Scotland’s vote ‘a model for Taiwan’

[yuiyoshida]

DEMOCRACY AT WORK:Figures from academia and diplomacy say a referendum on Taiwan’s independence could be possible, but constitutional changes are necessary

The Constitution of the Republic of China (ROC) is beset with problems when it comes to authorizing powers to central and local governments, Taiwan Society president and historian Chang Yen-hsien said yesterday, adding that the nation needs a referendum on writing a new constitution and stressing that the existing Referendum Act must be amended to do so.

Chang made the remarks as Scotland’s historical independence referendum took place, to decide whether it would leave the UK and become an independent nation.

If Scotland votes “Yes” to independence, it would be encouraging for Taiwanese, Chang said.

When Scotland, part of the UK, could have an independence referendum, “why couldn’t Taiwan hold one” when Taiwan is not under China’s rule and is a different nation from China, Chang asked, adding that China would also be facing mounting internal pressure from the independence movements in Tibet, inner Mongolia and Xinjiang.

http://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2014/09/19/2003600065

[MineralMan]

1. Scots voted NO in the majority.

That's always the risk when voters are asked to decide whether major changes should occur. People are afraid of major changes.