In this episode of Strait Forward, hosts Channing Lee and Libby Lange explore the crucial topic of digital resilience, particularly in the context of Taiwan's technologically advanced society. They discuss the multifaceted nature of digital resilience, encompassing both physical infrastructure and cybersecurity. The conversation delves into the challenges Taiwan faces, from natural disasters like typhoons to the pervasive threat of cyberattacks and disinformation campaigns.The episode features a compelling interview with Audrey Tang, Taiwan's former Digital Minister and current Ambassador-at-Large for Cyber Affairs. Tang shares insights into Taiwan's innovative approaches to digital governance, including radical transparency, civic engagement, and the use of AI to foster digital democracy. The discussion highlights Taiwan's efforts to build a resilient and democratic digital ecosystem in the face of external pressures.They discuss:Digital Resilience DefinitionPhysical Digital ResilienceCybersecurity ThreatsDisinformation CampaignsAudrey Tang's RoleRadical TransparencyCivic Technology Initiatives (g0v, vTaiwan)Digital DemocracyAI's Role in Governance (Assistive Intelligence)Taiwan Gold Card Program
Strait Forward is a podcast by the Special Competitive Studies Project.
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Episode 2 - The Road to Democracy
This episode of "Strait Forward" explores the intricate history of Taiwan's democratization, focusing on the pivotal moments that shaped its current political identity. It begins by establishing a glossary of key historical terms and then dives into the impact of these events on Taiwan's societal fabric. Historian Dr. Dominic Yang joins the conversation to shed light on the profound effects of trauma and memory on Taiwan's journey towards democracy, and how these elements continue to influence the island's political landscape.They discuss:The lasting impact of Japanese colonial rule on Taiwan.The significance and consequences of the 228 Incident.The pervasive effects of the White Terror and martial law.Ethnic distinctions and their role in Taiwan’s political historyDr. Yang's background and research into trauma and memory studies.The KMT's arrival in 1949 and its immediate impact on Taiwan.The everyday experience of living under martial law.The challenges of reconciling historical trauma with democratic development.
Strait Forward is a podcast by the Special Competitive Studies Project.
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Episode 1 - Why Taiwan Matters
In the inaugural episode of "Straight Forward," Channing Lee and Libby Lange delve into the multifaceted importance of Taiwan in today's global landscape. They begin by discussing their personal connections to Taiwan and then provide a foundational overview of the island's geography, economy, and unique political status. Ambassador Alexander Yui joins the conversation to share his insights on Taiwan's journey from isolation to a key player in technology and democracy, the challenges it faces, and the burgeoning US-Taiwan relationship. They discuss:Ambassador Yui's career backgroundTaiwan's journey from isolation to recognitionIntroducing Taiwan to a new audienceChallenges in global diplomacyTaiwan's role in global innovationMaintaining democracy in the face of external threatsThe evolving threat from BeijingOpportunities for US-Taiwan cooperation in 2025Ambassador Yui's recommendations for learning more about TaiwanCheck out some related works:- The PRC’s Remote Poaching Model- The View from Taiwan: Democracy in Action- Beijing’s Play for Taiwan’s Young Voices Intensifies- Taiwan: Strength in Unity, Behind Innovation Power- Two Island Nations, From Neighbors to Partners- Taiwan: A Case Study in Resilience and Innovation
Strait Forward is a podcast by the Special Competitive Studies Project.
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Episode 0 - Podcast Trailer
SCSP’s Channing Lee and Libby Lange take a deep-dive into Taiwan, the island at the forefront of technological innovation and the global fight for democracy. Hear Taiwanese experts discuss geopolitics, technology, and culture.Strait Forward is a podcast by the Special Competitive Studies Project.
SCSP’s Channing Lee and Libby Lange take a deep-dive into Taiwan, the island at the forefront of technological innovation and the global fight for democracy. Hear Taiwanese experts discuss geopolitics, technology, and culture.
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