Taiwan Tati Cultural and Educational Foundation

Every year when the anniversary of the 228 Incident approaches, the Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) becomes protective of Chiang Kai-shek (蔣介石). Its lack of reflection leaves the feeling that there is still a bit to go before Taiwan’s democratization process is complete.

One of the reasons put forward by those who refuse to reflect on the old dictator is that transitional justice is detrimental to the economy.

This point of view is unacceptable.

The history of Taiwan has been shaped by successive violent invasions: China’s Qing Dynasty, the empire of Japan and the Republic of China are examples of foreign powers that plundered Taiwan, leaving it damaged and its people scarred.

The passing of time presents an opportunity for yesterday’s “outsiders” to become today’s “insiders.”