Taiwan and the World Health Organization

Taiwan and the World Health Organization

Taiwan Can Help campaign in 2023

The relationship between Taiwan and the World Health Organization (WHO) is a complex and politically sensitive issue. Taiwan, officially known as the Republic of China (ROC), has been seeking participation in the WHO and its related activities, but its efforts have been complicated by the People's Republic of China (PRC)'s claim over Taiwan and the "One China" policy.

Historical Background

Taiwan was a founding member of the WHO in 1948 under the name "China." However, in 1971, the United Nations General Assembly passed Resolution 2758, which recognized the People's Republic of China as "the only legitimate representative of China to the United Nations," effectively expelling the Republic of China from the UN and its affiliated organizations, including the WHO.

Since then, Taiwan has been excluded from participating in the WHO's activities, despite its advanced healthcare system and significant contributions to global health.

Efforts for Participation

Taiwan has made numerous attempts to participate in the WHO, particularly in the World Health Assembly (WHA), the decision-making body of the WHO. From 2009 to 2016, Taiwan was invited to attend the WHA as an observer under the name "Chinese Taipei." This was made possible through a compromise between the PRC and other WHO member states.

However, since 2017, Taiwan has not received an invitation to the WHA, largely due to increased political pressure from the PRC. Despite this, Taiwan continues to advocate for its inclusion, emphasizing its capability and willingness to contribute to global health initiatives.

Taiwan's Contributions to Global Health

Taiwan has a robust healthcare system and has been recognized for its effective response to public health challenges, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Taiwan's "Taiwan Can Help" campaign highlights its readiness to share its expertise and resources with the international community.

Taiwan has also provided medical aid and technical assistance to various countries, demonstrating its commitment to global health despite its exclusion from the WHO.

Political and Diplomatic Challenges

The main obstacle to Taiwan's participation in the WHO is the political stance of the PRC, which considers Taiwan a part of its territory and opposes any form of international recognition of Taiwan as a separate entity. The "One China" policy is a significant factor in the diplomatic relations between the PRC, Taiwan, and other countries, influencing Taiwan's international participation.

Related Pages

• World Health Organization
• World Health Assembly
• One China policy
• Republic of China (Taiwan)
• People's Republic of China
• United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758