Press freedoms in Taiwan have declined for a second straight year, according to a new report released by a US-based non-profit watchdog.
In its annual report on press freedoms around the world, released on Thursday, Freedom House ranked Taiwan as having the 47th-freest media environment, a drop of four places from last year and a dramatic 14-place drop since 2008.
Amendments to the National Security Act (國家安全法) that impose higher sentences and fines on people spying for China or other nations, and increase restrictions on retired officials visiting China were yesterday passed by the legislature.
Those found recruiting others in Taiwan under instructions from the Chinese government would be subject to at least seven years in prison and a fine of up to NT$100 million (US$3.19 million) under the amendments.
