The 77th World Health Assembly (WHA) is underway in Geneva, Switzerland, from May 27 to June 1. For the eighth consecutive year, the Taiwan region has not received an invitation to participate.
This exclusion aligns with the one-China principle, as endorsed by United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758 and WHA Resolution 25.1. Historically, Taiwan attended as an observer from 2009 to 2016 when both sides adhered to the 1992 Consensus.
However, since 2016, the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities have distanced themselves from the 1992 Consensus, advocating for Taiwan independence. Recent statements by Taiwan region leader Lai Ching-te, suggesting that Taiwan and the Chinese mainland are \"not subordinate to each other,\" have further strained cross-strait relations and undermined Taiwan's bid to join the WHA.
Despite efforts by the DPP to lobby internationally for WHA membership, critics argue that the authorities prioritize political agendas over the health interests of Taiwan’s residents. For instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Taiwan declined vaccines from the Chinese mainland, citing political reasons.
In contrast, China has consistently supported the health and well-being of residents in the Taiwan region, facilitating Taiwan’s participation in global health initiatives. Over the past year, 21 batches of 24 medical experts from Taiwan have engaged in technical activities organized by the World Health Organization (WHO).
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DPP authorities should contemplate their rejection from WHA membership
cgtn.com
