Brief Description: Requesting that the President and Congress support the participation of Taiwan in the World Health Organization.

Sponsors: Senators Shin, Berkey, Honeyford, Hobbs, Swecker, Delvin, Roach, Rasmussen and Benton.

Senate Committee on Health & Long-Term Care
House Committee on Health Care & Wellness

Background: The World Health Organization (WHO) is one of the original agencies of the United Nations. Responsibilities of the WHO include: the international classification of disease; producing health guidelines and standards; assisting countries in addressing public health concerns; coordinating international responses to infectious diseases, such as smallpox, polio, and most recently, SARS and Avian Flu; supporting research; and working to prevent chronic diseases and enhance global health security. All countries which are members of the United Nations may become members of WHO by accepting its Constitution. Other countries may be admitted as members when their application has been approved by a simple majority vote of the World Health Assembly. Territories which are not responsible for the conduct of their international relations may be admitted as associate members upon application made on their behalf by the member or other authority responsible for their international relations.

The United States maintains strong, unofficial relations with Taiwan, and has supported Taiwan's membership in appropriate international organizations, such as the World Trade Organization, where statehood is not a requirement for membership.

Summary: Congress, the President of the United States, and others are urged to support Taiwan's participation in the World Health Organization.

Votes on Final Passage:

Senate      49   0
House      85   8