Government-organized non-governmental organizations in policy networks: the case of China association for science and technology

With changes in the governance environment, social organizations are increasingly involved in public affairs. Government-organized non-governmental organizations (GONGOs) is a unique type of social organizations positioned at the junction of the state and community. Although GONGOs are easily embedded in policy networks due to their close ties with the government, their operational dynamics within policy networks need to be further explored. This paper analyzes the case of the China Association for Science and Technology (CAST) under the 'Mission-Network-Influence' framework. We begin by examining the evolution of CAST's mission, and then conduct a social network analysis and content analysis of 272 policies jointly formulated by CAST and other agencies. Results show that GONGOs prioritize public service in their policies. They serve as bridges between the government and the third sector and can even play the leading role in certain policy domains.