Beyond the Abolition of Dual Administration: The Challenges to NGO Governance in 21st Century China

Abstract

The abolition of dual administration of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in China is an inexorable and essential trend toward a genuine civil society. This article seeks to examine the challenges that come with the abolition of the dual administration and to explore how to address them during this transitional period. It considers the state dominated NGO governance in China and its transformation since the 1990s and argues that the decisive role the government plays in NGOs’ development, which is criticized by many scholars, is the outcome of Chinese history, political culture and the needs of NGOs. It gives account of the challenges for NGO governance and development following the abolition of dual administration. Suggestions for new approaches to NGO development are discussed from the perspectives of a value-based partnership between NGOs and the government, the importance of securing public trust, the development of legal systems and finally, the role of NGO network organizations.