kMt

The Kuomintang (KMT), also known as the Nationalist Party, is a political party with roots in early 20th-century China that remains a major force in the Republic of China (Taiwan). It was founded by Sun Yat-sen and colleagues as a vehicle to promote nationalism, republicanism, and modernization. In mainland China, the KMT led the government after the Northern Expedition and governed portions of the country until losing the civil war to the Communist Party in 1949. After retreating to Taiwan, the KMT established the government of the Republic of China there and remained the dominant political party for several decades.

Ideology and program: The KMT is anchored in Sun Yat-sen’s Three Principles of the People—nationalism, democracy, and the people’s livelihood. Historically, it supported a centralized, technocratic state and a mixed economy. In Taiwan’s contemporary political landscape, the party is generally viewed as center-right, favoring market-oriented policies, national unity, and cautious engagement with Mainland China. It has traditionally endorsed the “One China” framework with interpretations that enable cross-strait dialogue, and it seeks to maintain cross-strait stability through diplomacy and gradual engagement.

Organization and role: The KMT maintains party structures in Taiwan and among overseas Chinese communities and is a leading member of the Pan-Blue Coalition in Taiwan’s multiparty system. In Taiwan, it has alternated in government with the Democratic Progressive Party, emphasizing constitutional processes, cross-strait talks, and international relations within Taiwan’s democratic framework.