and other related matters, please refer to “the minutes of the delegation meeting.”


2008-11-28
Complete list of participants for the 2008 Democracy Cup Debate
Complete list of participants for the 2008 Democracy Cup Debate

2008-11-11
Announcing the winners of the 2008 Education in Democracy Web Design Competition
This year’s competition took three months to select the winners, listed below as follows:

Golden Democracy Award: N/A

Silver Democracy Award: Democracy, I’m the Greatest

Bronze Democracy Award: Democracy Fair

Honorable Mentions:

Never Land

Lollipop Democracy

Understanding the Universal Declaration of Human Rights

*Listed above are the names of works as entered*

Congratulations to the winners above!

Winners will be notified through the sponsor organization’s provided telephone number regarding the receipt of the award. 2008 Education in Democracy Web Design Competition awards ceremony will be held in the first two weeks of December. We cordially invite all who can attend to grace this occasion.


2008-10-24 ~ 2009-01-31
LAUNCH OF THE DEMOCRACY VIDEO CHALLENGE

The TFD has joined together with the American Institute in Taiwan and other local partners to launch the local edition of the Taiwan competition for the Democracy Video Challenge (DVC). The DVC is a global competition sponsored by the US State Department to select the best short videos answering the question "Democracy is...". Taiwanese young people and filmmakers are encouraged to submit their entries, which will be judged by a panel of experts, and 3 Taiwanese semi-finalists will be selected to join the global round. For more information, please see the AIT's press release

2008-09-05
TFD International Visiting Fellow Final Presentation By Dr. James Gomez

Asian Democracy Institute:

The International Lobby for Democracy-Building in Asia

 

Presentation by TFD International Visiting Fellow

 

Dr. James Gomez

 

Date:                Friday, 05 September 2008

Time:               10:30 – 12:00

Location:        Taiwan Foundation for Democracy (No. 4, Alley 17, Lane 147, Sec. 3, Sinyi Rd)

Moderator:     Dr. Wen-Chen Lin, Professor

               Institute of China and Asia-Pacific Studies, National Sun Yat-Sen University

Discussant:    Dr. Hsin-Muang Michael Hsiao, Professor

                          Department of Sociology, National Taiwan University

       

Abstract

This presentation explores the setting up of an Asian Democracy Institute to strengthen democracy assistance in the region. To date, democracy promotion in Asia has largely been neglected or avoided, making work undertaken by national, regional and international democracy assistance agencies in Asia low, targeted at only selected countries or non-existent. While there is an active civil society landscape in Asia, the bulk of them focus on gender issues, indigenous people, migrant workers, HIV, the environment development, peace-building. These areas reflect the preference or the “fit” prescribed by the different donor agencies that support civil society work in Asia. The few democracy-related regional initiatives that currently operate focus on specialized issues such as human rights, political parties, free media and others are broad networks that meet annually for networking. This leaves room for an entity to focus specifically on the issue of democratization and democracy building in Asia. An independent and professionally managed regional organization that can undertake work to specifically support democracy promotion in Asia through the production of specialized knowledge resources in this area; by lobbying institutions and governments; and conducting training will fill this gap. In doing so, it can ensure better informed and effective democracy promotion in Asia.

Speaker

James Gomez is Visiting Scholar, Department of Political Science, Law Faculty at Keio University, Japan. Between March 2006 and February 2008 he was Programme Officer at International IDEA in Stockholm, Sweden. He was Regional Research and Programme Manager, Friedrich Naumann Foundation, East and Southeast Asia from 1996 to 2006 in Bangkok, Thailand. He holds a B.Soc.Sci (Hons) in Political Science from the National University of Singapore, an MA in Politics and Human Rights from University of Essex, United Kingdom, and a PhD in Political Science and International Relations from Monash University, Australia. 

 

Itinerary:

 

10:30 – 10:40  Opening remarks by Prof. Hsiao

10:40 – 11:30 “Asian Democracy Institute: The International Lobby for Democracy-Building in Asia” presentation by Dr. James Gomez.

11:30 – 11:45  Comments by Prof. Lin

11:45 – 12:00  Open discussion with the audience

 

*Lunch boxes will be provided for all guests. Please note that this event will be conducted entirely in English.

 

＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿

RSVP

 

*Please RSVP by Wednesday, 03 September

 

Date:                   Friday, 05 September

Time:                  10:30 – 12:00

Location:            Taiwan Foundation for Democracy (No. 4, Alley 17, Lane 147, Sec. 3, Sinyi Rd., Taipei 106 Taiwan)

 

 

Mr./Ms.__________________          Tel._________________

Organization______________          Title________________

 

□      Will attend           □      Will be eating lunch（□ Vegetarian）

□      Unable to attend       □      Will not be eating lunch

 

Contact Person:    Rosanna Wang

Email:                    rosanna@taiwandemocracy.org.tw

Telephone:            2708-0100#213

Fax:                       2708-1148

2008-06-17 ~ 2008-06-20
TFD Fifth Anniversary Celebration

The TFD was established five years ago, on 17 June 2003. Over the past five years, our activities have grown rapidly, and our relations with partners at home and abroad have developed commensurately.

To celebrate the occasion, the TFD arranged a series of events, beginning with the opening ceremony of an exhibition of the TFD’s work, held on 17 June at 9 am. At the ceremony, remarks were delivered by President Ma Ying-jeou and TFD Chairman Wang Jin-pyng. The ceremony was followed by a discussion forum with more than 30 leaders of Taiwan’s civil society.

In the following days, three international seminars were held at the TFD: “Europe-Asia Democracy Cooperation: Prospects and Opportunities,” “Burma After Referendum & Cyclone,” and “Taiwan Studies in the Global Context: TFD Research Fellow Roundtable.”

Fifth Anniversary Program（Page1、 Page2、 Page3 、Page4）

President Ma's remarks

Seminar Agendas

Congratulatory Letters from National Endowment for Democracy, Netherlands Institute for Multiparty Democracy, European Foundation for Democracy Through Partnership, and MEP Graham Watson

Photo Gallery 活動照片錦集 活動照片錦集 活動照片錦集 活動照片錦集 活動照片錦集 活動照片錦集 活動照片錦集 活動照片錦集 活動照片錦集 活動照片錦集 活動照片錦集 活動照片錦集 活動照片錦集 活動照片錦集 活動照片錦集 活動照片錦集 活動照片錦集 活動照片錦集 活動照片錦集 活動照片錦集 活動照片錦集 活動照片錦集 活動照片錦集 活動照片錦集 活動照片錦集 活動照片錦集 活動照片錦集

2008-05-19
Visit by Delegation from the National Association of Secretaries of State
On 19 May, Secretary Todd Rokita (IN), President of the National Association of Secretaries of State; Secretary Al Jaeger (ND); Secretary Brad Johnson (MT); and Ms. Rachel Becker, Executive Assistant of the National Association of Secretaries of State; visited the TFD. They were greeted by Dr. Wen-Cheng Lin, President of the TFD. Dr. Lin briefed the visitors on the work of the TFD and exchanged views and opinions with them on US-Taiwan relations and Taiwan's political situation after the presidential election.

2008-02-25
Strengthening Freedom in Asia: A Twenty-First Century Agenda for the US-Taiwan Partnership
The American Enterprise Institute and Armitage International, in collaboration with the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, cordially invite you to attend the launch of their Taiwan Policy Working Group report, "Strengthening Freedom in Asia: A Twenty-First Century Agenda for the US-Taiwan Partnership," which will be held on 25th February in the Shangri-La Ballroom of the Far Eastern Plaza Hotel Taipei. (Invitation)

2008-01-25
2008 GLOBAL FORUM ON NEW DEMOCRACIES
Agenda

2007-12-13
2007 ADHRA Award Ceremony
Dr. Cynthia Maung will receive the 2007 Asia Democracy and Human Rights Award (ADHRA) at a ceremony in Taipei on 13 December 2007 for her service to Burmese refugees at the Mae Sot Clinic on the Thai-Burmese border.(Detail info)

2007-12-09
China Human Rights Report 2007–Political and Judicial Rights
Although China's economic rise has attracted attention worldwide, have human rights seen similar developments? The international community has paid a great deal of attention to China's human rights record, and the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy has published the annual China Human Rights Report since 2003 in order to urge the Chinese government to improve their human rights situation. Presently, the TFD is preparing to launch the China Human Rights Report 2007.

