Taiwan’s WHA observer status up for review in Geneva

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's bid to join the 77th World Health Assembly (WHA) as an observer will be reviewed on Monday (May 27). The assembly, set to take place from May 27 to June 1 in Geneva, Switzerland, is considering Taiwan's participation following a proposal by its diplomatic allies.

Global Support for Taiwan's WHA Bid

Taiwan's diplomatic allies, including Belize, Eswatini, Guatemala, Haiti, Marshall Islands, Palau, Paraguay, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Tuvalu, have formally requested the World Health Organization (WHO) to include Taiwan as an observer by submitting a proposal as a "supplementary item," underscoring the growing international backing for Taiwan's involvement in global health affairs.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a statement highlighted that over 85 countries across various sectors, including government, health, academia, and civil society, have expressed their support for Taiwan, totaling more than 7,000 international endorsements.

Unified Efforts in Geneva

In Geneva, Minister of Health and Welfare Chiu Tai-yuan and Deputy Legislative Speaker Johnny Chiang have joined forces to rally support for Taiwan's WHA participation. Their presence and advocacy efforts at the assembly mark a crucial step in Taiwan's quest for greater involvement in international health discussions and decision-making processes.

As the WHA deliberates on Taiwan's observer status, the global community watches closely. The outcome could significantly impact Taiwan's international standing and its ability to contribute to global health initiatives. The support from a broad coalition of countries and organizations underscores the widespread recognition of Taiwan's valuable contributions to global health, setting the stage for a potentially historic inclusion in the WHA.