Taiwan’s Regional Identity under the New Southbound Policy

Abstract

Discussion of Taiwan’s identity usually focuses more on its domestic identity in terms of a dichotomy between Chinese and Taiwanese identity than its regional identity. But the New Southbound Policy provides space to discuss Taiwan’s regional identity due to its emphasis on Taiwan’s relations with its southern neighbours. Adopting a constructivist perspective of International Relations, this article explores the construction of Taiwan’s regional identity and the influence of Taiwan–Southeast Asia relations. I point out two key findings: (1) Taiwan’s changing perception of Southeast Asia is critical for the construction of Taiwan’s regional identity, including this region as a ‘significant other’ for Taiwan’s role identity; and (2) Taiwan’s regional identity under the New Southbound Policy integrates both personal and role identities, and covers both domestic and regional dimensions.