Advocacy Group Urges IOC to Recognize Taiwan's Sovereignty in Paris 2024

A US-based organization, the Formosan Association for Public Affairs (FAPA), has urged the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to allow Taiwan to compete under its own name at the Paris 2024 Olympics instead of 'Chinese Taipei'. The name 'Chinese Taipei' implies Taiwan is part of China, which FAPA disputes.

A US-based organization has called on the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to let Taiwan compete under its own name rather than 'Chinese Taipei', Taiwan News reports. The Formosan Association for Public Affairs (FAPA), a Washington, DC-based nonprofit advocating Taiwan independence, made the appeal on the opening day of the Paris 2024 Olympics.

In a Friday statement, the advocacy group described 'Chinese Taipei' as a 'discriminatory misnomer' enforced by Chinese pressure since 1984. Taiwan has also been required to replace its national flag and anthem due to this designation, according to Taiwan News.

FAPA argues that the name 'Chinese Taipei' inaccurately suggests Taiwan is part of China, which it has never been. The group insists Taiwan should compete as 'Taiwan' at the Olympics. A US Congress resolution in June also called for the IOC to allow Taiwan to use its own name, flag, and anthem at the Summer Games, Taiwan News reported.

The issue arises amid heightened security tensions across the Taiwan Strait, where China has boosted its military presence and conducted frequent drills. Beijing considers Taiwan a breakaway province and has increased pressure on the island, viewing it as part of its territory. Taiwan's Ministry of National Defence remains vigilant, ready to respond to any regional escalations.

(With inputs from agencies.)