by George Tsai Woei (East Asian Institute, National University of Singapore) & Peter Yu Kien-Hong (East Asian Institute, National University of Singapore)

Recent years have seen the emergence of a unique Taiwanese consciousness. What this so-called Taiwanisation is and how it came about are addressed in the first article. The evolution of this Taiwanese consciousness, and how it is perceived and presented by major political parties like the Democratic Progressive Party, the Kuomintang, the People First Party and the New Party, are then discussed. The process appears to be an irreversible one which might lead to Taiwan's self-determination.

The second article offers a working definition of Taiwanisation. It then spells out the significance of understanding Taiwanisation and the motivations of the proponents of the Taiwanisation policy. A number of reasons are given as to why such a policy is necessary. The authors examine the strategies and tactics in implementing the Taiwanisation policy, weighing its effectiveness, Beijing's reaction, and the problems and prospects of pursuing this policy.

• The Politics of Taiwanisation (I): Rise of New Taiwanism (G W Tsai)
• The Politics of Taiwanisation (II): The Road to a New Identity (P K-H Yu)