In Taipei, Taiwan, eleven years ago, Rex How, a multifaceted figure in the cultural and political scene, made a pivotal decision that would reshape his life and the trajectory of Taiwan. As the cultural adviser to the Kuomintang (KMT) government under President Ma Ying-jeou, How took a stand against the Cross-Strait Service Trade Agreement (CSSTA), a controversial deal that aimed to open Taiwan’s service industry to Chinese investment.
His public alert on social media sparked widespread concern among the Taiwanese public about the implications of the CSSTA, prompting protests and the emergence of the Sunflower Movement, a significant protest movement that challenged China’s economic influence and threatened Taiwan’s political sovereignty. How later resigned from his position and supported the student activists leading the movement, marking a turning point in Taiwan’s political landscape.
Over the years, the Sunflower Movement laid the groundwork for the Democratic Progressive Party’s (DPP) electoral victories and ushered in a new generation of politicians and parties in Taiwan. However, in the recent elections, former activists and movement parties faced setbacks in their respective districts. The Taiwan People’s Party (TPP), led by Ko Wen-je, gained traction among young voters as a pragmatic alternative, securing a significant presence in the legislature.
Reflecting on the transformation in Taiwan since his initial warning about the CSSTA, How draws parallels between generational divides and changes in the island nation’s political landscape. He sees a shift from the “land” to the “sea,” symbolizing a transition from old to new ways of thinking and operating in Taiwanese society.
As Taiwan navigates these changes, How emphasizes the importance of listening to and understanding the needs of younger generations who are shaping the country’s future. He cautions against allowing external influences, particularly from China, to undermine Taiwan’s autonomy and democratic values, urging citizens to remain vigilant and hold their government accountable.