2007-10-18
Nyo Ohn Myint Visits the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy
Mr. Nyo Ohn Myint, head of the National League for Democracy-Liberated Area (NLD-LA) Foreign Affairs Committee and member of the National Council of the Union of Burma (NCUB) Foreign Affairs Committee, visited the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy on 18 October 2007. Mr. Nyo Ohn Myint was greeted by the Director of the TFD’s Department of International Cooperation, Mr. Bo Tedards, Associate Research Fellow Mr. Patrick Wu, and Special Associate Mr. Kiel Downey. Mr. Nyo Ohn Myint updated the TFD representatives on recent developments in Burma since the outbreak of violence in Rangoon in late September, as well as efforts by the NLD to remain in contact with those being oppressed inside Burma. Mr. Nyo Ohn Myint and the TFD representatives also discussed ways in which Taiwan and the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy can help to promote human rights protection and political reform in Burma.

2007-10-15
A seminar on "the Czech Constitution since 1993"
The Taiwan Foundation for Democracy is pleased to invite H.E. Petr Pithart, First Vice President of the Senate of the Parliament of the Czech Republic, to give a keynote speech on the Czech Constitution since 1993, followed by a panel discussion with Professor Hsin-huang Michael Hsiao, Professor Shaocheng Tang, and Professor Chih-Chung Wu, on Monday, 15 October , 2007 from 14:30 to 16:30 in the Conference Room, 6F, Foreign Service Institute, 280 Tun-hua S. Rd., Section 1, Taipei（Invitation）

2007-10-12
Speech by Amb. Joergen Oerstroem Moeller, former Danish Ambassador to Singapore.
The Taiwan Foundation for Democracy is pleased to invite Ambassador Joergen Oerstroem Moeller, former Danish Ambassador to Singapore, to deliver a keynote speech "European Integration as a Possible Template for Asian Integration". You are cordially invited to join us at the event, which will take place at 14:30~16:00, on Friday, 12^th October, at the 5^th Conference Room, the Administration Building, National Cheng Chi University.（Invitation）

2007-10-08
"Taiwan, China, and Japan: Triangular Relations," presentation by TFD International Visiting Fellow Mr. Tatewaki Miura
For the Japanese, both Taiwan and China are countries whose geographic, economic, and political relevance absolutely cannot be ignored. In order to give an international audience a deeper understanding of this historical context, Taiwan Foundation for Democracy International Visiting Fellow and National Chengchi University Graduate Institute of Taiwan History Guest Professor Mr. Tatewaki Miura has spent the past ten months in Taiwan compiling a detailed chronology of important events in cross-strait relations in both Chinese and Japanese. Mr. Miura has a distinguished career in official development assistance and has worked at the Interchange Association, Japan's representative office to Taiwan. On Monday 8 October, the TFD had the pleasure of hosting Mr. Miura as he gave an account of the importance of the relationships between Japan, Taiwan, and China, based on his extensive personal experience. (agenda)

2007-10-08
Panel on "The Recent Protest Movement in Burma:International Reactions and Prospects for Human Rights"
In mid-August 2007, the military government of Burmaincreased the price of oil in order to make up for its budget deficits, causinga series of domestic protests. Over the past two weeks, this situation hasturned into the most serious human rights violation in the past 20 years of Burma’shistory. According to reports from the international media, 40 people have beenkilled by the Burmese military government, and 700 of the Buddhist monks whohave played such a key role in the protests have been jailed. While theinternational community continues to follow these important developments, theBurmese government has blocked internet communications and other methods ofconnecting to the outside world. Therefore, information aboutthe situation inside Burma is limited. Through what means can the internationalcommunity offer its support? With this question in mind, the TFD hosted a paneldiscussion, "The Recent Protest Movement in Burma: International Reactions andProspects for Human Rights," on 8 October 2007 in order to engage the public indiscussion about the current and future situation in Burma. (Click herefor the itinerary and invitation)

2007-09-14
【Taiwan's Application for UN membership】 International Conference
The Taiwanese Society of International Law and the Taiwan Foundation of Democracy are pleased to invite you to the international conference【Taiwan's Application for UN membership】on Friday, September 14, 2007, from 9:00 a.m. to 18:00 p.m. at International Conference Hall, 2F, Foreign Service Institute, 280 Tun-hua South Road Section 1, Taipei（Agenda）

2007-09-04
Visit by International Journalists
On 4 September, Mr. Paul Jackson of the Calgary Sun, Canada; Mr. Lukasz Lipinski of the Gazeta Wyborcza, Poland; and Mr. J. van Benthem of the Nederlands Dagblad, the Netherlands visited the TFD. They were greeted by Mr. Bo Tedards, the Director of the TFD's International Cooperation Department. Mr. Tedards briefed the visitors on the work of the TFD and exchanged views and opinions with them on cross-strait relations and Taiwan's application for U.N. membership.

2007-08-20
Visit by Pacific Islands Diplomats
On August 20, a delegation of Pacific Islands diplomats visited the TFD. They were greeted by the TFD's Vice President, Ms. Maysing Yang. Ms. Yang briefed the delegation on the work of the TFD and the history of Taiwan. The delegation exchanged views and opinions on issues of how to preserve indigenous cultures and languages with the TFD representatives.

2007-08-15
Delegation of Young Scholars from the US Visits the TFD
On 15 August, a group of young scholars from a variety of universities and research institutions in the United States visited the TFD. Led by Dr. Francis Gavin, Professor of World Peace at the Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs at the University of Texas at Austin, and concurrently Director of Studies at the Robert Strauss Center for International Security and Law at the same university, the delegation was greeted by President of the TFD, Dr. Wen-cheng Lin, Director of the Department of International Cooperation, Mr. Bo Tedards, and Special Associate Mr. Kiel Downey. The delegation engaged with the representatives of the TFD in discussion on topics ranging from the consolidation and quality of Taiwan's democracy and partisan politics in Taiwan to Taiwan's efforts to participate in international human rights mechanisms.

2007-08-14
Speech by Amb. John Bolton, Former US Permanent Rep. to the United Nations

Taiwan Foundation for Democracy is pleased to invite Ambassador John Bolton, former US Permanent Representative to the United Nations, to deliver a keynote speech US Global Democracy Strategy and Cooperation with Taiwan. You are cordially invited to join us at the event, which will take place at 14:00~16:50, on Tuesday, 14^th August, at the Grand Formosa Regent Hotel.（Invitation）

2007-08-08
Delegation of State Representatives from North Carolina and South Carolina Visits the TFD

On 8 August 2007, a delegation of representatives from North Carolina and South Carolina visited the TFD as part of an official visit to Taiwan. Led by Mr. Robert W. Harrell, Jr., Speaker of the South Carolina House of Representatives, the delegation was received by President of the TFD, Dr. Wen-cheng Lin, and Special Associate Mr. Kiel Downey. Members of the delegation engaged in discussion with Dr. Lin and Mr. Downey about the work, organization, and history of the TFD.

