President Tsai announced on Tuesday that the period of compulsory military service will be extended to one year starting in 2024. It will apply to men born from January 1, 2005 and thereafter. The decision comes after tensions with China have increased in recent years, and in particular after US Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi visited Taiwan in August. Pelosi’s visit was followed by major Chinese military exercises around Taiwan, the largest in recent memory.
President Tsai stated that while no one wants war, peace does not fall from the sky. She added that Taiwan is at the forefront of global democracy, and it is only by preparing for war that war can be avoided. Tsai also made specific references to the war in Ukraine. She stated that the war in Ukraine has lasted for more than 300 days, but Ukraine has not fallen. She says the will of Ukrainians to protect their homeland has moved the world. Tsai said that in the wake of China’s military exercises, numerous countries have adjusted their military policies, including the US, Japan, Australia, and the Philippines. President Tsai said that this is an extremely difficult decision, but that such a decision to extend conscription is unavoidable to ensure Taiwan’s survival.