2004 Taiwanese cross-strait relations referendum

20 March 2004

The People of Taiwan demand that the Taiwan Strait issue be resolved through peaceful means. Should the Communist Party of China refuse to withdraw the missiles it has targeted at Taiwan and to openly renounce the use of force against us, would you agree that the Government should acquire more advanced anti-missile weapons to strengthen Taiwan's self-defense capabilities?


Yes			91.80%
No			8.20%
Proposal failed due to turnout being below 50%

Would you agree that our Government should engage in negotiation with the Communist Party of China on the establishment of a "peace and stability" framework for cross-strait interactions in order to build consensus and for the welfare of the peoples on both sides?


Yes			92.05%
No			7.95%
Proposal failed due to turnout being below 50%

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A consultative referendum was held in Taiwan on 20 March 2004 to coincide with the 2004 presidential elections. Voters were asked two questions regarding the cross-strait relations, that is, between Taiwan and China. The initiation of this referendum by President Chen Shui-bian came under intense criticism from China because it was seen as an exercise for an eventual vote on Taiwanese independence. The Pan-Blue Coalition urged a boycott, citing that the referendum was illegal and unnecessary.

Over 90% of voters approved the two questions, but the results were invalid due to insufficient voter turnout, which was below 50%.