Taiwan Political Parties Debate Rights For Mainland Spouses

Yu Ying-long, chairman of the Central Election Commission, stated that granting political participation rights to spouses from mainland China would require amending the Constitution of the Republic of China and relevant laws. Yu noted that attempting to address the political rights of mainland spouses through international law at this stage is impractical. Using international law to address these rights within the existing constitutional framework presents uncertainties, according to the source. The discussion involves whether amending existing laws is sufficient to define these rights. He noted that while constitutional amendments are one path, the Act Governing Relations between the People of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area also applies. The Kuomintang caucus has called on the Executive Yuan to propose a responsible version of the legislation rather than shifting responsibility to the legislature. Political discussions in Taiwan have addressed the constitutional rights of mainland Chinese spouses. The number of mainland spouses is estimated to be between 120,000 and 140,000, with some estimates suggesting figures as high as 400,000. The commentator stated that these individuals should possess rights protected by the constitution regardless of political party preferences. Discussions in Taiwan have highlighted the need for mainland spouses to possess constitutional rights regardless of political opposition. Some segments suggest the figure could potentially reach 400,000. The debate involves the Democratic Progressive Party, the Kuomintang, and the Taiwan People's Party.