Is this the end of the golden age of Chinese think tanks with star ex-officials?
Two high-profile corruption cases threaten a decade-old model that blended government backing with retired officials' expertise.
Deep Dive
The South China Morning Post reports that China's influential think tank model, which thrived for a decade by hiring retired officials for their expertise and connections, faces uncertainty. Recent anti-corruption probes targeting ex-officials at these institutes suggest their key asset has become a liability. This raises questions about the future of their role in Track 2 diplomacy and policy recommendations within China's political ecosystem.
Why It Matters
This shift could reshape policy research, international engagement, and the flow of expertise within China's governance structures.