In Taiwan, Chinese-born spouses face questions of loyalty and, some say, discrimination

TAIPEI, Taiwan (AP) — On the day Li Chen-hsiu entered Taiwan’s Legislature, she faced inquiries regarding her identity, her loyalty to Taiwan, and her status as a "mainland spouse." Born in China and married to a Taiwanese citizen, Li is part of a community of approximately 369,000 individuals who are subject to changing policies and, some argue, discrimination amid escalating tensions with China.

Li, Taiwan's only China-born legislator who immigrated through marriage, expressed gratitude for the chance given by Taiwan's democratic system and the Taiwan People's Party, who welcomed her into politics despite her origins. However, the recent surge in military exercises and diplomatic pressure from China has complicated Taiwan's approach to these spouses.

Concerns about a potential invasion have added pressure to the government's policies, which now include stricter requirements for citizenship and increased scrutiny of the community's loyalty.