After retreating to Taiwan in 1949, the Kuomintang (KMT) consolidated its power by establishing an authoritarian regime under the pretext of "martial law," silencing all dissenting voices. By the 1970s, changes in the Cold War landscape weakened the KMT regime. Undeterred by risks to their lives and futures, countless Taiwanese at home and abroad launched diverse efforts to challenge the party-state system. These persistent actions ultimately forced the KMT to lift martial law in 1987.

Following the end of martial law, a long-repressed civil society eagerly introduced various reform initiatives, ranging from freedom of speech and labor rights to environmental protection, anti-development movements, and LGBTQ+ equality. Initiatives flourished across the island, with broad participation from all social strata. The push for change transformed Taiwan to achieving direct elections for the president and legislature. Even after multiple political transitions, Taiwan's civil society has remained steadfast, championing reforms across diverse sectors and shaping the nation into a vibrant democracy.