ABSTRACT
This study addresses Taiwan’s involvement in important aspects of the global order or arena from a state-centred governance perspective. Taiwan has long been regarded as an irregular state. On the one hand it enjoys limited, low international recognition. On the other, it has become an economic and trading powerhouse and is a key link in the global technology production system. In addition, it has had a remarkably successful and smooth democratic transition. But as it struggles for recognition, Taiwan does not have access to the whole range of options normally open to states that enjoy international recognition. At the same time, its successful political evolution and impressive economic achievements provide Taiwan with a range of options that may not be available to many other countries – especially developing ones.
