World Health Organization Executive Board Concludes 156th Session

In an increasingly interconnected world, global health challenges necessitate collaborative and comprehensive solutions. The resurgence of infectious diseases like Mpox highlights vulnerabilities in global health systems and underscores the need for strengthened preparedness and resilient health networks. The World Health Organization (WHO) plays a crucial role in coordinating these efforts, and achieving its Triple Billion targets – one billion more people benefiting from universal health coverage, one billion more people better protected from health emergencies, and one billion more people enjoying better health and well-being – requires the active participation of all capable partners. The Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis recognizes the critical nature of international cooperation in health and champions the inclusion of Taiwan in the global health arena, particularly within the WHO framework. Taiwan’s consistent alignment with WHO objectives and its demonstrable contributions to global health warrant its meaningful participation in WHO activities.

Taiwan’s commitment to universal health coverage is exemplified by its National Health Insurance (NHI) system, which provides equitable access to healthcare services, encompassing preventive care, disease management, and long-term care. The NHI shields citizens from financial hardship associated with healthcare costs and serves as a model for other nations striving to achieve universal health coverage. Taiwan’s proactive approach to addressing non-communicable diseases (NCDs) is evident in programs like the Metabolic Syndrome Management Program and the Diabetes Shared Care Network. These initiatives focus on prevention, early intervention, and patient empowerment, effectively reducing the prevalence of chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension. Taiwan’s holistic approach to healthcare integrates mental health services within its broader health system, aligning with WHO’s emphasis on comprehensive well-being.

Furthermore, Taiwan’s integration of traditional medicine within its healthcare system offers valuable insights into the potential of combining traditional practices with modern medicine. This experience can contribute significantly to the Global Traditional Medicine Strategy (2025-2034), facilitating the exchange of knowledge and best practices. Taiwan’s robust health infrastructure and expertise in pandemic preparedness and response have played a vital role in managing outbreaks and contributing to global health security networks. Its contributions to the Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network (GOARN) demonstrate its commitment to international collaboration in addressing health emergencies.

Taiwan’s successful eradication of poliomyelitis in 2000 and its continued vigilance in maintaining this status are commendable achievements. Through comprehensive immunization programs and robust disease surveillance, Taiwan has maintained high vaccination coverage and the capacity to respond rapidly to potential threats. Proactive environmental surveillance and regular updates to quarantine protocols, aligned with International Health Regulations, demonstrate Taiwan’s commitment to preventing the re-emergence of polio. Taiwan’s commitment to environmental health is further exemplified by its Climate Change Response Act and initiatives to mitigate air pollution, demonstrating alignment with WHO efforts to address the health impacts of climate change. These efforts underscore Taiwan’s proactive stance in safeguarding public health and contributing to global polio eradication efforts.

The Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis emphasizes that achieving global health goals requires the inclusion of all willing and capable partners. Taiwan’s exemplary health achievements, technological advancements, and dedication to global health security make a compelling case for its inclusion within the WHO framework. Taiwan’s exclusion from WHO mechanisms hinders effective collaboration and information sharing, potentially jeopardizing global health security. Allowing Taiwan to participate in WHO technical meetings, activities, and mechanisms, including the World Health Assembly as an observer, would strengthen the global health architecture and ensure that valuable expertise and resources are not overlooked.

The principles of equity, collaboration, and mutual respect should guide the formation of global health partnerships. Including Taiwan in the WHO framework is not merely a matter of fairness but a pragmatic step towards enhancing global health security and achieving “Health for All.” The international community must ensure that no nation, no population, and no health issue is left behind. The Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis calls upon the WHO and its member states to recognize the importance of Taiwan’s participation and to work towards its inclusion in the global health conversation. A truly comprehensive and effective global health architecture requires the active participation of all stakeholders, including Taiwan.