The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of China (Taiwan) encourages like-minded countries to urge the World Health Organization to invite Taiwan to take part in a regular and institutionalized manner in WHO meetings, mechanisms, and events. This would enable Taiwan to contribute more to international health care initiatives and epidemic prevention and control. WHO should uphold the principle of professionalism and the right to liberty of movement, take into account the wellbeing of all mankind, and set aside political considerations.
Article 12 of the 1976 International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights stipulates that “the States Parties to the present Covenant recognize the right of everyone to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health. The steps to be taken by the States Parties to the present Covenant to achieve the full realization of this right shall include those necessary for: … The prevention, treatment and control of epidemic … diseases; [and] The creation of conditions which would assure to all medical service and medical attention in the event of sickness.” Article 12 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights also stipulates that, “the right to liberty of movement … shall not be subject to any restrictions except those … necessary to protect … public health.”
#novel coronavirus outbreak (COVID-19)
#public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC)
#right to health
#right to liberty of movement
#World Health Organization Constitution
#communicable disease
#Article 12 of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights
#Article 12 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights
#United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3