The 2012 Staff Exchange Program between the Control Yuan and Asian-Pacific Ombudsman/Human Rights Offices was held from May 7 to May 9. The program helped participants to deepen mutual understanding and friendship.
The Control Yuan has held four similar exchange programs since 2004. However, this was the first program to include Asian-Pacific countries. Six participants from the following six countries took part: Indonesia, Malaysia, Marshall Islands, Nauru, Philippines and Thailand. Dr. Louis Chao, member of the Control Yuan and chairperson of international affairs committee, extended a warm welcome to the participants in his opening remarks.
A variety of courses was offered, covering both theoretical and practical aspects of the Control Yuan's power. At the beginning of the program, Control Yuan member Dr. Ger Yeoung-Kuang introduced the Republic of China's five-power system. Then participants were introduced to the different departments and their day-to-day work. They toured the National Audit Office and Complaints Receipt Center, attended a Yuan plenary meeting, and participated in a press conference on an impeachment case. These experiences provided them with a clearer and more authentic picture of the Control Yuan's functions.
The participants were impressed by the Control Yuan’s substantial powers and responsibilities and said they were eager to share what they had learned with their colleagues after returning home. They also expressed their gratitude to the Control Yuan for organizing the event. During the closing ceremony, Mr. Baron, a participant and member of the Parliament of the Republic of Nauru, sang the classic English song "You are My Sunshine" in praise of the Sunshine Acts implemented by the Control Yuan. His beautiful voice amazed everyone present and brought the program to a perfect close.