Taiwan unveiled a new civil defense manual today, underscoring the significance of civilian preparedness in the event of a potential Chinese incursion. Released by the All-out Defense Mobilisation Agency, the handbook includes guidelines and prompts to assist residents in planning for emergencies such as military invasions or natural disasters on the earthquake-prone island.
Shen Wei-chih, the director of the All-Out Defense Mobilisation Agency, stated to the Associated Press that additional information was deemed necessary following the Russia-Ukraine conflict outbreak. The updated National Defense Handbook aims to raise public awareness of crises and bolster self-defense capabilities.
Amid escalating tensions between China and Taiwan, highlighted by the absence of official communications, China continues to assert its claim over Taiwan, considering the self-governed island as part of Beijing’s sovereign territory. The heightened Chinese military activities directed at Taiwan, including exercises simulating an invasion or blockade, have raised concerns.
Daily movements of aircraft and navy ships towards Taiwan have been observed, with the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) of China dispatching multiple fighter jets, drones, support aircraft, navy vessels, and other ships towards the island. Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te, from the Democratic Progressive Party, has emphasized the public’s role in defending against potential military aggression.
The newly issued 36-page handbook offers practical advice on preparing an evacuation bag, distinguishing between different crisis signals, and addressing various emergency scenarios. An online version of the handbook provides access to apps displaying emergency shelter locations and instructional videos. Recommendations include stocking essentials like drinking water, sleeping bags, raincoats, canned food, toilet paper, and pet supplies.
Colonel Chiao Fu-chun, a Defense Ministry spokesperson, noted that the updated handbook, inspired by French and Norwegian approaches, has been simplified for easy comprehension by individuals of all ages. The government’s initiative reflects a growing awareness in Taiwan regarding the crucial role civilians must play in response to potential threats.
Taiwanese civil society has also been proactive in this regard, with initiatives like civil defense courses by Puma Shen, founder of Kuma Academy, supported by businessman Robert Tsao’s significant donation towards preparedness efforts.