🇨🇳 Shanghai Institutes for International Studies (SIIS)

Founded.

Headquarters:

Website. https://www.siis.org.cn/

The Shanghai Institutes for International Studies (SIIS) is one of China’s most prominent think tanks, recognized for its rigorous analysis of global political, economic, and security issues. Based in the dynamic city of Shanghai, SIIS has emerged as a key player in shaping the country's foreign policy and its engagement with the international community. Established in 1960, SIIS has continuously adapted to the changing global landscape, producing research that informs both Chinese and global policymaking.

Mission and Vision

SIIS's primary mission is to advance understanding of international relations and provide strategic insights for decision-makers. Its goal is to foster dialogue, promote international cooperation, and contribute to global governance. The institute seeks to generate solutions to some of the most pressing global challenges, such as geopolitical tensions, economic instability, and climate change. As part of its mission, SIIS regularly engages with governments, international organizations, and academic institutions to promote evidence-based policy solutions.

Research Focus Areas

SIIS conducts in-depth research across several domains of global significance:

International Politics and Security: In an era of shifting global power dynamics, SIIS provides analysis on global security concerns, international conflict resolution, and strategic relationships, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region. The institute closely monitors developments in major geopolitical hotspots and assesses their implications for China and the world.

Global Governance: SIIS explores how international institutions and norms shape the management of global issues, such as trade, cybersecurity, and public health. Its research often focuses on how to strengthen multilateral systems and foster greater cooperation between states to address transnational problems.

Economic Development and International Trade: As China continues to play an increasingly central role in the global economy, SIIS analyzes trends in global trade, foreign direct investment, and economic policy. The institute provides insights on the economic impacts of globalization and the evolving dynamics of global supply chains, which are of particular relevance to both emerging and developed economies.

Energy and Environmental Policy: With climate change becoming one of the most critical global challenges, SIIS’s research on sustainable development and environmental policy is vital. The institute looks at global energy transitions, international climate negotiations, and China’s role in advancing environmental sustainability.

Regional Studies: SIIS has a strong emphasis on understanding regional dynamics in areas such as Asia-Pacific relations, European affairs, and Middle Eastern geopolitics. By examining the unique challenges and opportunities within these regions, SIIS aims to foster better international collaboration.

Global Collaboration

SIIS maintains strong connections with leading think tanks, universities, and policy institutes worldwide. These collaborations facilitate joint research, academic exchanges, and the sharing of ideas across borders. SIIS frequently hosts international conferences and seminars that bring together thought leaders from various disciplines to discuss emerging global trends and challenges.

SIIS’s global partnerships extend to institutions like the Brookings Institution in the United States, the French Institute of International Relations, and many others. These collaborative efforts not only enhance the institute's research capabilities but also provide a platform for China to engage with global thought leaders on equal footing.

Influence and Impact

SIIS’s research plays a critical role in informing China’s foreign policy, especially as the country navigates its growing global influence. The institute's scholars often provide expert analysis to government bodies and contribute to policy debates in China and abroad. In addition to producing policy reports, SIIS’s researchers regularly publish in academic journals and are frequently cited in international media.