Taiwan’s transition to democracy has fundamentally reshaped its political identity, moving away from previous claims over mainland China. The process of democratisation unleashed a growing sense of self-determination amongst Taiwanese citizens, focusing on the island’s future as a sovereign entity. This shift signifies a departure from the Republic of China’s (ROC) historical position and prioritises democratic values. These emerging values, however, are central to the escalating tensions with China, which views Taiwan as a renegade province. The article, by Will Foster, argues these developments are directly linked to the island's political evolution. Ultimately, Taiwan’s democratisation has empowered a unique political identity centered on self-governance and democratic principles. This evolving identity is now a key factor in cross-strait relations.