President Tsai Ing-wen said Dec. 10 that Taiwan is committed to standing with the international community in upholding the universal values of democracy, freedom and human rights.
Noting this year’s World Human Rights Day marks the 40th anniversary of the Kaohsiung Incident in Taiwan, Tsai said the country has overcome tremendous hardship in its democratic transition. Such an outcome could never have been achieved without the sacrifices of pro-democracy campaigners, she added.
Safeguarding democracy in the Indo-Pacific is one of the government’s top priorities, Tsai said, which is why it is proud to support the Asia Democracy and Human Rights Award.
Tsai made the remarks at the 14th ADHR Award ceremony organized by Taiwan Foundation for Democracy in Taipei City.
This year’s prize went to Australia-based nongovernmental organization Diplomacy Training Program. Founded in 1989, DTP is a leading organization devoted to transnational empowerment through training and mentoring human rights workers in the Asia Pacific, Middle East, and North Africa.
According to Tsai, DTP has worked tirelessly to promote and support human rights around the world. This makes it a shining example for Taiwan to learn from, she added.
Founded in 2003, TFD is the first national-level foundation in Asia aimed at promoting democracy. The annual ADHR Award honors individuals or groups for their efforts in promoting fair and just societies. (RAY-E)
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