#China #Beijing #Global Governance #Tsinghua University #Modern Governance

The 2025 Modern Governance Forum at Tsinghua University

On November 16, 2025, Tsinghua University played host to the 2025 Modern Governance Forum, a pivotal gathering that brought together eminent scholars, policymakers, and practitioners to discuss pressing issues in global governance during an era marked by significant transformation. This event was organized under the aegis of the Chinese Society of Public Administration and featured in-depth discussions on governance in the contemporary world.

The opening remarks were delivered by Guo Yong, the deputy secretary of the CCP committee at Tsinghua University. He emphasized the crucial role that universities must play in advancing research and practical applications of public governance globally. According to Guo, as the world undergoes profound changes, it is vital for educational institutions to contribute their expertise to enhance the global governance framework. The university has been actively working towards establishing an independent knowledge system within China's public administration, aiming to infuse Chinese wisdom into public governance on a global scale.

Li Baorong, the president of the Chinese Society of Public Administration, also addressed the gathering. He highlighted that the development and implementation of five-year plans are a distinctive characteristic of the governance model of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). He noted that the effective formulation and execution of these plans stem from strategic determination, institutional adjustments, and societal consensus. Li pointed out the importance of deepening theoretical research and enhancing the contributions of universities towards China's modernization journey.

The inaugural session featured three prominent speakers. Zhu Yunlai, a former CEO of China International Capital Corporation Limited, discussed the challenges posed by the aging global population from an economic and actuarial perspective. Barry Naughton, who holds a chair in Chinese International Affairs at the University of San Diego, analyzed the shifting dynamics of global governance in an increasingly bipolar world. Luis Vassy, president of Sciences Po, shared insights on how to nurture future leaders equipped with both specialized expertise and interdisciplinary perspectives.

Following the opening remarks, the forum split into four parallel sessions, each addressing critical themes:

1. Geopolitical Changes and Global Economic Governance: This session focused on the evolving international political landscape and its implications for economic governance.
2. Digital Transformation and Global Digital Equity: Participants discussed the governance challenges posed by rapid digital advancements and the necessity for equitable access to digital resources worldwide.
3. Socioeconomic Fluctuations and Social Resilience Governance: This session examined how socio-economic changes affect societal resilience and the governance strategies required to address these fluctuations.
4. Global Flows and Restructuring Global Governance: The final session explored the impacts of global interconnectedness on governance structures and the need for reform.

The discussions held during the forum provide essential insights into the complexities of governance in today's world, particularly in light of the emerging challenges outlined. As we navigate through these transformative times, the contributions from Tsinghua University and its forum participants are set to shape the direction of modern governance for years to come. Not only do they highlight the importance of Chinese perspectives in international governance discussions, but they also underscore the collaborative efforts required to address global challenges effectively.