Taiwan and the World Health Organization

"#TaiwanCanHelp" installation art displayed in front of the Palace of Nations in Geneva during the 2023 World Health Assembly.

Taiwan and the World Health Organization (WHO) involves the complex relationship and history of Taiwan's participation and involvement with the World Health Organization, a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. Taiwan's status and participation in the WHO have been subjects of international debate and negotiation, largely due to the political considerations surrounding Taiwan's international recognition and its relationship with the People's Republic of China (PRC).

Background

Taiwan, officially known as the Republic of China (ROC), lost its seat in the United Nations to the People's Republic of China in 1971, following United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758. This resolution recognized the PRC as "the only legitimate representative of China to the United Nations," which led to Taiwan's exclusion from the UN and its specialized agencies, including the WHO.

Efforts for Participation

Since the late 1990s, Taiwan has sought to participate in WHO activities, initially seeking full membership and later aiming for observer status. Taiwan's efforts have been supported by its diplomatic allies and some members of the international community, who argue that global health security should transcend political issues and that Taiwan's exclusion undermines global health surveillance and response efforts.

Observer Status and WHA

Taiwan was able to participate as an observer in the World Health Assembly (WHA), the decision-making body of the WHO, from 2009 to 2016 under the name "Chinese Taipei." This participation was seen as a significant achievement for Taiwan's international space in health affairs. However, Taiwan's observer status was not extended beyond 2016, coinciding with a change in Taiwan's government and a cooling of cross-strait relations with the PRC.

Challenges and International Support

The main challenge to Taiwan's participation in the WHO is the PRC's opposition. The PRC views Taiwan as a part of its territory and opposes any form of Taiwan's participation in international organizations that could imply statehood for Taiwan. Despite these challenges, Taiwan has received increasing international support for its bid to participate in the WHO, especially in the context of global health emergencies such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Supporters argue that excluding Taiwan poses a health risk not only to Taiwan's 23 million residents but also to the global community, as it hampers efforts to achieve a comprehensive global health surveillance system.

Taiwan's Contributions to Global Health

Despite its non-member status, Taiwan has actively contributed to global health efforts, including providing humanitarian aid and medical expertise in the wake of disasters and outbreaks. Taiwan has also been at the forefront of several public health initiatives and has been praised for its effective response to the COVID-19 pandemic within its borders.

Conclusion

The issue of Taiwan's participation in the WHO highlights the intersection of health and diplomacy. It raises questions about how international organizations can inclusively represent the interests of all populations, especially in the context of global health emergencies, without being hindered by political considerations.