2007-07-25
Fascism and Communism: Fraternal but not Identical Twins

Both Fascism and Communism impacted millions of lives in the twentieth century. In order to promote a better understanding of Fascism and Communism, the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy has translated Fascism, a book written by Dr. Zhelyu Mitev Zhelev, Former President of the Republic of Bulgaria.  Please join us as the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy hosts the launch of the Chinese edition of Fascism, and join us for a keynote address by Dr. Zhelev on Wednesday, 25^th July in the Shangri-La Ballroom of the Far Eastern Plaza Hotel Taipei.(Agenda)

2007-07-10
Chairman of International Medical Assistance Foundation Visits the TFD
On 10 July 2007, Dr. Fernando Nobre, chairman of the International Medical Assistance Foundation visited the Taiwan foundation for Democracy. He was welcomed by Mr. Bo Tedards, TFD's Director of the International Cooperation Department and Ms. Angel Wu, TFD Associate. Mr. Tedards briefed on the history and work of the TFD. Mr. Nobre exchanged views and opinions on China's democratization issues with the TFD representatives.

2007-07-10
Members of the US Southern Legislative Leadership Delegation Visit the TFD
On 10 July 2007, members of the US Southern Legislative Leadership Delegation visited the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy. The delegation was welcomed by Mr. Bo Tedards, TFD's Director of the International Cooperation Department and Ms. Angel Wu, TFD Associate. The delegation discussed many topics, ranging from the work of the TFD to Asian Democratization, with the TFD representatives.

2007-07-10
Delegation of Canadian MPs Visits Taiwan Foundation for Democracy
On 10 July 2007, a delegation of Canadian members of parliament representing four political parties visited the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy as part of an official visit to Taiwan. The delegation was greeted by Director of the TFD's Department of International Cooperation, Mr. Bo Tedards, and TFD Special Associate Mr. Kiel Downey. Led by Mr. Fabian Manning, the delegation engaged the TFD representatives in discussion about Taiwan's democratic achievements, its system of government, the role of the Legislative Yuan, and the challenges that Taiwan's democracy and society face today.

2007-07-04
Visit by Delegation from Permanent Missions to the UN of Taiwan's Diplomatic Allies
A delegation from Permanent Missions to the UN of Taiwan's diplomatic allies visited the TFD. They were greeted by the TFD's Vice President, Ms. Maysing Yang, and Director of the TFD's International Cooperation Department, Mr. Bo Tedards. Ms. Yang briefed the delegation on the work of the TFD and the history of Taiwan. The delegation shared views and opinions on Taiwan's application for UN membership.

2007-05-18
Amb. Richard Williamson Visits the TFD
On 18 May, 2007 Former United States Ambassador and US Representative to the UN Commission on Human Rights, and Former Secretary of State, International Organization Affairs Richard Williamson visited the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy during a brief visit to Taiwan. Amb. Williamson was greeted by TFD President Dr. Wen-cheng Lin and TFD Special Associate Mr. Kiel Downey, who briefed him on the history and work of the TFD. Amb. Williamson shared his views on possible directions that the TFD's programs might take in the future, as well as on cross-strait relations, the role of the United States vis-à-vis Taiwan's national security, and the essential importance of Taiwan's democratization experience.

2007-05-01
The Taiwan-Europe Roundtable Forum
On 1 May 2007, the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, together with the European Union Study Association (EUSA), Workshop of European Union Study, Department of Political Science, Soocow University, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, will host the Taiwan-Europe Roundtable Forum. (Agenda)

2007-04-30
Journalists' Delegation Visits the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy

Two distinguished journalists, Andrew Cohen and Willem Offenberg, from Canada and the Netherlands respectively, visited the TFD on 30 April. They exchanged views with President Lin on topics such as how the TFD works on human rights conditions within Taiwan, the successes and current challenges of Taiwan’s democratization, changing historical memory, etc.

2007-04-27
Mr. David Harris Visits the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy
Mr. David Harris, Senior Fellow for National Security at the Canadian Coalition for Democracies (CCD), visited the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy on 27 April 2007. Founded in 2003, the CCD is a non-partisan, multi-ethnic, multi-religious organization of concerned Canadians dedicated to the protection of democracy in Canada and abroad. As the CCD's Senior Fellow for National Security, Mr. Harris traveled to Taiwan on a fact-finding mission about Taiwan's recent bid for membership in the World Health Organization. Mr. Harris was greeted by TFD President Dr. Wen-cheng Lin and TFD Special Associate Mr. Kiel Downey, who briefed him on the mission and work of the TFD. Topics of discussion ranged from cross-strait relations to the upcoming presidential election in Taiwan.

2007-04-24
International Symposium on Transitional Justice and National Reconciliation
In order to promote better understanding of the challenges of building democratic and just societies, the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy is organizing the international symposium on “Transitional Justice and National Reconciliation”, featuring a keynote speech by Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Mpilo Tutu, the 1984 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate. The conference will be held on Tuesday, 24 April 2007, from 09:00am to 12:30pm at The Grand Hotel Taipei, 10th Floor. The keynote speech will be followed by an expert panel addressing the specific experiences and challenges of South Africa and Taiwan.

2007-04-18 ~ 2007-04-24
Archbishop Desmond Mpilo Tutu visits Taiwan.
Archbishop Desmond Mpilo Tutu and his office staff, invited by the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, start a 7-day visit in Taiwan.

2007-04-11
Delegation of Congressional Aides from the U.S. House of Representatives Visits the TFD

On 11 April, a delegation of 12 congressional aides from the United States House of Representatives visited the TFD. The delegation was headed by Mr. Brian Thomas, Chief of Staff to Representative Kenny Marchat (R-TX).  The delegation was received by Mr. Bo Tedards, Director for International Cooperation, and Mr. Russell Hsiao, Assistant Coordinator for the World Forum for Democratization in Asia (WFDA). The delegation was briefed on the history and mission of the Foundation. The congressional aides expressed great concern for what the TFD was doing to encourage democracy in China and the Asian region. The exchange of questions and ideas that followed centered on the role of the TFD in supporting aspiring new democracies, the state of the legislative checks and balances on the executive in Taiwan’s young democratic political system, and domestic lobby and campaign finance reform.

2007-04-04
President of Peru's Justicia National party visits the TFD
On 4 April, Mr. Jaime Salinas, President of the Justicia National party of Peru, visited the TFD as part of an official visit to Taiwan. Mr. Salinas was received by Dr. Wen-cheng Lin, President of the TFD, as well as Mr. Bo Tedards. After a briefing and a discussion of the history and work of the TFD, Mr. Salinas shared his party's vision and his hopes for democratic consolidation in Peru. He expressed his strong committment to the universal rights of all peoples, naturally including the Taiwanese people, to freedom and democracy.

2007-04-03
Delegation of Vietnamese-American Officials, Community Leaders, and Media Representatives Visits the TFD
On 3 April, a delegation of Vietnamese-American officials, community leaders, and media representatives from California visited the TFD as part of an official visit to Taiwan. The delegation was led by Assemblyman Van Tran, Assistant Republican Leader of the California Assembly. The delegation was received by Dr. Wen-cheng Lin, President of the TFD, as well as Mr. Bo Tedards and Mr. Kiel Downey. The representatives of the TFD briefed the delegation on the history and work of the TFD, followed by an open discussion. The delegates were particularly interested in the TFD’s views with regard to prospects for democratization in Vietnam and economic and academic exchange between Vietnam and Taiwan. Finally, the delegates expressed their admiration for the TFD’s work in promoting democracy and human rights, particularly in Southeast Asia.

2007-03-02
TFD Co-Hosts a Speech Given by Mrs. Betty Williams, 1976 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate

On 2 March 2007, the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy along with the National Chengchi University co-hosted a speech given by Mrs. Betty Williams titled: “The Politics of Non-Violence”, at National Chengchi University. Mrs. Williams was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1976 for her work against violence in her native Northern Ireland.  Since then, Mrs. Williams has continued her efforts to improve human rights around the globe in many capacities. She serves currently as President of World Centers of Compassion for Children. She is also Chair of The Institute for Asian Democracy in Washington, DC and a Distinguished Visiting Professor at Nova Southeastern University.

