Dr. Pei-Chia Lan Explores Identity of Taiwan’s Second Generation

In a special issue collaboration with the Center for Taiwan Studies (CTS) at the University of California, Santa Barbara, Dr. Pei-Chia Lan engaged in a thought-provoking discussion on marriage migrants and children of mixed heritage in Taiwan. The CTS, established in 2003 by Dr. Kuo-Ch’ing Tu, has been a hub for interdisciplinary research and cultural events that amplify Taiwanese culture on a global scale. Dr. Howard Chiang, the current Lai Ho and Wu Cho-liu Endowed Chair in Taiwan Studies, has been instrumental in leading the Center’s initiatives towards enhancing knowledge of Taiwanese culture.

During the 2025 Spring Quarter, Dr. Lan, a Distinguished Professor of Sociology from Stanford University and the Founding Director of the Global Asia Research Center at National Taiwan University, graced UCSB as a guest speaker. Her talk, “Second Generation, Multiculturalism, and Geopolitics in Taiwan,” delved into the complexities of identity formation among second-generation individuals from marriage migrant families in Taiwan. Moderated by Dr. Phung Su, Assistant Professor of Sociology at UCSB, the event attracted a diverse audience, sparking insightful discussions on migration, geopolitics, and multiculturalism in contemporary Taiwan.

Dr. Lan’s discourse shed light on the challenges and opportunities faced by marriage migrants in Taiwan, particularly focusing on cross-national marriages that have become prevalent due to globalization and economic disparities. She emphasized the importance of understanding the social dynamics and identity negotiation processes of immigrants in East Asia, drawing parallels to similar studies conducted in Japan and other regions. By examining the experiences of second-generation children with mixed backgrounds in Taiwan, Dr. Lan highlighted the nuanced intersection of ethnicity, culture, and societal perceptions within a predominantly homogeneous society.

The research presented by Dr. Lan underscored the evolving social boundaries between native Taiwanese and immigrants, paving the way for a more inclusive and bicultural identity among second-generation individuals in Taiwan. While challenges persist, especially for children of Chinese immigrants grappling with geopolitical stigmas, the government’s advocacy of the New Southbound Policy has played a pivotal role in shaping multicultural identities in the region. Dr. Lan’s findings serve as a catalyst for reevaluating immigration policies and fostering a more equitable and welcoming environment for cross-national marriages and multicultural communities in Taiwan.

The broader implications of Dr. Lan’s research extend beyond Taiwan, resonating with global discussions on social mobility, multiculturalism, and identity formation. By promoting a deeper understanding of global citizenship and advocating for inclusive policies, societies can create more resilient and diverse communities. The CTS’ thematic focus on “Taiwan and Asia America” underscores the importance of transnational dialogues and cultural exchange in shaping collective identities and fostering mutual understanding in an interconnected world. As Taiwan continues to navigate its geopolitical landscape, initiatives like those led by the CTS contribute to a more inclusive and interconnected global community.