Taiwan: Protest against pension reform in Taipei June 15

Event

Thousands of people rallied in the area around the legislature building in Taipei on Thursday, June 15, to protest proposed pension cuts after a special legislative session on reform began. Protesters, mostly retired military personnel, public servants, and teachers, that expect to see their pension benefits shrink significantly, called for President Tsai Ing-wen to step down. While reforms for both teachers and civil servants have already passed, the committee review has yet to begin for reforms aimed at workers. Further demonstrations are possible in the coming weeks.

Context

Pension reforms were formally discussed by Taiwan authorities when the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) took office in May 2016. The proposed plans increase the age at which a full pension can be drawn from 60 to 65, and gradually increase the insurance premium by roughly 6 percent.

Advice

Individuals present in Taipei are advised to monitor developments to the situation and avoid all demonstrations, as violence can flare up without warning. Follow all instructions as issued by authorities.