The 77th World Health Assembly (WHA) commenced on May 27, 2024, in Geneva, Switzerland. The Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW) expresses deep regret and dissatisfaction over the World Health Organization's (WHO) failure to invite Taiwan to the assembly due to political interferences. However, health is a fundamental human right of universal value. Therefore, Minister Tai-Yuan Chiu of the MOHW and the delegation proceeded to Geneva as scheduled, advocating for the health and welfare of the 23 million Taiwanese people. This also serves as a demonstration of Taiwan's capabilities and determination to participate in global health events.
Minister Chiu led the Taiwan WHA Action Team to Geneva to facilitate medical and health exchanges and advocate globally. Despite not receiving an invitation to the WHA, Taiwan showcased its exceptional soft power in the medical and health sector by holding various professional forums in Geneva, such as the "International Forum on Integrative Health: Navigating the Future of Holistic Care and Well-being" and "Dental Services for Vulnerable Populations." Taiwan also actively participated in crucial sideline meetings, aiming to share its experiences with the world and access the latest medical and health information. Furthermore, bilateral and multilateral meetings with health departments worldwide and international medical and health organizations were organized to ensure Taiwan's meaningful participation in global health initiatives through substantive collaborations. Taiwan's involvement can contribute to accelerating the achievement of sustainable development goals worldwide and safeguarding the health and welfare of its people.
Minister Chiu and the team conveyed their appreciation to Taiwan's diplomatic allies, friendly nations, and international medical and health organizations for their steadfast support of Taiwan's participation in this year's WHA. They urged the World Health Organization (WHO) not to allow political interference to impede the health rights of Taiwan's 23 million people. Finally, the minister and the delegation appealed to the WHO to address the collective call from various countries and international medical and health organizations regarding Taiwan's participation in the WHA and its normalized engagement with the WHO to achieve the motto "Health for all, Taiwan can help."