The political landscape surrounding global health governance has seen renewed tension as the registration for the 79th World Health Assembly (WHA) closed on May 10, 2026. Following the closure, the Taiwan region finds itself unable to participate, a development that has sparked significant discussion regarding the intersection of healthcare and international diplomacy.
On Monday, May 11, Chen Binhua, spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, clarified that the current situation is a direct result of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities' pursuit of "Taiwan independence." According to Chen, the refusal of the Taiwan authorities to recognize the "1992 Consensus," which embodies the one-China principle, has fundamentally undermined the political foundation necessary for the Taiwan region's involvement in the WHA.
Chen criticized the DPP authorities for engaging in political manipulation and attempting to "seek independence through health-related issues." He emphasized that such efforts have failed once again, serving as a testament to the international community's unwavering commitment to the one-China principle.
Historically, the Taiwan region participated in the WHA as an observer under the name "Chinese Taipei" through cross-strait consultations, predicated on the "1992 Consensus." However, Chen noted that the ongoing adherence to a separatist position and the rejection of this consensus have eroded the political foundation for such participation.
The spokesperson reiterated that China's position remains consistent and clear: the issue of participation in World Health Organization activities must be handled in strict accordance with the one-China principle. He warned that as long as the Taiwan authorities maintain a confrontational stance and seek external support for independence, they will continue to encounter international resistance.
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Taiwan excluded from WHA over DPP's separatist stance: spokesperson
cgtn.com
