A UK-based independent worldwide fellowship
2023: The First Year of Implementing the ‘Reform and Opening-Up Policy’ at the GCA Centre
The year 2023 marked the 10th anniversary of the Global China Academy (GCA), which was founded in 2013 as CCPN Global. GCA’s operations are supported through outsourcing to experts in various fields, such as website design and maintenance, graphic design, translation, copy editing and more. Additionally, individuals who align with our academic and social missions significantly contribute on a voluntary basis. As an independent non-profit academic institution, our independence is evident in the transparency of our funding sources, which are available for scrutiny by anyone at any time, and in Global Century Press’s commitment to publishing uncensored work on China.
One of the panels of the 7th Global China Dialogue (GCD) was ‘Reforming the Institutions’. Professor Martin Albrow, Funding and Past Honorary President of GCA, encouraged the GCA to reform itself into a sustainable institution. In addition to leveraging existing publication revenues, GCD-based income and small fellowship subscriptions, in 2023 we initiated our own version of a ‘reform and opening-up policy’ which encompasses ‘outreach and invitation’, following consultation and approval from the GCA Board of Trustees. This innovative policy involves utilizing the property occupied by the GCA Centre to create funding opportunities through extensive networking. This page showcases some reform-related activities, outcomes, or potential long-term benefits.
From July 4-10, the GCA Fellows’ Home welcomed guests from Hong Kong and Macau. While the GCA Centre has previously hosted speakers and participants for GCA events, offering free accommodation in exchange for volunteer work, this occasion marked the first time it was opened to GCA friends for networking purposes, aiming to fulfil both academic and social missions. Introduced by Professor Xiangqun Chang’s golf friend, Kai Liang (an Ambassador of the Hampton Court Golf Club and Director of Business Development of MEL Science, second from the left in the left photo), Dr Pu Zhai (President for Ascendent Capital Partners (Asia) Limited, Hong Kong, first on the right in the left photo) and his daughters were accommodated at the Fellows’ Home. Dr Zhai introduced some of his friends to Professor Chang, including guests from Macau (third from the right in the left photo), Singapore (first and second from the left in the second photo), and London, including Dr Chen and her husband (first and second from the left in the right photo), and Dr Frank Guo (Chairman of New Beacon Group, in the middle of the second photo from the left).
Later in July, Dr Guo (middle in the right photo) attended a meeting with DU Yichao, who visited the UK in preparation for the Wuxi City delegation in August. He is Director of Wuxi Institute of New Culture, PhD student of UCL and GCA Associate.
On July 19, Professor Xiangqun Chang visited the home of Mr Mark Lee, GCA’s Graphic Designer, and Mrs Sarah Lee, GCA’s Librarian (both in the second photo above), in Sheffield. In addition to discussing GCA’s work, they enjoyed playing hide and seek in their ‘secret garden’ and explored unique rooms with different colours and their work studio. During their visit after the 7th Global China Dialogue in 2021, they contributed to the development of the GCA Centre’s five ‘walk and talk’ routes and enjoyed Routes 1 and 2. A few days later, Professor Chang hosted a farewell meal for the retired GCA Administrative Manager, Zhufeng Sheng (left in the fourth photo).
On July 22, the two Chinese sociologists whom Professor Chang met at SOAS in May visited the GCA Centre. They are Dr QIN Chen (who stands under the picture in the left photo), Associate Professor at Hohai University, and Dr YUE Shaohua (who is pictured with a family of four in the left photo), Associate Research Fellow at the Jiangsu Academy of Social Sciences. Dr Yue’s wife, Dr ZHANG Haihua, is a Visiting Fellow at LSE from Nanjing Agricultural University. All of them graduated from Nanjing University under the supervision of either Professor SONG Linfei, former President of the Jiangsu Academy of Social Sciences and the Chinese Sociological Association, or Professor ZHOU Xiaohong, the founding Dean of the School of Social and Behavioural Sciences at Nanjing University. They enjoyed the GCA Centre’s ‘walk and talk’ route 2, which includes lunch and tea, offering a blend of leisure, learning, and physical activity to enhance the experience for visitors.
From August 6-7, Mr Kai Liang attended a meeting with DU Yichao at the GCA Centre in preparation for the Wuxi (London) Promotion Conference scheduled for August 9. The following day, Professor Chang met with Mr David Liu, Manager of the Brocket Hall Golf Club, and played golf with Mr Kai Liang and his son at the Winter Hill Golf Club. The preparations for the 7th Global China Dialogue: Governance for Global Health (GCD II) were discussed. A few days later, David’s family and relatives visited the GCA Centre. They all shared GCA’s social mission and expressed their support for GCD II.
From September 10-11, LI Li, the Founder and Honorary Curator of the Guangzhou Thirteen Hongs Museum, spent two days at the GCA Fellows’ Home. She is a Visiting Fellow at the Fitzwilliam Museum and a Fellow of Lucy Cavendish College, University of Cambridge. The museum is located on the historical site of the Qing Dynasty trading posts in Guangzhou. It houses more than 6,600 artifacts, highlighting Guangzhou’s significant role in the ancient Maritime Silk Road and its exclusive maritime trade with Europe and America. A large number of Western-style products that incorporate Chinese elements showcase the shared beauty between China and the West during the 18th and 19th centuries, representing the outcomes of transcultural exchange. Their importance today highlights the early stages of globalization, emphasizing the critical importance of mutual understanding and cooperation in shaping a global society, international relations, and trade. During LI Li’s stay, she and Professor Chang visited the British Library, attended the ‘China’s Hidden Century’ exhibition at the British Museum, and played golf at Brocket Hall.
On September 13, some GCA colleagues gathered socially at the GCA Centre and Mill Hill Golf Club. Professor Martin Albrow (left in the right photo) discussed his upcoming trip to China in one month. Professor Xiangqun Chang shared her experiences of adopting a new lifestyle of living alone in an ’empty nest’ and ‘living with separation’ (Charles Stafford, 2003), after her husband, Dr Thomas Clarke (GCA Trustee, right in the left photo), moved to his father’s house after the COVID-19 and decided to stay there even after his father’s passing. Dr Frances Wood (2nd from the left in both photos) shared her knowledge about the history of the Guangzhou Thirteen Hongs and expressed appreciation that GCP was considering publishing an oral history of Isabel Crook (1915-2023), whom she knew very well.
On October 13, Professor Xiangqun Chang and David Liu were invited by LI Li to attend Lucy’s Festival of Giving, where they met Dr Xin Fan (second from the right in the left photo), ‘a global citizen’ who has studied and taught at universities in China, Germany, the USA, and the UK. He serves as Director of Studies in Asian and Middle Eastern Studies and as a Teaching Associate in Modern Chinese History at the Faculty of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies. Professor Chang and Dr Jane Greatorex exchanged their details at the high table. She is a Senior Tutor, Graduate and Undergraduate Tutor, Director of Studies in Pre-Clinical Part II Veterinary Medicine, and Honorary Scientist at Public Health England. The event provided a valuable opportunity for networking and sharing insights among professionals from diverse academic and cultural backgrounds, enriching the dialogue on global citizenship and interdisciplinary collaboration.
From October 27-29, during the Asian Art in London event, the GCA Centre welcomed Fellows and guests from Cambridge. The distinguished visitors included LI Li, Fellow of Lucy Cavendish College (LCC); Alison Vinnicombe, Praelector, Registrar, Archivist, and Dean of Discipline LCC; Dr James Lin, Curator of the Asia Department at the Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge; Jeni Kong, Trustee of the Confucius Better World Foundation and daughter-in-law to the 78th generation descendant of Confucius, notably the only person of non-Chinese ethnic; Rory Hutton, Designer at Rory Hutton Ltd; and Dr Kim Yahya, Principal Scientist at WaveBreak. David Liu played a key role in hosting the event. It is the first time the GCA Centre has received guests for non-GCA events. A total of eight individuals from eight different disciplines and five ethnic backgrounds came together, united by their shared interests. The discussions were engaging and filled with enthusiasm. Everyone felt that the GCA Centre truly deserved to be called a ‘Fellows’ Home’ and enjoyed being treated as such.
From November 7-10, Dr Yuan Cheng (second from the right in the left photo), a GCA Trustee, visited the UK. Coincidentally, she is a friend with Dr Pu Zhai from the Oxbridge Alumni Network. Following Dr Zhai’s recommendation in early July during his stay at the GCA Centre, Dr Cheng and Professor Chang met with some professionals suggested by Dr Zhai. These included Alan Fang (a lawyer, second from the left in the left photo), his wife Katie Zheng (a solicitor, first on the left in the left photo), Dr Ian Zhu (an accountant, first on the right in the second photo from the left), and Terry Ho (an accountant, second from the left in the second photo from the right). Many of them attended Rory Hutton’s ‘Gardening in Linocut’ exhibition, where they met LI Li, Rory, and Joni. They enjoyed the distinct styles of art on display and discovered elements of Chinese culture within them.
On December 7, participants and volunteers of GCD VIII took pleasure in preparing snacks and cakes for the Tea Party scheduled to be held at Lucy Cavendish College’s ‘Fellows’ Home’—Marshall House. WANG Conghan, a PhD candidate from Zhejiang Gongshang University (second from the left in the left photo), and SHA Yuze, a PhD candidate from Lancaster University (in the second photo from the left), created the Christmas Tree Cheese Ball Appetizer. MENG Jialin, an interpreter (featured in the right two photos), prepared an Italian Pandoro Christmas Tree Cake. Their contributions were greatly appreciated by the party attendees. Dr Jane Greatorex of LCC specifically mentioned their efforts in her email.
On December 11th, Dr QIAN Zhenhua met with GCA Treasurer Dr Thomas Clarke at the GCA Centre to discuss China’s complex global relationships, including Taiwan, South China Sea disputes, and its influence on ASEAN countries. They explored the challenges facing democracy, such as nationalism and misinformation. Dr Clarke inquired about China’s role in global progress. Dr Qian admired Clarke’s vision but cited challenges for Chinese influence due to internal and external factors.
On December 21st, before her departure back to China, together with LI Li, a farewell gathering was held at the GCA Fellows’ Home for LIAO Nong (left in the left photo), Chief Physician of the Plastic Surgery Department at the Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University. She presented a paper on ‘Challenges faced by the medical beauty industry’ at the 8th Global China Dialogue on December 8th, 2023.
