Shouting from the Hilltops: Blinken Backs Taiwan in the UN Show
On Tuesday, Oct 26, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken threw a big wrench into China’s plans to steer the United Nations away from the island that calls itself Taiwan. He urged every UN member state to give the “robust” participation of Taiwan the spotlight it deserves.
Why Taiwan’s seat in the UN mattered a long time ago
- In 1971, the UN voted out Taiwan’s seat and put the People’s Republic of China in its place—a twist after the 1949 civil war that sent Chiang Ching‑un’s government across the strait.
- Since then, China claims Taiwan is one of its provinces, so the only “leapfrog” to represent it internationally is legal.
- But real‑world evidence shows that “Taiwan matters”: its 50‑year track record of robust contributions to several UN specialised agencies isn’t just a footnote.
Blinken’s soundbites
“Taiwan’s exclusion from UN forums undermines crucial work and steals a win for the International community,” he said. “But think back 50 years—Taipower was robust in the UN, earning trust around the globe.”
He added that Taiwan has been left out of major meetings like the World Health Assembly, even while world‑class handling of COVID appears to have saved countless lives.
He wrapped it up with, “We need all UN states in this – let’s give Taiwan the opportunity to shine again.”
China’s counter‑blasting
China has ramped up political and military pressure, loudly claiming that any attempt by Taiwan to expand its reach will flop. “We’re gravely concerned,” they warn, “and the U.S. campaign for Taiwan will fail.”
What’s next?
Let’s keep an eye on how the UN responds—can it stay neutral or will team United States pick the Taiwanese side?
