German writer Stefan Speak concerned over Taiwan polarization, urges unity for democracy

In the contemporary landscape of international literature and cross-cultural exchange, German author Stefan Schomann stands as a significant figure. His bond with Taiwan has long transcended the brief sojourns of ordinary foreign tourists or embedded journalists. Through years of in-depth writing, historical exploration, and keen observation of geopolitics, Schomann has come to view Taiwan as a "second homeland" in his literary life. Having closely followed Taiwan’s development for a long time, Schomann recently granted an exclusive interview to CNA in Berlin, Germany. In the interview, he discussed his journey from novel writing to non-fiction and expressed deep concern over the intensifying political polarization in current Taiwanese society. He specifically urged that, in the face of the formidable external threat from China, Taiwanese society must forge a core consensus to defend its free way of life and democratic institutions, despite the existence of diverse political stances and disagreements internally.

Schomann’s connection to Taiwan was not accidental but was built upon an exploration of history and a genuine understanding of the land. In his previous literary works, he used the novel form to delicately address Taiwan’s complex and weighty historical context. The appeal of historical fiction lies in its ability to penetrate cold, dry official records, imbuing minor figures of the era with flesh, blood, and inspiration. Through his writing, Schomann transformed Taiwan’s experiences of colonialism, authoritarian rule, and the pains of social transition into literary works that resonate with European readers. For him, writing about Taiwan’s history is not merely about recording the past, but also about understanding the causes behind the current societal landscape. This deep literary engagement has allowed the European literary world to perceive the unique historical trajectory and cultural resilience of the island through the lens of a German author, breaking away from the West’s previous singular imagination of Asian history.

However, as international geopolitics has undergone dramatic shifts, Schomann’s scope of writing has expanded from pure historical fiction to non-fiction exploring the current cross-strait crisis. In the face of China’s escalating military threats, diplomatic pressure, and cognitive warfare against Taiwan in recent years, the situation in the Taiwan Strait has become a major focus of international attention. Schomann has keenly captured the importance of this turning point. No longer content with merely looking back at history, he confronts Taiwan’s current existential challenges with the rigor of a journalist and the insight of a writer. His non-fiction writing attempts to sort out the complex cross-strait relations, analyzing the external pressures and internal tests Taiwan faces on its path to democratization. He aims to convey the true and urgent reality of the Taiwan Strait to German and European readers, making them understand that what Taiwan is guarding is not just the safety of the island, but also the frontline of universal values.

Precisely because of his long-term and in-depth observation of Taiwan, Schomann expressed evident concern during his exclusive interview with CNA regarding the intensifying political opposition in Taiwanese society. While the essence of a democratic system is to embrace diverse opinions and party competition, excessive partisan confrontation and populist mobilization can inadvertently erode social cohesion and even create opportunities for external infiltration and division. From the clear perspective of an outside observer, Schomann pointed out that Taiwan’s democratic achievements were hard-won, representing the collective effort of generations of Taiwanese people. However, when facing a powerful and hostile external threat, endless internal attrition and opposition pose the most dangerous hidden threat. His concerns reflect a common reflection among many international friends who care about Taiwan’s destiny, reminding the Taiwanese people, who stand in the camp of freedom and democracy, of the importance of unity and rational dialogue.

Toward the end of the interview, Schomann emphasized the urgency of building consensus. He believes that in the face of China’s persistent threats, while differences in political stances and disagreements on domestic affairs, the economy, or other policies are normal in a democratic society and reflect its vitality, the entire nation should still transcend party and ideological barriers on the major issue of safeguarding basic conditions for survival. They must converge on the greatest common denominator of defending the free way of life and democratic institutions. This consensus is not only the strongest defense line against external pressure but also the key to winning respect and support in the international community. Through his writings and words, Schomann continues to serve as a bridge of understanding between Taiwan and Europe, not only documenting Taiwan’s past and present but also offering his most sincere care and advice for Taiwan’s future.