We visited central London and Oxford together. During the gathering, LI Li expressed a strong desire to meet Dr Frances Wood to seek advice and resources for digitalizing the Guangzhou Thirteen Hongs Museum. The meeting was arranged with outdoor activities on February 4th, 2024 (Click here to find more).
In conclusion, the year 2023 has been a landmark period for the Global China Academy (GCA), marking a decade of significant growth, outreach, and innovation since its inception. Celebrating its 10th anniversary, GCA has not only upheld its commitment to promoting academic exchange, research dissemination, and cultural communication but has also ventured into new territories with the implementation of the ‘Reform and Opening-Up Policy.’ Endorsed by the GCA board, this policy represents a strategic pivot towards utilizing GCA’s assets more effectively, thereby ensuring the institution’s sustainability and expanding its impact.
The diverse range of activities and engagements throughout the year underscores GCA’s role as a dynamic platform for fostering understanding and cooperation between China and the global community. The introduction of the GCA Centre and the establishment of the Fellows’ Home as a space for academic hospitality have further cemented GCA’s reputation as a forward-thinking and inclusive institution.
Through strategic collaborations, extensive networking, and a steadfast dedication to its mission, GCA continues to shape the dialogue on global governance, cultural exchange, and academic collaboration. As we reflect on the achievements of the past year and look forward to the future, it is clear that GCA is poised for even greater contributions to global academic and social missions, driven by a commitment to reform, openness, and mutual understanding. By embracing change, fostering innovation, and promoting inclusivity, GCA is redefining what it means to be a global academic institution in the 21st century.
2023年：全球中国学术院中心实施“改革开放政策”的第一年
The year 2023 marks the 10th anniversary of the Global China Academy (GCA), which was founded in 2013 as CCPN Global. GCA’s operations are supported through outsourcing to experts in various fields, such as website design and maintenance, graphic design, translation, copy editing, and more. Additionally, individuals who align with our academic and social missions significantly contribute on a voluntary basis. As an independent non-profit academic institution, our independence is evident in the transparency of our funding sources, which are open for examination at any time, and our commitment through Global Century Press to publishing uncensored work on China.
2023年标志着全球中国学院（GCA）成立10周年，该学院于2013年作为全球中国比较研究会（CCPN Global）成立。GCA的运营通过外包给各个领域的专家支持，如网站设计与维护、平面设计、翻译、文案编辑等。此外，与我们的学术和社会使命一致的个人也通过自愿贡献显著地参与其中。作为一个独立的非营利学术机构，我们的独立性在于我们资金来源的透明度，这些资金来源随时开放供审查，以及我们通过全球世纪出版社对中国的未经审查的作品的出版承诺。
One of panels of the 7th Global China Dialogue: reforming global governance is ‘Reforming the Institutions’. Professor Martin Albrow, Founding and Past Honorary President of GCA, encouraged the GCA to reform itself into a sustainable institution. In addition to leveraging existing publication revenues, dialogue-based income, and small fellowship subscriptions, in 2023, after seeking advice and approval from the GCA Board of Trustees, we have implemented an innovative policy. This policy involves utilizing the property occupied by the GCA Centre to create funding opportunities through extensive networking. This page showcases some reform-related activities, outcomes, or potential long-term benefits.
第七届全球中国对话的其中一个小组讨论是“改革全球治理：改革机构”。GCA的创始人及前荣誉会长马丁·阿尔布罗教授鼓励GCA将自身改革成为一个可持续的机构。除了利用现有的出版收入、基于对话的收入和小额研究员订阅外，2023年，在征求GCA董事会的建议和批准后，我们实施了一项创新政策。该政策涉及利用GCA中心占用的房产通过广泛的网络创建资金机会。本页展示了一些与改革相关的活动、成果或潜在的长期利益。
从7月4日至10日，GCA研究员之家欢迎了来自香港和澳门的客人。尽管GCA中心此前已经为GCA活动的演讲者和参与者提供了免费住宿以换取志愿服务，但这次是首次将其开放给GCA的朋友们进行网络交流，旨在实现学术和社会使命。由向群昌教授的高尔夫朋友，凯亮（汉普顿宫高尔夫俱乐部大使兼MEL科学的业务发展总监，左边照片中从左数第二位），介绍，蔡朴博士（升华资本合伙人（亚洲）有限公司，香港，总裁，左边照片中最右边）及其女儿们被安排在研究员之家住宿。蔡博士向向教授介绍了一些他的朋友，包括来自澳门的客人（左边照片中从右数第三位），新加坡的客人（第二张照片中从左数第一位和第二位），伦敦的客人，包括陈博士及其丈夫（右边照片中从左数第一位和第二位），以及郭峰博士（新辉集团董事长，左二照片中间）。
7月26日，郭博士（右边照片中间）参加了与杜一超的会面，杜一超为了准备8月份的无锡市代表团访问英国而来。他是无锡新文化研究所所长，UCL的博士生以及GCA的合作伙伴。
From July 4-10, the GCA Fellows’ Home welcomed guests from Hong Kong and Macau. While the GCA Centre has previously hosted speakers and participants for GCA events, offering free accommodation in exchange for volunteer work, this occasion marked the first time it was opened to GCA friends for networking purposes, aiming to fulfil both academic and social missions. Introduced by Professor Xiangqun Chang’s golf friend, Kai Liang (an Ambassador of the Hampton Court Golf Club and Director of Business Development of MEL Science, second from the left in the left photo), Dr Pu Zhai (President for Ascendent Capital Partners (Asia) Limited, Hong Kong, first on the right in the left photo) and his daughters were accommodated at the Fellows’ Home. Dr Zhai introduced some of his friends to Professor Chang, including guests from Macau (third from the right in the left photo), Singapore (first and second from the left in the second photo), and London, including Dr Chen and her husband (first and second from the left in the right photo), and Dr Frank Guo (Chairman of New Beacon Group, in the middle of the second photo from the left).
On July 26, Dr Guo (middle in the right photo) attended a meeting with DU Yichao, who visited the UK in preparation for the Wuxi City delegation in August. He is Director of Wuxi Institute of New Culture, PhD student of UCL and GCA Associate.
7月22日，那两位5月份在伦敦大学亚非学院（SOAS）与向群昌教授会面的中国社会学家访问了GCA中心。他们是河海大学的副教授秦晨博士（站在左边照片中的画下面），以及江苏省社会科学院的副研究员岳少华博士（在左边照片中与一家四口一起的人）。岳博士的妻子，张海华博士，来自南京农业大学，是伦敦经济学院的访问学者。他们都是在宋林飞教授或周晓虹教授的指导下于南京大学毕业的，宋林飞教授是江苏省社会科学院以及中国社会学会的前任院长，周晓虹教授是南京大学社会与行为科学学院的创始院长。他们享受了GCA中心的“边走边谈”第二路线，其中包括午餐和茶点，提供了休闲、学习和体育活动的完美结合，以增强访客的体验。
On July 22, the two Chinese sociologists whom Professor Chang met at SOAS in May visited the GCA Centre. They are Dr QIN Chen (who stands under the picture in the left photo), Associate Professor at Hohai University, and Dr YUE Shaohua (who is pictured with a family of four in the left photo), Associate Research Fellow at the Jiangsu Academy of Social Sciences. Dr Yue’s wife, Dr ZHANG Haihua, is a Visiting Fellow at LSE from Nanjing Agricultural University. All of them graduated from Nanjing University under the supervision of either Professor SONG Linfei, former President of the Jiangsu Academy of Social Sciences and the Chinese Sociological Association, or Professor ZHOU Xiaohong, the founding Dean of the School of Social and Behavioural Sciences at Nanjing University. They enjoyed the GCA Centre’s ‘walk and talk’ route 2, which includes lunch and tea, offering a blend of leisure, learning, and physical activity to enhance the experience for visitors.
从8月6日至7日，凯亮先生参加了在GCA中心与杜一超的会议，为8月9日计划的无锡（伦敦）推广会做准备。次日，向群昌教授与布罗克特霍尔高尔夫俱乐部的经理刘大卫先生会面，并与凯亮先生及其儿子一同在冬山高尔夫俱乐部打高尔夫。他们讨论了第七届全球中国对话：全球健康治理（GCD II）的准备工作。几天后，大卫的家人和亲戚访问了GCA中心。他们都分享了GCA的社会使命，并表达了对GCD II的支持。
From August 6-7, Mr Kai Liang attended a meeting with DU Yichao at the GCA Centre in preparation for the Wuxi (London) Promotion Conference scheduled for August 9. The following day, Professor Chang met with Mr David Liu, Manager of the Brocket Hall Golf Club, and played golf with Mr Kai Liang and his son at the Winter Hill Golf Club. The preparations for the 7th Global China Dialogue: Governance for Global Health (GCD II) were discussed. A few days later, David’s family and relatives visited the GCA Centre. They all shared GCA’s social mission and expressed their support for GCD II.
从9月10日至11日，广州十三行博物馆的创始人兼名誉馆长李丽在GCA研究员之家度过了两天。她是剑桥大学菲茨威廉博物馆的访问学者和露西·卡文迪许学院的研究员。该博物馆位于广州清代贸易哨所的历史遗址上。它收藏了超过6600件文物，凸显了广州在古代海上丝绸之路中的重要角色及其与欧洲和美洲的独家海上贸易。大量融入中国元素的西式产品展示了18和19世纪中西之间的共享美，代表了跨文化交流的成果。它们今天的重要性突出了全球化的早期阶段，强调了在塑造全球社会、国际关系和贸易中，相互理解与合作的关键重要性。在李丽的访问期间，她和向教授参观了大英图书馆，参加了大英博物馆的“中国的隐藏世纪”展览，并在布罗克特霍尔打高尔夫。
From September 10-11, LI Li, the Founder and Honorary Curator of the Guangzhou Thirteen Hongs Museum, spent two days at the GCA Fellows’ Home. She is a Visiting Fellow at the Fitzwilliam Museum and a Fellow of Lucy Cavendish College, University of Cambridge. The museum is located on the historical site of the Qing Dynasty trading posts in Guangzhou. It houses more than 6,600 artifacts, highlighting Guangzhou’s significant role in the ancient Maritime Silk Road and its exclusive maritime trade with Europe and America. A large number of Western-style products that incorporate Chinese elements showcase the shared beauty between China and the West during the 18th and 19th centuries, representing the outcomes of transcultural exchange. Their importance today highlights the early stages of globalization, emphasizing the critical importance of mutual understanding and cooperation in shaping a global society, international relations, and trade. During LI Li’s stay, she and Professor Chang visited the British Library, attended the ‘China’s Hidden Century’ exhibition at the British Museum, and played golf at Brocket Hall.