 

Mrs. Williams discussed various aspects of her experience in working for human rights to the audience at NCCU. She emphasized the common ground of all human beings around the world, despite, nationality, race, religion, etc. and the need to work together for improvement of human rights. She recognized the presence of violence in everyone, even telling of her own struggles to control her anger as she sought for support from fellow citizens of Northern Ireland to stand together against the violence then ravaging her homeland. Despite this capacity for anger in all humans, she ensured the audience that we all have the ability to accomplish anything, if we want it bad enough, and are willing to work for it. She affirmed that the best way to improve human rights is through “education, education, education”. She also encouraged the audience to visit the website for World Centers of Compassion for Children, to support the effort to bring increased human rights to the children of the world.

 

Following her speech, Mrs. Williams answered questions from the audience including concerns currently facing Taiwan, China, the United States, as well as others. She distinguished the government of a country and the people of a country as separate, and emphasized the need for citizens to take responsibility for their country through their own actions and efforts.

2007-02-28
Conference for the 60th Anniversary of the 228 Incident: "Ethnic Relations and Taiwan's Democratic Politics" (press release)

The Taiwan Foundation for Democracy was established not only to promote exchanges with the international community but to deepen Taiwan's democracy so that Taiwan can truly become a functioning democratic and human rights respecting country. Ethnic harmony, consensus building, and implementing the democratic concept of “political pluralism, minority rights” are all essential elements in this process. For the occasion of the 60^th anniversary of the 228 Incident, the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy has organized an academic conference entitled, “Ethnic Relations and Taiwan's Democratic Politics.” For the conference, the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy invited scholars to debate and present their analysis on ethnic relations and the development of democratic politics. The conference is scheduled to be held on 28 February 2007 (Wednesday) at the National Taiwan University Alumni Club, 3F, from 9:40 AM to 15:00PM.  (Conference Agenda Attached)

2007-02-13
Taiwan Foundation for Democracy International Visiting Fellow Wang Dan Presents his Dissertation Research at the TFD
On 13 February 2007, TFD International Visiting Fellow Wang Dan presented his fellowship research to an audience at the TFD. Mr. Wang’s research topic was a comparative study of the use of violence under the rule of the CCP in China and the KMT in Taiwan during the era of authoritarian rule. Following the presentation, Prof. Chen Ming-tong of National Taiwan University’s Graduate Institute of National Development shared his thoughts about Mr. Wang’s research with the audience. The audience then had the opportunity to discuss the topic with both speakers. (Event announcement) (Report)

2007-02-09
Prof. T.V. Paul from McGill Unversity visits TFD

On 9 February, the TFD hosted a lecture by Prof. T.V. Paul from McGill University, Canada, on his forthcoming book: “Globalization and the Changing National Security State.” Prof. Paul’s lecture was moderated by Dr. Lin Cheng-yi, Director of the Institute for European and American Studies, Academia Sinica.  

2007-02-06
Former Chief of Protocol and Liaison Services of the Office of the Director-General at the United Nations Office in Geneva visits the TFD
Dr. Mehmet Ülkümen, former Chief of Protocol and Liaison Services of the Office of the Director-General at the United Nations Office in Geneva visited the TFD on Tuesday, 6 February. Dr. Ülkümen was received by the President of the TFD, Dr. Wen-cheng Lin, and Special Associate Mr. Kiel Downey. Dr. Lin and Mr. Downey briefed Dr. Ülkümen on the history and work of the TFD, and Dr. Ülkümen provided his own thoughts and recommendations regarding future directions that the work of the TFD could take. Dr. Ülkümen expressed an interest in the TFD’s scholarly publications and encouraged the TFD to raise their international visibility. Dr. Ülkümen also praised the TFD for focusing on issues of democracy globally rather than just in the Asia region, as well as commended the TFD for the successful implementation of its first Asia Democracy and Human Rights Award.

2007-02-05
Representatives from the Massachusetts State Senate and House of Representatives visit TFD

On 5 February, representatives from the state of Massachusetts House of Representative and State Senate visited the TFD. The delegation was headed by Mr. Stanley Rosenberg, President Pro Tempore of the Massachusetts State Senate. The delegation was received by Dr. Wen-cheng Lin, President of the TFD. President Lin was accompanied by Mr Bo Tedards, Coordinator for the World Forum for Democratization in Asia (WFDA), Mr Russell Hsiao, Assistant Coordinator for WFDA, and Ms. Amy Chen, the TFD's newest member. The meeting exchanged views on a wide range of topics, the delegation was particularly concerned about the challenges of democratic transition in Southeast Asia, and the TFD’s approach to direct democracy.  

2007-02-01
Delegation of Honduran Members of Congress Visits the TFD
On 1 February, a delegation of members of the National Congress of Honduras, led by First Deputy Speaker Hon. Mary Elizabeth Flores Flake, visited the TFD to learn about the work of the TFD and share their own views with the staff. The delegation was received by TFD Vice President Dr. Li-wen Tung, as well as Mr. Bo Tedards and Mr. Kiel Downey. The delegates were briefed on the TFD’s programs, including the recently established Global Forum on New Democracies, and they expressed their admiration for the TFD’s focus on youth participation. Topics of discussion ranged from Taiwan’s bloodless transition to democracy to female participation in congress in both Taiwan and Honduras.

2007-01-28
Mr. Robert Ménard, Secretary-General of Reporters sans frontières, receives the 2006 Asia Democracy and Human Rights Award

On 28 January, in a ceremony hosted by the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, President Chen Shui-bian and TFD Chairman Wang Jin-pyng presented the 2006 Asia Democracy and Human Rights Award award sculpture and award grant to Reporters sans frontières, accepted by Secretary-General and founder Robert Ménard. Mr. Ménard has since expressed his intent to use the award money to create a Chinese-language website for Reporters sans frontières. (Press Release)

Following the ceremony, the TFD and the Association of Taiwan Journalists (ATJ) held a joint seminar on “The Media and Democracy,” which featured a panel of four distinguished speakers and touched on topics of the role and responsibility of the media in the process of democratization; the relations between Taiwan’s media and the government and political parties; what international press organizations do to help the situation of press freedom and freedom of speech in China, as well as freedom to report in China, and how to overcome China’s controls over the internet; and the obstacles Taiwanese reporters face in covering international meetings and activities. The seminar was hosted by TFD President Dr. Wen-cheng Lin, and the speakers featured were Mr. Ménard; Eve Chiu, Executive Director of the Foundation for Excellent Journalism Award; Cheryl Lai, Editor-in-Chief of the Central News Agency; and Ti Wei, Associate Professor at Tamkang University.

2007-01-27
President Chen Shui-bian Calls for a "Global Forum on New Democracies"

（Press Release）

2007-01-26
"Towards a Global Forum on New Democracies"
The Taiwan Foundation for Democracy will hold a major event, “Towards a Global Forum on New Democracies," on Friday, 26 January 2007 at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Taipei. The event will feature retired heads of state from around the world, who will share their experiences and lessons on democratization and discuss ways to work together to promote democracy. In order to further deepen understanding of issues relating to democratization, the TFD will also hold an international conference "Transformations in New Democracies" on 25 January, also at the Grand Hyatt Hotel. Notable academics and civil society leaders from around the world will engage in discussion on several key challenges facing such countries.

2007-01-16
Delegation of Canadian Members of Parliament Visits the TFD
On 16 January 2007, a delegation of members of parliament from Canada visited the TFD. The delegation was greeted by Dr. Wen-cheng Lin, President of the TFD, and Special Associates Mr. Russell Hsiao and Mr. Kiel Downey. The delegation was introduced to the history and work of the TFD, after which the delegates engaged in open discussion with the representatives of the TFD. The discussion ranged from the TFD's work in organizing and sponsoring election observation missions and constitutional rights in Taiwan to the participation of women in Taiwan's Legislative Yuan.

