Zhao Shukai, Development Research Center of the State Council

The mushrooming of grassroots non-governmental organizations (NGOs) has promoted the degree of organization of China's society and serves as a clear sign of social progress. However, unordered development would surely add to uncontrollable factors for social order. Hence, the government needs to establish relevant rules to create an environment in which various non-governmental entities could get involved in relevant regulation. Currently, the number of NGOs registered and signed up in China is around 319,700, and is increasing at an annual rate of 10%. The main body of NGOs is at grassroots levels. In terms of urban and rural communities, NGOs fall into two categories: some formed within communities and some formed outside communities. In addition, apart from the increasing of fixed organizational entities, a lot of internet-based quasi-NGOs are emerging due to advanced network technology and convenient communication facilities. Grassroots NGOs enjoy distinct advantages. Rural areas have become a vast arena for NGO activities, and NGOs have become properly organized and played a more prominent role in social governance. Viewing from the perspective of non-governmental development, NGOs have a direct and important impact on grassroots democracy. First, NGOs play a part in public affairs and are major forces propelling grassroots democracy. Second, NGOs have integrated and reflected the masses' concerns and broadened the channels for participation of grassroots democracy. Third, NGOs have raised the efficiency and stability of democratic systems via citizens' participation practices. However, NGOs also have negative influence which calls for further addressing measures. To facilitate the positive role of NGOs while curbing their negative impact, the government needs to strengthen guidance on regulation including the following aspects. One, improve management on registration. Two, enhance regulation on a daily basis. Three, cultivate a mechanism for social regulation. Moreover, regulation and balance between NGOs are also significant means for social regulation.