The US Senate and House of Representatives have voiced their support for Taiwan's bid to become an observer at the World Health Organization (WHO). This has led to optimism in some quarters. But in fact, Taiwan's preparations to become an observer remain inadequate and the time is not yet ripe. In the WHO annual assembly on May 14, a proposal to support Taiwan's bid failed even to be included on the agenda. During the confirmation procedure, those for and against tour admission only called on two countries to offer testimony. Of course, Taiwan's allies didn't dare put the issue to a vote.
Many people in Taiwan and the US had expected that US representatives at the WHO would publicly support Taiwan's bid. But their wish was not fulfilled. As the most powerful nation in the world, the US can exert its influence, both by its vote and its comments. If US representatives stand on the podium and voice their support, that means the time is ripe. When Taiwan first launched its WHO bid in 1997, it was defeated by a wide margin. The US abstained from the vote during that meeting, leaving much room for speculation.
Observing Taiwan's WHO bid this year, we might feel that it is a case of being "hot abroad but cold at home." The government has adopted a more circumspect attitude toward WHO membership, perhaps because the issue of entry into the WTO remains unresolved. By contrast, activity on Taiwan's behalf by overseas organizations has been more vigorous.
Taiwan's WHO bid saw no progress last year because of then US President Bill Clinton's lack of interest. The US-based Formosan Association for Public Affairs (FAPA,
There have, however, been some breakthroughs in connection with Taiwan's bid this year. It was the first time the government had applied for entry under the name of Taiwan (ROC). Stressing the name, "Taiwan" reflects the hopes of Taiwanese both at home and abroad.
Second, it was the first time that a framework had been set up involving the Department of Health playing the central role and the foreign ministry playing a supporting role. Tinted with less political color, the bid will more easily attract support.
Third, Taiwanese organizations abroad which have made great efforts to promote the bid, including the FAPA and the North American Taiwanese Medical Association (NATMA,
Since Taiwan is not a UN member, it is well-nigh impossible for Taiwan to have a seat within international organizations which require statehood for entry. It should be easier for Taiwan to make it into the WHO since the organization's main objective is "health for all." For the past five years, the hard work of Taiwanese both at home and abroad, and the support of both the US' ruling and opposition parties, have laid some foundations. This year is a warning to us to prepare for next May's bid as soon as possible. It is to be hoped that we can toast Taiwan's entry to the international body next year.
Lin Jung-sung is the director of the North American Taiwanese Medical Association.
Translated by Jackie Lin
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