Early Career

In the early 1990s, armed with strong academic credentials, Tsai Ing-wen delved into the intricacies of international trade law. Her expertise in law and international trade led to her becoming Chief Legal Advisor for Taiwan's accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO), inadvertently paving the way for her future political career.

Throughout the early 2000s, Tsai assumed various governmental roles, including Minister of the Mainland Affairs Council and Vice President of the Executive Yuan. In these positions, she primarily focused on cross-strait relations and spearheaded economic reforms.

  • -1984: London School of Economics, Ph.D

    -1980: Cornell Law School, Master of Laws

    -1978: National Taiwan University

  • -2012: DPP Presidential Candidate

    -2010: DPP New Taipei City Mayor Candidate

    -2008: Elected as DPP chairperson (2008-2012, 2014-2018, 2020-2022)

    -2006: Vice President of the Executive Yuan

    -2005: Legislator-at-large (2005-2006)

    -2004: Joined Democratic Progressive Party

    -2000: Minister, Mainland Affairs Council

    -1990s: Chief Legal Advisor for Taiwan's accession to the WTO

2016: A New Era in Taiwan Politics

In 2016, Tsai Ing-wen made history by becoming the first female president of the Republic of China (Taiwan). Her presidency marked a significant turning point for Taiwan, prioritizing the consolidation of democracy and enhancing the country's international standing amid economic challenges and geopolitical tensions.

2020: A Historic Reelection Victory

President Tsai's historic 2020 re-election victory, where she captured an unprecedented 8.17 million votes (57% of the vote), not only secured her second term but also represented a resounding mandate from the Taiwanese public to continue her leadership. This mandate provided Tsai with a strong foundation of support as she confronted the multifaceted challenges that lay ahead.

Leadership Amidst Turbulence

Throughout her two terms in office, President Tsai navigated a series of formidable challenges, from economic downturns to geopolitical tensions and the unprecedented disruptions brought about by the global pandemic. During the COVID-19 pandemic, her leadership drew praise for the effective management of the crisis, with measures implemented to mitigate the virus's spread.

The victory of DPP nominee Lai Ching-te in the 2024 presidential election not only secured a historic third consecutive presidency for the DPP but also served as a resounding affirmation of Tsai Ing-wen's leadership and her stewardship of Taiwan through turbulent times.