Development of human rights and related policymaking in Taiwan were praised by the Council of the EU in its latest Report on Human Rights and Democracy in the World.
“The EU’s engagement fits into a generally good human rights situation and domestic policy to implement international standards,” according to the report released June 22.
As a beacon of democracy and human rights, Taiwan serves as a regional example for territories such as Hong Kong and mainland China. Both earned mention in the annual EU report for respective democracy and human rights issues.
“The EU issued statements reiterating support for deeper democratization, the introduction of universal suffrage and a fair electoral system which allows a high degree of political participation for the people of Hong Kong,” the report said.
Concerning mainland China, the EU highlighted earlier statements in the U.N. General Assembly expressing “deep concerns over the arrest and detention of peaceful human rights defenders.” It also urged authorities to “release those detained for exercising their right to freedom of conscience, expression and association.”
The situation in Tibet and Xinjiang was highlighted by the EU, which encouraged mainland China to address longstanding ethnic and religious tensions, and create an environment conducive to meaningful dialogue among affected parties.
But it was not all plain sailing for Taiwan in the report. The EU again expressed concerns over the country’s use of capital punishment and called for a suspension of the practice as recommended by international experts in 2013. (SFC-JSM)
Write to Taiwan Today at ttonline@mofa.gov.tw