By Amino C.Y. Chi, Director General, Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Miami
MIAMI, USA – The 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) is being held between September 13 through the 27h this year, one of the most significant annual events in the world where global members assemble together to seek solutions to tackle the most crucial and problematic issues that affect all human beings as a whole. However, Taiwan, the world’s 16th largest trading economy, is left out by the session, along with the voice of 23.5 million Taiwanese people being neglected.
Taiwan is a trustworthy and valued partner to a vast number of member states in the UN, and has become a democratic success story. Taiwan supports rule of law and respect for human rights – values that align with those of the UN. Taiwan also plays a critical role in the global high-tech economy, being a hub in travel and education, as well as a heart of rich culture.
The UN, as envisioned by its Charter, was founded on the very principle of universality. The UN’s more recent endeavour, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals, also aims to improve the well-being for all. The UN has in the past invited non-Members, such as the Palestine Liberation Organization and the South West African People’s Organization, to participate on the basis of universality. Therefore, the principle of universality should support the meaningful participation of all peoples of the world, including the Taiwanese people.
Taiwan’s exclusion undermines the important work of the UN and its related organizations. Therefore, we encourage all UN Member States to join us in supporting Taiwan’s meaningful participation throughout the UN.
