About Think Tanks: The Mission and Impact of the World's Leading Think Tanks
One of the recommendations that emerged from the G20 Foreign Policy Think Tank Summit in June of 2012 was a strong interest in developing an online platform that would enable the continual exchange of ideas and facilitate collaborative efforts among think tanks around the world. The underlying objective of this recommendation was to increase the profile and performance of think tanks by sharing the best practices for think tank research, management, resource mobilization and external relations of the leading think tanks in the world.
As the first step in a larger initiative to advance conversation between policy research, analysis and engagement institutions, the Think Tanks and Civil Societies Program is creating an online directory featuring the organizational profiles of the world’s top think tanks. The profiles will take the form of power point presentations that many organizations have developed for internal (new staff orientation) or external (fundraising and external relations) purposes.
It is our belief that bridges between policy research institutions and their analysts and scholars can be formed at many levels that often transcend academic disciplines and national and political boundaries. We are convinced that by presenting the diversity of programs and organizational models in a variety of local, national and global contexts we can facilitate the exchange of information and best practices among think tanks and policy oriented NGOs around the world.
-
Analytical Center for the Government of the Russian Federation
Analytical Center for the Government of the Russian Federation
The Analytical Center for the Government of the Russian Federation is the source of prompt expert views on a wide range of socio-economic development issues of the country.
The efforts of the Analytical Center are concentrated on providing operational, informational and analytical support; expert support of government’s decisions on major issues of socio-economic development in the areas of finance, transport, industry, utilities, natural resources, environmental protection, education, health, innovation, information technologies, etc. Particular attention is paid to energy, fiscal policy, agriculture and strategic planning, in which the Analytical Center has established itself as a center of expertise.
The Analytical Center was established in December 2005 and became the successor of the Working Center for Economic Reforms at the Government of the Russian Federation and the Center for Economic Forecasting at the Government of the Russian Federation. These centers were established in the early 1990s to replace the main computer center of the USSR State Planning Committee, which existed from 1959 to 1991.
The new structure was given the task of making recommendations and proposals on priority issues of economic policy and economic reforms, information-analytical support of the government, examination of concepts and programs for socio-economic development of the country, and short-term forecasting. In accordance with these tasks, the Analytical Center has monitored the implementation of the guidelines and projects of the Government Commission under the President of the Russian Federation on modernization and technological development of the Russian economy since 2008. The center monitors, collects and makes comprehensive analysis of the socio-economic development of the country, with the use of its own information and analytical tools. The center carries out long-term strategic forecasting and analyzes the possible effects of development projects and programs on the development of the country, including the use of international experience.
-
Australian Institute of International Affairs (AIIA)
Australian Institute of International Affairs
The Australian Institute of International Affairs (AIIA) is an independent, non-profit organisation seeking to promote interest in and understanding of international affairs in Australia.
It provides a forum for discussion and debate, but does not seek to formulate its own institutional views. The Institute arranges programs of lectures, seminars, workshops, conferences and other discussions, and sponsors research and publications. The AIIA was formed in 1924 and established as a federal body in 1933 and is the only nation-wide organisation of its kind in Australia. It is financed by members’ contributions, a small government subvention and tax deductible donations from individuals and businesses.
-
Rice University's Baker Institute for Public Policy
Baker Institute for Public Policy and Rice University
Founded in 1993, the James A. Baker III Institute for Public Policy has established itself as one of the premier nonpartisan public policy think tanks in the country. The institute ranks 9th among university-affiliated think tanks worldwide, 18th among U.S. think tanks and fourth among energy resource think tanks, according to a 2014 study by the University of Pennsylvania's Think Tanks and Civil Societies Program. As an integral part of Rice University, one of the nation's most distinguished institutions of higher education, the Baker Institute has a strong track record of achievement based on the work of its endowed fellows, Rice faculty scholars and staff. Located in Houston, Texas, the nation's fourth-largest city and the energy capital of the United States, as well as a dynamic international business and cultural center, the Baker Institute brings a unique perspective to some of the most important public policy challenges of our time.
