In anticipation of the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA) in Geneva from 19th to 27th May, over 100 members of Sydney’s Taiwanese community, including local scholars and community associations, gathered on May 12 for a public forum and dinner in support of Taiwan’s meaningful participation in the World Health Organization (WHO).
The event, co-organized by the Fu Jen Catholic University Alumni Association of Sydney and the Australian Taiwanese Friendship Association, featured a keynote lecture by Associate Dean Dr. Yu-Wen Lin of Fu Jen’s College of Medicine. Dr. Lin highlighted Taiwan’s achievements in public health and biomedical research, emphasizing the nation’s long-standing commitment to global health cooperation and humanitarian aid.
The evening also welcomed special guests including The Hon. Jacqui Munro MLC from NSW Parliament and Willoughby City Councillor Michelle Chuang. In her remarks, Munro praised Taiwan’s contributions to public health and reaffirmed the Australian Parliament’s resolution opposing China’s misinterpretation of UNGA Resolution 2758. She stressed that the resolution does not deny Taiwan’s right to participate in international organizations such as the WHO.
Councillor Chuang, drawing on her background in the healthcare sector, also expressed strong support for Taiwan’s involvement in global health dialogues, stating that “health should never be a matter of politics.”
Director General David Wu of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Sydney reiterated that excluding Taiwan from the WHO undermines global health cooperation and disregards the health rights of Taiwan’s 23 million citizens. He called on the WHO and its member states to recognize Taiwan’s contributions and to extend an invitation for Taiwan’s participation in the WHA.
Finally, Fu Jen Catholic University President Prof. Francis Lan delivered a special address, highlighting the university’s global outreach and medical education strategies. He emphasized Taiwan’s exceptional healthcare system and noted that Taiwan’s inclusion in global health mechanisms would strengthen the resilience and security of the international health network.
The event concluded with warm applause and a shared commitment to continuing advocacy. Through informed discussion and unity, the Taiwanese community in Sydney demonstrated its strong support for Taiwan’s rightful place in the global health system.
