pacific forum History of Pacific Forum

Issues & Insights Vol. 09 – No. 04

The Taiwan Strait has been a flashpoint since World War II. China and Taiwan have gradually realized that maintaining peace and stability is a common interest after 50 years of confrontation. Generational changes also influence the two sides’ perception of their relationship. Compared with their elders, young people have not experienced wars, have not lived in both Taiwan and China, and grew up under different political systems. On average, youth in China and Taiwan have grown up in better economic conditions and have a more forward-looking perspective. Their opinion will gradually become the major voices in both societies and governments. This study explores how young people from both sides see the cross-Strait relationship, examines their priorities and concerns, and identifies opportunities and challenges for confidence building measures.