2006-12-27
Presentation by TFD International Visiting Fellow Dr. Mirkomil Sadikov
On 27 December, TFD International Visiting Fellow, Dr. Mirkomil Sadikov, Senior Researcher and Deputy Head of the Department of Central Asia, Middle and East Asia Relations at the Al-Beruni Institute of Oriental Studies in the Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Uzbekistan, gave a presentation at the TFD on the results of his fellowship research. Dr. Sadikov discussed the current situation of human rights and democracy in the countries of Central Asia, as well as prospects for real democracy in Uzbekistan and democratic exchange between Uzbekistan and Taiwan. The TFD invited Prof. Jen-kun Fu, Director of the Ching Yun University Graduate Institute of Central Asian Studies, to moderate the discussion and provide his own insights into the topic. (Dr. Sadikov's presentation) (Dr. Fu's presentation)

2006-12-18
Women Leaders from Timor-Leste's Civil Society Organizations visit TFD
On December 18, women leaders from Timor-Leste's civil society organizations visited the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy. The delegation comprised of Ms. Edna S. Tesoro, advisor to Rede Feto-Dili, and Lorna Bacolong, advisor to Plan International, the delegation was accompanied by Mr. Arthur Hsieh, program officer at the Asia Foundation in Taiwan. The delegation was received by Dr. Chang-yen Tsai , Vice President of TFD, and Mr. Russell Hsiao, Assistant Coordinator for the World Forum for Democratization in Asia (WFDA). The meeting covered the current political situation and social condition in Timor-Leste's new democracy, and specifically on the importance of women and youth participation in the political process with the upcoming presidential and parliamentary elections in 2007. The meeting concluded with an understanding for the need of greater understanding and cooperation between NGOs in Taiwan with that of NGOs in Timor-Leste.

2006-12-07
Delegation from the American Midwest visits the TFD
On December 7, a delegation of Senators and Representatives from the Midwestern states visited the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy. They were greeted by TFD Vice President Ms. Maysing Yang and Special Associate Mr. Kiel Downey, who introduced them to the mission and work of the TFD. Ms. Yang and Mr. Downey answered the delegation's questions about the work and mission of the TFD, its views on good practices of democracy, and its history.

2006-12-06
The European Union's Taiwan Policy and Democracy and Peace in the Taiwan Strait
On the afternoon of December 6, the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy held "The European Union's Taiwan Policy and Democracy and Peace in the Taiwan Strait" at the TFD's office. The event was hosted by Dr. Chang-yen Tsai, Vice President of the TFD, and attended by Dr. Chen-yuan Tung, Vice Chairman of the Mainland Affairs Council, and Prof. Cheng-yi Lin of Academia Sinica's Institute of European and American Studies. Participants engaged in extensive discussion on the EU's development and Taiwan-EU relations and interacted with the audience following the discussion.

2006-12-05
Presentation by Amb. Kazuhiko Togo, TFD International Visiting Fellow
On December 5, former Ambassador of Japan to the Netherlands and current TFD International Visiting Fellow, Amb. Kazuhiko Togo, made a public presentation at the TFD on his fellowship research into eclecticism in international relations theory and the role of the individual. An outline of his presentation is provided here.

2006-12-01
Prof. Takeaki Hori visits TFD
On 1 December 2006, Prof. Takeaki Hori, a Member of the Board of Directors at Forum 2000, visited the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy. The Forum 2000, founded in 1996, was the joint initiative of the Czech President Václav Havel, Japanese philanthropist Yohei Sasakawa, and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Elie Wiesel.Prof. Hori met with Dr. Wen-cheng Lin, President of the TFD, and Mr. Russell Hsiao, Assistant Coordinator of the World Forum for Democratization in Asia. Prof. Hori expressed great interest in the TFD's domestic and international grant programs, and the impact of China's rise on Taiwan's democracy.The meeting touched on the importance for the TFD to study the experiences of other democracy assistance foundations.

2006-11-14
Delegation from Australia visits the TFD
On 14 November 2006, a delegation of senators from the Australian Federal Parliament, led by the Hon. Senator Alan Ferguson, visited the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy. The delegation was greeted by Dr. Wen-cheng Lin, President of the TFD, and Mr. KielDowney, Special Associate at the TFD. Members of the delegation expressed great interest in the TFD’s efforts to spread the experience of Taiwan’s democracy throughout the Asia-Pacific region, as well as prospects for democracy in China.

2006-11-13
Delegation from Canada visits the TFD
On 13 November 2006, a delegation of Canadian political leaders, led by the Hon. Donald Boudria, visited the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy. The delegation was greeted by Dr. Wen-cheng Lin, President of the TFD, Ms. Echo Lin, International Grant Coordinator, and Mr. Kiel Downey, Special Associate at the TFD. Representatives from the TFD introduced the delegation to the TFD’s wide range of programs and answered their questions those programs, as well as the organization of the TFD.

2006-11-06
Representatives from Western Standard Magazine visit the TFD
On 6 November 2006, Mr. Ezra Levant, Publisher of Western Standard, and Ms. Susan Pickel, Operation Manager for the same magazine, visited the TFD. The Western Standard is a news magazine based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. President of the TFD, Dr. Wen-cheng Lin, and Special Associate Mr. Kiel Downey received Mr. Levant and Ms. Pickel and introduced them to the background and programs of the TFD. Dr. Lin and Mr. Downey exchanged with Mr. Levant and Ms. Pickel their views on the current state of democracy in Taiwan, cross-strait relations, and the future of democracy in Taiwan and China. Mr. Levant expressed his concern for the future of Taiwan’s democracy in the face of the threat that it faces from China, but he lauded the TFD for its work in promoting democracy and human rights in Taiwan and abroad.

2006-10-27 ~ 2006-10-29
VIII UNPO General Assembly
The Taiwan Foundation for Democracy(TFD) and the Unrepresented Nations and Peoples Organization (UNPO) hereby cordially invite you to the Opening Session of the Eighth General Assembly (GA) of the Unrepresented Nations and Peoples Organization (UNPO) to be held from 27 until 29 October 2006 inTaipei, Taiwan. The Opening Session of the UNPO GA includes high-level segments with distinguished guest speakers. A Panel Discussion will also be held covering the themes of “Identity, Democracy and Security”.
(For more details)


2006-10-12
Members of the U.S. Republican Party Visit the TFD
On 12 October 2006, members of the U.S. Republican Party visited the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy. The distinguished delegation was headed by former U.S. Ambassador to Bosnia Hon. John Menzies. The delegation was received by Ms. Echo Lin, senior program coordinator of the International Cooperation Department (ICD), Mr. Bo Tedards, coordinator of the World Forum for Democratization in Asia (WFDA), Mr. Kiel Downey, special associate of the ICD, and Mr. Russell Hsiao, assistant coordinator of WFDA. The delegation was briefed on the founding and missions of the TFD and the programs it undertakes. The meeting covered a range of topics, from the emerging democracies in different regions of the world to the potential areas for future collaboration. The delegation applauded the important work done by the TFD in promoting democracy and human rights not only in the region but throughout the world.

2006-08-23
The special address by Dr. Klaus M. Leisinger, President and CEO of the Novartis Foundation for Sustainable Development, originally scheduled for 10:00am, 23 August 2006, has been postponed until further notice. Further information will be provided a


2006-08-11
Joint Presentations by TFD International Visiting Fellows: "Killing the Death Penalty Softly" and "Religion, Church and the Creation of Democratic Political Culture in New Democracies"
On 11 August 2006, TFD International Visiting Fellows Jesse Heatley and Bogdan Radu presented the findings of their research at a panel open to the public at the TFD. Mr. Heatley, a Harvard graduate with a strong background in human rights work and public service, conducted research on the current state of the movement to abolish the death penalty in Taiwan. Mr. Radu, a Democracy Fellow from the University of Irvine with a long history of academic achievements, conducted a comparative study on the relationship between the church and state in Taiwan and his native Romania. See the attached files for details. Jesse Heatley Presentation Summary Bogdan Radu Presentation Summary Event Announcement.

