Since last year's democratic transfer of power from one political party to another - the first ever in Chinese history - human rights have been accorded even higher priority.

Taiwan's laws have been overhauled to eliminate sexual discrimination; conscientious objectors may perform civilian tasks in order to meet their national service obligations; cultural and linguistic pluralism are now embraced.

In March 2001, the Ministry of Justice issued a draft version of the Basic Law On The Guarantees of Human Rights.

According to a report on freedom around the world in 2000 compiled by U.S.-based organization Freedom House, the ROC is now on a par with Japan as the freest country in Asia.

The report singled out Taiwan's free and fair presidential election, the orderly transition of power, and the new administration's determined drive against corruption, as great gains for freedom.

The U.S. State Department, in its latest country report on human rights, notes that the ROC authorities respect political rights, plus freedoms of speech, of the press, assembly, religion, and travel.

To detail Taiwan's progress with regard to human rights, highlight current issues, and clarify relevant government policies, the ROC's Government Information Office has prepared this special issue.