Taiwan Expels Pro-Beijing Influencer Amid Rising Cross-Strait Tensions

Taiwan has announced the expulsion of a pro-Beijing influencer, sparking further discussions on cross-strait relations and Chinese influence on the island.

A Chinese social media influencer, known as Liu, has been ordered by Taiwanese authorities to leave the island due to her pro-Beijing video content that supports Chinese claims over Taiwan. This decision comes amid escalating tensions between Taiwan and China, with the Taiwanese National Immigration Agency (NIA) asserting that Liu’s actions threaten Taiwan's sovereignty.

The influencer, who creates content under the name Yaya, has garnered attention by depicting Taiwan as "Taiwan province" and endorsing China's assertion that Taiwan is a part of its territory. Liu's remarks have reportedly included a statement that "complete unification" is necessary, regardless of Taiwanese sentiment, preferring what she described as a less complicated "unification by force" compared to a peaceful approach.

After moving to Taiwan on a dependent visa following her marriage to a Taiwanese citizen, Liu is now required to leave by March 24 or face deportation. Additionally, reports indicate she will be barred from obtaining a new dependent visa for five years. This action is notable as expelling spouses of Taiwanese citizens is a rare occurrence.

Liu has defended her videos, claiming that her intent is to bridge gaps between communities and promote positive dialogue. However, her messaging has provoked backlash from Taiwan's government officials, with interior minister Liu Shyh-fang asserting that freedom of speech does not justify calls for Taiwan's invasion.

Liu, who has 480,000 followers on Douyin, China’s version of TikTok, has increasingly come under scrutiny as cross-strait tensions rise. Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te has recently outlined increased measures to manage Chinese influence in Taiwan, emphasizing the need to prevent efforts seen as sowing internal discord.