From public movement to public participation – prospect of better coastal zone management in Taiwan.

Abstract: Is the public movement the only way to stop the development project? What did activists experience when they communicate with the government within the system? This research studied two critical coastal conflicts in Taiwan- Kuokuang Petrochemical Project and Miramar Resort Project to find out root causes of movement, the practice of participating mechanism, and possible improvements. The study shows that the movement has its irreplaceable position, because the awareness, information, and participating mechanism are still insufficient in today’s Taiwan. For a better coastal zone management, it is necessary to complete the related legislation, improve the system and upgrade the mind-set from the government to the grassroots.