2006-07-24
Members of the Swiss Parliament Visit the TFD
A delegation comprised of members of the Swiss Parliament visited the TFD on 24 July to learn more about the TFD’s mission, governance, budget, and programs. The delegation was greeted by Dr. Wen-cheng Lin, President of the TFD, Mr. Boris Voyer, Consultant for the TFD, Ms. Wenying Hsu, Associate Editor of the Taiwan Democracy Quarterly, Mr. Kiel Downey, TFD Special Associate, and Ms. Wei-chi Chen, Assistant Editor of the Taiwan Democracy Quarterly. As Switzerland has extensive experience with direct democracy, the delegation was particularly interested in discussing the work of IRI-Asia. Members of the delegation shared their own opinions on and experience with initiatives and referendums in Switzerland, and they provided suggestions for educating the Taiwanese people about the mechanisms of direct democracy.

2006-07-13
Perspectives on Human Rights in North Korea
Join Prof. Alexander Fedotoff, Vice Rector of Sofia University, Bulgaria, Mr. Rick Chu, former Editor-in-Chief of the Taipei Times and Dr. Hsin Huang Michael Hsiao, Director of the Center for Asia-Pacific Area Studies, Academia Sinica for a panel discussion on the human rights condition in North Korea.

2006-07-07 ~ 2006-07-08
International Conference on Political Center or Periphery: Legislature & Parliaments in the 21st Century
The International Conference on 'Political Center or Periphery: Legislature & Parliaments in the 21st Century', coorganized and funded by the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, the Department of Political Science at Soochow University and the Taiwan Political Science Association, will be held on July 7-8, 2006, at the International Conference Room on the Waishunghsi Campus of Soochow University, Taipei. We welcome all interested individuals to register and attend the conference. [Conference Details]

2006-07-06
NED Senior Research Fellow visits TFD
On 6 July, Dr. Larry Diamond, senior research fellow at the WashingtonD.C.- based National Endowment for Democracy, visited the TFD. Dr. Lin Wen-cheng, president of the TFD received Dr. Diamond. Dr. Lin was accompanied by the staff of TFD’s International Cooperation Department. The meeting discussed recent developments at the two respective democracy assistance foundations and exchanged views on the challenges ahead for democracy promotion.

2006-07-06
Experts on the role of the legislature and parliament visit TFD
On 6 July, Dr. Lawrence Whitehead, official fellow in politics at OxfordUniversity, Dr. Reuven Y. Hazan, senior lecturer at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, and Dr. Ronald Hedlund, professor at NortheasternUniversity, visited the TFD. The delegation was received by Ms. Yang Huang May-sing, vice-president of the TFD. The meeting included a briefing on the history and programs of the TFD. The discussion also covered the Initiative and Referendum Institute-Asia (IRI-Asia) and the idea of a “democracy audit” for more established democracies. The delegation was in Taipei to attend a TFD sponsored event, the International Conference on PoliticalCenter or Periphery: Legislature & Parliaments in the 21st Century on 7-8 July, 2006, organized by the Department of Political Science at SoochowUniversity and the Taiwan Political Science Association.

2006-06-06
Meeting with Mr. Eduardo Mayora, columnist for Siglo Veintiuno
On 6 June, the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy hosted Mr. Eduardo Mayora, columnist for the Guatemalan newspaper Siglo Veintiuno (Twenty-First Century), TFD Vice President Dr. Wen-cheng Lin and Special Associate Mr. Kiel Downey received Mr. Mayora and discussed with him both the work of the TFD and democracy in Taiwan. Mr. Mayora, Dr. Lin, and Mr. Downey exchanged views on topics ranging from the nature of the TFD’s programs to Taiwan’s democratic development and future.

2006-05-23
Canadian Parliamentarians visit TFD
On 23 May, the TFD hosted a large delegation of Canadian parliamentarians from Canada’s House of Commons and Senate. The delegation was led by Representative Barry Devolin, Member of Parliament for Haliburton, Kawartha, and Brock. Dr. Lin Wen-cheng, vice-president of TFD, received the delegation; he was accompanied by Mr. Russell Hsiao, special associate in the International Cooperation Department. The delegation was briefed on the organization’s mission and activities, and the briefing was followed by a discussion on the methods to improve the quality of Taiwan’s democracy and facilitate democratization in Asia.The delegation expressed hope and encouragement in the mission of the TFD to spread democracy in all of Asia.The meeting concluded with an understanding for the need of greater cooperation between TFD and relevant organizations based in Canada.


2006-05-14 ~ 2006-05-19

The Taiwan Foundation for Democracy and the Federation for a Democratic China, along with Human Rights Without Frontiers and the EuropeanAcademyBerlin, organized the first International Conference on Chinese/Asian Democracy, held on 14 -19 May 2006, in Berlin, Germany. [Conference Details]

2006-05-12
The Taiwan Foundation for Democracy cordially invites you to a talk "Democracy, National Security and U. S.-Taiwan Relations" by Dr. Michael J. Green.

2006-05-08
Professor from the University of Exeter visits TFD
On 8 May, Prof. Tim Niblock from the Institute of Arab and Islamic Studies at the University of Exeter visited the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy. Prof. Niblock was received by Dr. Lin Wen-cheng, vice-president of TFD. The two exchanged ideas on the importance of understanding Islam and the progress of democratization in Moslem countries. Indonesia is both the largest Moslem country and a vibrant democracy, therefore the country is of great importance to the TFD’s activity in the region.


2006-05-03
Meeting with the delegation from the Democratic Party of the United States of America
On 3 May, the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy hosted a delegation of representatives from the Democratic Party of the United States of America as part of their week-long visit to Taiwan. Delegates from a wide range of geographic locations and professional fields across the United States came to the TFD office, where TFD Vice President Wen-cheng Lin, International Grant Coordinator Echo Lin, and Special Associate Mr. L.C. Russell Hsiao briefed the delegation on the organization, mission, and activities of the TFD. The delegation, led by Mr. Miles Lackey, former Special Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs and Senior Director for Legislative Affairs at the National Security Council under President Clinton, had the chance to ask questions about the TFD’s budget, governance, and the focus of its programs.

2006-04-26
Meeting with the delegation from the World Affairs Council
On 26 April, the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy hosted a delegation of representatives from the World Affairs Council, a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization in the United States that promotes greater awareness and understanding of international issues. Delegates representing WAC offices across the United States were invited to come to the office of the TFD, where TFD Vice President Wen-cheng Lin and Special Associate Mr. L.C. Russell Hsiao briefed the delegation on the organization, mission, and activities of the TFD. A question-and-answer session followed the briefing, in which delegates were able to find out more about the TFD’s governance and areas of focus. Dr. William Vocke, former President of the World Affairs Council of America, also attended the meeting to help give the delegates a better understanding of the TFD.

2006-04-19

Will the Chinese Communist Party become a responsible stakeholder?  Overseas Chinese Democracy Activists Consultation [event info]


2006-04-17
Research Fellow from the University of Westminster visits TFD
On 17 April 2006, Dr. Mark Harrison, research fellow in Chinese Studies from the Centre for the Study of Democracy at the University of Westminster in London visited TFD. Dr. Lin Wen-cheng, vice-president of TFD, received Dr. Harrison. The meeting examined the role of the TFD as an ideal facilitator to encourage greater academic exchanges between institutions in the U.K. and Taiwan. The meeting also included a discussion on the importance of promoting Taiwan studies abroad.

2006-03-30
A Delegation of Canadian Parliamentarian visits TFD
On 29 March 2006, a large delegation of Canadian parliamentarians from different political parties visited TFD. The delegation was headed by Honorable Stephen Owen from the House of Commons. Dr. Lin Wen-cheng, vice-president of TFD greeted the distinguished parliamentarians. Dr. Lin was accompanied by Mr. Russell Hsiao, assistant coordinator for the World Forum for Democratization in Asia (WFDA). The delegation hailed Taiwan as a shining example of democracy in Asia. The topics covered in the discussion are the importance of public engagement, rule of law; and the need for greater solidarity in promoting democracy around the world. The delegation was keen to understand the biggest opportunities and threats to the work of TFD.

