Taiwan Releases Updated National Security Manual, Emphasizing Preparedness & Resilience
Taiwan’s government has released a new, publicly available national security manual aimed at bolstering citizen preparedness for a range of crises, from natural disasters to potential military aggression. The manual, available for download, is designed to equip all citizens with essential safety knowledge and empower them to protect themselves, their families, and their communities.
The guide is structured around three core chapters: “Pre-time Preparation,” “When a Crisis comes,” and “protecting the Home.” The “Pre-time Preparation” section focuses on proactive steps individuals can take, including building home emergency reserves, assembling emergency shelter packages, understanding air defense and tsunami warnings, and acquiring general disaster prevention skills.
“When a Crisis Comes” provides practical guidance, illustrated with pictures and text, on administering first aid. It also outlines potential threats facing Taiwan,encompassing both natural disasters and the possibility of military aggression – specifically referencing scenarios like enemy attack,armed aggression,infiltration,and sabotage. The manual details appropriate responses to various crises, guidance on accessing data, and procedures for seeking assistance if homes are damaged or inaccessible. Importantly,it also addresses how adults can discuss these sensitive topics with children.
A key emphasis throughout the manual is the importance of verifying information.Citizens are urged to adhere to the principle of “3 not 1 need” – do not create, believe, transfer, and verify – to combat the spread of misinformation.In bold text, the manual explicitly states that any reports of Taiwan’s defeat or a government surrender announcement following military aggression are false.
The “Protecting the Home” chapter details opportunities for citizens to contribute to civil defense efforts,including joining organizations like charity police,charity military service,and charity disinfection teams,or participating in regional civil defense organizations. It also reminds reservists and eligible men to register and report to designated combat positions upon receiving a mobilization order.
To facilitate further learning, the manual includes QR codes linking to disaster prevention training courses, the National Army Volunteer Service Online Registration System, and the National Army Talent Recruitment Center. Practical resources like “emergency meeting location” and “emergency shelter package preparation” checklists are also included for easy reference.
The manual’s design incorporates imagery of Taiwan’s Yushan (Jade Mountain) and reinforces the value of freedom and democracy,stating that these are not accidental but earned through the efforts of the Taiwanese people. it concludes with a message of resilience and determination: “For this reason, we will not bow our heads to invasion, we will hold our heads up to defend our hard-earned life.”