Our Taskforces

The Research Institute for Democracy, Society, and Emerging Technology (DSET) is a newly established think tank under the National Science and Technology Council (NSTC) of Taiwan R.O.C. since October 2023. It aims to serve as the leading national think tank in Taiwan with a future-oriented vision of science and technology policies that infuse and safeguard democratic values. Through cross-disciplinary and interdisciplinary research and collaboration, We are committed to bringing the lenses of social sciences and humanities to deepen a more well-rounded understanding of new and critical technology and science. Core issues such as governance, social impact, and the growth of democracy are at the heart of DSET’s work. 

At present, the NSTC-DSET has the following six taskforces.

Democratic Governance

The Democratic Governance Research Unit investigates the impact of critical technologies on democratic process and integrity, both in Taiwan and globally. Our key focus areas include artificial intelligence, information manipulation, and supply chain resilience. We explore their integration within democratic frameworks, emphasizing Taiwan’s unique position within geopolitical contexts and its role in navigating the complex dynamics of global technological freedom. Our objective is to provoke critical reflection on maintaining democratic practices amid the rapid changes of technological development and international order.

Vice President

Adjunct Research Fellow

Adjunct Research Fellow

Adjunct Research Fellow

Non-resident Senior Fellow

Non-Resident Fellow

Non-Resident Fellow

Non-Resident Fellow

Non-Resident Fellow

Non-Resident Fellow

Research Fellow

Research Fellow

Adjunct Research Fellow

Adjunct Research Fellow

Consultant

Climate Resilience and Sustainability

The importance of the Net-Zero transition is not only to assess whether the goal will be achieved by the end of 2050 but also whether the technology and social engineering in the transition process can help mitigate and adapt to the social, economic, and environmental impacts of climate change. Our research, which comprehensively assesses the readiness of relevant policies, infrastructure, and regulations, including the science and policy implementation of climate change response and adaptation, climate science and policy diplomacy, climate change challenges to energy security and infrastructure, the continuity and transformation of high-carbon emitting users, and the geopolitics of developing strategic energy sources and net-zero technologies, etc., provides a robust foundation for future action. Based on Taiwan’s experience, we will also actively explore how to enhance cooperation between Taiwan and other countries on various sustainability issues.

President

Non-Resident Fellow

Non-Resident Fellow

Research Fellow

Non-Resident Fellow

Economic Security

This research theme delves into Taiwan’s economic security framework and the emerging challenges posed by the new era of technological geopolitics. As a global leader in semiconductor manufacturing, Taiwan has become a pivotal player in the current geopolitical landscape. Whether driving AI performance growth or advancing quantum computing, Taiwan’s semiconductor industry is a cornerstone of cutting-edge technological development. However, this critical node in the global technology supply chain faces significant threats from China. The question of how Taiwan can reform its economic security system to safeguard its national security and interests has become a major international concern. Taiwan’s position in the long-term global supply chain reconfiguration, particularly in collaboration with democratic allies, will hinge on its economic security strategy. This strategy is essential in countering China’s ambitions for technological supremacy. This research theme will analyze the key challenges Taiwan faces in the era of technological geopolitics through policy reports and expert commentary. It aims to offer the international community unique insights from Taiwan, fostering a meaningful platform for multilateral policy discussions.

President

Vice President

Adjunct Research Fellow

Research Fellow & Chief Executive Officer

Non-resident Senior Fellow

Non-Resident Fellow

Non-Resident Fellow

Non-Resident Fellow

Consultant

Consultant

National Security

National Security and Dual-use Technology (NSDT) at DSET focuses on cutting-edge national security research, with a unique emphasis on technology geopolitics. Different from other security think tanks, NSDT explores anti-red supply chain strategies, dual-use technology, and supply chain resilience through this lens. NSDT’s approach not only addresses Taiwan’s national security challenges but also fosters connections with international partners sharing similar democratic values. By leveraging interdisciplinary expertise, NSDT provides data-driven insights on emerging technologies like dual-use drones and LEO satellite communications, ensuring that Taiwan and its allies can strategically navigate the evolving technology geopolitical landscape.

Vice President

Adjunct Research Fellow

Adjunct Research Fellow

Adjunct Research Fellow

Research Fellow

Non-Resident Fellow

Non-Resident Fellow

Consultant