In this video from the United Nations University (UNU), Dr. Rohinton P. Medhora joins UNU Center for Policy Research Senior Policy Advisor John de Boer for a conversation examining the diverse roles, objectives and strategies of think tanks. 

Several years ago, Dr. Medhora spearheaded a tremendously ambitious, singularly well-funded global initiative to fund promising think tanks in Africa, Latin America and Asia, supported by the Gates and Hewlett Foundations and the Canadian, Netherlands and UK governments. Reflecting on Dr. Medhora’s experience leading a think tank and supporting think tanks throughout the world, the conversation explores the challenges of influencing policy and the elements of successful organizations including effective research programmes, clear vision, reliable funding, and competent leadership.