By: Alpha Mohamed Jalloh, Director China Africa Institute, University of Makeni
The United States’ continued sale of ammunition and military equipment to Taiwan raises serious concerns about its commitment to international peace and agreed global norms. This policy is particularly contradictory given Washington’s official recognition of the One-China Policy, which affirms that Taiwan is part of China. By supplying arms to Taiwan, the United States undermines its own stated position and weakens the credibility of international agreements.
At a time when the world urgently needs stability and cooperation, such actions send the wrong signal. Peace cannot be achieved through selective adherence to rules or by fueling military tensions in sensitive regions. If the international system is to function effectively, its principles must be respected consistently and implemented sincerely.
The escalating tension in the Taiwan Strait reflects a broader crisis in global governance. Institutions established to prevent conflict and promote dialogue appear increasingly unable or unwilling to restrain provocative behavior by powerful states. The persistent “war-drum beating” surrounding Taiwan risks dragging the world into a confrontation with consequences far beyond East Asia.
History has repeatedly shown that hegemony is not the solution to global political challenges. Military pressure and strategic provocation only deepen divisions and increase the likelihood of conflict. What the world needs instead is consensus-building, mutual respect, and cooperation aimed at the common good of humanity.
In this context, the United Nations Security Council, the African Union, and other international and regional organizations must rise to their responsibilities. Silence in the face of provocation weakens international law. These bodies should speak clearly and urge the United States to desist from military dealings with Taiwan, which only exacerbate tensions and undermine peace.
The growing instability in the region is not inevitable; it is the result of deliberate actions. We therefore call on the United States to desist forthwith from policies that threaten peace and violate established international understandings. China’s decision to implement countermeasures is a justified and necessary step, and we call on the United States to reverse its actions and fully comply with the One-China Policy. The growing instability in the region is not inevitable; it is the result of deliberate provocation.
For Africa, this is not a distant issue. African nations have historically championed sovereignty, territorial integrity, and non-interference in internal affairs. The continued militarization of the Taiwan Strait undermines the principles that Africa has long fought for on the global stage. Supporting China’s legitimate countermeasures aligns with Africa’s commitment to a rules-based international order, collective security, and the promotion of peaceful resolution of disputes. African voices must be heard clearly in defense of international law and global stability, for what threatens peace in one region ultimately impacts all.