Abstract: This paper reviews the research on Western multilateralism from four perspectives: the conceptual definition, essential features, practical challenges and constructive pathways. It also categorizes the research process of Chinese multilateralism into three stages: the preliminary exploration of Western concepts and Chinas multilateral diplomatic practice (2000—2005), the analysis of the multilateralism policy mechanisms of the United States and Europe (2006—2012), and the work that serves for Chinas multilateral diplomatic practice (2013—present). While achieving fruitful research results, there are still some deficiencies, such as the insufficient indepth comparative studies, the considerably homogeneous research objects, the relatively more emphasis on practice rather than theory, and that on praise rather than reflection. In order to formulate a research agenda with both theoretical value and practical significance, it is necessary to explore and analyze multilateralism with Chinese characteristics in the new era concerning its background, core meaning, distinctive features, value orientation, policy implications, and significance.

Key words: the new era, multilateralism with Chinese characteristics, research agenda

摘要： 本文从概念界定、本质特征、现实挑战和建构路径四方面对西方多边主义研究进行述评，并将中国多边主义的研究历程归纳为三个阶段：初探西方概念以及中国多边外交实践（2000—2005年）、辨析美欧多边主义政策机制（2006—2012年）、服务中国多边主义外交实践（2013年至今）。在取得丰硕研究成果的同时，学界也存在着比较研究有待深入、研究对象稍显单一、相对重实践轻理论、相对重赞扬轻反思的不足。为了促使新时代中国特色多边主义形成一个具有理论价值和实践意义双重效用的研究议程，有必要从时代背景、核心要义、鲜明特征、价值取向、政策意涵、重大意义六个维度进行探讨和分析，形成新时代中国特色多边主义的研究议程。

关键词: 新时代, 中国特色多边主义, 研究议程