Does China Matter? Taiwan's Successful Bid to Host the 2017 Summer Universiade

Abstract

This study seeks to identify and explain the key factors supporting the bid of Taiwan [Taipei] to host the 2017 Summer Universiade. In tackling this subject, this study employs content analysis to elucidate how and to what extent the issues associated with this successful bid are portrayed by investigating a collection of material, including nine interviews and a review of published and unpublished documentary materials derived from government reports, parliamentary debates, academic journals, and media commentaries, among other sources. The study concludes that the experience of having hosted international sporting events, having existing facilities and venues, and having tacit consent and support from China were all important contributing factors to Taiwan's success. Among these factors, the ‘acquiescence’ from the Chinese government and relevant actors to Taiwan's ‘demands’ appeared to play a particularly important role.