Behind the Scenes: Control Yuan Investigates Bullying Scandal! Jane Yang Intimidates Heidi Yen on First Day, Lily Yeh Notices Something Is Wrong

Jane Yang, Minister without Portfolio and Chief Negotiator of the Office of Trade Negotiations, has been implicated in a workplace bullying scandal. On July 2, the Executive Yuan announced her suspension, followed by an official removal order issued by the Presidential Office. On July 29, the Control Yuan released its impeachment document and review decision, stating that during her management of the trade office, Yang fostered a hostile and unfriendly work environment. This environment caused Heidi Yen, the former Deputy Chief Negotiator, to endure significant psychological pressure. The Control Yuan concluded that Yang’s misconduct was clear and severe, thus formally proposing impeachment and referring the case to the Disciplinary Court for further proceedings.

Although Yang has already been suspended and removed from office, the Disciplinary Court may still impose penalties, including forfeiture or reduction of retirement benefits. How did this seasoned negotiator, who has long contributed to Taiwan’s international trade negotiations and participated in multiple high-level talks, end up in such a situation? What exactly did Yang do to Yen that prompted the Control Yuan to take such a serious action? The Control Yuan’s investigation report provides detailed evidence.

On Yen’s first day at the Office of Trade Negotiations, Yang reportedly told her: 'It looks strange for you to sit in that seat.' This comment was not merely an offhand remark—it was interpreted as an early attempt to undermine Yen’s sense of belonging and authority within the office. The Control Yuan views this as part of a pattern of psychological intimidation leveraging hierarchical power.