Background



Home to more than 22 million people, Taiwan is an island off the coast of China. People have lived on Taiwan for more than 10,000 years. When Portuguese sailors reached Taiwan in 1517, they immediately named it “Ilha Formosa” or “Beautiful Island.” And today that name still suits Taiwan… well, beautifully! From exquisite beaches to serene lakes to rushing waterfalls to relaxing hot springs, the countryside of Taiwan is exceedingly lovely.

When the Communists took over China in 1949, former Chinese president General Chiang Kaishek and his nationalist party fled to Taiwan to plan their reconquest of the Chinese mainland. General Chiang Kaishek died in 1979, and the nationalist party is still planning for independence today. Today, Taiwanese politicians are divided between those who want reunification with China and those who want complete Taiwanese independence.

In addition to caring for the children, Taiwanese orphanages provide support, education, and shelter for the mothers who have decided to place their children for adoption. Typically, unwed mothers in Taiwan are between 13 and 18 years old and have very little understanding of sex education or contraception. The Taiwanese orphanages provide a safe caring environment for the mothers. Resident counselors at the orphanages provide them with emotional support, and the mothers also receive medical care, job training, and prenatal care.

Credits: The International Adoption Guidebook, © Mary M. Strickert