Kinmen, Taiwan,Photographer: I-Hwa Cheng/Bloomberg
BEIJING — China escalated its pressure on Taiwan by threatening to impose the death penalty in extreme cases for “diehard” independence advocates. Despite Chinese courts lacking jurisdiction over the democratically governed island, this move marks a significant increase in Beijing’s efforts to deter separatist activities.
China, which considers Taiwan its territory, has openly opposed Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te since he took office last month, labeling him a “separatist.” Following Lai’s inauguration, China conducted military exercises as a show of force.
Rising Tensions and Military Actions
Since Lai’s election victory in January, Taiwan has faced increased pressure from China, including military maneuvers, trade sanctions, and coast guard patrols around Taiwan-controlled islands near the Chinese coast.
China’s new guidelines direct courts, prosecutors, public and state security bodies to “severely punish Taiwan independence diehards for splitting the country and inciting secession crimes in accordance with the law,” according to state-run Xinhua news agency. These guidelines align with existing laws, including the 2005 anti-secession law, which provides the legal framework for military action if Taiwan attempts to secede.
Legal Threats and Definitions
Sun Ping, an official from China’s Ministry of Public Security, emphasized that the maximum penalty for the “crime of secession” is the death penalty. “The sharp sword of legal action will always hang high,” she stated.
The guidelines specify actions deemed criminal, such as promoting Taiwan’s membership in international organizations that require statehood, engaging in “external official exchanges,” and suppressing entities that advocate for reunification with China. Additionally, a broadly defined clause includes “other acts that seek to separate Taiwan from China,” allowing for wide interpretation.
Taiwan’s Response and Historical Context
Taiwanese officials are currently assessing the new guidelines, with no immediate official response. President Lai has consistently offered to engage in talks with China, but these overtures have been rejected. Lai maintains that only the people of Taiwan can determine their future.
China has previously imposed sanctions on Taiwanese officials, such as Hsiao Bi-khim, Taiwan’s former de facto ambassador to the United States and current vice president. However, these measures have little practical effect since Chinese courts do not hold jurisdiction in Taiwan, and the Taiwanese government dismisses Beijing’s sovereignty claims. Senior Taiwanese leaders, including the president, do not visit China.