Taru Salmenkari
Senior researcher at the University of Helsinki and author of Global Ideas, Local Adaptations: Chinese Activism and the Will to Make Civil Society (Edward Elgar, 2025), specializing in Chinese NGOs, civil society, and local political agency.
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Oct 24, 2025 • 44min
Taru Salmenkari, "Global Ideas, Local Adaptations: Chinese Activism and the Will to Make Civil Society" (Edward Elgar, 2025)
Taru Salmenkari, a senior researcher at the University of Helsinki, delves into the intricate world of Chinese civil society in her latest work. She discusses how Chinese NGOs have adapted global political values to local contexts, influenced by Confucian traditions. Salmenkari explores gay self-organizing, highlighting contrasts between formal events like Shanghai Pride and grassroots gatherings. She challenges conventional definitions of political action, presenting community-building as a form of activism. Additionally, she introduces the concept of Minjian, emphasizing its significance in grassroots movements.
Oct 24, 2025 • 44min
Taru Salmenkari, "Global Ideas, Local Adaptations: Chinese Activism and the Will to Make Civil Society" (Edward Elgar, 2025)
Taru Salmenkari, a senior researcher at the University of Helsinki, dives into the complex world of Chinese civil society and NGOs. She discusses how globalization has influenced local activism and highlights the significant role of Confucian values in NGO operations. Salmenkari contrasts examples like Shanghai Pride with grassroots gatherings, showing the rich tapestry of LGBTQ+ activism in China. She also challenges Western definitions of politics, illustrating how local community actions are vital political expressions. Plus, she hints at her work on climate policy and its implications for civil society.