2006-03-23

The Federal Electoral Institute (IFE) and the Juridical Research Institute, from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (IIJ-UNAM), along with the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, IFES, the United Nations (UN), the Spanish Ministry of the Interior, and the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA), organized the International Seminar on the Institutionalization of Democracy: Comparing Electoral Processes, held on Wednesday, March 22 and Thursday, March 23, 2006 in Mexico City. Agenda  Highlights

2006-01-26

The 22 January issue of the San Francisco Chronicles featured a report entitled “The World's Worst Dictators”: Hu Jin-tao, President of the People's Republic of China (PRC) ranked 6th out of 10.

On 12 January 2006, Eurasia Group released its annual report entitled  “2006 Top 7 Global Political Risk.”

2006-01-24
Presentation Announcement
On 25 January 2006, Linda Arrigo, a renowned political activist will give a slide show presentation on the Kaoshiung incident in 1979 to be held at the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy. These photos are from the presenter’s personal collections. The presentation will be followed by an open discussion with all the participants. The event will be held from 5:00PM to 6:30PM. All interested individuals are encouraged to attend.

2006-01-18
High-level political strategists from the Democratic Party in the U.S. visit TFD
On 18 January, a high-level delegation of 10 political strategists from the Democratic Party in the United States visited the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy. The delegation was headed by Mr. Joe Lockhart, former Whitehouse press secretary under the Clinton administration. Dr. Lin Wen-cheng, vice-president of TFD hosted the delegation. He was accompanied by Dr. Lin Cheng-yi, research fellow at the Institute of European and American Studies, Academia Sinica; Dr. Liu Fu-kuo, associate research fellow in the Institute of International Relations at National Chengchi University; and Mr Russell Hsiao, special associate in the International Cooperation Department. The delegation was keen on hearing local experts’ perceptions toward the effect of U.S. current administration utilization of soft-power diplomacy in the Asia-Pacific and its impact on Taiwan. Other topics covered in the constructive dialogue included a discussion on the internal and external constraints to Taiwan’s security and continued democratic development; assessments on the progress of democracy in China; and the role of the TFD and its partner in facilitating an environment for peace and stability in East Asia.

2006-01-10
University of St. Thomas Students visit TFD
On 10 January, a delegation of 14 students from the University of St. Thomas in Houston, Texas visited the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy. The delegation was led by Dr. Hans Stockton, assistant professor in the Center for International Studies at St. Thomas. Dr. Lin Wen-cheng, vice president of TFD gave an introduction to Taiwan’s democratization experience and the mission of TFD. Dr. Lin entertained the students’ enthused questions with regard to Taiwan’s democracy, East Asia security, U.S. relations with Taiwan and the dynamics of cross-strait relations.

2006-01-06
Secretary-General of the e-Parliament visits TFD
On 6 January, Nicholas Dunlop, secretary-general of the e-Parliament visited TFD. E-Parliament is a global institution that provides a forum for the elected representatives of the world to convene and exchange ideas through the Internet. Mr Russell Hsiao, special associate in the International Cooperation Department received the distinguished guest and gave an in-depth presentation on the mission and history of TFD. Mr Dunlop was interested in the role that TFD plays in facilitating effective governance in Taiwan and other democracies. The discussion explored the means to encourage greater dialogue among elected policy makers to help promote democratic governance.

2006-01-03
Members from the House of Representatives of the Republic of Indonesia visit TFD
On 3 January 2006, 3 honourable members of the Democratic Party that serve in the House of Representatives from the Republic of Indonesia visited the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy (TFD). Dr. Lin Wen-cheng, vice-president of TFD hosted the delegation. Mr Russell Hsiao, special associate at TFD briefed the delegation on the history and function of TFD. Mr Bo Tedards, coordinator of the World Forum for Democratization in Asia (WFDA) gave a presentation on the formation and scope of operation undertaken by WFDA. The delegation was interested on learning about the organizational structure of the TFD, and the process by which Taiwan established the first democracy assistance foundation in Asia. Topics covered and discussed in the meeting included electoral reforms, constitutional re-engineering, political party training; and a consensus on the need to protect and build upon the democratic traditions in the Asia-Pacific.

2005-12-19
Young Political Leaders of the U.S. Democratic Party visits TFD
On 15 December, a delegation of distinguished young political leaders affiliated with the U.S. Democratic Party visited the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy. Mr. Jou Yi-cheng, director of the International Cooperation Department hosted the delegation. Mr Jimmy Hsu, a J.S.D. candidate at the University of Chicago Law School sat in on the meeting to exchange views with the young political leaders. Mr Russell Hsiao, special associate in the International Cooperation Department gave a presentation on the organizational structure of the TFD, and the scope of programs undertaken by the foundation. The delegation was interested in understanding the internal constraints and challenges to Taiwan’s democracy. The topics covered in the discussion include the following issues: transitional justice, regional security, China’s rise, the role of the media in democratic societies, and the importance of civic education for democratic development.

2005-12-13
Canadian Scholars visit TFD
On 13 December, a delegation composed of scholars from Canada visited the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy. The delegation led by Dr. Judith Ann Nagata, associate director of the Yorke Centre for Asian Research at York University, consisted of 8 members from various prominent institutions in Canada focused on Asian studies. Bajack C.S. Kao, vice-president of TFD played host to the delegation. Vice-president Kao exchanged views with the delegates on topics concerning the development of Taiwan’s democracy and its impact on indigenous rights. The delegation was also interested in the function of the TFD and the scope of the organisation’s activities in facilitating democratic governance. The discussion attached great importance to strengthening academic exchanges between relevant institutions in Canada and Taiwan.

2005-12-12
Democracy not an Oxymoron: A Response to China's White Paper on "Building of Political Democracy in China" [View Details]


2005-12-10
Please join the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy on 10 December 2005 for a conference on the release of "China's Human Rights Report." [Conference Details]


2005-11-30
University of Pennsylvania Law Professor exchange views with TFD Vice President on cross-strait relations
On 30 November, Dr. Jacque deLisle from the LawSchool of the Center for East Asian Studies at the University of Pennsylvania visited TFD vice president Dr. Lin Wen-cheng. The two scholars exchanged their views on the challenges to East Asian Security and the prospects for peace and stability along the Taiwan Strait. The range of topics covered in the meeting included an appraisal of U.S. policy towards Taiwan, the role of the U.S. in preserving peace and stability in the region, as well as the implications of Taiwan’s domestic reforms on regional stability.


2005-11-30
Deputy Director of the Australian Commerce and Industry Office visits TFD
On 30 November, Georgina Paterson, Deputy Director of the Economic and Policy Section of the Australian Commerce and Industry Office visited the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy. Dr. Lin Wen-cheng, vice president of TFD, met with Ms. Paterson and discussed at length on the implications of the upcoming local elections in December. The conversation covered a range of topics; one of the topics discussed in the meeting was the impact of corruption in a democratic system, and the importance of understanding the processes for democratic development. The discussion included an exchange of ideas on cross-strait relations, as well as the obstacles and barriers to promoting democratization in China.


2005-11-30
Former Ambassador of Slovakia to U.S. visits TFD
On 30 November, the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy played host to Ambassador Martin Butora and Alexander Duleba from Slovakia. Ambassador Butora previously served as Slovakia’s Ambassador to the United States, he is now presiding as honorary president of Slovakia’s leading think tank, the Institute for Public Affairs. He was accompanied by Alexander Duleba, who is the director of the Research Center of Slovak Foreign Policy Association. TFD’s vice president, Dr. Lin Wen-cheng met with the Slovakian delegation and gave them an introduction to Taiwan’s struggle for democracy. The discussion in the meeting covered the shared experiences of Slovakia and Taiwan. The constructive discussion stressed the importance of strengthening cooperation to promote understanding of democratic values, and explore the different avenues for cooperation between the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy and other link minded organisations in Slovakia.