Key research programs include energy, health, conflict resolution, science and technology, tax and expenditure policy, and Latin America and China studies. The institute collaborates with experts from academia, government, the media, business, and nongovernmental and private organizations. In conjunction with its more than 20 programs, the institute attracts many domestic and foreign leaders who provide their views and insights on major issues. Speakers have included U.S. presidents and cabinet members, world leaders and heads of government, and numerous foreign dignitaries from around the globe.
-
Bruegel
Bruegel
Bruegel is a European think tank that specialises in economics. Established in 2005, it is independent and non-doctrinal. Bruegel’s mission is to improve the quality of economic policy with open and fact-based research, analysis and debate. We are committed to impartiality, openness and excellence. Bruegel’s membership includes EU Member State governments, international corporations and institutions.
Through publications, events, social media, and a lively blog, Bruegel has carved a unique discussion space for everyone interested in improving the quality of economic policy. Through a dual focus on analysis and impact, and dynamic relationships with policymakers at every governance level, it has also established itself as a vibrant laboratory for economic policies.
-
Carnegie Moscow Center
Carnegie Moscow Center
The Carnegie Moscow Center was established as a subdivision of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace (Washington, DC) and started its activities in 1994. Beyond the Moscow center, the Carnegie Endowment maintains offices in Beijing, Beirut, and Brussels, making it the world’s first global think tank.
In 2014, Carnegie Moscow Center celebrated its 20th anniversary. During all these years, the Center has produced expert research and nonpartisan analysis independent of government or commercial interests. Committed to the principles of international scholarship and objectivity, the Center pursues a three-fold mission:
- To embody and promote disinterested social science research and the dissemination of its results in Russia and Eurasia;
- To provide a free and open forum for the discussion and debate of critical national, regional, and global issues;
- To further cooperation and strengthen relations between Russia and the United States by explaining the interests, objectives, and policies of each.
-
Center for a New American Security
Center for a New American Security
The mission of the Center for a New American Security (CNAS) is to develop strong, pragmatic and principled national security and defense policies. Building on the expertise and experience of its staff and advisors, CNAS engages policymakers, experts and the public with innovative, fact-based research, ideas and analysis to shape and elevate the national security debate. A key part of our mission is to inform and prepare the national security leaders of today and tomorrow.
CNAS is located in Washington, and was established in February 2007 by co-founders Dr. Kurt M. Campbell and Michèle A. Flournoy. CNAS is a 501(c)3 tax-exempt nonprofit organization. Its research is independent and non-partisan. CNAS does not take institutional positions on policy issues and all views, positions, and conclusions expressed in its publications should be understood to be solely those of the authors.
CNAS board members, founders, leaders, scholars, and interns have held or gone on to prominent positions in the U.S. government, at the departments of Defense and State; the White House; the Central Intelligence Agency; Congress; and the private sector. CNAS enjoys a strong network of supporters in all corners of the policymaking community as a result.
-
Centre for Democracy and Human Rights
Centre for Democracy and Human Rights
CEDEM is NGO established as a non-profit association of citizens, in order to advance and spread conscience on importance of proper and successful democratic transition; to research, analyze and follow process of transition as well as to influence on transitional process in Montenegro and contribute to the strengthening of civil society and democratization in general.
In that direction, CEDEM acts as a think-tank group by organizing the numerous public hearings and practical actions. CEDEM mainly operates in:
• conducting research and analytical projects in the field of democratic transition and human rights in Montenegro
• organizing conferences, round tables, meetings, seminars, workshops and training sessions with the aim of encouraging the process of democratic transition
• influencing on the legislative processes in Montenegro
• informing the public about its activities and results through publications and media
• cooperating with other NGO's, with similar areas of interest, from Montenegro, the region and abroad Center for Democracy and Human Rights (CEDEM) was established on July 2, 1997 and registered with the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Montenegro on 15 July 1998.