9月13日，一些GCA同事在GCA中心和米尔希尔高尔夫俱乐部进行了社交聚会。马丁·阿尔布罗教授（右图左侧）讨论了他一个月后即将前往中国的行程。向群昌教授分享了她的经历，讲述了在她的丈夫托马斯·克拉克博士（GCA信托人，左图右侧）因新冠疫情搬到他父亲家后决定留在那里，即使在他父亲去世后，她也开始采纳一种新的生活方式，独自生活在“空巢”中，并“与分离共处”（查尔斯·斯塔福德，2003）。弗兰西斯·伍德博士（两张照片中均为从左数第二位）分享了她对广州十三行历史的了解，并表示赞赏GCP考虑出版伊莎贝尔·克鲁克（1915-2023）的口述历史，她对此人非常了解。
On September 13, some GCA colleagues gathered socially at the GCA Centre and Mill Hill Golf Club. Professor Martin Albrow (left in the right photo) discussed his upcoming trip to China in one month. Professor Xiangqun Chang shared her experiences of adopting a new lifestyle of living alone in an ’empty nest’ and ‘living with separation’ (Charles Stafford, 2003), after her husband, Dr Thomas Clarke (GCA Trustee, right in the left photo), moved to his father’s house after the COVID-19 and decided to stay there even after his father’s passing. Dr Frances Wood (2nd from the left in both photos) shared her knowledge about the history of the Guangzhou Thirteen Hongs and expressed appreciation that GCP was considering publishing an oral history of Isabel Crook (1915-2023), whom she knew very well.
10月13日，向群昌教授和刘大卫被李丽邀请参加露西的布施节，在那里他们遇到了范欣博士（左图中从右数第二位），一位“全球公民”，他在中国、德国、美国和英国的大学中学习和教学。他担任亚洲和中东研究的研究主任以及现代中国历史的教学副手，属于亚洲和中东研究系。向教授和简·格雷托里克斯博士在高桌上交换了他们的联系方式。她是一位高级导师、研究生和本科生导师、临床前第二部分兽医学研究的研究主任以及英国公共卫生署的荣誉科学家。这个活动为来自不同学术和文化背景的专业人士提供了一个宝贵的交流和分享见解的机会，丰富了关于全球公民身份和跨学科合作的对话。
On October 13, Professor Xiangqun Chang and David Liu were invited by LI Li to attend Lucy’s Festival of Giving, where they met Dr Xin Fan (second from the right in the left photo), ‘a global citizen’ who has studied and taught at universities in China, Germany, the USA, and the UK. He serves as Director of Studies in Asian and Middle Eastern Studies and as a Teaching Associate in Modern Chinese History at the Faculty of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies. Professor Chang and Dr Jane Greatorex exchanged their details at the high table. She is a Senior Tutor, Graduate and Undergraduate Tutor, Director of Studies in Pre-Clinical Part II Veterinary Medicine, and Honorary Scientist at Public Health England. The event provided a valuable opportunity for networking and sharing insights among professionals from diverse academic and cultural backgrounds, enriching the dialogue on global citizenship and interdisciplinary collaboration.
从10月27日至29日，在伦敦亚洲艺术活动期间，GCA中心欢迎了来自剑桥的研究员和客人。杰出的访客包括露西·卡文迪许学院（LCC）的研究员李丽；Alison Vinnicombe，LCC的讲师、注册官、档案管理员和纪律院长；剑桥菲茨威廉博物馆亚洲部门的馆长林詹姆斯博士；孔令娟，孔子第七十八代后裔的儿媳妇，也是孔子家族唯一的非华裔人士，同时也是孔子更美好世界基金会的信托人；设计师Rory Hutton，Rory Hutton有限公司的创始人；以及WaveBreak的首席科学家金雅博士。刘大卫在主持这次活动中发挥了关键作用。这是GCA中心首次接待非GCA活动的客人。共有来自八个不同学科和五个种族背景的八位个体聚在一起，他们因共同的兴趣而团结。讨论充满了热情和活力。每个人都感觉GCA中心真正配得上“研究员之家”的称号，并享受如此的待遇。
From October 27-29, during the Asian Art in London event, the GCA Centre welcomed Fellows and guests from Cambridge. The distinguished visitors included LI Li, Fellow of Lucy Cavendish College (LCC); Alison Vinnicombe, Praelector, Registrar, Archivist, and Dean of Discipline LCC; Dr James Lin, Curator of the Asia Department at the Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge; Jeni Kong, Trustee of the Confucius Better World Foundation and daughter-in-law to the 78th generation descendant of Confucius, notably the only person of non-Chinese ethnic; Rory Hutton, Designer at Rory Hutton Ltd; and Dr Kim Yahya, Principal Scientist at WaveBreak. David Liu played a key role in hosting the event. It is the first time the GCA Centre has received guests for non-GCA events. A total of eight individuals from eight different disciplines and five ethnic backgrounds came together, united by their shared interests. The discussions were engaging and filled with enthusiasm. Everyone felt that the GCA Centre truly deserved to be called a ‘Fellows’ Home’ and enjoyed being treated as such.
从11月7日至10日，GCA信托人成远博士（左边照片中从右数第二位）访问了英国。巧合的是，她与来自牛津剑桥校友网络的蔡朴博士是朋友。继蔡博士在7月初他在GCA中心的停留期间的推荐之后，成博士和向教授会见了蔡博士建议的一些专业人士。这些人包括方律师（左边照片中从左数第二位）、他的妻子郑律师（左边照片中最左边）、朱博士（会计师，从左第二张照片中最右边）、和何先生（会计师，从右第二张照片中从左数第二位）。他们中的许多人参加了Rory Hutton的“亚麻刻印中的园艺”展览，在那里他们遇到了李丽、Rory和Joni。他们享受展出的独特艺术风格，并在其中发现了中国文化的元素。
From November 7-10, Dr Yuan Cheng (second from the right in the left photo), a GCA Trustee, visited the UK. Coincidentally, she is a friend with Dr Pu Zhai from the Oxbridge Alumni Network. Following Dr Zhai’s recommendation in early July during his stay at the GCA Centre, Dr Cheng and Professor Chang met with some professionals suggested by Dr Zhai. These included Alan Fang (a lawyer, second from the left in the left photo), his wife Katie Zheng (a solicitor, first on the left in the left photo), Dr Ian Zhu (an accountant, first on the right in the second photo from the left), and Terry Ho (an accountant, second from the left in the second photo from the right). Many of them attended Rory Hutton’s ‘Gardening in Linocut’ exhibition, where they met LI Li, Rory, and Joni. They enjoyed the distinct styles of art on display and discovered elements of Chinese culture within them.
On December 7, participants and volunteers of GCD VIII took pleasure in preparing snacks and cakes for the Tea Party scheduled to be held at Lucy Cavendish College’s ‘Fellows’ Home’—Marshall House. WANG Conghan, a PhD candidate from Zhejiang Gongshang University (second from the left in the left photo), and SHA Yuze, a PhD candidate from Lancaster University (in the second photo from the left), created the Christmas Tree Cheese Ball Appetizer. MENG Jialin, an interpreter (featured in the right two photos), prepared an Italian Pandoro Christmas Tree Cake. Their contributions were greatly appreciated by the party attendees. Dr Jane Greatorex of LCC specifically mentioned their efforts in her email.
12月11日，钱振华博士在GCA中心与GCA财务主管托马斯·克拉克博士会面，讨论了中国复杂的全球关系，包括台湾问题、南中国海争议以及其对东盟国家的影响。他们探讨了民主面临的挑战，如民族主义和错误信息。克拉克博士询问了中国在全球进步中的角色。钱博士赞赏克拉克的愿景，但指出由于内部和外部因素，中国影响力面临的挑战。
On December 11th, Dr QIAN Zhenhua met with GCA Treasurer Dr Thomas Clarke at the GCA Centre to discuss China’s complex global relationships, including Taiwan, South China Sea disputes, and its influence on ASEAN countries. They explored the challenges facing democracy, such as nationalism and misinformation. Dr Clarke inquired about China’s role in global progress. Dr Qian admired Clarke’s vision but cited challenges for Chinese influence due to internal and external factors.
12月21日，在她返回中国之前，与李丽一起，为广州医科大学第三附属医院整形外科主任医师廖浓（左边照片中左侧的人）在GCA研究员之家举行了一次欢送会。她在2023年12月8日的第八届全球中国对话会议上提交了一篇关于“医疗美容行业面临的挑战”的论文。在聚会期间，李丽强烈希望能够见到弗兰西斯·伍德博士，以寻求关于广州十三行博物馆数字化的建议和资源。会议安排在2024年2月4日进行户外活动。
右边的照片拍摄于2月10日，当时弗兰西斯·伍德博士为向群昌教授签署了她的书《背叛的盟友：大战中的中国》的副本。之后，他们享受了GCA中心“边走边谈”第4路线，在中国新年当天（注：后来进行了更新）。
On December 21st, before her departure back to China, together with LI Li, a farewell gathering was held at the GCA Fellows’ Home for LIAO Nong (left in the left photo), Chief Physician of the Plastic Surgery Department at the Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University. She presented a paper on ‘Challenges faced by the medical beauty industry’ at the 8th Global China Dialogue on December 8th, 2023. During the gathering, LI Li expressed a strong desire to meet Dr Frances Wood to seek advice and resources for digitalizing the Guangzhou Thirteen Hongs Museum. The meeting was arranged with outdoor activities on February 4th, 2024.
巧合的是，伍德博士带来了百合花和一只精美的中国马克杯，上面有威廉·莫里斯的设计。他是一位与19世纪英国艺术与工艺运动相关联的英国纺织设计师、诗人、艺术家、作家和社会主义活动家。李丽从剑桥带来的花被放置在靠近窗户的桌子一端，那里的花卉种类更多，而广彩盘看起来也更加色彩丰富。
The right photo was taken on February 10th when Dr. Frances Wood signed a copy of her book Betrayed Ally: China in the Great War for Professor Xiangqun Chang. Afterwards, they enjoyed the GCA Centre’s ‘Walk and Talk’ Route 4 on Chinese New Year Day (Note: This photo and caption were updated afterwards).
