Germany publicly endorsed Taiwan’s participation in the World Health Organization (WHO) during the World Health Assembly (WHA), a move that Taiwan’s Representative to Germany, Shieh Jhy-wey (謝志偉), described as carrying significant political weight. Coming just two weeks after Germany's change in government, this clear support demonstrates continuity in Germany's Taiwan policy despite the latest shift in German politics.
On Monday, opening day of the 78th WHA in Geneva, German Federal Health Minister Nina Warken specifically mentioned Taiwan in her brief address, stating, "We need everyone's expertise and participation, including Taiwan. She said that no one can face global health challenges alone, nor can anyone support the WHO's operations independently. Germany has expressed support for Taiwan at the WHA for four consecutive years.
Representative Shieh noted that Germany's position has evolved from merely echoing others to actively advocating for Taiwan. This statement is particularly significant because it followed Germany's political transition from the center-left Social Democratic Party to a coalition led by the center-right Christian Democratic Union.
This continuity signals a strong cross-party consensus on Taiwan's international participation. According to Shieh, Germany's consistent support reflects Taiwan's recognized contributions to global public health and indicates growing international backing for Taiwan's meaningful participation in international organizations.