-
Chatham House
Chatham House
Chatham House, the Royal Institute of International Affairs, is an independent policy institute based in London. Our mission is to help build a sustainably secure, prosperous and just world.
Founded in 1920, Chatham House engages governments, the private sector, civil society and its members in open debate and confidential discussion on the most significant developments in international affairs. Each year, the institute runs more than 300 private and public events – conferences, workshops and roundtables – in London and internationally with partners. Our convening power attracts world leaders and the best analysts in their respective fields from across the globe.
-
Center for the Implementation of Public Policies Promoting Equity and Growth (CIPPEC)
CIPPEC
Center for the Implementation of Public Policies Promoting Equity and Growth (CIPPEC) is a private, non-profit organization that strives to create a more just, democratic, and efficient State in Argentina to improve the quality of life for all Argentine citizens.
-
Le Centre Mauritanien d’Analyse de Politiques (CMAP)
CMAP
Créé par le Gouvernement au cours de l’année 2001 Le Centre Mauritanien d’Analyse de Politiques a pour mission de poursuivre le dialogue entrepris avec tous les acteurs nationaux et répondre ainsi aux besoins de renforcement des capacités et de la formulation d’études.
Il aidera en particulier dans l’évaluation des politiques publiques qui est devenue une nécessité dans le cadre du programme national de la bonne gouvernance.
-
Committee for Economic Development
Committee for Economic Development
The Committee for Economic Development of The Conference Board (CED) is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, business-led public policy organization that delivers well-researched analysis and reasoned solutions to our nation’s most critical issues.
-
Korean Development Institute
KDI
Since its establishment in 1971, the Korea Development Institute (KDI) has been committed to producing independent, innovative, and impactful, policy research on fundamental Korean economic and social issues. The emphasis to deliver quality and rigorous research and analysis has been rooted in its long tradition of applying scientific methods and collaborating with leading economic thinkers and institutions. As Korea's leading think tank, KDI continues to play a prominent role in framing the national public policy discourse.
-
Carnegie Endowment for International Peace
Carnegie Endowment for International Peace
The Carnegie Endowment for International Peace is a unique global network of policy research centers in Russia, China, Europe, the Middle East, and the United States. Our mission, dating back more than a century, is to advance the cause of peace through analysis and development of fresh policy ideas and direct engagement and collaboration with decision makers in government, business, and civil society. Working together, our centers bring the inestimable benefit of multiple national viewpoints to bilateral, regional, and global issues.
In 2006, Carnegie launched a revolutionary plan to build the first global think tank. Since then it has transformed a hundred-year-old American institution into one well-equipped for the challenges of a globalized world. Today, Carnegie has research centers in Beijing, Beirut, Brussels, Moscow, and Washington. The network is supervised by an international board of trustees, and its research activities are overseen by a global management group.
The scholars of each center are drawn from the region and write in the local languages, while collaborating closely with colleagues across the world. The result provides capitals and global institutions with a deeper understanding of the circumstances shaping policy choices worldwide as well as a flow of new approaches to policy problems
-
Research Center for Study, Support and Economic Analysis in Madagascar
CREAM
Improve the capacity of Malagasy institutions, dealing with economic management through: analysis, formulation, monitoring and evaluation of economic policies.
-
Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS)
CSIS
For over 50 years, the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) has developed practical solutions to the world’s greatest challenges. As we celebrate this milestone, CSIS scholars continue to provide strategic insights and bipartisan policy solutions to help decision makers chart a course toward a better world.
CSIS is a bipartisan, nonprofit organization headquartered in Washington, D.C. The Center’s 220 full-time staff and large network of affiliated scholars conduct research and analysis and develop policy initiatives that look to the future and anticipate change.
Since 1962, CSIS has been dedicated to finding ways to sustain American prominence and prosperity as a force for good in the world. After 50 years, CSIS has become one of the world’s preeminent international policy institutions focused on defense and security; regional stability; and transnational challenges ranging from energy and climate to global development and economic integration.