中间的照片拍摄于2月10日，当时弗兰西斯·伍德博士为向群昌教授签署了她的书《背叛的盟友：大战中的中国》。之后，他们在中国新年当天享受了GCA中心的“边走边谈”第4路线。巧合的是，伍德博士带来了百合花和一只精美的中国马克杯，上面有威廉·莫里斯的设计。他是一位19世纪英国的纺织设计师、诗人、艺术家、作家和社会主义活动家，与英国艺术与工艺运动有关。李丽从剑桥带来的花被放在靠窗户的桌子一端，那里的花种类更多。马克杯的颜色相对柔和，以绿色和黄色为主，补充以精致的花卉图案。相比之下，广彩盘色彩更加鲜艳，使用了包括粉红色、绿色、黄色和蓝色在内的多种颜色。
右边的照片展示了在GCA中心展出的马克杯和盘子。两者都是装饰艺术的杰作，各自承载着其文化和历史的独特性。马克杯的颜色相对柔和，以绿色和黄色为主，辅以精致的花卉图案。相比之下，广彩盘色彩更加鲜艳，使用了多种颜色，包括粉红色、绿色、黄色和蓝色。威廉·莫里斯的设计通常代表了19世纪末英国艺术与工艺运动的特点，其特点是复杂的自然图案、对称性和重复的植物图案。广彩盘反映了中国广东省十三行时期的艺术风格，以其丰富的颜色、复杂的风景和对称的装饰而著名。马克杯可能是工业印刷图案的产品，而广彩盘的制作可能更为复杂，涉及多次烧制和手工绘画。马克杯是日常使用的饮用器皿；而广彩盘更可能是装饰品或用于特殊场合的器皿。威廉·莫里斯的设计反映了19世纪末英国的社会文化背景，强调手工艺和反工业化。广彩盘反映了十三行时期广东省的贸易繁荣和文化交流。
注：此照片及其说明文字后来已更新。
总之，2023年对于全球中国学院（GCA）来说是一个具有里程碑意义的时期，标志着自成立以来十年来显著的增长、扩展和创新。庆祝其成立十周年，GCA不仅坚持了促进学术交流、研究传播和文化交流的承诺，而且还通过实施“改革开放政策”进入了新的领域。在GCA董事会的支持下，这一政策代表了一个战略转向，旨在更有效地利用GCA的资产，从而确保机构的可持续性并扩大其影响力。
全年的多样化活动和参与凸显了GCA作为促进中国与全球社区之间理解和合作的动态平台的角色。GCA中心的引入和研究员之家作为学术款待空间的建立，进一步巩固了GCA作为一个前瞻性和包容性机构的声誉。
通过战略合作、广泛的网络和对其使命的坚定奉献，GCA继续塑造全球治理、文化交流和学术合作的对话。当我们回顾过去一年的成就并展望未来时，很明显，GCA正准备为全球学术和社会使命做出更大的贡献，这一切都是出于对改革、开放和相互理解的承诺。通过拥抱变化、培养创新和促进包容性，GCA正在重新定义21世纪全球学术机构的含义。
In conclusion, the year 2023 has been a landmark period for the Global China Academy (GCA), marking a decade of significant growth, outreach, and innovation since its inception. Celebrating its 10th anniversary, GCA has not only upheld its commitment to promoting academic exchange, research dissemination, and cultural communication but has also ventured into new territories with the implementation of the ‘Reform and Opening-Up Policy.’ Endorsed by the GCA board, this policy represents a strategic pivot towards utilizing GCA’s assets more effectively, thereby ensuring the institution’s sustainability and expanding its impact.
The diverse range of activities and engagements throughout the year underscores GCA’s role as a dynamic platform for fostering understanding and cooperation between China and the global community. The introduction of the GCA Centre and the establishment of the Fellows’ Home as a space for academic hospitality have further cemented GCA’s reputation as a forward-thinking and inclusive institution.
Through strategic collaborations, extensive networking, and a steadfast dedication to its mission, GCA continues to shape the dialogue on global governance, cultural exchange, and academic collaboration. As we reflect on the achievements of the past year and look forward to the future, it is clear that GCA is poised for even greater contributions to global academic and social missions, driven by a commitment to reform, openness, and mutual understanding. By embracing change, fostering innovation, and promoting inclusivity, GCA is redefining what it means to be a global academic institution in the 21st century.
Click here to visit the GCA News & Blog section.
Beyond the Board: Cultivating a Culture of Excellence in Global Governance
Welcome to the official launch page for Board Excellence: Global Best Practice, a groundbreaking work that sets a new standard in corporate governance and board management. Edited by CHENG Yuan and LU Yuebing, and published by Global Century Press, this book is a must-read for board directors, policymakers, and business leaders seeking to navigate the complexities of today’s corporate world. It provides a comprehensive overview of effective board practices, combining research and real-world insights to foster leadership, culture, and strategic planning. Embrace the opportunity to elevate your organization’s governance with this essential guide.
This book is available in Chinese, with the Overseas Chinese edition incorporating select English elements to cater to a wider readership. This practice, a hallmark of Global Century Press, enhances the accessibility of the publication to non-native Chinese speakers or learners of the language. By blending English translations or summaries with the original Chinese text, the publisher not only broadens its market but also facilitates cross-cultural understanding and appreciation. This feature is especially useful for readers interested in Chinese studies, as it allows them to engage with the material more deeply and effectively, regardless of their proficiency in Chinese.
About the book
Board Excellence: Global Best Practice starts with the hardware elements of the board, such as board structure, key roles and responsibilities, and the board director’s skillset. The book also is composed of soft power such as board leadership and board culture, operational procedures, and board succession strategies. It articulates the key components of board excellence and how boards are run effectively. It provides insights and advice for board directors and leaders working at regulatory authorities, public companies, privately-owned companies, stateowned enterprises, joint ventures, and family-owned businesses, to elevate corporate governance and competitiveness.
The authors of Board Excellence: Global Best Practice have conducted doctoral research at the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge, respectively. Based on the authors’ long-time experience as consultants and senior executives, the book brings deep insights from collaboration with senior executives and board directors over the past few decades, together with Russell Reynolds Associates’ global research findings. It showcases the best practices of board directors from a global perspective for Chinese companies, regulators, and academic researchers. The book replies to the urgent demand and future trends of board leadership.
About the authors
As Non-Executive Chairman of Russell Reynolds Associates Greater China, Dr CHENG Yuan leverages her deep subject matter expertise and market insights to provide board advisory, CEO succession, and executive search services to leading multinational corporations and Chinese companies. CHENG Yuan is a member
of China Corporate Governance Expert 50 Forum, and an Advisory Board Member of Beijing Institute of Talent Development Strategy. She is also a Trustee of Global China Academy Board of Trustees. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Beijing Foreign Studies University and a D.Phil in Sociology from Oxford University.
Dr LU Yuebing is Chairman of the Board of Air Liquide (China) Holding Company and venture partner of B Capital. Previously, he has been senior executive as Vice Chairman of China Funds at Siguler Guff, Deputy President and Chief Investment Officer of China Jianyin Investment (the domestic investment arm of CIC), and managing director at Climate Change Capital. Additionally, his lead rship extends to various industries, having been Vice President at Alstom (China), Ford Motor (China), and Caterpillar (China). Dr. Lu is an honorary senior research fellow at Birmingham University. He holds a Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering from Tsinghua University and a Ph.D. in Economics from the University of Cambridge.
Contents
Prefaces
General Preface: Introduction to the ‘Understanding China and the World book series’ by ZHENG Hangsheng and Xiangqun Chang
Preface 1 / CHU Xuping
Preface 2 / GAO Minghua
Acknowledgments
Chapter 1: Improving the board’s ‘hardware’
1.1 Board structure and independence
1.2 Board committees
1.3 The key roles on board and requirements
1.4 The new trends of board and governance
Chapter 2: Building board’s ‘soft power’
2.1 What is effective leadership of the board
2.2 Fostering a board culture of collaborative governance
Chapter 3: Operational excellence of the board
3.1 Easing the onboarding process of new directors
3.2 Optimal behaviors of board directors
3.3 Board leadership in times of crisis
Chapter 4: The evolution of board excellence
4.1 Planning board succession in advance
4.2 Driving continued boardroom transformation
4.3 Dealing with shareholder activism
Chapter 5: Building board excellence
References
Appendixes
1 How will ChatGPT and other generative AI impact leadership?
2 Activities of Chinese and global directors
Dual language information from Global Century Press
1 Abstract and about the author
2 Table of contents
3 About the book series
4 Global Century Press and its unique features
4.1 GCP creates a unique feature for a dual-language service with global and transcultural perspectives
4.2 GCP style rules for rendering Chinese-English dual languages
4.3 GCP style rules for punctuation marks in Chinese and English bilingual typesetting
4.4 GCP style rules for Chinese and related names
5 Other book series and journals published by Global Century Press
As we conclude our introduction to the Board Excellence: Global Best Practice, we highlight its foundational role in shaping the leadership of boards today and in the future. The overseas Chinese edition, published by Global Century Press, features a unique bilingual introduction by the publisher and is slightly updated by the editors from the 2021 Mainland Chinese edition. It offers abundant knowledge and practical strategies for achieving corporate governance excellence. We encourage you to explore its pages to discover the secrets to successful board management. Click on this page now to get your copy and embark on the journey toward effective governance and improving organizational performance.
