A controversial revision to the extradition bill in Hong Kong brought many of its citizens to the streets, calling for a withdrawal. Huge scale demonstrations have been constant since June 9, with an estimated 1.03 million people gathering on the first day; according to organizers the number of protesters even reached a record of two million on June 16.

The revision was originally meant to allow judicial cooperation between Taiwan and Hong Kong, however, China was also given the right for extradition requests. The bill not only transfers escaped criminals, suspects “accused” of a crime could also be extradited.

Many fear that the bill would allow China to transport political crime suspects to the mainland, which Beijing strongly denied, under the name of other crimes.

It’s clear how China has began to extend its influence over Hong Kong, despite the promised 50 years that was the CCP (Comunist Party of China) had promised to allow Hong Kong to maintain its status quo. Many protesters call upon Taiwan citizens to embrace their hard earned democracy so Taiwan would not end up like Hong Kong. Here are some lessons Taiwanese citizens should learn from the Hong Kong crisis:

1. The “One Country, Two Systems” policy is a fairytale

Beijing had more than once offered Taiwan the policy as a choice for reunification, with the promise to allow Taiwan to retain its democratic regime. While it seems to benefit both sides, accepting the offer means putting Taiwan’s sovereignty in the hands of the CCP, which in turn means Taiwan will lose its say in the future when Beijing decides to eliminate the policy.

Under the “one country, two systems” framework, the Hong Kong government takes charge domestic affairs without the interference of the CCP. Most importantly, it preserved the freedom of speech and a limited amount of democracy that the people on the mainland were not entitled to.

The continuing political integration Hong Kong, despite Beijing’s denial of such intention, proves the CCP’s ambition to have every bit of territory under its full control. The policy simply puts a delay on an inescapable reunification.

Taiwanese citizens march in support of Hong Kong protesters (Photo Credit: Irene Lin)

2. Be hyper aware of any Chinese political agenda

The idea to focus on the economy and not mind to mind differences in ideology has recently gained support; 2020 presidential candidate Han Kuo yu (韓國瑜) in particular strongly advocates the idea. However, this is the concept would mean handing Taiwan to the hands of the CCP.

The proposal might seem reasonable at first, fulfilling China’s request and allowing for fewer restrictions to increase cross-strait relations would benefit the economy. Still, it’s unwise to consent to such a strategy between Taiwan and China. Any cooperation, whether cultural or economic, could become a weapon China uses to threaten Taiwan in future disagreements.

Taiwan might not be in immediate danger of an invasion, but the CCP’s ambition to recover its territory should not be undermined. Beijing would only strengthen its grip in the future.

3. Taiwan has been really lucky to be able to operate independently from China

Unlike Hong Kong, Taiwan has been able to maintain its democracy without having to worry about a specific deadline ending its freedom, unless it declare independence. Many seem to take for granted the hard earned democracy which could be taken away easily if no one bothers to pay attention or undermines the influence of Taiwan’s democratically made decisions.

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People might have heard about the continuing protests and escalating conflicts. However, not all have stopped to understand what motivated these protesters to stay on the streets. Living in Taiwan, where the issue of independence ultimate question that must be addressed, the issues facing Hongkongers deserve plenty of attention as well.