Taiwan Strengthens Civil Defense Amid Rising China Tensions

Bangkok, Sep 16 (AP) Taiwan has unveiled an updated civil defense handbook, aiming to strengthen civilian readiness in the wake of potential threats, especially considering increasing tensions with China. This revamped guide, created by the All-out Defence Mobilization Agency, offers practical advice and resources for crises ranging from military invasions to natural disasters, reflecting the island's vulnerability to such events.

Shen Wei-chih, the director of the agency, emphasized the publication was timely, stating, "Since the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine war, we have felt that much more information needs to be added. Today's new edition of the National Defense Handbook is about how to enhance and raise public awareness of crises, as well as strengthen the ability for self-defence."

Taiwan, an autonomous region China claims as its territory, has seen increased tension with Beijing as diplomatic relations have dwindled. In response, China's military presence around the island has intensified, with frequent various military drills, including simulated blockades and routine dispatches of military jets and naval vessels. Just this week, Taiwan's Ministry of National Defence reported that 24 Chinese military aircraft and 11 navy vessels had approached the island.

Under the leadership of President Lai Ching-te of the Democratic Progressive Party, Taiwanese authorities have increasingly highlighted the significance of civilian participation in potential defensive operations. The newly released 36-page guide offers practical checklists for emergency preparation, including essentials for evacuation bags, and strategies for various crisis scenarios like air raids and tsunamis. It also features links to apps identifying emergency shelters and instructional content online.

Suggestions include storing drinking water, sleeping bags, and raincoats, alongside a week's supply of canned goods, toiletries, and pet food. The guide also warns of the danger posed by "non-friendly actors conducting live-fire drills near Taiwan or unilaterally declaring a no-fly zone under the guise of military exercises." According to Defense Ministry spokesperson Col. Chiao Fu-chun, the handbook largely maintains previous content but aims for simplicity. "We drew on approaches from France and Norway, and after extensive consultation with experts, we completed this handbook. It is expressed through simple text and images, making it easy for people of all ages to understand," said Chiao.

This initiative aligns with a broader movement in Taiwan, emphasizing civilian roles in national defense strategies. Complementing governmental efforts, civil society organizations like Kuma Academy, with generous support from philanthropists such as Robert Tsao, have begun launching civil defense courses, underlining the island's commitment to bolstering readiness. (AP) GRS GRS

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