On September 10, 2025, during the “UN Go!” event in Orange County, Professor Derek Grossman, a specialist in Indo-Pacific security and U.S. foreign policy from the Department of Political Science and International Relations at the University of Southern California (USC), emphasized that Taiwan is not only the most successful democratic base in Asia but also a symbol of global democratic resilience. However, with the intensifying competition between the United States and China and the uncertainty in American politics, Taiwan will still face significant challenges in the future.
Grossman, who has conducted extensive research on U.S.-China-Taiwan relations, served in the U.S. intelligence and defense system for over a decade before entering academia. He has held positions as a senior defense analyst at the RAND Corporation, a professor at the School of Public Policy, and worked in key roles at the Defense Intelligence Agency, the Department of Defense, and the Central Intelligence Agency, directly involving in top-level national security decision-making. His innovative ideas have been recognized in the intelligence community’s “Galileo Competition”, showcasing his strategic foresight.
After the end of the Cold War, there was a general expectation for the global expansion of democracy, but instead, a situation of “democratic regression and authoritarian advancement” emerged. Grossman believes that challenges posed by authoritarianism are evident in Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and China’s expansion of external influence and penetration. At this juncture, the survival and prosperity of Taiwan hold undeniable strategic value for global democratic countries.
Regarding the cross-strait situation after Trump’s return to the White House, Grossman warned that Trump’s “transactional, personalized, and unpredictable” diplomatic style has raised concerns about potential changes in Taiwan-U.S. relations. However, he emphasized that the core of U.S. policy towards Taiwan remains stable, continuing arms sales in accordance with the Taiwan Relations Act and maintaining deterrence through actions like transiting the Taiwan Strait. Despite the potential disruptions caused by Trump’s “superficial diplomatic style,” the substantive policy remains unchanged.
Grossman criticized China for manipulating history in its external propaganda, such as deliberately downplaying the role of the Nationalist Party during the recent 80th-anniversary commemoration of the War of Resistance, in order to shape a singular narrative. He stressed the importance of the United States and Taiwan working together to present the complete truth and resist China’s attempts to deceive the international community.
Addressing China’s infiltration and information warfare, Grossman boldly stated that democratic countries are generally lacking in response. Due to the openness of democratic societies, they are more susceptible to being targeted. Strengthening civic education is crucial in helping society understand how China’s operations affect daily life. He cautioned about platforms like TikTok, warning that its algorithms may promote a “pro-China narrative,” subtly influencing the values of the younger generation.
In conclusion, Grossman urged democratic nations to remain vigilant, deepen education, and demonstrate policy consistency in order to ensure Taiwan’s security and the continued development of global democracy.