The upcoming Taiwan election has sparked a wave of anxiety among young voters, who are primarily concerned about their economic situations and job prospects. This sentiment has been echoed in a recent survey, which revealed that most Taiwanese respondents view economic development as the top priority for the next president. The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), which has been in power for the past eight years, is facing criticism for its perceived failure to improve the lives of younger Taiwanese. Issues such as rising house prices, stagnating incomes, high youth unemployment rates, and slow GDP growth have become major concerns for this demographic. The precarious financial situation has given rise to social phenomena like the “beipiao” – young people from economically disadvantaged areas seeking jobs in the capital city while grappling with soaring rents.
The dissatisfaction among young voters has taken a toll on the DPP’s popularity. Many view the party as part of the establishment and feel that it has not adequately addressed the long-standing economic challenges facing Taiwan. The DPP’s traditional focus on protecting Taiwan from China’s claims has lost resonance with the younger generation, who view it as a political strategy rather than a genuine commitment. In contrast, the Taiwan People’s Party (TPP), led by Ko Wen-je, has garnered support from disillusioned young voters who feel let down by the two major political parties. Despite criticism for his controversial remarks, Ko’s rational and straight-talking persona has resonated with millennials.
The economic issues plaguing Taiwan are not unique to any specific party; they have persisted regardless of which party is in power. Experts argue that the government must actively address these challenges and prioritize solutions, or else they risk exacerbating an already volatile situation. Failure to alleviate the economic hardships faced by young people may result in further brain drain as more Taiwanese seek better prospects abroad. Migration data indicates a steady increase in the number of young Taiwanese working overseas, reflecting a lack of confidence in the country’s economic future.
However, amidst the concerns and uncertainties, some young Taiwanese still hold hope for a brighter future. Individuals like Ziwei and Wenjing, who managed to save enough money for a down payment on a new apartment, remain optimistic about their prospects. They believe that with hard work and determination, they can overcome the financial challenges and achieve their goals. Nevertheless, it is crucial for the incoming president to listen to the voices of young voters and implement effective policies to address their economic concerns. Only through tangible improvements can faith in the government be restored and a more prosperous future be secured for Taiwan.
