Experience
GETTING TO KNOW ELECTED OFFICIALS' WORK ENVIRONMENT: VISITING THE LEGISLATIVE YUAN
History of the Legislative Yuan
The Legislative Yuan, a crucial part of Taiwan’s politics, has a long history and important role. It began as the House of Representatives during the early Republic of China days, evolving over time to become the country’s main parliamentary body. Today, it consists of 113 seats representing voters across Taiwan. Its main job is to make and oversee laws, reflecting Taiwan’s democratic values.
The Legislative Yuan is vital for Taiwan’s progress. It lets people have a say in decisions that affect them, ensuring their interests are protected. Legislators work to pass laws that benefit the nation and its citizens, while also keeping an eye on the government’s actions to ensure they follow the law.
Inside the Legislative Yuan, politicians from different parties often debate fiercely on national issues, reflecting the concerns of various parts of society. Through these discussions, they aim to find common ground and create laws that benefit everyone.
Besides their work in the legislature, legislators are actively involved in community activities, addressing people’s needs and social issues. Their efforts show their commitment to representing the public and building a better society.
In short, the Legislative Yuan is essential for Taiwan’s political system and its ongoing development. It plays a key role in maintaining stability, promoting democracy, and driving progress. It’s important to support and value the Legislative Yuan as it continues to serve the people of Taiwan.
Architectural style of the Legislative Yuan
The architectural style of the Legislative Yuan is a captivating blend of tradition and modernity, reflecting Taiwan’s diverse cultural heritage and forward-thinking approach. This iconic structure seamlessly integrates elements from both Eastern and Western architectural traditions, resulting in a visually stunning and culturally significant landmark.
Drawing inspiration from Neoclassical and modernist architectural principles, the design of the Legislative Yuan strikes a harmonious balance between grandeur and functionality. Classical features such as Doric columns and intricate ornamentation are juxtaposed with contemporary elements like sleek glass facades and robust concrete structures.
Externally, the Legislative Yuan impresses with its commanding presence, characterized by a stately facade adorned with elaborate carvings and gleaming white marble walls. The meticulous attention to detail in its design evokes a sense of reverence and respect for Taiwan’s democratic institutions.
Internally, the Legislative Yuan exudes an air of sophistication and prestige, with opulent furnishings and refined decor adorning its halls and chambers. Every architectural detail, from the intricately carved woodwork to the soaring ceilings, speaks to the institution’s significance and historical legacy.
In essence, the architectural magnificence of the Legislative Yuan serves as a tangible symbol of Taiwan’s cultural richness and democratic ideals. It stands as a testament to the nation’s unwavering commitment to progress and innovation, embodying the spirit of resilience and unity that defines the Taiwanese people.
The job of a legislator
During the visit, our guide introduced us to the role of lawmakers as members of the national law-making body, tasked with representing citizens, discussing, writing, changing laws, and watching over government activities. Their main jobs include:
- Law Inspection: Checking different rules, talking about if they should be laws.
- Listening to the President’s Speech: Hearing what the President says about the country and plans.
- Checking and asking the Government: Hearing reports on how the government is doing and asking questions.
- Hiring Approval: Deciding if senior government workers are good for the job.
- Dealing with Doubts: Talking about doubts against past decisions.
- Dealing with Trust Votes: Talking about if they trust government people or the whole government.
- Starting Removal against the President or Vice President: Saying the President or Vice President did bad things.
- Starting and checking If the President or Vice President should leave: Talking about if the President or Vice President should leave.
- Getting Papers: Seeing government papers to watch what they’re doing.
- Doing Public Talks: Talking openly with people from different groups.
- Checking Rules: Seeing if government rules are right.
- Checking Letters: Seeing if people’s letters to the government are okay.
- Lawmakers do lots of work to help people, make the country better, and keep the rules working right.
We often see lawmakers asking government people questions in meetings because they watch over what the government does. Lawmakers can’t work for the government at the same time.
We, who earnestly visit the Legislative Yuan
Reflections on the visit
Visiting the Legislative Yuan: Reflection
Our trip to the Legislative Yuan was incredibly meaningful, offering us a firsthand look into Taiwan’s political system and deepening our understanding of democracy and civic involvement. In this reflection, I’ll share our observations, insights, and thoughts on democracy and citizen engagement.
Upon arrival, we were struck by the majestic architecture and solemn atmosphere of the Legislative Yuan. Stepping into the main hall, we felt the weight of its history and importance. Our knowledgeable guide walked us through its history and structure, explaining its role in Taiwan’s politics. We toured various chambers and gained insights into the legislative process and the work of lawmakers.
Interacting with legislators provided us with a firsthand understanding of their roles and responsibilities, as well as their interactions with constituents. They shared their tasks, promises to voters, and their contributions within the Legislative Yuan. We asked questions, gaining insights into their perspectives on current issues and challenges, enhancing our understanding of political decision-making.
Our visit underscored the value of democracy. In this open environment, lawmakers freely debated and made decisions, providing an equal platform for all voices. Witnessing this democratic process empowered us to recognize the importance of citizen engagement in political affairs.
During our visit, we realized our role as citizens in advancing social progress. We must engage in civic discussions, pay attention to social issues, and exercise our rights in elections. Reflecting on our experience, we appreciate the significance of politics in social development and the importance of the democratic system. We’ll carry this knowledge forward, actively participating in future social and political activities to contribute to social progress and democratic development.