Activism and Political Opportunity: Environmental Management on the Move in Sylhet City

Abstract

Abstract We aim to explore the nature of environmental (streams/canals and hillocks) management in terms of how government authorities and environmental groups attempt to control environmental threats around Sylhet City. Adopting a qualitative approach, we interviewed seventeen key informants of government stakeholders and environmental activists involved in local grassroots movements. We argue that dynamic environmental management allows the government and environmental groups to respond conditionally. Although responsible government institutions manage the environment, local movements demand more active presence, raise flags into their actions if found any reckless attempt, strive for more accountability of authorities and push toward eliminating growing threats. We propose a rational perspective of environmental movements related to political opportunity structure.