By Director General Charles Chou
Global health challenges are increasingly interconnected, making international cooperation a necessity rather than an option. Outbreaks of epidemics, non-communicable diseases, aging populations and anti-microbial resistance have all underscored global health security cannot be confined by national borders.
Although Taiwan has long been excluded from the World Health Organization (WHO), it has consistently acted as a responsible stakeholder in global health governance. Taiwan has demonstrated this through the valiant containment of infectious diseases, strong public health measures, and the rapid digitalisation across health spaces.
In handling infectious diseases, Taiwan is already a tested and proven leader. Following the SARS and COVID-19 experiences, a highly digitalised disease surveillance system was built to integrate real-time reporting, laboratory networks, and border health management, significantly strengthening early warning and response capacity. Also, in response to the WHO goal of eliminating hepatitis C by 2030, Taiwan launched a national strategy in 2018, integrating screening, treatment, and prevention. By 2025, Taiwan had achieved over 90 percent diagnosis and treatment coverage, reaching elimination targets five years ahead of schedule.
Strong public health governance is another trait that Taiwan stands out for. Among its proactive policies is the “Healthy Taiwan” vision. Launched in 2024, “Healthy Taiwan” aims to extend life expectancy while reducing years lived in poor health through an integrated approach to both physical and mental well-being. Additionally, during global health crises, Taiwan has been an active player by contributing substantially with medical supplies, expertise, and technological support.
Taiwan’s advancements also continue in digital health and smart healthcare, including electronic medical records, telemedicine, and electronic prescriptions. These innovations have improved accessibility, safety, and efficiency of healthcare services, particularly in rural and underserved areas. At the same time, Taiwan’s biomedical sector integrates healthcare systems with information technology, strengthening innovation in precision medicine and medical research.
Taiwan’s exclusion from the WHO is a direct result of China’s misinterpretation of United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758 and World Health Assembly Resolution 25.1. This exclusion creates a gap in global health governance. Taiwan has repeatedly demonstrated its ability to provide early warnings, share critical data, and contribute meaningfully during various health emergencies, including COVID-19. Global health should not be constrained by political considerations.
We sincerely hope that, moving forward, the WHO will recognise Taiwan’s significant contributions to global public health and acknowledge that Taiwan should be included as soon as possible in upcoming World Health Assemblies and WHO meetings, mechanisms, and activities. Meaningful participation of Taiwan in WHO mechanisms would strengthen, not politicise, global health cooperation.
Inclusivity is absolutely imperative for resilience and effectiveness.
In an era of increasing global health risks, the world cannot continue to ignore a capable and committed partner like Taiwan. Despite being overlooked, one key factor persists: Taiwan remains ready to contribute and lead in global health initiatives, if given the opportunity to be heard.
