For the eighth consecutive year, the island of Taiwan has not received an invitation to the World Health Assembly (WHA), which is taking place in Geneva, Switzerland, from May 27 to June 1. The absence of Taiwan from this pivotal global health forum underscores the ongoing complexities in cross-strait relations and the implications of political decisions on international participation.
Between 2009 and 2016, Taiwan was granted observer status at the WHA, facilitated by the mutual adherence of both sides of the Taiwan Strait to the 1992 Consensus, which embodies the one-China principle. This consensus allowed for pragmatic cooperation and China’s arrangement for Taiwan’s attendance at the assembly.
However, since 2016, the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities have declined to acknowledge the 1992 Consensus, adopting a stance that emphasizes “Taiwan independence.” This shift has eroded the political foundation necessary for Taiwan’s participation in the WHA, as the one-China principle is a fundamental prerequisite recognized by United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758 and WHA Resolution 25.1.
The current situation is further complicated by recent statements from Lai Ching-te, a leader in the Taiwan region, who has articulated a “two-state” theory, suggesting that Taiwan and the Chinese mainland are “not subordinate to each other.” Such positions deepen mistrust across the strait and hinder opportunities for cooperation on global platforms.
Despite the DPP authorities’ international lobbying efforts to secure participation in the WHA, critics argue that their political stance hampers the health interests of the Taiwan people. For instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the refusal to accept vaccines from the Chinese mainland was seen by some as prioritizing political considerations over public health.
Conversely, China maintains that it is committed to the health and well-being of compatriots in Taiwan. Over the past year, 21 batches of 24 medical experts from Taiwan have participated in technical activities organized by the World Health Organization (WHO), illustrating ongoing, albeit limited, engagement in global health initiatives.
The exclusion of Taiwan from the WHA raises questions about the intersection of politics and global health. It highlights the importance of mutual understanding and adherence to agreed principles to facilitate cooperation in addressing global health challenges.
As the WHA continues its vital work in shaping global health policies, the situation underscores the need for dialogue and consensus. The health of populations should ideally transcend political differences, fostering collaboration for the greater good.
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DPP authorities should contemplate their rejection from WHA membership
cgtn.com
