The Council of Indigenous Peoples (CIP) issued a strong statement today (February 18) regarding multiple proposals by opposition lawmakers to freeze and cut its budget during the central government's general budget review. The CIP warned that these measures could have a major impact on indigenous peoples' international participation, language and cultural preservation, economic development, and overall well-being.

The opposition's proposal seeks to freeze up to 70% of the CIP's operational expenses, totaling more than NT$500 million, and an additional NT$110 million allocated for indigenous language promotion in churches. The CIP emphasized that these funds are directly tied to healthcare improvements, support for vulnerable families, broadband access in remote areas, language preservation, industry promotion, tribal infrastructure, and environmental enhancements. Any budget cuts or freezes would severely disrupt these critical programs and hinder the development of indigenous people and society.

Furthermore, the Austronesian Forum, which took five years to be established and currently involves 15 countries and regions, is facing a complete budget cut of NT$19.76 million under the opposition's proposal. The CIP warned that this would force Taiwan to withdraw from the organization, seriously damaging international trust and Taiwan's diplomatic standing in efforts to counter China's diplomatic blockade. The budget cut would also terminate opportunities for tribal youth, community groups, artists, and scholars to engage with the international community, resulting in irreparable losses.

The opposition has additionally proposed eliminating the NT$36.96 million budget allocated for policy promotion and public awareness. The CIP stressed that without these funds, it would be unable to communicate key policies through the media, leading to indigenous peoples missing out on essential rights and benefits. This would also limit awareness among the general public of indigenous history and culture.

The CIP strongly urges the opposition to reconsider these budget cuts, emphasizing that these funds form the foundation of indigenous social development and are critical to safeguarding indigenous rights and improving their quality of life. The council called for a halt to these harmful reductions to ensure continued support for Taiwan's indigenous communities.