authoritarianism

President Lai Ching-te told attendees at the Copenhagen Democracy Summit that
China's recent alleged obstruction of his state visit to Eswatini is evidence
of "consolidating" authoritarian regimes worldwide.

Lai said in a pre-recorded message that world was at a "critical inflection
point" in the competition between democracy and authoritarianism, in which
autocracies continue to consolidate.

Lai said such regimes have resorted to military intimidation, economic
coercion, cyberattacks and "grey zone" operations, all of which pose "ever
more serious challenges" to peace, stability and democracy.

The president also said that such actions demonstrate that China will not
hesitate to undermine aviation safety and order for political leverage.

He thanked democratic partners which have supported Taiwan while under
pressure, for "speaking out with moral clarity in support of regional
stability."

The Copenhagen Democracy Summit is an annual international forum organized by
the Alliance of Democracies Foundation that brings together political
leaders, academics and members of civil societies.