The Chinese government has issued guidelines for imposing criminal penalties on individuals who advocate for Taiwan\’s independence, including the death penalty in certain cases. The rules, effective immediately, target those who organize, plot, or carry out schemes for Taiwan\’s independence, including seeking foreign support or using force.
The guidelines, jointly issued by China\’s Supreme People\’s Court, Procuratorate, and ministries of public security, state security, and justice, provide specific rules for conviction and sentencing. They also stipulate harsher punishments for those who collude with foreign institutions, organizations, or individuals.
According to the guidelines, individuals who commit crimes related to splitting the state may face death if their actions cause significant harm to the state and people or if the circumstances are severe. However, the guidelines also emphasize the principles of balancing clemency and severity, allowing for leniency if individuals voluntarily abandon their separatist stance and take steps to mitigate harm.
These guidelines reflect China\’s firm stance against Taiwan independence and its determination to maintain national unity.