BACKGROUND
China is a crucial element of the global economic and political system and, as such, any national policies introduced in China may be of vital importance to international governance. Following a successful completion of the Young China Scholars Poverty and Inequality Network (2005−2008), International Development Research Centre and CIGI were happy to extend the project for another three years with a significant expansion of research themes.
The network helps build capacity through support provided to young scholars who work closely with more established experts. In its new phase, the network still aims to identify and support a new generation of young researchers in China; however, the research is now focused on China’s policy options following the global financial crisis and the economic recession. Researchers are looking at China’s trade, finance, banking regulation, exchange rates, tax policy, rural development, poverty alleviation, social policy and other areas.
Both young and senior scholars contribute policy-oriented papers and participate in regular workshops and seminars. In addition, the network organizes an Annual Forum of Crisis Research and Policy Dialogue, where young scholars present their work and can interact with senior scholars from China and abroad. These forums are also a vessel for policy discussion with Chinese policy makers and government officials, as well as experts from international agencies. The first forum will be held in Beijing in the spring of 2011.
NETWORK COORDINATORS
John Whalley, CIGI and UWO
Terry Sicular, UWO
Li Shi, Beijing Normal University
Wang Tongsan, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences