BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
MBABANE – Several European countries, including Germany, United Kingdom, France, Lithuania and Estonia, have publicly backed Taiwan’s inclusion in the World Health Organization during the ongoing World Health Assembly in Geneva.
The European nations called for Taiwan to be granted meaningful participation in global health discussions, arguing that excluding the island undermines international cooperation on disease prevention, medical innovation and emergency health response.
In its national statement delivered on May 19, the United Kingdom urged the WHO to allow Taiwan “meaningful access” and observer status at the World Health Assembly. Lithuania and Germany also reaffirmed their support through joint international statements issued alongside like-minded partners.
Estonia and Luxembourg further promoted Taiwan’s participation during ministerial addresses in Geneva, while Switzerland expressed regret that a previous arrangement allowing Taiwan’s attendance between 2009 and 2016 had not been maintained.
Taiwan has been excluded from the World Health Assembly since 2017 following objections from China, which considers Taiwan part of its territory under the “One China” policy. Beijing has consistently opposed Taiwan’s participation in international organizations that require statehood recognition.
Despite the continued opposition, support for Taiwan’s inclusion has grown in recent years, particularly after the island gained international praise for its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. Supporters argue that Taiwan’s advanced healthcare system and expertise in disease control could make a significant contribution to global health efforts.
During this year’s assembly, some member states again pushed for Taiwan to be granted observer status. However, the proposal was rejected after opposition from China and its allies, marking the 10th consecutive year Taiwan has failed to secure participation at the assembly.
Eswatini, one of Taiwan’s diplomatic allies, also intensified its advocacy efforts during the 79th World Health Assembly. On May 6, Eswatini formally submitted a proposal to the WHO Director-General requesting Taiwan’s participation as an observer.
The Eswatini Government later reaffirmed its support publicly, maintaining that health issues should not be politicized. Speaking during a reception in Geneva on May 17, Health Minister Mduduzi Matsebula said Eswatini would continue supporting Taiwan because “Taiwan can help, and Taiwan is helping.”
The World Health Assembly is the decision-making body of the WHO and brings together health ministers and representatives from across the world to discuss global health priorities and challenges.
The growing support from European nations is expected to intensify international debate over Taiwan’s participation in global institutions, particularly as countries push for broader cooperation in responding to future health emergencies.
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