‘We Cherish Values Of Diversity’: Taiwan Condemns Poll Poster Promising ‘Ban’ On Indian Workers

Last Updated:May 20, 2026, 15:53 IST

Photos and videos of the advertisement quickly spread across social media, where many users described it as offensive and hateful.

Taiwanese authorities on Wednesday (local time) condemned “biased remarks" made in a political campaign poster targeting Indian migrant workers, after it sparked accusations of racism and discrimination on social media platforms.

The controversy erupted after videos and photos of a campaign billboard in Kaohsiung went viral online. The poster, put up by city council candidate Lee Hung-yi, featured a large “no" symbol over India’s national flag and the image of a turbaned man. It also carried the slogan: “Let’s work together to save the next generation," while opposing the entry of Indian workers into Taiwan.

Photos and videos of the advertisement quickly spread across social media, where many users described it as offensive and hateful.

The Taipei Economic and Cultural Centre in India, in a release said that the remarks made by certain individuals did not reflect Taiwan’s official position.

“Taiwan cherishes the values of democracy, inclusivity, and diversity, and support people to people exchanges between Taiwan and India," it said, adding, “We deeply regret and strongly condemn any form of prejudice, racism and discrimination. TECC sincerely look forward to, and will continue to promote, further exchanges between both sides to enhance mutual understanding."

The TECC also said Taiwan had long been planning for the introduction of Indian migrant workers and strongly condemned “any form of prejudice, racism and discrimination."

Speaking to Taiwanese media outlet CNA, Lee defended the billboard and said he was not against migrant workers in general. However, he claimed he opposed Taiwan’s policy to allow more workers from India, arguing that the plan lacked proper management measures and support systems. He did not provide further details.

The issue has triggered wider debate in Taiwan over immigration and racial discrimination. Several social media users questioned why Indians were being singled out despite their relatively small numbers in Taiwan compared to migrant workers from countries such as Vietnam and Indonesia.

Some online users also pointed to the generally friendly ties between Indian and Taiwanese communities abroad, particularly in countries like the United States, where both communities often live and work closely together.

News world ‘We Cherish Values Of Diversity’: Taiwan Condemns Poll Poster Promising ‘Ban’ On Indian Workers

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