Alongside its most high-profile tactic—sending a message of military dominance—China is employing what Taiwan says is an expanding army of hackers, diplomats, prosecutors and celebrities in its effort to persuade Taiwan to submit to Beijing. China claims Taiwan, an island 100 miles from the mainland, as its own territory. Taiwan officials say China has gone so far as to enlist Taiwanese celebrities to its cause. The secession law is one of the legal tools that China is using to try to intimidate Taiwan, said Glaser. “It’s a constant drumbeat of signals to Taiwan," said Glaser, “that according to China, Taiwan is part of China, and they will use every tool in their tool kit to bring about reunification."

Source: Wall Street Journal October 17, 2024 11:52 UTC