TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Attendance at self-rescue courses in Taiwan has steadily increased in recent years, driven by escalating tensions in the Taiwan Strait and deeper recognition of the importance of self-rescue knowledge during disasters.
Enoch Wu, founder of Forward Alliance, points to the traditional reliance on military intervention in disasters, highlighting a societal disaster prevention capacity gap. This has spurred Taiwanese citizens to enroll in self-rescue courses, indicating a growing awareness and readiness to handle crises independently.
"The main point is that when facing potential large-scale disasters and risks, everyone in Taiwan should be well-prepared, regardless of their background. This is crucial for building resilience in society," stated Wu.
Government initiatives further emphasize Taiwan's commitment to strengthening civil defense. In February, the Executive Yuan proposed establishing the Taiwan Community Emergency Response Team (T-CERT) to train and deploy 8,000 members across 320 teams within the next five years. This strategy targets various sectors, including businesses, schools, communities, corporations, and medical institutions.
Shen Ming-shih, a fellow at the Institute for National Defense and Security Research, notes the multifaceted nature of civil defense. While traditionally involving police unit-led training, a broader view includes national defense responsibilities across government departments and society.
In 2021, the establishment of the All-Out Defense Mobilization Agency enhanced Taiwan's defense capabilities against potential aggression from China.
The momentum of civil defense efforts continues into 2024, with collaborative initiatives between governmental and non-governmental sectors, including Forward Alliance and Spirit of America, providing professional training to the public.
As Taiwan bolsters its civil defense initiatives, the sentiment "Prepare for war to avoid war" grows stronger, aiming to create a safer environment and a more resilient society for all.