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Taiwan Proposes Stricter Conscription Amid Controversial Exemptions

12/16/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Taiwan's defense ministry proposes tighter conscription after cases of falsifying medical records to dodge service.
The amendments would require alternative service for transgender and intersex individuals, prompting backlash from rights groups.
The draft aims to close loopholes.
If approved, exemption criteria will narrow to BMI over 45 or height 144 cm or below, and the exemption weight for a 170 cm man would rise from 101 kg to 130 kg.

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Story summary

Taiwan's defense ministry proposes tighter conscription after cases of falsifying medical records to dodge service.
The amendments would require alternative service for transgender and intersex individuals, prompting backlash from rights groups.
The draft aims to close loopholes.
If approved, exemption criteria will narrow to BMI over 45 or height 144 cm or below, and the exemption weight for a 170 cm man would rise from 101 kg to 130 kg.