Taiwan is once again making a fervent plea for inclusion in the World Health Assembly (WHA), expressing gratitude to supportive nations like Japan and the US for their unwavering backing. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) is calling on the WHO Secretariat to resist succumbing to political pressures that seek to sideline Taiwan on the global health stage.
Despite consistent efforts by Taiwan’s Ministry of Health and Welfare, MOFA, and its overseas missions to advocate for participation in the WHO, political influences have continued to hinder Taiwan’s inclusion in the WHA. This year, Taiwan is ramping up its efforts by forming a dedicated “Taiwan WHA Action Team” to showcase the nation’s significant contributions to global health during the assembly in Geneva.
Over the years, Taiwan has garnered increasing support from the international community, which has helped elevate the legitimacy of its bid for WHA participation. Expressing gratitude for the proactive support received from countries like Japan and the US, Taiwan emphasizes the importance of its rightful representation on the global health platform.
Despite China’s persistent efforts to thwart Taiwan’s international recognition, Taiwan stresses that UN Resolution 2758 does not authorize China to represent Taiwan or dictate its international engagements. Taiwan asserts its sovereign right to participate in global organizations independently, emphasizing that democratic Taiwan deserves a place at the table.
The US has been vocal in condemning China’s attempts to isolate Taiwan, highlighting the misuse of UN Resolution 2758 to manipulate diplomatic decisions. Taiwan urges the WHO Secretariat to refrain from aligning with China in excluding Taiwan from crucial global health discussions, emphasizing the need for a fair and inclusive approach.
With the theme of this year’s WHA focusing on “One World for Health,” Taiwan underscores its commitment to contributing meaningfully to global health initiatives. Taiwan stands ready to collaborate with the WHO and other nations to advance health and well-being globally, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and cooperation in achieving shared health goals.
As Taiwan continues to navigate the complex landscape of international relations, its efforts to secure a spot in the WHA reflect a broader struggle for recognition and participation on the global stage. The ongoing support from democratic allies and the unwavering determination of Taiwan’s representatives underscore the nation’s resilience and commitment to contributing to global health efforts.
As the 78th World Health Assembly approaches, Taiwan’s advocacy for inclusion serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by nations striving for recognition and representation in international forums. The push for Taiwan’s participation in the WHA is not just a diplomatic endeavor but a fundamental assertion of Taiwan’s sovereignty and its right to engage meaningfully in global health matters.