Support for Taiwan's Bid to the UN

Taiwan unquestionably deserves membership in the United Nations. By any measure- national sovereignty, political development, protection of human rights, or economic growth — Taiwan meets the standards of UN membership.

Yet, Taiwan continues to be denied its rightful place in the UN. This mistake is made even more tragic for the lost opportunity it represents. As a member of the UN, Taiwan would have much to offer the world.

The People’s Republic of China asserts that it represents the people and government of Taiwan. Since the Chinese communists took control of China and established the People’s Republic of China (PRC) in 1949, however, the two sides of the Taiwan Strait have been governed as separate countries. Neither has any control or jurisdiction over the other.

Taiwan sets its own policies, conducts its own national defense, and engages formal and substantive relations with other states of the world community. All political, economic, and trade agreements that cover Taiwan are negotiated with its government alone.

Global co-operation plays a key role in all endeavours for peace and prosperity. The international community cannot afford to shut out a responsible and peace-loving partner. Taiwan has participated in relief efforts and missions around the world.

The people of Taiwan want to contribute further and be a part of the UN’s effort to create a shared future for all of humanity. Without UN membership, Taiwan is denied an important means of collaborating with international partners.

The United Nations must uphold the principle of universality and invite Taiwan to lend a hand in making the world a better place after all.