The current global geopolitical landscape is marked by heightened tensions and profound transformations, with Taiwan at the center of many of the most pressing challenges of the 21st century. Understanding the island’s role means grasping not only the dynamics of U.S.–China relations, but also the economic and strategic implications for Europe and the international system.

In this session, Kerry Brown, Professor of Chinese Studies and Director of the Lau China Institute at King’s College London, will provide an in-depth analysis of Taiwan’s geopolitical and economic significance.

Key themes to be explored include:

• the economic importance of Taiwan: its strategic role in advanced semiconductor production and the consequences for global value chains
• Taiwan between China and the United States: the island as the epicenter of today’s most serious geopolitical challenge and a potential global flashpoint
• Taiwanese identity today: what it means to live in a country unrecognized by most world leaders, yet at the center of international attention
• implications for Europe: how relations with East Asia influence global economic and political balances, and the scenarios opening up for businesses and institutions.