Mr Huei Chen, Deputy Spokesperson of the KMT
Mr Huei Chen, Deputy Spokesperson of the KMT (Kuomintang) political party from Taiwan, shares insights about his EUVP (European Union Visitors Programme) experience and offers tips to future participants.
As a unique participant in the EUVP, I brought a distinctive perspective to the programme—not only as the Deputy Spokesperson of the KMT, but also as a young, dynamic individual with knowledge of Europe gained from my experiences living and studying there. This background gave me an edge in understanding the political landscapes of both Taiwan and the EU. Through this visit, I have solidified my clear goal of becoming an international talent, particularly in the realm of Taiwan-EU relations. I aspire to evolve into a professional political staff member and advisor, dedicated to shaping international policies for Taiwan, and serving as a vital communication bridge between Taiwan and the EU. This experience has inspired me to continue striving toward that vision with renewed determination and purpose.
The EUVP offers an enriching experience. But, for those who have never been to Europe or have not travelled abroad alone, navigating through unfamiliar environments can feel a bit challenging, but rest assured, it is a safe and well-structured programme. The journey is precious as it opens doors to new perspectives and invaluable knowledge about the European Union's institutions and culture.
My programme was tailor-made for me by an excellent EUVP programme organiser and covered all my proposed themes of interest for my study visit, namely - EU-Taiwan relations, cybersecurity, digital privacy, and countering disinformation. The meetings I had on these topics provided deep insights into the EU's role in global governance. A distinctive aspect of the visit was the chance to engage in direct discussions with influential MEPs (Members of the European Parliament). I also had highly informative meetings with senior EU officials (civil servants) from entities such as the Secretariat of the European Parliament’s ITRE (Industry, Research and Energy) Committee, and the European Commission’s DG CONNECT (Directorate‑General for Communications Networks, Content and Technology) and DG JUST (Directorate-General for Justice and Consumers). These interactions are a rare and invaluable opportunity, allowing participants to gain first hand perspectives from key decision-makers on critical global issues. These experts brought a balanced blend of political insight and academic rigour to the discussions.
These sessions allowed participants to not only understand EU policies from a practical standpoint but also appreciate the depth of research and thought leadership behind those policies. The academic approach of my interlocutors helped contextualize complex topics like digital privacy, GDPR, and cybersecurity, making these intricate subjects accessible and intellectually stimulating. This blend of political and academic perspectives made the experience holistic and further equipped participants with critical thinking skills, enabling them to engage confidently with global issues.
One key aspect to consider is preparation. Both your time and that of your interlocutors are valuable, so it is essential to research the background of the people you will be meeting. This ensures productive discussions and a meaningful exchange of ideas. Doing some homework beforehand will significantly enhance your experience and the quality of your interactions.
Additionally, while following your official schedule, take time to understand the culture and explore the city of Brussels. This balance between professional meetings and cultural exploration enriches your overall experience and offers a deeper understanding of the place you're visiting.
Lastly, stay connected with your fellow participants. This might be your only opportunity to meet and interact with individuals from different parts of the world. Engaging with these promising young professionals not only broadens your network but also sharpens your competitive edge as you learn from their diverse experiences. These conversations will leave a lasting impression and contribute to an unforgettable journey.