Successful PhD defence by Hao Zhang

Hao Zhang's research investigated how Chinese NGOs engage in policy advocacy within the structures of global climate governance – including the transnational, international and domestic policy arenas – to influence climate and environmental policymaking.

She argued that while existing literature often characterizes Chinese NGOs as constrained by a relatively restrictive domestic context, her research adopts a more nuanced approach by analyzing the conditions under which state-NGO cooperation emerges and evolves. 

Using multiple case studies and drawing on empirical evidence collected through interviews, participant observation, surveys and desk research, Hao Zhang addressed the discussion concerning the conditions under which NGOs can achieve their policy objectives.