On Nov. 14, Taiwan marked an advancement in its paradiplomatic activities with the inauguration of the Global International Educational Exchange Major Alliance (GIEEMA). Held at the Legislative Yuan, the event showcased Taiwan’s educational strength and was a strategic maneuver to bolster its global ties through innovative diplomatic channels.
Paradiplomacy, which involves international engagement by sub-state or non-state actors, is crucial for Taiwan to counteract international isolation. Lacking formal diplomatic ties, Taiwan deftly adopted paradiplomacy to supplement its traditional diplomatic approaches. GIEEMA is a key example, signifying a collaborative educational exchange initiative between Taiwanese entities and partners in the Marshall Islands.
The launch of GIEEMA was graced by high-level international figures, demonstrating its global scope and impact. The event was endorsed by Premier Chen Chien-jen (陳建仁) and attended by many dignitaries. Marshall Islands Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Casten Nemra attended virtually, and the event also featured prominent African representatives including parliamentarians, academics and entrepreneurs from Malawi, South Sudan, Ghana, Eswatini, Kenya and Nigeria. Notable attendees included the president of Regentropfen College of Applied Sciences in Ghana, the Reverend Dr Moses Asaah Awinongya SVD; Nkhoma University vice chancellor Emily Grace Chiumia Mwale of Malawi; South Sudan MP Mawien K. Dhor Ariik; Malawian MP Horace Chipuwa; and University of Eswatini vice chancellor Justice M. Thwala. Their participation and endorsement greatly underscored the global impact and outreach of Taiwan’s paradiplomatic efforts through GIEEMA.
Cultural performances and exchanges highlighted the ceremony, underscoring cultural diplomacy’s role in deepening interpersonal connections, a critical aspect of Taiwan’s paradiplomatic efforts. These elements foster mutual understanding and respect, extending beyond formal diplomatic interactions.
GIEEMA is more than an educational venture; it symbolizes Taiwan’s versatility and resilience in global affairs. Amid challenges, including China’s growing influence in international politics, Taiwan continues to assert its global role through novel initiatives like GIEEMA. The alliance serves many purposes: It compensates for limitations in traditional international relations, develops long-term relationships with emerging global leaders and reinforces Taiwan’s sovereignty and active international presence.
This strategic initiative aligns with Taiwan’s broader goal of reshaping global diplomacy. GIEEMA and similar projects focus on building collaborative platforms for cooperation and comprehension in a dynamic global environment, mirroring its dedication to educational diplomacy and global cooperation.
Conceived by Happy Home World Alliance International Taiwan (HHWAIT) secretary general Brandon K.C. Chang, GIEEMA exemplifies Taiwan’s creative approach to paradiplomacy. The alliance seeks to blend Taiwan’s diplomatic efforts with gobal strategies in areas such as health, education and agriculture, enhancing Taiwan’s international influence and recognition.
GIEEMA’s strategic goals correspond with Taiwan’s paradiplomatic goals. Positioning Taiwan as an educational center, the alliance capitalizes on its reputation for quality education, enticing global students. It initiates global partnerships to address common challenges like climate change and health advancements, and designs cultural immersion programs to cultivate mutual respect.
Richard Atimniraye Nyelade is a sociology-anthropology lecturer at the University of Ottawa, a Ministry of Foreign Affairs fellow and a visiting academic at National Chengchi University.
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