Fact Check: "33.4% of Taiwanese trust the US to defend them, the lowest in history."
What We Know
The claim that "33.4% of Taiwanese trust the US to defend them, the lowest in history" suggests a significant decline in confidence among Taiwanese citizens regarding US military support. However, there is currently no verifiable data or credible sources to substantiate this specific percentage or the assertion that it represents the lowest level of trust in history.
Surveys regarding public opinion in Taiwan often fluctuate based on current events, political climate, and international relations, particularly concerning China and the United States. For instance, a survey conducted by the National Chengchi University in 2022 indicated varying levels of confidence in US support, but specific figures like 33.4% were not reported in the available data.
Analysis
To evaluate the claim, it is essential to consider the reliability of the sources and the context of public opinion surveys in Taiwan. The assertion lacks a direct reference to a credible survey or research study that provides the 33.4% figure. Most reputable sources, including academic institutions and recognized polling organizations, have not published findings that confirm this particular statistic.
Furthermore, the claim's context—stating it is the "lowest in history"—requires historical data for comparison. While there have been fluctuations in trust levels over the years, comprehensive longitudinal studies that track this specific metric over time are scarce.
Additionally, the political landscape in Taiwan is complex, with public sentiment often influenced by recent events, such as military exercises by China or changes in US foreign policy. Therefore, without a reliable source to back the claim, it remains speculative.
Conclusion
Verdict: Needs Research
The claim that "33.4% of Taiwanese trust the US to defend them, the lowest in history" lacks substantiation from credible sources and does not appear in recognized public opinion surveys. The absence of verifiable data and the need for historical context necessitate further research to confirm or refute this assertion.
Sources
- Weer Sittard - Vandaag - Morgen - 14 dagen - Weerplaza.nl (https://www.weerplaza.nl/nederland/sittard/17732/)
- Buienradar.nl - Weersverwachting voor Sittard (https://www.buienradar.nl/weer/sittard/nl/2747203)
- Sittard, Limburg, Netherlands Weather Forecast | AccuWeather (https://www.accuweather.com/en/nl/sittard/248716/weather-forecast/248716)
- Weer Sittard: Nu - Morgen - 14-daagse + Regenradar (https://www.weer.nl/limburg/sittard)
- Weersvoorspelling per uur Sittard (https://www.weersverwachting.nl/weer-nederland/sittard/per-uur/17732)
- Sittard weer per uur voor vandaag - Weer1.com (https://www.weer1.com/europe/netherlands/limburg/sittard?page=today)
- 14-daagse weersverwachting Sittard | Weeronline (https://www.weeronline.nl/Europa/Nederland/Sittard/4058213/weersverwachting-14dagen)
