The United Nations (UN) recognizes almost all countries globally, but there are exceptions. Taiwan is one notable example of a region that is not a member of the UN. While Taiwan operates as an independent nation, it is not recognized by the UN due to the "One China" policy, where China claims Taiwan as part of its territory.
Why is Taiwan Not Accepted by the UN?
Taiwan’s exclusion from the United Nations is primarily due to the One China policy. This policy is upheld by the People’s Republic of China (PRC), which asserts that there is only one China, and Taiwan is part of it. In 1971, the UN General Assembly passed Resolution 2758, which recognized the PRC as the "only legitimate representative of China to the United Nations," effectively replacing Taiwan’s seat with that of the PRC.
Historical Context
- Pre-1971: Taiwan held the UN seat as the Republic of China (ROC), representing all of China.
- 1971 UN Resolution 2758: The PRC was recognized as the official representative of China in the UN, resulting in Taiwan’s exclusion.
- Post-1971: Taiwan has remained outside the UN but continues to function with its government, economy, and international relations.
Impact of Taiwan’s Exclusion
Taiwan’s non-membership in the UN affects its ability to participate in international forums and access certain global resources. However, Taiwan maintains informal relations and trade partnerships with many countries.
- International Participation: Taiwan participates in some international organizations, like the World Health Organization (WHO), under the name "Chinese Taipei."
- Diplomatic Relations: It has full diplomatic relations with a small number of countries and informal ties with many others.
What Other Regions Are Not Recognized by the UN?
While Taiwan is the most prominent example, other regions also face similar issues:
- Western Sahara: A disputed territory claimed by Morocco and the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic.
- Kosovo: Declared independence from Serbia in 2008 but is not a UN member due to lack of recognition by some countries, including Serbia and Russia.
- Palestine: Recognized as a non-member observer state in the UN but not a full member.
How Does the UN Decide Membership?
The process for a country to become a UN member involves several steps:
- Application: A country submits an application to the UN Secretary-General.
- Security Council Recommendation: The application is reviewed by the Security Council, where at least nine of the 15 members must approve, with no vetoes from the five permanent members.
- General Assembly Vote: If the Security Council recommends membership, the General Assembly votes. A two-thirds majority is needed for approval.
People Also Ask
Why isn’t Taiwan a member of the UN?
Taiwan is not a UN member because of the One China policy, which recognizes the People’s Republic of China as the sole representative of China. This policy was solidified by UN Resolution 2758 in 1971, replacing Taiwan’s seat with the PRC.
What is the One China policy?
The One China policy is a diplomatic acknowledgment that there is only one Chinese government. Under this policy, China claims Taiwan as part of its territory, leading to Taiwan’s exclusion from the UN.
Can Taiwan ever join the UN?
Taiwan’s UN membership would require changes in international diplomatic stances, particularly from the PRC. Any shift in the One China policy or recognition of Taiwan as a separate state could potentially open the door for its membership.
How does Taiwan participate internationally?
Taiwan engages in global affairs through informal relationships and as "Chinese Taipei" in organizations like the WHO and the Olympics. It maintains substantial economic and cultural ties worldwide.
What are the implications of non-UN membership for Taiwan?
Taiwan’s non-membership limits its formal diplomatic influence and access to UN resources. However, it continues to thrive economically and maintains significant international relationships.
Conclusion
While Taiwan is not accepted by the UN due to the One China policy, it continues to play a significant role on the international stage through informal relationships and participation in certain global organizations. Understanding the dynamics of UN membership and international recognition is crucial for comprehending global diplomatic relations. For more insights on international diplomacy and global organizations, consider exploring topics like the role of the UN Security Council or the impact of international sanctions.
