The Effects of the Kyoto Protocol on Taiwan

Abstract

Both the UNFCCC and the Kyoto Protocol, like many international agreements, limit participation in negotiations and ratification to “States.” After the General Assembly of the United Nations recognized the People’s Republic of China (“PRC”) as the only representative of China in 1971, most States severed diplomatic relations with Taiwan. As it is not recognized as a “State” pursuant to international treaty definitions, Taiwan faces a tremendous obstacle to participating in international organizations. For instance, it is typically excluded from negotiations and discussion in all meetings concerning multilateral environmental agreements