超越：在全球治理中培育卓越的董事会文化
欢迎访问《卓越董事会：全球最佳实践》的官方发布页面，这是一部在公司治理和董事会管理方面树立新标准的开创性作品。该书由程原和路跃兵主编，并由环球世纪出版社于2023年12月31日出版。此书对于寻求在当今企业世界中导航复杂性的董事会董事、政策制定者和商业领袖来说，是必读之作。它提供了有效董事会实践的全面概述，结合研究和现实世界的洞见，以培养领导力、文化和战略规划。把握机会，用这本必备指南提升组织的治理。
本书是中文著作，海外中文版融入了一些英文元素，以满足更广泛的读者群。这是全球世纪出版社的一项特色服务，旨在提高出版物的可及性，使非母语中文读者或正在学习中文的读者也能够接触和理解。通过将英文翻译或摘要与原始中文文本相结合，出版社不仅扩大了其市场，还促进了跨文化理解和欣赏。这一特点对于对中国研究感兴趣的读者尤其有用，因为它允许他们更深入、更有效地与材料互动，无论他们的中文水平如何。
本书提要
本书从董事会“硬件”要素（如，董事会架构设置、角色定义和职权划分、成员和能力构成等）、“软件”要素（如，董事会主席领导力、董事会文化等）、运营程序及董事会继任等事项入手，全方位深入剖析高效董事会的构成要素和运作方式，为在中国市场的监管部门、各行业上市企业、私营企业、国有企业、合资企业、家族企业的高管和董事会完善公司治理、提升企业竞争力提供可据参考。
《卓越董事会》一书的两位作者分别于牛津大学和剑桥大学从事过博士研究。本书基于他们长期在全球顶尖领导力咨询机构或企业担任顾问及高管的实践经验，结合罗盛咨询在过去几十年与全球领先企业的高管层、董事会合作过程中积累的洞悉和经验，结合罗盛咨询独有的全球董事会调研结果的发现，为中国企业、市场监管机构和研究学者展现全球董事会的最佳实践，洞察当前时代背景下企业对董事会领导力的迫切需求和未来发展趋势。
编者简介
程原 博士，罗盛咨询大中华区非执行主席，凭借深厚的行业积累与市场洞见，为全球领先的跨国公司和中国企业提供董事会咨询、CEO继任、高管寻聘服务。程原是中国公司治理50人论坛专家和北京人才发展战略研究院（由北京市政府和北京大学联合组建）理事会成员。她也是全球中国学术院信托会成员。她拥有北京外国语大学文学士学位和牛津大学社会学博士学位。
路跃兵 博士，液化空气（中国）投资有限公司董事会主席，波士顿投资集团资深合伙人，伯明翰大学商学院荣誉资深研究员。曾任职于国务院发展研究中心，卡特彼勒，福特汽车，阿尔斯通，气候变化资本，中国建银投资和尚高资本。他拥有清华大学工学学士学位和剑桥大学经济学博士学位。
目 录
序言
总序言：“读懂中国与世界系列丛书” 总序言 / 郑杭生 常向群
序言一 / 楚序平
序言二 / 高明华
致 谢
第一章 完善董事会“硬件”设置
第一节 董事会结构及其独立性
第二节 董事会专项委员会的设置
第三节 董事会关键领导角色的要求和特质
第四节 董事会最新发展趋势
第二章 打造董事会“软实力”
第一节 卓越领导力
第二节 构建共治型高效董事会文化
第三章 卓越运营
第一节 快速融合新董事成员
第二节 董事行为最优解
第三节 危机下的董事会领导力
第四章 卓越董事会的演化
第一节 前瞻规划董事接班人
第二节 推动董事会持续转型
第三节 应对股东激进主义
第五章 铸就卓越董事会
参考文献
附 录
1. ChatGPT 和其它生成式人工智能将如何影响领导力？
2. 中外董事对话及相关活动留影
环球世纪出版社双语信息
1. 提要和作者
2. 目录
3. 关于本系列丛书
4. 环球世纪出版及其独有特色
4.1 本社以全球和转文化视野创造了双语服务的独有特色
4.2 本社汉英双语显示体例
4.3 本社汉英双语排版标点符号用法
4.4 本社中文及相关名字英文显示体例
5. 环球世纪出版社出版的其它系列丛书
在我们结束对《卓越董事会：全球最佳实践》一书的简介时，我们强调此书作为当代及未来董事会领导力的基石角色。环球世纪出版社出版的海外中文版带有独特的出版社双语特色介绍，并由编者在2021年大陆中文版基础上略有更新，为实现公司治理卓越提供了丰富的知识和实用策略。我们鼓励您翻阅其页面，以发掘成功董事会管理的秘诀。立即点击此页获取您的一本，开始向有效治理和提升组织绩效的旅程迈进。
The Chinese Chair of the Global China Aacademy Council, Professor LI Qiang, passed away on the 12 December, 2023
In Memoriam: Professor LI Qiang (1950-2023)
On December 12, 2023, we were deeply saddened to learn the Founding Fellow of the Global China Academy (GCA), Chinese Chair of the Global China Academy Council, and Distinguished Professor at Tsinghua University, China. Professor LI Qiang passed away in Beijing at 14:19, following an illness that did not respond to treatment, at the age of 73.
Professor LI Qiang was a luminary in the field of sociology, holding the esteemed position of Lifetime Professor in the Humanities at Tsinghua University, and formerly serving as the Dean of the School of Social Sciences. His expertise extended to various domains, including social stratification and mobility, applied sociology, urban sociology, and more. Throughout his illustrious career, Professor Li authored over 20 books and 260 academic papers, making significant contributions to social sciences in China and beyond.
His contributions to Tsinghua University, the academic community in China, and the Global China Academy’s mission to promote Chinese social science globally, are immeasurable. His passing marks a significant loss for all these institutions.
Accolades and Contributions
- Director of the Institute of Minsheng Economic Research and the Institute for Contemporary China Studies, Tsinghua University.
- Former Dean of the Department of Sociology, Tsinghua University, and Renmin University.
- Member of the Social Sciences Committee of the Ministry of Education and the Advisory Committee for State Informatization.
- Convener of the sixth and seventh Academic Degrees Committee of the State Council.
- President of the Chinese Sociological Association.
- Recipient of numerous academic awards, including the Ministry of Education’s National Award for Outstanding Achievements in Humanities and Social Sciences Research and the ‘National Social Science Fund Project Outstanding Achievement Award’.
Tributes and Condolences
Following his passing, Professor XIE Lizhong, Chinese President of the Global China Academy, and Professor Xiangqun Chang, President of the GCA, sent a joint letter of condolence on December 12, 2023. Professor Martin Albrow, Founding and Past Honorary President, also wrote a letter of condolence with Professor Xiangqun Chang, expressing both personal and institutional grief over the loss.
Professor LI Qiang’s wife, ZHANG Hua, in her response to these letters, shared her grief over the loss of her husband. She mentioned that Professor Li Qiang had been battling health issues exacerbated by repeated COVID-19 infections over the past year. She expressed her heartbreak over his sudden passing and resolved to celebrate his life and legacy.
Professor Li Qiang’s intellectual legacy, his compassionate heart, and his unwavering dedication to sociology and education will be remembered and cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him and learning from him.
Click here to visit website of the School of Social Sciences at Tsinghua University.
唁 函
清华大学社会科学学院李强教授治丧小组：
惊悉李强教授因病不幸逝世，深感震惊和悲痛。我们谨代表英国全球中国学术院的全体同仁，对李强教授的逝世表示深切的哀悼，并向其家人致以诚挚的慰问。
李强教授不仅是著名的中国社会学家，生前也对全球中国学术院的工作给予了大力支持，为全球中国学术院的创院院士和理事会中方主席，为全球中国学术院的创建和发展做出了重要贡献。他的逝世，不仅是中国社会学界、清华大学社会科学学院和其家庭的重大损失，也让我们为失去了一位曾经支持过我们的好朋友、好同事而深感悲痛。我们将会永远怀念李强教授。
愿李强教授在天之灵安息！
常向群 英国皇家艺术院院士、英国全球中国学术院院长
谢立中 北京大学社会学系荣休教授、英国全球中国学术院中方院长
2023年12月12日 伦敦
Condolence
Professor Li Qiang’s Funeral Group of the School of Social Sciences at Tsinghua University,
We are shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the unfortunate passing of Professor LI Qiang due to illness. On behalf of all colleagues at the Global China Academy, we express our profound condolences for the passing of Professor LI Qiang and extend our sincere sympathies to his family.
Professor Li Qiang was not only a renowned Chinese sociologist, but he also provided significant support to the work of the Global China Academy (GCA) during his lifetime. As a founding fellow and the Chinese Chair of the GCA Council, he made important contributions to the establishment and development of the Academy. His passing is a great loss not only to the Chinese sociological community, School of Social Sciences of Tsinghua University, and his family, but also to us for losing a good friend and colleague who once supported us. We will always cherish the memory of Professor LI Qiang.
May Professor Li Qiang’s spirit rest in peace in heaven!
Xiangqun Chang FRSA FGCA
President of the Global China Academy
Distinguished Professor of Nankai University
XIE Lizhong FGCA
Emeritus Professor of Sociology at Peking University
Chinese President of the Global China Academy
12 December, 2023， London
IN SYMPATHY
Professor LI Qiang’s Funeral Arrangement Group,
We grieve deeply in the knowledge of the death yesterday of Professor LI Qiang of Tsinghua University.
We both, on behalf of the Global China Academy and personally, wish to convey our sincere condolences and deep sympathy to all his family, relatives, friends and colleagues.
Professor Li’s contributions to sociology are rightly famous throughout China and his services to the discipline deserve worldwide recognition. We knew him both as a fellow scholar, as a friend and a citizen of the world.
We are immensely saddened by his all too early departure from this life.
Professor Martin Albrow FAcSS
Founding and Past Honorary President of the Global China Academy
Former President of the British Sociological Association
Emeritus Professor at the University of Wales
Professor Chang Xiangqun FRSA FGCA
President of the Global China Academy
Honorary Professor of University College London (2015-20)
Distinguished Professor of Nankai University
13 December, 2023, London, UK
Chinese translation 中文翻译：
致哀
李强教授治丧小组，
惊闻清华大学李强教授昨天逝世，我们深表哀悼。
我们仅代表全球中国学术院以及个人的名义，向他的家人、亲属、朋友和同事表示诚挚的哀悼和深切的慰问。
李教授对社会学的贡献在中国广为人知，他对这一学科的服务理应获得全世界的认可。对我们而言，他既是学者，也是朋友和世界公民。
我们对他过早离开这个世界感到无比悲痛。
马丁·阿尔布劳教授
英国社会科学院院士
全球中国学术院创始及前荣誉院长
英国社会学学会前会长
威尔士大学荣休教授
常向群教授
英国皇家艺术院院士
全球中国学术院院士及院长
伦敦大学学院荣誉教授（2015-20）
南开大学特聘教授
2023年12月13日， 英国伦敦
To mourn the unfortunate passing of Professor LI Qiang, the Chinese Chair of the Global China Academy Council, on December 12, 2023, the Global China Academy’s website immediately turned to a monochrome grey for one week. At the same time, condolences and obituaries from the Presidents of the Academy and former Honorary President were issued to the Tsinghua University Professor LI Qiang Funeral Committee, and a dedicated memorial webpage was created.
