Young Taiwanese professionals and students have traveled from around the world to Geneva, Switzerland, for the World Health Assembly (WHA) to showcase Taiwan’s contributions through professional forums and advocacy as the nation is excluded from attending for the 10th consecutive year.

The 79th World Health Assembly commenced this Monday, May 18. Although unable to attend the assembly, Taiwan is participating in numerous independent activities, including professional forums in the medical and health fields and a smart healthcare exhibition.

Young Taiwanese medical and health professionals have arrived in Geneva, expressing their intentions to let other international participants better understand Taiwan’s international medical contributions and the challenges it faces through exchanges.

Taiwan Healthcare Youth Alliance is also hosting forums this year. Vice-President for Capacity Building Iris Hu (胡芳瑜) said she encountered people who were still unaware of Taiwan’s exclusion from the WHA. She pointed out that participation can increase Taiwan’s exposure and strengthen connections with other organizations, fostering friendships across the world.