By Long Guoqiang, DRC

At present, the experimental work of national high-end think tank construction has made great progress, both in improving the quality of policy study, and in exploring and innovating new mode for institutional management. However, we should also be aware that constructing the new-type think tanks with Chinese characteristics is an arduous task and we still have a long way to go. We need to explore the new functions of think tanks, which include policy evaluation, policy interpretation and exchanges with foreign think tanks. In building the new-type think tanks with Chinese characteristics, three major factors are indispensable.

First, organizational culture is the major factor. All successful think tanks have their unique culture, which is developed through years of exploration and development. The Development Research Center of the State Council (DRC) has a history of over 30 years and its core culture is based on staying realistic and pragmatic and seeking truth from facts and bringing forth new ideas while keeping a just and impartial stand. Under such an organizational culture, DRC’s research is guided by a problem-oriented, target-oriented and solution-oriented mode. It is good not only at finding problems, but also adept in presenting appropriate solutions.

Second, the cultivation of talented personnel is the key factor. Performing the functions of think tanks is an intensive and high-level mental work, requiring the addressing of relevant issues by qualified personnel. Except for attracting talents, the more important task of think tanks is to foster talented personnel and create a favorable social environment for them to come to the fore and tap their full potential. This determines whether think tanks could fulfill their tasks or not.

Third, it is necessary to build an institutional mechanism suitable for the new-type think tanks with Chinese characteristics. It may not be appropriate to copy the administrative rules and regulations of government departments for the management of think tanks as they are not compatible to the performance of think tanks. It is quite an arduous job to innovate an institutional mechanism adaptable to think tanks.

Fourth, it is necessary to strengthen Party building, enhance research personnel’s sense of responsibility and honor and provide strong policy-related support for research work.