Technical corrections only. The differences between v2 and v3 are purely administrative, reflecting the bill's passage in the House and subsequent referral to the Senate. There are no substantive policy changes to the legislative text.
Taiwan International Solidarity Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Connolly, Gerald E. [D-VA-11]
- Committees
- Foreign Relations Committee (primary)
- Last action
- May 6, 2025
Bottom line
The bill strengthens U.S. policy to counter China's diplomatic pressure against Taiwan, aiming to enhance Taiwan's international space and clarify the U.S. interpretation of Taiwan's status.
What it actually does
This bill, the 'Taiwan International Solidarity Act,' amends the existing TAIPEI Act of 2019. It clarifies that United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758 (XXVI) did not address Taiwan's representation or sovereignty, and directs U.S. representatives in international organizations to actively oppose efforts by the People's Republic of China (PRC) to distort organizational policies regarding Taiwan. Furthermore, it encourages U.S. allies and partners to resist PRC attempts to undermine Taiwan's diplomatic relationships and partnerships globally, and expands reporting requirements on these PRC efforts.
Proponents argue
Proponents argue that this bill is crucial for reinforcing Taiwan's international standing and pushing back against the PRC's aggressive diplomatic campaign to isolate Taiwan. They contend that clarifying the scope of UNGA Resolution 2758 (XXVI) is essential to prevent misinterpretation and ensure Taiwan's right to self-determination is respected. Supporters believe that by directing U.S. diplomats to actively advocate for Taiwan in international forums and encouraging allies to do the same, the bill demonstrates strong U.S. commitment to a democratic Taiwan and counters authoritarian influence.
Opponents contend
Opponents, particularly the People's Republic of China, would likely view this bill as a provocative interference in China's internal affairs and a violation of the 'One China' principle. They would argue that the bill undermines international consensus on Taiwan's status and could escalate tensions in the Taiwan Strait. Critics might also suggest that the bill could compel other nations to take sides, potentially complicating their diplomatic and economic relations with China, and that it risks undermining the stability of existing international frameworks.
The bill is very short and straightforward, making it highly accessible for a quick review by interested parties.
Section 2
Clarification Regarding United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758 (XXVI)
This section amends the TAIPEI Act of 2019 to explicitly state that UNGA Resolution 2758 (XXVI), which recognized the People's Republic of China as the sole legitimate representative of China to the UN, did not address the issue of Taiwan's representation or its sovereignty. It further clarifies that the United States opposes any initiative seeking to change Taiwan's status without the consent of its people. This aims to counter the PRC's narrative that the resolution implies Taiwan is part of the PRC.
Supporters argue
Proponents argue that this clarification is vital to prevent the PRC from misrepresenting UNGA Resolution 2758 (XXVI) as a basis for its 'One China' principle, which asserts sovereignty over Taiwan. They contend that the resolution merely addressed the question of who represented China at the UN, not Taiwan's political status, and that this provision ensures U.S. policy accurately reflects that distinction, thereby supporting Taiwan's right to self-determination.
Critics contend
Opponents, particularly the PRC, would argue that this provision is an unacceptable interference in China's internal affairs and a direct challenge to the 'One China' principle, which they consider a foundational aspect of international relations. They would assert that UNGA Resolution 2758 (XXVI) implicitly recognized Taiwan as part of China by establishing the PRC as the sole legitimate representative, and that this U.S. legislative action is an attempt to unilaterally alter international understanding and provoke conflict.
Tradeoffs
This provision navigates the tension between supporting Taiwan's international space and managing the U.S. relationship with the PRC. While it aims to bolster Taiwan's diplomatic standing, it risks further antagonizing Beijing and potentially complicating U.S. engagement with international bodies that adhere to the PRC's 'One China' interpretation.
Section 3
United States Advocacy for International Organizations to Resist PRC's Efforts to Distort the 'One China' Position
This section mandates that U.S. Government representatives in international organizations use their 'voice, vote, and influence' to advocate for these organizations to resist the People's Republic of China's attempts to distort their decisions, language, policies, or procedures regarding Taiwan. This means U.S. diplomats will actively challenge any actions by the PRC within international bodies that seek to diminish Taiwan's status or exclude it based on a misinterpretation of international law or organizational rules.
Section 4
Opposing the People's Republic of China's Efforts to Undermine Taiwan's Ties and Partnerships Internationally
This section amends the TAIPEI Act to encourage U.S. allies and partners to actively oppose the People's Republic of China's efforts to undermine Taiwan's official diplomatic relationships and its partnerships with countries with which it does not maintain formal diplomatic relations. This provision expands the scope of U.S. policy beyond direct U.S. action to include encouraging other nations to resist PRC pressure aimed at isolating Taiwan.
Section 5
Report on the People's Republic of China's Attempts to Promote its 'One China' Position
This section amends the TAIPEI Act to expand the scope of required reports to Congress. It mandates that future reports include information relating to any prior or ongoing attempts by the People's Republic of China to undermine Taiwan's membership or observer status in international organizations, as well as its efforts to disrupt Taiwan's ties and relationships with other countries. This ensures Congress receives comprehensive updates on the PRC's diplomatic activities against Taiwan.