Taiwan mails out new civil defense handbook

台灣發放新的全民國防手冊

TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Ministry of National Defense on Wednesday began mailing the latest edition of its civil defense handbook to all citizens.

The ministry announced on Tuesday that the household distribution of the new manual, “In Case of Crisis: Taiwan's National Public Safety Guide,” would begin, per CNA. The guide will be sent through the Ministry of the Interior’s civil affairs system to about 9.83 million registered households, with distribution expected to be completed by Jan. 5.

The ministry noted that after the September release of the guide, it received positive feedback and requests for paper copies. Countries such as the Czech Republic, Sweden, Finland, and Estonia have also distributed civil defense manuals, and Taiwan’s efforts align with those of other democratic nations.

Some legislators questioned the necessity of paper copies, suggesting potential waste. The ministry said distributing hard copies helps reduce the digital divide for elderly citizens and ensures the guide is effective in emergencies.

The ministry added that the process followed policy guidelines, with procurement carried out through public bidding using the Cabinet's Second Reserve Fund. Publishing 11 million copies had cost NT$42.79 million, averaging NT$3.89 per handbook.

Chao Shih-hsuan (趙世絢), a deputy counselor at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, added that starting on Dec. 19, 105,000 English copies of the handbook will be distributed to embassies, representative offices, and foreign journalists stationed in Taiwan, per CNA.

In addition to printed copies, electronic versions in Mandarin and English are available for download.