Professor Xiangqun Chang shared the aforementioned memorial webpage with Professor Han Sang-jin of Sociology from Seoul National University. Immediately, Professor Han set up a small altar at his home to honour the memory of Professor Li Qiang, placing a bunch of white chrysanthemums in front to symbolize his distant remembrance. Furthermore, he held a funeral parlor open all day on Saturday at his institute on the December 16 when LI Qiang’s farewell ceremony was held in Babaoshan, Beijing. He also forwarded us his memorial article written in English. The Chinese-translated version has been published on the Tsinghua University website. The photo on the bottom right, showing the farewell ceremony hall for Li Qiang, was received from Professor Han Sang-jin. This gesture of remembrance and respect from colleagues and friends underscores the profound impact Professor Li had on those around him.
This group of pictures was created for the Global China Academy 2023 report (p31-32). The photo on the right was taken in 2007 during Professor LI Qiang’s visit to the UK. He is pictured in front of a giant pine tree, which symbolizes longevity and immortality, resilience and steadfastness, and purity and integrity in Chinese culture. He will be remembered in our hearts, much like the enduring spirit of the pine tree.
- Click here to watch a video of Professor LI Qiang’s greeting for the launch of the Global China Academy as an academy at the 7th Global China Dialogue, on December 10th, 2021, at the British Academy.
- Click here to view the page ‘GCA Life Fellow Korean Sociologist Professor HAN Sang-Jin Meeting Professor Xiangqun Chang at Seoul, January 2023.’
- Click here to view Professor LI Qiang FGCA page.
- Click here to visit the GCA news & blog section.
New Co-Chair of GCA Council Meets with Professor Lord Anthony Giddens and GCA Trustees Respectively
On the occasion of GCA Council’s Co-Chair Dr. Qian Zhenhua’s visit to the UK, in addition to participating in the 8th Global China Dialogue and celebrating the 10th Anniversary of the Global China Academy, we also arranged some academic visits and meetings.
On the morning of the 11th December, Professor Martin Albrow (left in the left photo) arranged a meeting with Professor Lord Anthony Giddens (right in the right photo) at Côte, Sloane Square. Professor Giddens gave a copy of his book, The Politics of Climate Change (second and revised edition), to Dr Qian and began to discuss COP 28. He explained that it is the 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28), which was held in Dubai, UAE, from November 30 to December 13, 2023. The key focuses include fast-tracking energy transitions, revamping climate finance, prioritizing nature and livelihoods, and promoting inclusive participation. The first Global Stocktake of the Paris Agreement’s implementation is highlighted, aiming to assess global progress towards climate goals.
During the meeting, Professor Giddens also provided an reference to both Professor Chang and Dr Qian. It is Nomad Century: How to Survive the Climate Upheaval, by Gaia Vince. It emphasizes the urgent need for global preparation and adaptation strategies in response to climate change-induced migration. Vince argues that as the planet warms, vast populations will need to relocate to more habitable regions, necessitating international cooperation and innovative solutions to ensure these migrations are managed safely and equitably. The book highlights the importance of viewing climate migration not as a crisis to be averted but as an opportunity for societal transformation and resilience building, advocating for proactive measures to support affected communities and foster a sustainable future. Dr Qian mentioned that his company uses environmentally friendly materials for building and refurbishment. They are also digitizing office documents, including accounting and legal documents, to save paper. As President of the Shanghai International Cooperation Association of SMEs, he is promoting environmentally friendly practices and digitalization to all member companies.
On the afternoon, Dr QIAN Zhenhua (left in the left photo) met with Dr Thomas Clarke (middle in the left photo), Treasurer of the GCA Board of Trustees, at the GCA Centre. Dr Clarke expressed his concern about the complicated geopolitical relationship between China and the world. They discussed issues including the status of Taiwan, disputes in the South China Sea, and territorial conflicts with neighboring countries. The South China Sea, an important trade route, is disputed by several countries. Relations between ASEAN countries and China are mixed; some countries are close to China, while others are wary of its influence. China’s rise has shifted the balance of international relations, creating new alliances and oppositions. Dr Clarke continued, saying that the Renaissance and the Enlightenment laid the foundation for human liberty and democracy, yet as democracy has evolved, it now faces numerous challenges such as the resurgence of nationalism, political polarization, economic inequality, global health issues, artificial intelligence, and the problem of fake news in the information age. He asked for Dr Qian’s opinions on how China and the Chinese people can contribute to the ongoing quest for balance and progress in human society. Dr Qian said that he was very impressed that Dr Clarke, as a natural scientist, possesses a global and historical vision. For him, it is difficult for Chinese people to do much given the current situation inside and outside China.
On the morning of the 12th December, Professor Xiangqun Chang and Dr QIAN Zhenghua (left in the right photo) visited the Centre for European Reform (CER) at Great College Street, Westminster. They met the Centre Director Charles Grant (middle in the right photo), Trustee of Global China Academy. According to Mr. Grant, RCR is a London-based think tank that focuses on matters of European integration. It also researches on China and Asia, which explores the complex geopolitical dynamics of the region, including the strategic relationships between China, its neighbours, and the West. Topics cover the impact of China’s rise on global trade, security, and political landscapes, the challenges and opportunities this presents for Europe, and the evolving partnerships and rivalries in the Indo-Pacific. The research emphasizes the need for strategic responses to China’s policies and actions, as well as collaboration between European nations and their Asian counterparts to address shared concerns and promote stability and prosperity in the region. He also told Dr Qian that he visited China many times and maintains good relationship with Institute of European Studies of Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS). Dr Qian offered to hold a conference on common interests collaboratively in Shanghai.
The farewell event was held in the tranquil Shisha Garden of The Madonna Halley Hotel in Edgware, where Chinese GCD8 speakers, attendees, and the GCA team anticipating delicious Mediterranean fusion cuisine, featuring locally sourced ingredients, homemade desserts and cocktails rich in authentic flavors. The photo was taken with the AI Smartphone Stabilizer, Insta 360 Flow, by Alan Fang, the GCA legal adviser, who is positioned at each end of the photo.
- Click here to view the photo report of the 8th Global China Dialogue, from which PPTs or speech notes can be downloaded.
- Click here to view the photo report of the Global China Academy’s 10th-anniversary celebration, from which speech notes can be downloaded.
- Click here to visit the GCD 8 Website.
- Click here to visit the GCA News section.
A Warm Welcome for Global China Academy Delegations at Lucy Cavendish College, Cambridge
On the afternoon of December 9th, 2023, the Global China Academy delegation visited the University of Cambridge and received a warm welcome. An emblem of the Global China Academy was displayed in front of a building and outside of the Warburton Hall. The featured photo in this news article showcases it.
The delegates included Professor Xiangqun Chang, President of the Global China Academy; Professor LI Linxue, Dean of the College of Arts and Media at Tongji University, China, and GCD8 speaker; Professor QIAN Yufang, Director of the Institute of Corpus and Discourse Studies at Zhejiang Gongshang University, China, and GCD8 speaker; Dr LIAO Nong, Chief Physician of the Department of Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery at the Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, China, and GCD8 speaker; Dr QAIN Zhenhua, Co-Chair of the Global China Academy Council; David Liu, GCA Domestic Manager and Manager of the Brocket Hall Club; Alan Fang, GCA Legal adviser; Katie Zheng, GCA Administrator Manager; SHA Yuze, PhD Candidate at Lancaster University and GCA volunteer; WANG Conghan, PhD student at Zhejiang Gongshang University and GCA volunteer; Ting Zhang, Founder and CEO of Crayfish.io Ltd., MENG Jialin and NAN Yuhang, GCA volunteers. The visit was arranged through GCA friend LI Li, Fellow of Lucy Cavendish College, University of Cambridge.
Agenda
- 12:30 – 13:30 Visit King’s College – meet Dr Niamh Mulcahy (Bye- Fellow LCC and member of Kings College) and Dr Jane Greatorex (Senior Tutor LCC) at the Front Gate of Kings College. Guided tour to include the outside of the Chapel, Front Court, the Xu Zhimo Memorial Garden (https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/xu-zhimo-memorial-kings-college) and the Hall. We will walk to Lucy Cavendish College.
- 14:00 Arrival LCC. Meet the President, Prof Dame Madeleine Atkins, at Warburton Hall. Short presentation in the Reception Rooms in Warburton Hall about the College, its ambitions and the Library as the teaching hub. Tea, Coffee etc to be served.
- 14:45 – 15:30 Tour of Library & teaching spaces – Dr Greatorex to take guests round the library, reading rooms, Enterprise Hub, Zoom booth
- 15:30 Afternoon tea with LI Li at Marshall House
The GCA delegation, accompanied by Dr Mulcahy and Dr Greatorex, visited the Chapel, Front Court, the Hall, and the Xu Zhimo Memorial Garden at King’s College. It was a special treat to access the riverbank to take the group photo with the back view of King’s College (the bottom right photo).
The delegation noticed the post for the ‘Global China Academy’ outside the main building of Lucy Cavendish College and followed the arrow to enter the meeting room. Outside the room, the post featuring ‘Global China Academy’ was decorated with Christmas ornaments (top two photos). Printed handouts were placed on the chairs for each delegate. The image above is the cover of a presentation prepared for the GCA delegation about Lucy Cavendish College. Upon seeing the post and handouts with ‘Global China Academy’, we felt they treated GCA with respect and were filled with anticipation for the collaboration ahead. Click the image above to download the PDF file.
The top two photos showcase a presentation about Lucy Cavendish College by its President, Professor Dame Madeleine Atkins. The delegation participated in the presentation (middle photo). After presentation, Professor Xiangqun Chang presented the Global China Dialogue brochure to Professor Dame Atkins, highlighting the global vision and commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals written within, indicating that the Global China Academy (GCA) and Lucy Cavendish College (LLC) share common interests. She was particularly impressed by LLC’s dedication to creating future global leaders and innovators with entrepreneurial mindsets and a commitment to making a ‘positive impact’ on humankind and the planet. Along with Dr Qian Zhenhua, Professor Chang expressed their great appreciation with gifts to Professor Dame Atkins (bottom left photo). LI Li also presented her book as a gift to the President (bottom right).
After enjoying drinks and mince pies, a group photo was taken in the courtyard (top). Dr. Greatorex then guided us through the library, reading rooms, Enterprise Hub, and Zoom booth (second row of photos). Afterwards, we enjoyed afternoon tea with Li Li at Marshall House. The rest of the photos, except for the sketch of the tree, were drawn by Professor Li Linxue at the bottom right.
