Pacific Affairs: An International Review of Asia and the Pacific

Volume 77, No. 1

 

Environmental NGOs in China: Roles and Limits
By Jonathan Schwartz

 

Abstract

There exists an ongoing debate over the nature of state-civil society relations in authoritarian regimes. There are those who argue that civil society organizations represent the beginning of the democratization process. This view suggests a zero-sum relationship between the state and civil society, with the state ceding control of public space to increasingly powerful civil society organizations. Others argue that civil society organizations can work with the state in a positive-sum relationship where both sides benefit from cooperation to achieve shared goals. This debate has growing relevance in China where civil society organizations are increasingly finding a voice. What is the nature of state-civil society relations in China? What roles can civil society organizations in China play? In this paper I explore these questions by focusing on China's environmental non-governmental organization community arguably the most advanced manifestation of Chinese civil society. I identify three main manifestations of environmental non-governmental organizations that have arisen in China, noting their strengths and weaknesses. Drawing on examples of these various manifestations, I evaluate their influence, impact and potential. What activities do these organizations carry out? Why do they enjoy state support? I conclude that China's environmental civil society remains highly constrained by the state even as it continues to gain power and influence. Of the various manifestations of environmental non-governmental organizations, the greatest potential for effectiveness lies with the form that I define as semi-NGOs.