2005-11-29
Members of Icelandic Parliament visit TFD
On 29 November, a 6 member delegation from Iceland visited the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy. TFD’s vice president, Dr. Lin Wen-cheng met with the delegation and provided a comprehensive introduction to the formation of the TFD and Taiwan’s path towards democracy. The delegation was interested in the upcoming local elections and its implications on the vitality of Taiwan’s democracy. The discussion focused on the role of the TFD in facilitating democratic consolidation within Taiwan, and the mission of the organisation to promote democratic principles and universal human rights in the region.


2005-11-27 ~ 2005-12-04
International Training Workshop on Human Rights Learning & International Seminar on Learning and Planning for Human Rights City Movement
In order to promote the human rights education and city movements, the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy in conjunction with the People’s Movement for Human Right’s Education (PDHRE) and Taiwan’s NGOs Association for International Affairs (NAFIA) will host the first session on “International Training Workshop on Human Rights Learning & International Seminar on Learning and Planning for Human Rights City Movement.” The 10 day workshop will be held from 27 November 2005 to 4 December 2005 in Kaoshiung, Taiwan.

2005-11-21
Deputy Director General of the British Trade & Cultural Office visits TFD
On 21 November 2005, Mr Charles Garrett, Deputy Director General of the British Trade & Cultural Office in Taipei visited the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy. TFD’s vice president, Dr Lin Wen-cheng exchanged views with Mr Garrett on European policies toward countries in the Asia region. Dr Lin gave an introduction to Taiwan’s democratization experience, and explained the rational behind the formation of the TFD. The dialogue centered on case studies found in different European nations’ model of democratic development. The meeting concluded with a constructive discussion on the importance for TFD to network with relevant organisations in the United Kingdom to assist in democratization in the Asia-Pacific region.


2005-11-13
2005 Taipei County Magistrates Television Debate
In December 2005, Taiwan will hold three local elections. In order to allow voters the opportunity to fully understand the candidates’ political view and the ideals of local issues, the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy and Taiwan Public Television Services held the "2005 Taipei County Magistrates Television Debate." Chairman Kau Yu-jen served as the moderator for the debate.

2005-11-10
“Human Rights Beyond Borders”
The Taiwan Foundation for Democracy hosted the first series of a monthly forum entitled, “Human Rights Beyond Borders.”

2005-11-09
TFD hosts leading Kazakahstan's press
On November 9, Mr. Adikhan Nussupov, the Editor-in-Chief of Kazakakhstan’s second largest newspaper, Express K, came to the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy to interview TFD’s vice president, Dr. Lin Wen-cheng. Mr. Nussopov expressed his country’s interest in Taiwan’s democratic experience, particularly the economic factors that impact democratic development. Mr. Nussopov wanted to know what lessons can be learned from Taiwan’s experience that can help assist the economic and democratic development of Kazakakhstan.

2005-11-08
Swedish Ambassador visits TFD
On 8 November 2005, Taiwan Foundation for Democracy hosted Ambassador Ingolf Kiesow from the Swedish Defence Research Agency. TFD’s vice president, Dr. Lin Wen-cheng exchanged views with Ambassador Kiesow on the present trends in cross-strait relations, and the role of confidence building measures (CBM) for maintaining regional stability. The meeting covered a range of topics which included the prospects of democratic development in China, in light of CPC’s “White Paper on Building Political Democracy in China,” Hong Kong’s democratic peril, and the changing political environment in Taiwan’s bourgeoning democracy. The meeting concluded with a mutual understanding of Sweden’s unique facilitating role in encouraging dialogue in cross-strait relations.


2005-10-30
Former President of South Korea visits Taiwan
Kim Young-sam, former president of the Republic of Korea (South Korea) visited Taiwan on 30 October 2005. Dr. Michael Y.M. Kau, president of the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy and vice-minister of Foreign Affairs, represented Taiwan’s government to receive President Kim at the airport. [read Ministry of Foreign Affairs press release (Chinese)]

2005-10-22
Roundtable Discussion on China’s White Paper on “Building Political Democracy in China”
On 22 October 2005, the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy held a roundtable discussion on China’s white paper “Building Political Democracy in China.” [read Taipei Times coverage of the event (English)] [Download discussion notes (Chinese)]


2005-10-22 ~ 2005-10-23
Conference on NHRIs in the Asia-Pacific
In order to assist the establishment of a national human rights commission, the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy in conjunction with the Taiwan Society on International Law will co-host the “Conference on National Human Rights Institutions in the Asia-Pacific,” on October 22nd through October 23rd at the Howard International House. All interested participants are encouraged to register.
For registration information please contact Ms. Jiang by phone (02)2515-4932 or email tsilorg@ms78.hinet.net. (Download Agenda PDF File) (Download Registration Form PDF File)


2005-10-11
Florida House of Representatives visits TFD
On 11 October 2005, 11 members from the Florida House of Representatives visited the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy. The delegation was led by Mr. Otto C.M. Yang, director of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECRO) in Miami. Ms. Echo Lin, senior program coordinator for the International Cooperation Department briefed the distinguished guests on the mission and role of the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy. The meeting covered a range of topics, from the structure of the TFD, December elections, and Taiwan’s constitutional reform. The representatives were also interested in the impact of constitutional re-engineering on Taiwan’s political system. The meeting explored ways to strengthen cooperation with TFD in order to facilitate the institutionalization of democratic practices around the world.

2005-09-27
TFD Hosts South African and Brazilian Delegation
On 27th September 2005, the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy hosted four distinguished guests from various research institutes in South Africa and Brazil. The South African delegation included Dr. Greg Mills, Director of the Brenthurst Foundation; Lyal White, Senior Researcher on Asia & Latin America for The South African Institute of International Affairs; and Dr. Robert Schire, Professor at the Department of Political Sciences, University of Cape Town. The delegation from Brazil, represented by Marcelo Piancastelli de Siqueria, came from the Institute of Applied Economic Research under the Ministry of Planning, Budget and Management. Dr. Lin Wen-cheng, Vice-President of TFD, briefed the guests on the scope of operations undertaken by the TFD, and gave a comprehensive introduction on Taiwan’s democracy. The delegation was interested in understanding how Taiwan’s unique democratization experience can help assist transitioning democracies around the world, notably democracies in Africa and Latin America. The range of topics covered at the meeting included a discussion on the viability of establishing national democracy foundations such as the TFD under the political and economic environment of many African and Latin America countries; and explore the channels for further cooperation through different levels of intellectual exchange. The delegation was in Taipei for an international conference on Is there an Economic Orthodoxy for Developing Nations? The conference organized by the Forum on African Studies in Taiwan in conjunction with the South African Institute of International Affairs and PENT Foundation, was held at the Institute of International Relations, NationalChengchiUniversity, from September 28th through the 29th.

2005-09-15 ~ 2005-09-17

The first WFDA Biennial Conference is scheduled to take place on 15-17 September 2005 in Taipei, Taiwan. All interested democrats are welcome to attend. Highlights will include adoption of the "program of action" as well as speeches... <Summary Report> 

2005-08-29 ~ 2005-08-30
Asia (IRI-Asia) co-host the August 2005 "International Conference on Deliberative Democracy”


2005-07-11
HURIGHTS OSAKA Award 2005 for International Human Rights Education Materials
Invitation to participate in the contest for the most original teaching materials & programs oninternational human rightsCall for Entries ......( View detail )

2005-07-11
"Taiwan and Global Democratization" by Mr. Randall G. Schriver, former U.S.Deputy Assistant Secretary of State
Mr. Randall G. Schriver, former U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State, will deliver a speech on ‘Taiwan and Global Democratization’ at Foreign Service Institute, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, at 7:30 pm , July 11, 2005.

2005-07-07 ~ 2005-07-10
Media for Democracy — the Challenge in Asia