Think Tanks in Public Policy Development: Contributions, Impact, and Challenges in the Global South

Think tanks are non-profit, independent research institutions that influence policy development through expert analysis and policy recommendations generated in various socio-political contexts, frequently collaborating with policymakers and other stakeholders. In today’s world of inclusive governance and pluralist political systems, their position as policy advocates, credible sources of information, and intelligent experts in policy formulation is more critical than ever. This chapter will highlight the importance and contributions of think tanks in creating public policy by providing an overview of their research and analytical capabilities and the value of their ‘independent’ and ‘nonpartisan’ viewpoints. It will describe their impact on policy discourse, public opinion, and advocacy by delineating the scenarios of think tanks in developing nations—the Global South, in juxtaposition with advanced countries. Furthermore, it will assess the effectiveness and impact of think tanks’ policy recommendations and the obstacles and criticisms they face, such as accusations of partisan bias, donor interest, funding issues, and the need for accountability and transparency in changing bureaucratic and political contexts.