As the World Health Assembly (WHA) convenes in Geneva, Switzerland from May 19 to 27, Taiwan remains absent from the discussions despite its substantial contributions to global health. In response, members of the Taiwanese American community in Washington, D.C., gathered outside the U.S. Capitol on May 18 to rally for Taiwan’s recognition in international health security.
Among the participants were students from FASCA DC (Formosa Association of Student Cultural Ambassadors – DC Chapter), a youth program dedicated to fostering leadership and cultural exchange. Their participation provided first-hand experience in civic engagement and insights into Taiwan’s ongoing pursuit of representation in global organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO).
Speakers at the rally emphasized the non-political nature of global health, stressing Taiwan’s medical expertise and resource-sharing as vital to international health systems. They noted that excluding Taiwan from WHO discussions poses risks not only to its citizens but to the broader global community. The conversation also addressed key public health concerns, including pandemic response, avian flu prevention, environmental health, and water security, underscoring the need for inclusive solutions that incorporate Taiwan’s contributions.
For FASCA DC students, the event was more than an advocacy effort—it was an opportunity to learn about public health diplomacy, international relations, and policy engagement. Their participation highlights the impact of youth activism in shaping conversations that influence global decision-making. As Taiwan continues to push for inclusion in the WHA, the involvement of young leaders reinforces the importance of educating future generations on diplomacy, advocacy, and the pursuit of equitable representation in global health initiatives.
