This year marks the 60th anniversary of the February 28 Incident as well as the 20th anniversary of the lifting of martial law. Looking back over the past half century of progress on the path to democracy, we see that Taiwan’s people have steadily realized their aspirations one after another [from the lifting of martial law, abolition of bans on establishing new political parties and newspapers, and nationalization of the armed forces [to ensure their loyalty to the nation rather than to individuals or political parties], to independence of the judiciary, overhaul of the parliament, direct presidential elections, and the establishment of a referendum system. Moreover, ongoing consolidation and deepening of democracy have ensured freedoms, human rights and well-being of Taiwan’s people are continually safeguarded.

Regrettably, however, China, on the other side of the Taiwan Strait, has distortedly portrayed our people’s efforts in the pursuit of democracy as moves toward “de jure independence.” It has opposed and attempted to suppress all of our democratization efforts. Facts demonstrate that cross-strait problems do not derive from Taiwan, which respects freedom, democracy, and human rights, but from China, which is still under totalitarian, dictatorial rule. This is a reality that the international community must squarely face.

In recent weeks, the global community of democracies has strongly condemned Myanmar’s military junta for its cruel suppression of the nation’s Buddhist monks and citizens, and expressed the intention to impose sanctions on the regime. As a member of the alliance of nations that champion freedom and democratic values, Taiwan is willing to do its share to help restore democratic order in Myanmar as soon as possible. Infringements of human rights and suppression of democracy are definitely not mere “domestic affairs.” While showing its keen concern for developments in Myanmar, the international community should also conscientiously examine China’s dismal human rights record as well as its brutal suppression of the freedoms of speech, the press, and religion.

While China’s slogan for the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games is “one world, one dream,” the international community, for its part, should steadfastly demonstrate its moral fortitude in demanding that China adhere to a “one world, one standard” principle. There can be no double standards when it comes to the universal values of freedom, democracy, human rights, and peace.

The size of nations is irrelevant. The international community should not, in fear of China’s military might, demand that Taiwan keep quiet. Nor should it, out of concern for commercial interests, turn a blind eye to China’s military intimidation and diplomatic suppression of Taiwan, or to its “united front” economic warfare against Taiwan.

In a speech made in Kyoto in November 2005, U.S. President George W. Bush said, “Free nations are peaceful nations, free nations do not threaten their neighbors, and free nations offer their citizens a hopeful vision for the future. By advancing the cause of liberty throughout this region, we will contribute to the prosperity of all and deliver the peace and stability that can only come with freedom.”

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