Research Focuses and Evolution Trends of River Chief System: A Review of Papers Published from 2009 to 2022

This article presents a systematic review of studies of the River Chief System (RCS). It utilizes a dataset comprising 363 high-quality papers published between 2009 and 2022, sourced from the Web of Science and the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), as the foundation for analysis. The primary research method employed is a literature review. Additionally, CiteSpace bibliometric software (v6.2.R2) is used to perform keyword analysis of RCS research. The key research findings include the following points. Firstly, research into RCS has undergone two phases. Secondly, the review presents several points emergent in the literature that have been the focus of much study, including governance logics, theoretical foundations, operational mechanisms, policy effects, and current challenges. Furthermore, the author identifies key trends in the evolution of RCS, such as public participation, the utilization of information technology, and the implementation of the Lake Chief System, Forestry Chief System, and Field Chief System, as well as the construction of a rule of law. Finally, the author suggests that international comparative studies and an inquiry into long-term mechanisms for the implementation of the RCS are needed. This paper provides the first systematic review of the growing literature on RCS, based on papers written in both Chinese and English. It maps out key research points, identifies research trends, and provides a deeper understanding to guide future research.