If China Seizes Taiwan: Implications for the United States and the World

Amid both escalating rhetoric and coercive military activities directed by the People’s Republic of China (PRC) against Taiwan, recent years have seen increasing concern regarding the prospect of a military conflict, as well as increasing attention to the political warfare activities intended to subvert Taiwan’s democratic society. However, less attention has been given to considering what the actual outcomes would be if China were to annex Taiwan—both for Taiwan’s own people, for United States interests, and for the broader international community.

This half-day conference will bring together experts across a range of policy areas to discuss the potential issues involved in a PRC takeover of Taiwan. The event will consist of two panel discussions. The first panel will focus on the likely outcomes within Taiwan itself—taking into account both Beijing’s current policies towards Taiwan, as well as past and current PRC policies to suppress dissent in regions such as Xinjiang and Hong Kong. The second panel will discuss the likely impacts on U.S. economic and security interests, and on the geopolitical balance in Asia, if Taiwan were to be absorbed into the PRC. Additional keynote speakers, to be announced, may also appear.

The event will be held at the Rayburn House of Representatives Office Building, located on Independence Avenue in Washington, D.C. Please enter through the South Capitol Street entrance. Doors for the event room (Gold Room #2168) will open at 8:30 AM, and the event will begin at 9:00 AM. (Watch for upcoming announcements, as times may be adjusted slightly.) A complimentary light breakfast will be provided.