The visit of the Global China Academy delegation to the University of Cambridge on December 9th, 2023, received a warm welcome. The emblem of the Global China Academy was displayed during the visit, highlighting the importance of the occasion. Delegates participated in various activities and presentations, establishing the connections between the institutions. The visit fostered a relationship between the two entities and represented a significant step forward in academic collaboration. As the delegation bid farewell to Cambridge, the memories captured in photos and sketches will serve as lasting reminders of the productive exchange and shared goals for the future.
- Click here to view the photo report of the 8th Global China Dialogue, from which PPTs or speech notes can be downloaded.
- Click here to view the photo report of the Global China Academy’s 10th-anniversary celebration, from which speech notes can be downloaded.
- Click here to visit the GCD 8 Website.
- Click here to visit the GCA News section.
GCD8 Speakers and Participants Well Received by GCA Fellows at Oxford
On the afternoon of December 8th, 2023, some speakers and volunteers of the 8th Global China Dialogue visited the University of Oxford and were well received by GCA Fellows. They are Professor LI Linxue, Dean of the College of Arts and Media, Tongji University, China; Dr QIAN Zhenhua, Co-Chair of the Global China Academy Council and President of the Shanghai International Corporation Association of SMEs, China; and MENG Jialin and NAN Yuhang (volunteers).
Agenda
- 14:00 meet at the Christ Church College Entrance with Professor Maria Jaschok, Senior Research Associate of Contemporary China Studies at OSGA, Oxford; Life Fellow of the Global China Academy. And then visit the Bodleian Library and the Dickson Poon University of Oxford China Centre.
- 16:00 Tea at Professor Robin Cohen’s home. He is Emeritus Professor and Former Director of the International Migration Institute at the University of Oxford, as well as a Senior Research Fellow at Kellogg College; Life Fellow of Global China Academy. Hugo Tai, a PhD student at Oxford, joins everyone there.
Christ Church, a constituent college of the University of Oxford, is one of the most prestigious and iconic colleges in Oxford. Founded in 1546 by King Henry VIII, it has a rich history and architectural significance. Its grand buildings, including Tom Tower and the Great Hall, exemplify traditional Oxford architecture and have been featured in various films and literature, most notably in the Harry Potter series. Christ Church is renowned for its academic excellence and has produced many notable alumni, including statesmen, scientists, writers, and academics. It also has a renowned choir and is home to the Christ Church Cathedral, which adds to its cultural and religious significance.
Professor Li Xuelin, an architect, and Professor Jaschok, an anthropologist, engaged in dialogues, enjoying the rich history, beautiful architecture, and academic excellence of the place.
Professor Robin Cohen (middle in the top two photos) conversed with Professor LI Linxue and Dr QIAN Zhenhua. Mrs Selina Cohen (3rd left in the middle photo) from Oxford Publishing Services hosted tea for the guests. Professor Jaschok (middle in the bottom photo) engaged in conversation with Mrs Cohen.
Professor Cohen donated his books to the Global China Academy, signing it as FGCA (Fellow of the Global China Academy). Click here to see more details about the book.
Our speakers and volunteers from the 8th Global China Dialogue, who visited the University of Oxford, were warmly welcomed by the fellows of the Global China Academy. They expressed their deepest gratitude to Professor Maria Jaschok for the exceptional guided tour. This tour, enriched by special access and illuminated through her insightful knowledge, has significantly deepened our understanding and appreciation of the explored subjects. Professor Jaschok’s expertise, coupled with her willingness to share, has been truly enlightening. We are immensely grateful for her generosity and dedication, and cherish the invaluable opportunity to have learned under her guidance. They also enjoyed a tea event at Professor Robin Cohen’s home, where there was lively exchange and conversation. Professor Cohen, a fellow of the Global China Academy, generously donated his books to the academy. This enriching visit, culminating in Professor Cohen’s generous book donation, not only facilitated profound academic and cultural exchanges but also left an indelible mark on the participants, weaving books into the fabric of their shared memories and laying a strong foundation for future collaborations.
After the 8th Global China Dialogue, Professor Xiangqun Chang, along with a speaker and a volunteer, visited the University of Oxford one evening. Pictured are Dr. Liao Nong (on the left), Chief Physician of the Department of Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery at the Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, China, and a speaker at the GCD8; and Li Li (on the right), a Fellow of Lucy Cavendish College, University of Cambridge. The background features the Radcliffe Camera, within the Bodleian Library.
The Bodleian Library is one of the oldest libraries in Europe, located in Oxford, England. It is part of the University of Oxford and consists of several buildings, including the iconic Radcliffe Camera. With a history dating back to the 14th century, the Bodleian Library is renowned for its vast collection of books, manuscripts, and other academic materials. It serves as a major research library and cultural institution, attracting scholars and visitors from around the world. The Radcliffe Camera is a historic building in Oxford, England, known for its distinctive circular shape and impressive architecture. Completed in 1749, it was designed by James Gibbs and serves as a reading room for the Bodleian Library. The building is part of the University of Oxford and is a popular landmark in the city, attracting visitors with its elegant design and rich history.
A GCA Fellow’s Donation of Books Enriches the Global China Academy’s Library Collection
In a generous contribution to the academic community, Professor Robin Cohen, a Life Fellow of the Global China Academy (FGCA), has donated an invaluable collection of ten academic books to the GCA library. This significant donation highlights Professor Cohen’s dedication to enhancing education and advancing sociological knowledge through global and regional perspectives.
These books, cover various topics, offering insights into global migration, cultural diversity, and the dynamics of international relations. The collection features influential works edited or authored by Robin Cohen and others, encompassing diverse topics in sociology and political science:
- Modernities in Northeast Asia (2024), edited by Jun-Hyeok Kwak and Ken Cheng, provides a transformative view of modernity through the lens of Northeast Asian intellectual and political movements, challenging Western-centric perspectives.
- Global Diasporas: An Introduction (2022) by Robin Cohen, in its 25th anniversary edition, explores the concept of diaspora through case studies of Jewish, Armenian, African, and other diasporas, offering comprehensive guidance for students and scholars.
- Mandela-wash and other essays (2022) by Robin Cohen, is a collection of essays addressing contemporary topics such as vaccine rollouts, electoral reform, and citizenship.
- Refugia: Radical Solutions to Mass Displacement (2020) by Robin Cohen and Nicholas Van Hear, proposes innovative solutions to mass displacement.
- Migration: The Movement of Humankind from Prehistory to the Present (2019) by Robin Cohen, examines various types of migration throughout history.
- Diasporas Reimagined: Spaces, Practices and Belonging (2015), edited by Nando Sigona, Alan Gamlen, Giulia Liberatore, and Hélène Neveu Kringelbach, is a collection of essays from the Oxford Diasporas Programme.
- Migration and its Enemies: Global Capital, Migrant Labour and the Nation-State (2006) by Robin Cohen, explores the interplay between global capital, migrant labor, and national politics.
- Conceiving Cosmopolitanism: Theory, Context, and Practice (2003), edited by Steven Vertovec and Robin Cohen, is a compilation of essays on cosmopolitanism.
- Frontiers of Identity: The British and the Others (1994) by Robin Cohen examines British national identity.
- International Labour and the Third World: The Making of a New Working Class (1987), edited by Rosalind E. Boyd, Robin Cohen, and Peter C. W. Gutkind, discusses the international role of the working class.
Professor Cohen’s donation timed perfectly for the GCA, as the institution continues to expand its resources to support research and learning in sociology and related disciplines. The new additions to the library will be invaluable resources for GCA Fellows, researchers and students, facilitating a deeper understanding of the complex social issues shaping the modern world.
The GCA plans to hold a small ceremony session during the 10th GCA dinner on 8th December to acknowledge Professor Cohen’s contribution. Although the books were not present at the House of Lords for the dinner, the GCA’s website records Professor Cohen’s benevolence and ongoing support for academic excellence. Professor Xiangqun Chang, President of the GCA, expressed profound gratitude for this donation, noting it as an investment in knowledge and future research, particularly in global and comparative perspectives.
Appendixes
- In addition to the aforementioned books, Global Sociology (2017, 2012, 2000) by Robin Cohen and Paul Kennedy is a well-known textbook worldwide. Following the 1st edition, the Chinese edition 《全球社会学》was published in 2001, translated by Wen Jun 文军. It has been introduced to the Chinese academic community as a landmark work：
- creatively integrates existing theoretical traditions in sociology with emerging research perspectives, strongly focusing on contemporary issues and the dynamics of social change.
- offers a highly promising and inspiring new perspective for sociological research, especially in terms of sociological theory and methods. Through a detailed examination of global viewpoints and paradigms, it vividly reiterates the value and vision of sociology in understanding the complex and rapidly changing world in which we live.
Contrastingly, it’s worth mentioning another book, Global Sociology: Analysis of Transnational Phenomena (2006), by Jiaming Sun of Texas A&M University-Commerce and Xun Wang of University of Wisconsin-Parkside, in the USA. This book is only available in Chinese （《全球社会学: 跨国界现象的分析》, 孙嘉明 王勋 著）. It consists of eight chapters covering topics such as formation of global society and global sociology, major theories and schools of global social studies, economic globalization, global social environment, etc
2. News at University of Oxford website: A Fellow for Life: https://www.kellogg.ox.ac.uk/news/a-fellow-for-life 
New Fellowships awarded in 2023
At the dinner celebrating the conclusion of the 8th Global China Dialogue and the 10th Anniversary of the Global China Academy, new GCA fellowships were awarded. This was followed by messages and videos from absent GCA Fellows. The sessions were chaired by
- Professor Elena Semino (埃琳娜 · 塞米诺) FAcSS, FRSA, GCD Organizing Committee member, Director of the ESRC Centre for Corpus Approaches to Social Science, Lancaster University (left in photo)
- Presentation of certificates, reading greeting messages & watching videos from absent GCA Fellows and GCD 8 speakers, Professor Tony McEnery 托尼·麦肯尼教授 FAcSS FRSA FGCA and Chair of Global China Academy Council, Council Member of the Academy of Social Sciences, Distinguished Professor of English Language and Linguistics at Lancaster University (right in photo)
Representative of GCA Fellows, Professor Robin Cohen (罗宾·科恩) FGCA, Emeritus Professor and former Director of the International Migration Institute, University of Oxford, delivered greetings.
He emphasizes the academic community’s role in addressing global challenges such as wars, violence, and ecological imbalance. He praises historical contributions like Ancient Chinese wisdom and the European Enlightenment, while cautioning against past arrogance and imperialism. Advocating for ‘planetary universalism’ or a ‘New Enlightenment,’ Cohen calls for dialogue, pluralism, and tolerance, inspired by the ideas of reciprocity and transculturality that the GCA promotes. He concludes with a toast to the success of building a global society based on these principles.
