The New South Institute (NSI) is pleased to be a hosting partner of the On Think Tanks (OTT) Conference in Johannesburg, where global thought leaders will gather to explore the evolving role of think tanks in shaping policy and fostering societal change.

As part of the conference agenda, two keynote sessions will provide critical insights into the influence, challenges, and strategies of think tanks operating in complex policy environments.

Keynote Sessions

Think Tanks Beyond the Impact on Public Policy

Speaker: Dr Luciana Servo, President, Institute for Applied Economic Research (Ipea), Brazil

Dr Luciana Servo will examine the broader contributions of think tanks beyond direct policy influence, focusing on how they shape public discourse, support institutional capacity-building, and drive evidence-based decision-making.

Key themes include:

• How think tanks measure their impact beyond immediate policy outcomes
• The role of strategic communication in influencing public opinion
• Insights from Ipea’s leadership in organising the T20 2024
• The challenges and opportunities of global collaboration in policy-making

This session will provide a comprehensive perspective on how think tanks contribute to long-term societal progress.

The Think Tank Playbook: Shaping Policy in a Noisy World

Speaker: Damien King, Executive Director, CAPRI

In a world of competing interests, corporate lobbying, and rapid public demands, how can think tanks maintain their influence? Damien King will outline a strategic approach to navigating this complex landscape, ensuring think tanks remain key players in policy development.

Discussion points include:

• Identifying and leveraging spaces of influence within the policymaking process
• Developing structured strategies to maximise impact
• Effective engagement tactics in politically charged environments

Both sessions will provide valuable frameworks for think tank professionals, policymakers, and researchers striving to enhance their impact.

The NSI looks forward to engaging in these discussions and contributing to the broader dialogue on the role of think tanks in shaping policy and governance.For more information about the conference and full programme details, visit the OTT Conference website: https://onthinktanks.org/conference/ott-conference-2025/