Military

Taiwan Officials Address Disputes Over Security Handbook Distribution

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By Fuhua Hung/Alan Lu

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​As Taiwan distributes its civil defense handbooks, critics warn it could heighten public concerns over cross-strait tensions. But officials defend the move.

Taiwan Rolls Out Civil Defense Handbook Amid Mixed Reactions

 

REPORTER:  

Taiwan has been giving out this updated civil defense handbook.

 

Rolled out in September, it’s meant to help people in Taiwan prepare for emergencies and understand the potential risks of a Chinese attack.

 

But the move has drawn criticism, especially at a time of rising tensions between Taiwan and China.

 

The defense ministry responded to the criticism during a legislative session on Monday, saying future revisions would take comments and concerns into account.

 

But officials also emphasized the importance of preparing for the possibility of an attack from a powerful adversary: China.

 

Some Taiwanese officials have also been passing out handbooks in person.

 

The deputy secretary-general of Taiwan's National Security Council gave out copies on Friday. He called China’s government a “troublemaker,” and said the book could help boost Taiwan’s ability to protect itself.

 

But residents have had mixed reactions. Some believe this is the right move.

 

BITE:  

We probably all live relatively well, happier lives so we don't really have that sense of crisis. I think it's good that the government has added this information so we can learn more about this kind of knowledge.

 

While others say the book serves more for political purposes.

 

BITE:  

For me, its use as a political tool seems to outweigh its practical use. So I think it is probably not effective in reality. After all, this kind of information is all available online. I don't think it's necessary to waste money printing physical copies.

 

Distribution to nearly 10 million mailboxes across the country is ongoing. In the meantime, the defense ministry says the handbook is accessible online, and that versions in English and other languages will be available soon.