Cross Strait Relations - Taiwan and China: Status Quo or Conflict

Speaker: Kevin Magee
Date and time: Friday, 8 May 2026 2:30 -3.30 pm
Venue: Robert Emmet Theatre, Arts Building, Trinity College Dublin

China’s stated aim of eventual reunification with Taiwan (Republic of China) continues to shape tensions across the Taiwan Strait and is widely viewed as a potential flashpoint for broader conflict involving the United States and regional allies such as Japan. Beijing may pursue this objective through political pressure, blockade, or military action. The current Taiwan government - the Democratic Progressive Party - supports maintaining separation while avoiding a formal declaration of independence to limit escalation. The majority of Taiwanese people remain opposed to unification with the Mainland. Although most states do not formally recognise Taiwan, many oppose the use of force. The role of the US and its allies leave the future of cross-strait relations uncertain.

Kevin Magee is an Adjunct Fellow at the University Technology Sydney, Australia China Relations Institute (UTS ACRI). He had a 34-year career with Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, serving as Australian Representative in Taipei, Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, and Deputy Head of Mission in Moscow. He also held postings in Beijing, Singapore, and Guangzhou. Kevin led the establishment of the National Foundation for Australia China Relations and served as its interim CEO. He is a United Nations Disarmament Fellow and holds degrees from Monash University. His main research interests are China-Russia Relations, Cross Taiwan Strait Relations, and the Australia-China Bilateral Relationship.

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