China's Manipulation of Religion and Disinformation in Taiwan's Election

The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is reportedly using religious groups in rural Taiwan to manipulate political opinion ahead of the upcoming elections. China has established influence over the worship of Mazu, a popular sea goddess in Taiwan, through its Religious Affairs Administration. The CCP's United Front Work Department is overseeing this campaign, which includes subsidizing trips to China for Taiwanese religious leaders. Taiwan has increased monitoring of religious activities with China in response. The election will determine Taiwan's relations with Beijing, and China is trying to influence the outcome in favor of parties supporting closer ties with China.