Vice Premier-Designate Calls for Intergenerational Dialogue on Key Issues at Youth Forum

At a youth forum held in Taipei on Thursday, Taiwan's vice premier-designate Cheng Li-chiun emphasized the importance of engaging young people in policy discussions, particularly on critical issues such as pension reform and the future of the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall. Cheng called for open and inclusive dialogue across generations to find solutions that address the concerns of all age groups.

The forum, which brought together youth representatives from across Taiwan, provided a platform for young people to voice their perspectives and participate in the decision-making process on significant national issues. Cheng acknowledged that pension reform and the transformation of the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall are complex topics that require input from different generations to find the best way forward.

Why this matters: The engagement of Taiwan's youth in shaping policies that will impact their future is essential for the country's long-term stability and prosperity. By encouraging intergenerational dialogue, Taiwan can work towards solutions that balance the needs and aspirations of all its citizens.

During the two-day event, participants took part in workshops where they discussed youth policies and presented suggestions to the president-elect and premier-designate. Regarding pension reforms, Cheng stressed the need for cooperation across different generations to ensure the sustainability of the pension system. She also recognized the challenges in transforming the memorial hall and called for more efforts to build consensus on this and other controversial issues.

Cheng further outlined the new government's policies aimed at supporting young people in dealing with challenges such as social inequality and the restructuring of the world order due to an assertive China. "We must work together across generations to address the complex issues facing our nation," Cheng said, underscoring the importance of inclusive policymaking that incorporates diverse perspectives, especially from the youth.

The youth forum, which concluded on Friday, highlighted the new cabinet's commitment to engaging young people in shaping Taiwan's future. By encouraging open dialogue and considering the input of all generations, Taiwan aims to develop policies that effectively tackle the country's most pressing challenges and ensure a brighter future for all its citizens.

Key Takeaways

• Taiwan's VP-designate emphasized engaging youth in policy discussions on pension reform and Chiang memorial.
• Youth forum provided platform for young people to voice perspectives on national issues.
• Intergenerational dialogue is essential for Taiwan's long-term stability and prosperity.
• New government aims to support youth in addressing challenges like inequality and China's assertiveness.
• Youth engagement in policymaking is a key commitment of the new cabinet.