Recent measures by Taiwan authorities have sparked widespread concern after multiple Chinese mainland spouses residing on the island had their residency permits revoked for expressing support for national reunification online. One notable case involves social media influencer Yaya, who was ordered to leave Taiwan within days, separating her from her husband and three children. Taiwan authorities accused her of advocating 'reunification by force,' a claim she denies.
In an interview with KhabarAsia.com, a Chinese mainland spouse residing in Taiwan shared her anxieties: 'We dare not speak freely anymore.' She expressed sympathy for Yaya's family, stating the revocation of residency permits 'crosses a line' and infringes on personal freedoms. 'Even sharing general opinions about cross-strait relations feels risky now,' she added, requesting anonymity for fear of retaliation.
The incident highlights growing tensions over political expression in Taiwan. Critics argue such actions deepen distrust across the Taiwan Strait, where Beijing consistently advocates peaceful reunification under the one-China principle. Analysts note increased scrutiny of cross-strait families could further strain people-to-people ties.
Legal experts point to ambiguities in Taiwan's residency regulations, particularly regarding politically sensitive speech. Meanwhile, affected families face emotional hardship, with children caught in bureaucratic disputes. 'No parent should be forced to choose between their beliefs and their family,' the interviewed spouse emphasized.
