On January 10, 2020, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), in accordance with the timeline set by the 2021 International Review Committee, completed the Chinese draft of Taiwan's Third National Report on the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR). The draft has been submitted to the Executive Yuan for approval, whereupon civil society organizations and the public may submit their suggestions for any changes.
MOFA's work in this respect has involved gathering information on Taiwan's ratification, accession, and incorporation into domestic law of international human rights conventions (Third National Report common core document, Note 92), publicizing Taiwan's human rights progress (Note 136), and assisting Taiwanese civil society organizations or NGOs to participate in international meetings and activities related to human rights and the wider global conversation on democracy (Note 151). MOFA also commissioned the International Cooperation and Development Fund to dispatch experts, technicians, and substitute services draftees to diplomatic allies and friendly nations to develop their Chinese language proficiencies, information and communications technologies, agricultural, forestry, fishery, animal husbandry, and public health and medical sectors through professional education and training (Note 162). In addition, MOFA provided international humanitarian assistance (Note 163), facilitated the first ambassador at large for religious freedom's participation in related international dialogues and exchanges (Note 165), provided clarification for visa rejections (ICCPR, Article 23, Note 243 and ICESCR, Article 10, Note 147), and furnished foreign media with press releases, news, and other information for circulation (ICCPR, Article 19, Note 208). MOFA's recent efforts and progress toward human rights objectives are detailed in the Third National Report (2017-2019).
The 10th anniversary of the incorporation of ICCPR and ICESCR into domestic law fell on December 10, 2019. That same day, the Legislative Yuan passed a bill establishing the National Human Rights Commission under the Control Yuan, setting a new milestone in Taiwan's efforts to protect and promote human rights.
#The Third National Reports on ICCPR and ICESCR
#domestic private-sector organizations and NGOs
#International Cooperation and Development Fund
#10th Anniversary of incorporation of ICCPR & ICESCR into domestic law
#Organization Act of the National Human Rights Commission, Control Yuan