Taiwan has expanded its conscription rules for individuals with close ties to China, a move officials say is aimed at safeguarding national security amid continued cross-strait tensions.
Under the previous policy, individuals residing in Taiwan but originally from China were barred from serving in intelligence, communications, aviation, and naval roles during their mandatory military service. They were also prohibited from working as aides to high-ranking Taiwanese military officers.
A recent defense ministry report broadened these restrictions to cover eight categories of military work, though the specific roles have not been publicized.
The updated rules also now apply not only to Chinese-born citizens but also to people of service age with other types of connections to Beijing.
These include those who previously held Chinese, Hong Kong, or Macau citizenship; those who have annulled their Taiwanese residency in favor of residency in China, Hong Kong, or Macau; and individuals who have studied at institutions affiliated with Chinese agencies.
‘Closely Monitored’
Conscripts identified as having ties to China are added to a list maintained by the Ministry of the Interior and interviewed individually.
Their behavior, performance, and family interactions are also closely observed.
Last year, the Taiwanese military recorded 387 conscripts with such ties. Although this represents less than one percent of all conscripts, it remains a focus of security measures.
‘Not Exempt’
Defense Minister Wellington Koo clarified in March that Taiwanese citizens holding Chinese nationality are still required to fulfill mandatory military service.
However, they undergo evaluation, screening, and counseling, and are restricted from roles involving classified information.
“That should effectively prevent any (treasonous) actions,” Koo told local media.