-
Danish Institute for International Studies (DIIS)
DIIS
DIIS is an independent research institution for international studies, financed primarily by the Danish state. We carry out research and analysis on a wide range of issues within the areas of globalisation, security and development. We participate in national and international debates and academic networks and publish in high-ranking academic journals, always striving to excel in academic scholarship. At the same time, we continuously assess Denmark's foreign and political situation and inform the Danish media, politicians and the public about our work.
-
East Asia Institute
EAI
The East Asia Institute is an independent think tank in Korea, founded in May 2002. The EAI strives to transform East Asia into a society of nations based on liberal democracy, market economy, open society, and peace. To this end, the EAI works to propagate liberal values and ideas including diversity, tolerance, accountability, and transparency through research, education, and international exchange. The EAI was established to pursue and develop innovative and fresh ideas. By attracting and cooperating with leading scholars and experts from the world, the EAI has functioned as a knowledge network generating creative policy ideas.The EAI endeavors to see that these ideas become a reality. In this way, we can prepare a bright world for our future generation. The EAI is rooted in the belief that knowledge and good ideas can change the world.
-
Ecologic Institute
Ecologic Institute
Ecologic Institute conducts inter- and transdisciplinary environmental research. The experts at Ecologic Institute also prepare political analyses and function as consultants. Ecologic Institute operates branches in Berlin, Brussels and Washington DC. In its role as a private, independent organization, Ecologic Institute is dedicated to the preparation of relevant sociopolitical aspects of sustainability research and contributing new knowledge to environmental policy. Innovative research methods, an orientation on practice and a transdisciplinary approach ensure scientific excellent and social relevance. The work done at Ecologic Institute covers the spectrum of environmental topics and includes the integration of environment-related issues into other political spheres.
-
Elcano Royal Institute
Elcano Royal Institute
The Elcano Royal Institute (Real Instituto Elcano) is a private entity, independent of both the Public Administration and the companies that provide most of its funding. It was established, under the honorary presidency of HRH the Prince of Asturias, on 2 December 2001 as a forum for analysis and debate on international affairs and particularly on Spain’s international relations. Its output aims to be of use to Spain’s decision-makers, both public and private, active on the international scene. Its work should similarly promote the knowledge of Spain in the strategic scenarios in which the country’s interests are at stake.
From its inception the Elcano Royal Institute considers itself a non-partisan –but not neutral– institution that seeks to promote the values by which it was inspired and which, by means of multidisciplinary analysis of existing and –especially– forward developments, aims to establish a global strategy resulting in political proposals having a practical application. -
The Economic and Social Research Foundation
ESRF
The Economic and Social Research Foundation was established in 1994 as an independent, not-for-profit institution for research and policy analysis.
The formation of ESRF was based on the assumption that there was need and demand for an improved understanding of policy options and development management issues, and that the capacity for this was lacking in the Tanzania civil service.
ESRF addressed this gap by putting into place qualified professional staff, modest resources and a favourable research environment for the analysis and discussion of economic and social policy.
The primary objectives of the Foundation are to strengthen capabilities in policy analysis and development management and to enhance the understanding of policy options in the government, the public sector, civil society, and the donor community and the growing private sector.
-
Food, Agriculture, and Natural Resources Policy Analysis Network (FANRPAN)
FANRPAN
The origins of the Food, Agriculture and Natural Resources Policy Analysis Network (FANRPAN) date back to 1994, when the Ministers of Agriculture from Eastern and Southern Africa saw the need for an independent policy input to address chronic food insecurity and the challenges of managing natural resources. In 1997, the Deans of the Faculties of Agriculture from eight countries in the SADC met and agreed to set up FANRPAN in response to the decision of the ministers. Following the drafting of a constitution with support from USAID funding, FANRPAN was officially registered as a private voluntary organization (PVO) in Zimbabwe in 2003. FANRPAN has maintained its registration in Zimbabwe, although it has since moved its regional secretariat office to Pretoria, South Africa where it operates as a fully-fledged international office with diplomatic status. The broad objectives of FANRPAN are to:
- Promote the development of appropriate agricultural policies in order to reduce poverty,
- Enhance food security in Africa, and
- Promote sustainable agricultural development in Africa.
