Espionage and foreign interference have long been a contentious issue between Taiwan and China. The recent rise in spying cases in Taiwan indicates that Beijing’s espionage efforts have intensified and expanded beyond military circles. As Taiwan prepares for a crucial presidential election, the threat of Chinese spies looms large over the island. This article delves into the impact of China’s alleged “communist spies” on Taiwan and highlights the need for heightened vigilance in countering foreign interference.
Since the establishment of a separate government in Taipei by the Chinese nationalists in 1949, Taiwan and China have engaged in a longstanding game of espionage. The past ten months have witnessed a significant increase in charges and convictions related to spying for China. Taiwanese authorities argue that these cases serve as proof of Beijing’s escalating espionage strategy. Notably, in October, retired air force colonel Liu Sheng-shu was sentenced to 20 years in prison for running a military spy ring on behalf of Beijing. This case and several others have exposed the vulnerabilities within Taiwan’s security apparatus.
The growing tensions between Taiwan and China have further exacerbated the issue of Chinese espionage. China’s claims over the self-governed island have become increasingly assertive, with military and political pressure rising. Beijing has even hinted at the possibility of using force to achieve its goal of unification. As the United States’ support for Taiwan strengthens, Beijing’s global spy efforts, particularly against the US, have expanded. Taiwan, with its proximity to China and widespread use of the Chinese language, becomes an easy target for Chinese spies.
Grant Newsham, a retired US Marine Corps colonel, asserts that Taiwan’s comparatively lax approach to punishing espionage has made it an attractive location for Chinese spies. Until recently, Taiwan lacked a robust system for restricting access to classified information, making it easier for foreign intelligence services to gain access. Experts and Taiwanese officials argue that espionage is part of China’s broader strategy to exert influence on the island. China has engaged in a “war without gunfire” against Taiwan, deploying fighter jets into Taiwan’s air defense zone, reprimanding its leaders for diplomatic visits, and imposing bans on Taiwanese agricultural imports.
The upcoming presidential election in January adds another layer of significance to the issue of Chinese espionage. The election will witness the incumbent Democratic People’s Party (DPP), which advocates for Taiwan’s independence and sovereignty, pitted against opposition candidates who support maintaining the status quo by restarting dialogue with Beijing. A victory for the DPP’s candidate and current vice-president William Lai would pose a challenge to China’s unification plans. Against this backdrop, concerns of Chinese interference, including cyberattacks, have arisen.
Among the targets of Chinese spies, the Taiwanese military appears to be a primary focus. Most of the alleged spies are either connected to the military or accused of attempting to recruit soldiers. Investigations have revealed cases of diabolo instructors and businessmen being involved in espionage. The fear is that China’s operatives not only steal secrets but also shape public opinion to garner support for China. Media warfare forms a significant part of China’s strategy towards Taiwan, aimed at demoralizing the island. Taiwan’s response involves making the spying allegations public, serving as a PR tactic for the DPP.
While some experts argue that Chinese infiltration efforts will have limited sway, others caution against the potential negative consequences of exposing espionage cases. Taiwan’s efforts to counter Chinese spies and strengthen its security apparatus have become more urgent. The 2020 election prompted the implementation of comprehensive anti-espionage laws, in response to revelations made by self-confessed Chinese spy Wang Liqiang. However, the ongoing challenge lies in preventing the initial infiltration and recruitment of spies.
As Taiwan remains locked in a battle against Chinese espionage, it is crucial to recognize the potential threats and take appropriate measures to safeguard national security. The upcoming presidential election heightens the urgency to counter foreign interference and protect Taiwan’s democratic process. Strengthening counterintelligence capabilities and improving internal security protocols are paramount in this regard. By doing so, Taiwan can mitigate the risks posed by Chinese “communist spies” and maintain its sovereignty and independence.
