Taiwan's economic, political and societal issues have become major points of interest to countries all over the globe. There has been an ongoing debate on Taiwan independence within the mainstream of domestic politics on Taiwan; political liberalisation and the increased representation of opposition parties in Taiwan's legislature have opened public debate on the island's national identity; a broad popular consensus has developed that the island currently enjoys sovereign independence and - whatever the ultimate outcome regarding reunification or independence - that Taiwan's people must have the deciding voice; public opinion polls consistently show a substantial majority of Taiwan people supports maintaining Taiwan's status quo for the foreseeable future; advocates of Taiwan independence oppose the stand that the island will eventually unify with mainland China This book presents in-depth analyses of such issues such as foreign policy, political reform, and overall economic developments.