Since 2005, FANRPAN has pioneered regional learning and knowledge acquisition in agricultural and food security policy analysis and advocacy, initially in Southern and Eastern Africa, and latterly extending its contribution and reach to continental and global levels. Through strong collaborative and experiential learning with its constituent stakeholders at national and regional levels, FANRPAN has progressively developed its food and agricultural policy engagement and action cycle which is the cornerstone of its distinctive approach to innovation and learning for policy and capacity development at regional and national levels.
-
Friedrich Ebert Stiftung
FES
The Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung is a non-profit German political foundation committed to the advancement of public policy issues in the spirit of the basic values of social democracy through education, research, and international cooperation. The foundation, headquartered in Bonn and Berlin, was founded in 1925 and is named after Friedrich Ebert, Germany's first democratically elected president.
Today, the Friedrich Ebert Foundation has six adult education centers and 13 regional offices throughout Germany, maintains branch offices in over 90 countries and carries out activities in more than 100 countries.
The Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung is part of the network of German political foundations. Here are some main focal points in Germany and worldwide. You will also find information on the foundations vast research system and some information on Friedrich Ebert.
-
Foro de Estudios sobre la Administración de Justicia
FORES
Objectivos:
Mejorar satisfacción del usuario.
Lograr justicia rápida, eficiente y transparente.
-
The Robert Schuman Foundation
FRS
The Robert Schuman Foundation that was founded in 1991 after the fall of the Berlin Wall has been approved by the State for its services to the public; it works to promote the construction of Europe. The Foundation which is a reference research centre develops studies on the European Union and its policies promoting the content of these in France, Europe and elsewhere in the world. It encourages, contributes to and stimulates European debate thanks to the wealth of its research, publications and the organisation of conferences.
The Robert Schuman Foundation is established in Paris and Brussels and is a venue for research in an open, multinational network. The Foundation, which is a centre renowned for its research on the European Union, has provided itself with the task of maintaining the spirit and inspiration of one of the "Founder Fathers" of Europe, namely Robert Schuman and of promoting European values and ideals both within the Union's frontiers as well as beyond. -
Fundación Alternativas
Fundación Alternativas
Alternativas nació en 1997 con la voluntad de ser un cauce de incidencia y reflexión política, social, económica y cultural en España y Europa, en el marco de una mundialización creciente.
Es un lugar de encuentro, de discusión y elaboración de ideas y propuestas en el que participan los actores más dinámicos y avanzados de nuestra sociedad. El objetivo central de los impulsores es el análisis y definición de nuevas ideas, dirigiéndose al encuentro de los ciudadanos y del conjunto de la sociedad. Además, tenemos el objetivo de hacer propuestas a los partidos políticos y otros actores económicos y sociales con la intención de que éstos las incorporen a la toma de decisiones.
Nuestras áreas de trabajo abarcan todas las políticas públicas, tanto desde un enfoque nacional como europeo y global. Estas áreas encuentran su desarrollo en los diferentes departamentos de laFundación Alternativas que pueden ser consultadas en esta web. Así, el Laboratorio de Aalternativas aparece como el lugar desde donde se pretende impulsar la elaboración de propuestas rigurosas a cuestiones que preocupen a los ciudadanos. El Observatorio de Política Exterior (OPEX), como su nombre indica, se dedica al análisis y elaboración de propuestas sobre política exterior española y el seguimiento de la misma en el marco europeo y global. Por su parte,Estudios de Progreso, es un programa dirigido a jóvenes investigadores con el fin de que puedan aportar nuevas ideas y alternativas a los problemas contemporáneos. El Observatorio de Cultura y Comunicación (OCC-FA) se constituye con el fin de estudiar, analizar y plantear iniciativas en los sectores de cultura y comunicación, tanto en España y la Unión Europea, como en Iberoamérica y territorios hispanos de Estados Unidos.