Mercator Institute for China Studies

The Mercator Institute for China Studies (MERICS) is a leading, nonprofit German think tank that specializes in the analysis and research of China. Founded in 2013 by the Mercator Foundation, a private German sponsor, MERICS is headquartered in Berlin and maintains an additional office in Brussels.

MERICS focuses on interdisciplinary research on political, economic, social, technological, and ecological developments in China and their global impacts. The institute publishes extensive analyses and expert publications, such as the series China Monitor and MERICS Papers on China, which provide policymakers in politics, business, and society with well-founded information. Additionally, MERICS offers regular events, from internal expert roundtables to public panels.

The main mission of MERICS is to contribute to a nuanced understanding of China through informed and knowledgeable perspectives. The institute relies on fact-based and independent research and advises decision-makers with tailored analyses. MERICS is committed to liberal and democratic values and strives to open new perspectives and action corridors in relations with China. A critical reflection on stereotypical or prejudiced representations in China research is a central concern of the institute.

MERICS places great importance on diversity and inclusion. The institute values the diversity of European society and strives to reflect this in its work culture and team. This includes diversity in terms of ethnic and national origin, gender identity, age, disability, social and educational background, as well as ethical beliefs and worldviews. The institute also promotes young talents through the “European China Talent” program to enrich and expand the European perspective on modern China.

MERICS collaborates closely with numerous national and international research institutions. It is an official partner of the Munich Security Conference and an academic partner of the bi-annual Hamburg Summit – China meets Europe. Through its fellowship program, MERICS engages leading scholars, policy advisors, and journalists from Europe, China, and other countries in the work of the institute.

In recent years, MERICS has also distinguished itself through its critical statements on Chinese policies, which led to sanctions by the Chinese government in March 2021. Despite these challenges, the institute remains an important player in public debates about China in Europe and globally.

Through its comprehensive and independent research, its diverse publications, and its active participation in international networks and debates, MERICS has established itself as a leading European research institute for China studies.

• 1 - https://merics.org/de/ueber-merics
• 2 - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercator_Institute_for_China_Studies
• 3 - https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercator_Institute_for_China_Studies
• 4 - https://merics.org/de/deutschland-china
• 5 - https://merics.org/de/medien