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This presentation examines Taiwan as a critical case study for understanding the evolving challenges to democracy in the 21st century. Arguing that Taiwan serves as a ¡°canary in the coalmine,¡± the analysis highlights how the island¡¯s early and persistent political polarization¡ªrooted in identity politics and the legacies of authoritarian rule¡ªprefigures trends now visible in established democracies worldwide. The research explores how deep divisions between the Kuomintang (KMT) and Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), reinforced by institutional and social factors, have led to legislative gridlock, declining trust in political institutions, and a ¡°democratic ceiling¡± that constrains further democratic development. Taiwan¡¯s precarious geopolitical position, facing constant pressure from the People¡¯s Republic of China, intensifies the dilemma of balancing national security with the protection of civil liberties. The presentation analyzes Taiwan¡¯s innovative responses to disinformation, foreign interference, and public health crises, illustrating both the resilience and fragility of democratic systems under external and internal stress.

Alexander C. Tan is Professor of Political Science and International Relations at the University of Canterbury. He was recently visiting professor at Oxford University¡¯s School of Global and Area Studies.  Alex writes extensively in the areas of parties & elections, political economy, Taiwan and Asian politics, and Asia-Pacific international relations. 

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