On Thursday, November 27, 2025, hundreds of young people took to the streets of Taipei, the capital of the Taiwan region, to protest comments by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and what they called the "flattering posture" of the leader of the Taiwan region, Lai Ching-te. Armed with signs and powerful chants, they demanded peace in the strait and a focus on everyday challenges. 🗣️
"Takaichi's remarks aim to drag Taiwan into war, and that is something we absolutely cannot tolerate," said Tan Chuan-shao, a member of the New Party in Taiwan region, holding a placard that read "No to War Rhetoric!" 🎌
Another New Party member, You Zhi-bin, criticized both leaders for stirring tension. "Takaichi has repeatedly raised the temperature in the strait, while Lai’s team ignores concrete issues at home and stages a show of support for Japan," he said, referring to a viral photo of Lai posing with sushi made from Japanese seafood. 🍣
Protester Xu Ming-wei added that rising living costs, fraud scams, and child safety remain unattended. "By focusing on defense budgets and echoing external provocations, the Taiwan authorities are sidestepping the real problems that ordinary people face," Xu noted.
Members of the crowd called for a return to everyday priorities and the safeguarding of regional peace. "Maintaining calm in the Taiwan Strait is mainstream public opinion here," You remarked. "Many young people oppose being dragged into conflict by political posturing."
The protest in downtown Taipei reflects growing frustration among the younger generation in the Taiwan region, who want leaders to address economic pressures, social issues, and genuine security concerns without escalating regional tensions. ✌️
As discussions continue, these young voices remind us that peace and practical solutions matter most. For now, the streets of Taipei echo with a clear message: keep politics in check and put people first. 🌏✨
Reference(s):
Young people in Taipei protest remarks by Takaichi and Lai Ching-te
cgtn.com
