On 1 October 2011, New School for Democracy was founded in Taipei.
Fifteen years ago, democracy activists from Taiwan, Hong Kong and overseas came together to launch New School for Democracy. Through education, exchange and action, they hoped to connect democratic forces in different places so that democratic ideals could take lasting root in Chinese-speaking societies.
We began mainly online, offering courses on democracy, human rights, politics and civil society. From there we went on to hold June Fourth commemorations, train civil society activists, follow political and human rights issues in China, and connect democratic forces across Taiwan, Hong Kong, mainland China and overseas. Throughout, New School for Democracy has sought to be a platform for exchanging ideas and building the strength to act.
In 2020, after the Hong Kong National Security Law came into force, the original Hong Kong organization could no longer operate as before. Since then, New School for Democracy has continued its work in Taiwan as the New School for Democracy Association, remaining committed to democracy education, civic participation, human rights advocacy and cross-regional exchange, and continuing to take part in Taiwan’s social movements and June Fourth vigils.
Fifteen years is a long time. There have been many changes and many difficulties along the way, but some things have never changed: our belief in democracy and freedom, our concern for human rights, and our founding commitment to connecting democratic forces in different places.
In classrooms and lecture halls, on the streets, at commemorations, and wherever we have continued to speak out, we thank every partner and friend who has taken part in, supported and stood with New School for Democracy over the years.
Fifteen years on, our founding commitment has not changed.
Today, the New School for Democracy Association will carry the experience of these years forward as it continues to explore new possibilities.
Democracy is not only a system of government; it also needs education, dialogue, participation and action. Let us keep working together for democracy, human rights and freedom!
Donations to New School for Democracy are warmly welcomed.
Email: info@nsd.asia
Bank: E.SUN Commercial Bank (bank code 808, Chengdong Branch)
Account number: 0048-940-016092
Account name: 社團法人華人民主書院協會
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