Origins
“Youth of medicine and health field, let’s join hands to further internationalize!”
Many students have the opportunity to participate in international events in their college life, such as international conferences and various student exchange activities. These experiences broaden young students’ global perspectives and also show the excellence and potential of Taiwanese students.
For students in the field of medicine and health, the World Health Organization (WHO) is undoubtedly the most prestigious global institution. Thanks to the efforts of veterans, Taiwanese students have voluntarily organized the Taiwan Healthcare Youth Alliance for World Health Assembly (WHA) since 2017. Their core purpose is to participate in the World Health Assembly (WHA) as students, engage in a variety of side events, record public health issues, and share relevant information with the domestics.
Besides, we host the Global Health Diplomacy Summit, an event dedicated to youth in Taiwan’s medical and health sector. This summit has attracted over 100 youth and medical experts from more than 25 countries, which exhibits the spirit of “Taiwan Can Help.”
Reflection
Challenges
After the return of the 2024 Taiwan Healthcare Youth Alliance for WHA, we began to reflect on the current system. We observed that students from various medical and health fields have individually participated in different international organizations and achieved remarkable accomplishments, such as organizing international conferences or serving as cadres in global organizations.
Nonetheless, Taiwan lacks a platform to integrate these students who have abundant international experience. At some global events such as the World Health Assembly (WHA), students with talents from different departments are scattered, which weakens Taiwan’s overall influence, and makes our voice limited on the international stage.
Turning Challenges into Action
Establishment of the Alliance
In September 2024, a group of medical and health students worked together and established the Taiwan Healthcare Youth Alliance. By November of the same year, the alliance was officially registered with the Taipei District Court and finally become a non-profit organization – Taiwan Healthcare Youth Alliance.
Our goal is to create a more sustainable, diverse, and comprehensive way that unites medical and health students across Taiwan. Additionally, we aim to enhance Taiwan’s international engagement and strengthen collaboration with countries and international organizations.
The organizing committee partners and the International Cooperation Division of Taiwan’s Ministry of Health and Welfare pose for a group photo at the inaugural meeting.
Our Vision
Uniting Medical and Health Professionals in Public Affairs
Cultivating youth to participate in health affairs plays a crucial role in strengthening Taiwan’s ability to address global health challenges.
Youth Participation
Ensuring passing on international experience and medical diplomacy knowledge to foster youth’s global perspectives and international engagement.
International Engagement
Collaborating with international organizations to promote the participation of Taiwan’s youth on the global stage, further enhancing Taiwan’s influence in global public health affairs.
