China opposes WHA resolution on Russia

China voted against a resolution with reference to Russian “aggression” against Ukraine, as the country has always opposed politicization of health issues, said a Chinese delegate on May 24 at a meeting of the 76th World Health Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland.

The WHA is the decision-making body of the World Health Organization.

The resolution, which was proposed by 43 countries, mostly Western nations, claims that the Russia-Ukraine conflict has caused a “continued health emergency” in, and “wider regional and humanitarian impacts” on, Ukraine as civilians have died, refugees are fleeing, and risks of radiological, biological and chemical incidents have appeared.

The motion passed with 80 votes in favor, nine against and 52 abstentions, with 36 WHO member states absent.