Taiwan’s stance in the international community. An assessment over the recent evolution (2000-present day), with a focus on the island’s last remaining diplomatic alliances

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to make a brief assessment of the historical evolution and changes that Taiwan’s foreign policy, with a focus on Taiwan’s official diplomatic relations, has undergone since the island’s democratic consolidation, signalled by Taiwan’s very first change of political party ruling the island in 2000. The main goal of the article is to try to provide an understanding of how changing foreign policy approaches as well as different foreign policy environments have had an effect on Taiwan’s international status. The article provides as well a glance at the foreseeable outcomes. Taiwan’s last diplomatic stronghold, Latin America and the Caribbean, is thoroughly analysed. Two case studies are taken into consideration: Panama and Paraguay.