The Taiwanese government has announced plans for a comprehensive investigation into Taiwanese entertainers working in China who make statements or engage in actions that demean or infringe upon Taiwan's sovereignty, sparking considerable controversy. Chiu Chui-cheng, Minister of Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council (MAC), stated last Friday that some Taiwanese artists active in China have been compelled to make political declarations or share content that undermines Taiwan's sovereignty, leading to this firm stance.

Particularly ahead of President Lai Ching-te's first anniversary in office this Tuesday, Minister Chiu emphasized the possibility that entertainers exhibiting behavior threatening Taiwan's sovereignty at this juncture may be collaborating with the Chinese government. He added that the Ministry of Culture will conduct investigations into artists, entertainers, and their agencies involved in such activities, in accordance with relevant laws.

Minister Chiu strongly criticized China for persistently escalating its pressure on Taiwan through military exercises, diplomatic coercion, economic sanctions, social infiltration, legal and psychological warfare, and 'gray zone' tactics. He asserted that these actions heighten cross-strait tensions and threaten regional security.

Furthermore, he encouraged entertainers facing difficulties in China to consider returning to Taiwan, assuring them of Taiwan's abundant creative freedom and governmental support. The government aims to assist Taiwanese artists in China by providing counseling and opportunities for their return, expressing hope that no one will be forced to make political statements detrimental to Taiwan.

In connection with this, the MAC has published a list of crucial reminders for Taiwanese entertainers planning to travel to China on its official website. The MAC warns that China demands entertainers express political stances, indicating that cross-strait travel may involve political risks.

Indeed, China's National Radio and Television Administration (NRTA) issued a notice in 2021 requiring artistic programs to express love for the 'Party' and the 'Nation' and to uphold the 'correct political stance.' The MAC also highlighted China's restrictions on online entertainment marketing, surveillance of celebrity accounts, and strict regulations on the marketing of artistic works and artists' statements, urging entertainers to be mindful of potential issues. Additionally, with China implementing strict regulations on commercial performances by entertainers, the MAC advised artists to carefully examine the legality of event organization to protect their rights and interests.

The MAC added that China has recently intensified its surveillance of Taiwanese individuals, advising careful consideration of personal safety when traveling to China.

Meanwhile, Baishatun Wu Yun Temple in Miaoli County announced the cancellation of a planned participation in the annual Baishatun Mazu Pilgrimage, a religious procession between Miaoli and Yunlin counties, by Fujian's Quanzhou Fumei Temple.

This cancellation occurred shortly after the MAC launched an investigation into media reports alleging that Fumei Temple was conducting religious activities in Taiwan without government approval. Academics have raised concerns that Fumei Temple's involvement could be part of China's efforts to use religious and cultural exchanges as a tool for its 'United Front' work.

Wu Yun Temple stated that they initially learned about Fumei Temple's visit plan through the China Taoist Association. They received notification from the association regarding the sudden change in Fumei Temple's plans, with the association stating that Fumei Temple canceled its participation because it "did not want the pure religious event to become politicized and cause difficulties for Wu Yun Temple."

In-depth Analysis: The Reality and Background of Pressure on Taiwanese Entertainers in China

The Taiwanese government's strong response is seen as reflecting a deep concern not just over pro-China remarks by some entertainers, but also over China's attempts to leverage the cultural and artistic sectors to expand its political influence over Taiwan. China has long sought to exert direct and indirect influence on Taiwanese society through cultural exchanges and media cooperation as part of its 'using culture to Sinicize' strategy. In particular, the practice of luring Taiwanese entertainers to the Chinese market with economic incentives and then pressuring them to express political support or promote unification messages is not new.

The Chinese market, with its vast population and economic power, offers attractive opportunities for Taiwanese entertainers but simultaneously carries the double-edged sword of political risk. The Chinese authorities adhere to the 'One China' principle as an absolute prerequisite, tolerating no dissenting views. Consequently, Taiwanese entertainers working in China often face pressure to make statements supporting the Chinese government's stance or participate in related campaigns, regardless of their own opinions.

Some Taiwanese entertainers have succumbed to this pressure, publicly making statements denying Taiwan's sovereignty or identity, or sharing posts on social media platforms that endorse China's political positions. These actions have drawn significant criticism within Taiwan, sometimes leading to boycotts of their activities. At the same time, considering the importance of the Chinese market, the majority of entertainers tend to remain silent or adopt ambiguous attitudes to avoid becoming embroiled in political controversies.

Taiwan's Response Strategy and Anticipated Impact

The Taiwanese government's investigation policy is interpreted as conveying a strong warning message and demonstrating a proactive defense against China's 'United Front' tactics. Particularly with President Lai Ching-te's first anniversary approaching, this move can be seen as a preemptive measure against potential intensified political propaganda activities by China using Taiwanese entertainers.

If government-level investigations are indeed carried out, the involved entertainers may face restrictions on their activities within Taiwan or, in severe cases, legal penalties. This is expected to place considerable pressure on other Taiwanese entertainers considering entering the Chinese market. Furthermore, this situation is likely to deepen the discussion within Taiwanese society regarding the dilemma between accessing the Chinese market and maintaining national identity.

However, it remains uncertain whether the Taiwanese government's strong response will reduce China's pressure or improve the working environment for Taiwanese entertainers. It is possible that the Chinese government may retaliate by tightening regulations on Taiwanese entertainers or continue its efforts to expand influence through other means.

Growing Suspicions of 'United Front' Tactics Utilizing Religious Exchanges

The cancellation of Fumei Temple's participation in the Baishatun Mazu Pilgrimage can be seen as a stark example of China's attempts to utilize religious exchanges as a tool for its 'United Front' work. The 'Mazu belief' is a widespread folk religion centered in Taiwan and China's Fujian province, representing a significant element of cultural commonality across the strait. Concerns have been consistently raised that the Chinese government may exploit these religious ties to foster pro-China sentiments within Taiwanese society and achieve political objectives.

As pointed out by academics, the sudden planning and cancellation of Fumei Temple's visit amplifies these suspicions. The exchange, under the guise of a 'pure religious event,' may in fact be an attempt by China to conceal its political intentions and infiltrate Taiwanese society, warranting continued vigilance.

Reassessing the Role of Culture and Art in the Complex Cross-Strait Relations

The controversy surrounding Taiwanese entertainers' activities in China and the suspicions surrounding religious exchanges illustrate a facet of the complex and multifaceted cross-strait relations. While economic cooperation and cultural exchange are positive aspects of cross-strait ties, it is crucial not to overlook the potential threat to Taiwan's sovereignty and democratic values when China's political intentions are involved.

The Taiwanese government's strong response can be seen as an expression of its firm resolve against these threats. However, as China's attempts to expand its influence in various fields, including culture and art, and religion, are expected to continue, vigilance and the development of multifaceted response strategies across Taiwanese society are necessary. At the same time, Taiwanese entertainers themselves must carefully weigh the opportunities and political risks of the Chinese market and explore ways to operate while upholding their national identity.