Time: Wednesday April 10, 5:00 – 6:00 PM

Zoom: 940 2648 5906; Passcode: 2024

Speaker: Dr. Blake Miller, Assistant Professor of Computational Social Science in the Methodology Department at the London School of Economics

Abstract:

This study conducts a big data analysis of a custom-annotated dataset of all historical NGO registrations in China, utilizing machine learning techniques and pseudo-causal time series modeling. The results suggest that NGO policy in China is implemented inconsistently. As the first extensive quantitative analysis of Chinese NGO registration, we reveal previously unmeasurable patterns in government sponsorship. Focusing in particular on a 2013 policy change, we find significant subnational variation in which the local state loosens sponsorship and supervision in policy domains where capacity is low, and where risks do not outweigh benefits, despite national policies intended to more uniformly manage NGO growth.