Dr Frances Wood (吴芳思), a Trustee of the Global China Academy Board of Trustees and former Curator of Chinese Collections at the British Library, presented certificates to GCA Fellows and Associate Fellows.
GCA Fellows:
- Professor HOU Shiyuan (郝时远), Academician and former Associate President and former Director of the Institute of Ethnology and Anthropology at Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (Absent, in China).
- Professor Nora Ann Colton (诺拉·安·科尔顿), Director of the UCL Global Business School for Health (GBSH) (Absent, in Manila).
- Professor LI Linxue (李麟学), Dean of the College of Arts and Media at Tongji University, China
GCA Aassociate Fellows:
- Professor QIAN Yufang (钱毓芳), Director of Institute of Corpus and Discourse Studies, School of Foreign Studies, Zhejiang Gongshang University, China; Editor of the Journal of Corpus Approaches to Chinese Social Sciences
- Dr Gavin Brookes (加文·布鲁克斯), Reader in Linguistics and UKRI Future Leader Fellow with an interest in corpus linguistics, discourse analysis and health communication, Lancaster University, UK, Executive Editor of the Journal of Corpus Approaches to Chinese Social Sciences
- Professor WANG Xin (王鑫), Head of Department of Communication, College of Arts and Media, Tongji University, China; Executive Editor of the Journal of China in Global and Comparative Perspectives (Chinese Edition, absent, in China)
Professor Xiangqun Chang (常向群) FRSA, FGCA, President of the Global China Academy, presented certificates to GCA Institutional Fellows:
- The UCL Global Business School for Health (GBSH）
- The ESRC Centre for Corpus Approaches to Social Science at Lancaster University, UK
- The College of Arts and Media at Tongji University, China
- The Institute of Linguistics, Sun Yat-sen University, China (absent, in China)
Afterwards, Professor Tony McEnery (托尼·麦肯内里), FAcSS, FRSA, FGCA and Chair of the Global China Academy Council and Council Member of the Academy of Social Sciences, as well as Distinguished Professor of English Language and Linguistics at Lancaster University, chaired the final session. This session featured the demonstration of greeting messages, and videos were played from some absent GCA Fellows.
The messages are:
- Congratulations on the opening of the 8th Global China Dialogue. The Dialogue is most urgent at the current stage of world history. — Professor KOMAI Hiroshi（駒井 洋) FGCA, a Japanese sociologist and Professor Emeritus at the University of Tsukuba and Shigakukan University, Japan.
- The Global China Academy is a highly influential and prestigious international institution that promotes a very fruitful and intense dialogue between social scientists from China and various countries. Over the last ten years, the number of academic events, journals and other publications by Global Century Press has been very high. As a Life Fellow of the GCA, I am truly honoured to participate in the scientific life of this esteemed institution. I hope we will establish more and more cooperation in sociology, especially regarding what my Chinese colleagues and I call the Post-Western theory, to develop more dialogic and non-hegemonic social sciences. This aims to open new academic spaces and produce hybridizations between localized knowledge in China and Europe. It is a significant challenge for the future of social sciences. Happy Birthday to the GCA; wishing it great success and a very bright future! — Professor Laurence Roulleau-Berger (罗兰), FGCA, Emeritus Research Director at the National Centre for Scientific Research (NCSR).
The speakers and transcripts of video messages are:
- Professor XIE Lizhong (谢立中) FGCA and Chinese President of Global China Academy, Distinguished Chair Professor and former head of Department of Sociology of Peking University, China
Good evening, everyone: I’m delighted to extend my congratulations on the successful conclusion of the 8th Global China Dialogue. This year also marks a significant milestone—the 10th anniversary of the Global China Academy’s establishment. Congratulations to all involved in this remarkable journey. Over the past decade, thanks to your concern, support, and active participation, the Global China Academy has successfully organized many activities. Additionally, Global Century Press has published a wide range of uncensored works on China, significantly contributing to the promotion of scholarly exchange in China studies worldwide. Looking ahead, I sincerely hope the Global China Academy will continue to receive your unwavering support, enabling it to grow and excel even further.
- Professor Carsten Herrmann-Pillath (何梦笔) FGCA and Vice President of Global China Academy, Permanent Fellow at the Max Weber Centre for Advanced Cultural and Social Studies, Erfurt University, Germany
Ten years at Global China Academy, my heartfelt congratulations. What a decade: Trumpism, COVID-19, all these geopolitical tensions rising and creating an increasing distance between China and the so-called West. I think this is really a worrying trend, and an institution like the Global China Academy has a task to contribute to reversing this trend.
When I was a student, there was a China scholar who was famous, or I would say even infamous, for his neologism when dealing with China. One of his favorite neologisms was ‘impansionism.’ He argued that China was never, and will never be, a political power that pursues expansion in global terms like in the past, and some would say even today. Western countries define ‘impansionism’ as being just attractive to the world, just attracting people, capital, all that without doing anything. That’s deep, as you know, in the Taoist principle, the principle of non-action, Wu Wei. And I’m afraid that in the past decade, somehow, China also lost part of this wisdom.
I strongly believe, and that’s what I’ve experienced in my career of almost 40 years now dealing with China, that China is incredibly attractive and has always been incredibly attractive. That was also the topic in my video message last year. An institution like the Global China Academy can contribute exactly to this, making China attractive to the world. This does not mean to embellish China, but simply opening up, telling the truth, and also entering critical discourse. Actually, to a large degree, what is often called liberal values is the key to openness. And also, I think a key to non-action. China does not need to be afraid of any flies entering an open window. That’s what Mr. Weggel argued. It is true, about thousands of years of history of Chinese civilization. I wish Global China Academy the best for the next decade, that it will contribute to communicating Chinese thinking, Chinese debates, Chinese ideas to the world, and entering a multilateral intellectual dialogue. Thank you.
- Professor Shigeto Sonoda (園田 茂人) FGCA and Vice-President of Global China Academy, Professor of comparative sociology and Asian studies at the Institute for Advanced Studies on Asia, University of Tokyo, Japan
Hello, my name is Sonoda Shigeto, a Professor of Sociology and Asian Studies at the Institute for Advanced Studies on Asia at the University of Tokyo. Congratulations on the 10th anniversary of the Global China Academy. As you know, a variety of opinion polls reveal that people’s ideas and evaluations regarding the rise of China differ significantly from one country to another, even among Asian countries. Thus, I think it’s quite necessary for intellectuals to promote dialogue, especially intellectual dialogues between people in China and those in the global community. I hope that the Global China Academy will continue promoting these intellectual dialogues. Thank you.
- Professor Peter van der Veer (彼得·范德维尔) FGCA, Emeritus Professor and former Director of the Study of Religious Diversity at the Max Planck Institute, Germany.
Dear colleagues at the Global China Academy, I’m terribly sorry I cannot be present at the event today, as I’m currently in China serving as a visiting faculty member at Zhejiang University in Hangzhou. I’m very pleased to be back in China. I have not been here for more than three years, and it’s really important to reestablish contacts after the Covid period, especially when academic exchange has become threatened. I believe that the Global China Academy can play an important role in this effort of reestablishing contact. I wish you much success.
- Professor Prasenjit Duara (杜赞奇) FGCA, Distinguished Professor of East Asian Studies, Duke University, USA
Good day, everybody. My name is Prasenjit Duara, and my Chinese name is DU Zanqi. I am the Oscar Tang Professor at Duke University. I was a student of China and global history. As a Fellow of the Global China Academy, I’m delighted to congratulate the Academy on conducting the 8th Global China Dialogue. In a period of increasing tensions around the world, which is making life so difficult for many millions of people, it is, I believe, imperative that as scholars, we maintain open dialogue in various areas of life between the major powers.
As someone originally from India, I also believe China and India should open more lines of dialogue and exchange. We need to create a global civil society that is invested in dialogue for peace. And now, have a productive conference and my best wishes to all of you. Goodbye now.
- Professor GU Yueguo (顾曰国) FGCA, Emeritus Research Professor of Linguistics in the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS), Former Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Beijing Foreign Studies University, China.
Hello there, I’m Gu Yueguo, an absent fellow greeting everybody from Beijing, PRC, because I have immersed myself in two national projects on gerontic discourse which I must complete. I miss everybody, and the 10th GCA anniversary dinner in particular. Have a good time in London.
- Professor HOU Shiyuan (郝时远) FGCA, Academician and former Associate President and former Director of the Institute of Ethnology and Anthropology at Chinese Academy of Social Sciences.
Hello to all the experts, I am Hao Shuyuan from the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences. First of all, I would like to express my heartfelt congratulations on the 10th anniversary of the Global China Academy’s series of important academic achievements. At the same time, I am also very pleased to have received academic honors. I would like to specially thank Professor Xiangqun Chang and the experts who recommended me to join the academic team of the Global China Academy. Here, I can only simply express a wish and convey my own desire. That is to say, receiving academic honours is in fact also taking on an academic responsibility.
In the future, I am willing to engage in academic exchanges and cooperation with all my colleagues at the Global China Academy and jointly make our own efforts to fulfill this academic responsibility. Thank you all.
- Professor BING Zheng 邴正教授 FGCA, former Executive Vice-President of Jilin University; former Vice-President of the Chinese Sociological Association, China.
On this joyous occasion of the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the Global China Academy, I would like to express my heartfelt thanks and sincere congratulations to the Global China Academy and Professor Chang Xiangqun.
Since its establishment, the Global China Academy has actively organized scholars from China and the UK, strengthening academic and cultural exchanges and promoting academic communication and publication activities. It has played a very important role in organizing academic events and connecting scholars, building a bridge between Chinese and British scholars. Through this bridge, many Chinese and British scholars have enhanced their understanding, exchanged academic ideas, tightened their connections, and fostered friendships through mutual exchanges and visits.
Therefore, I wholeheartedly wish the Global China Academy to attract more talented individuals, gather more academic strength, jointly promote Sino-British friendship, and advance academic research around globalization, leading to more academic exchanges and scholarly achievements.
- Click here to visit the 10th GCA Dinner session Part I – Presenting cirtificates to new Fellows
- Click here to visit the 10th GCA Dinner session Part II – Playing multimedia messages from absent fellows and speakers.
- Click here to visit the 10th GCA Reception session – Launch GCA and GCP two new websites.
- Click here to visit the 8th GCD webpage.
