Taiwan's Representative to the Netherlands Writes to Dutch Media: Excluding Taiwan from WHO is an International Loss

(CNA, Geneva, 18th) The 79th World Health Assembly (WHA) convenes in Geneva starting on the 18th. Taiwan's Representative to the Netherlands, Tanaka Hikaru, wrote a letter to Dutch media, calling on the international community to face the issue of Taiwan's exclusion from the World Health Organization (WHO) and emphasizing that global public health cooperation should not become a political tool.

On the 15th, De Telegraaf, the largest newspaper in the Netherlands, published Tanaka's letter under the headline "Excluding Taiwan from WHO participation is a loss for the international community."

Tanaka cited the example of a Hantavirus outbreak on a Dutch cruise ship, noting that upon receiving the report, the WHO quickly exchanged information and coordinated epidemic prevention with relevant countries such as the Netherlands, South Africa, and Spain.

He said this case once again reminds the international community that diseases know no borders and that transnational health cooperation is more important than ever. Health is a fundamental human right, and for Taiwan, a democratic society with 23.5 million people and one of the world's advanced medical systems, to still be excluded from the WHO is not only unfair to Taiwan but also a loss for the international community.

Tanaka explained that China has long suppressed Taiwan's international participation, particularly by incorrectly citing UN General Assembly Resolution 2758 to obstruct Taiwan's participation in the WHO and other international organizations. However, this resolution only addresses the issue of China's representation, never mentions Taiwan, nor does it authorize the People's Republic of China to represent the Taiwanese people. The Beijing authorities deliberately distort the content of the resolution to compress Taiwan's international space, but public health cooperation should not be held hostage by politics.

Tanaka stressed that Taiwan has long demonstrated its role as a responsible international partner. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it provided medical and anti-epidemic supplies to over 80 countries, including the Netherlands. Since 2022, it has also provided Ukraine with millions of euros worth of medical equipment and supplies to assist in humanitarian relief work.

He said that allowing Taiwan to participate in the WHO would not only help Taiwan but also strengthen global public health cooperation and resilience, and enhance the WHO's credibility.

Tanaka concluded by calling on the international community to place the well-being of people above politics. Taiwan is ready to share its professional knowledge, experience, and capabilities to contribute to the global public good. "Health for all" should truly include everyone, including Taiwan. The international community should work together to save more lives through inclusion, not exclusion. (Editor: Chang Chih-hsuan) 1150519