Taiwan’s National Immigration Agency (NIA) announced on Tuesday that it will revoke the residence permit of a Chinese social media influencer, identified by her surname Liu (劉), after she allegedly made statements advocating for China’s unification with Taiwan through military force.
The decision comes after Liu’s controversial remarks surfaced on her Douyin account, “Yaya in Taiwan” (亞亞在台灣), which has amassed nearly 400,000 followers. The NIA stated that her comments violated Taiwan’s laws regarding relations between the island and mainland China.
Background and Investigation
Liu, who has been living in Taiwan under a family-based residence permit due to her marriage to a Taiwanese citizen, reportedly used her platform to spread pro-China propaganda. Authorities received complaints about her content, prompting an investigation.
After reviewing her online activities, the NIA determined that her statements breached the Act Governing Relations between the People of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area. In particular, her rhetoric was seen as a direct threat to Taiwan’s sovereignty and democratic values.
The agency summoned Liu for questioning under the Administrative Procedure Act, where she was asked to clarify her statements. However, after a thorough review, authorities decided to revoke her residence permit.
Legal Actions and Consequences
Based on the NIA’s ruling, Liu will face the following penalties:
- Revocation of Residence Permit: Liu will no longer be allowed to stay in Taiwan.
- Five-Year Ban: She cannot reapply for a family-based residence permit during this period.
- Deportation: Authorities will arrange for her departure once she finalizes family-related matters.
The NIA emphasized that freedom of speech in Taiwan does not extend to advocating for military force against the island. They strongly condemned any attempt to use social media to spread hostile rhetoric for online traffic and profit.
Government’s Stand on National Security
The Taiwanese government has taken a firm stance against any form of foreign influence that threatens national security. The NIA’s action highlights Taiwan’s commitment to defending its democratic system against external interference.
Authorities have also urged individuals—especially foreign residents—to avoid making politically sensitive remarks that could undermine Taiwan’s stability.
The government continues to monitor online activities and take strict measures against misinformation and propaganda.
Public Reaction
Liu’s case has sparked discussions in Taiwan about freedom of speech versus national security. Many Taiwanese netizens have supported the government’s decision, arguing that allowing pro-China rhetoric could destabilize society. Others, however, have raised concerns about potential overreach in regulating online speech.
Political analysts believe this case serves as a warning to Chinese nationals living in Taiwan who may attempt to spread Beijing’s agenda. It also reinforces Taiwan’s efforts to counter Chinese influence operations.
FAQs
Why was Liu’s residence permit revoked?
Liu reportedly made statements on her Douyin account advocating for China’s military unification with Taiwan, violating Taiwan’s laws on cross-strait relations.
What legal basis did the NIA use for this action?
The NIA cited Article 14 of the “Measures for the Permission of Family-Based Residence, Long-Term Residence, and Settlement of People from the Mainland Area in the Taiwan Area” and the Act Governing Relations between the People of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area.
How long is Liu banned from reapplying for residence?
She is banned for five years from applying for a family-based residence permit.
Will Liu be deported immediately?
No. She has been granted time on humanitarian grounds to settle personal and family matters before deportation.
How does Taiwan monitor social media for threats?
Taiwan has cybersecurity agencies that track and analyze online content to identify and counteract potential foreign influence and misinformation campaigns.
