4: Political opportunity structures

Political Opportunity Structures: The Political Landscape for Movements

Imagine you're planning a big outdoor event. The weather matters, right? A sunny day makes everything easier, while a storm creates challenges. In social movements, the "weather" is the political opportunity structure – the set of conditions in the political environment that make it easier or harder for a movement to emerge, grow, and succeed. It’s about understanding the openings and obstacles within the political system itself.

Think of it as the rules of the game and the state of the playing field. Movements don't operate in a vacuum; they push against existing political structures. Here are key aspects of what creates a "political opportunity":

1. Openings in the System: Is the political system generally stable and closed, or is it shifting and more open to new ideas? Major events like elections, scandals, or economic crises can create instability and cracks where movements can push their demands. A new, more sympathetic government taking power is a classic opening.
2. Allies in Power: Do groups within the established political system – like certain political parties, influential lawmakers, or even parts of the government bureaucracy – support the movement's goals? Having powerful allies provides crucial resources, access, and legitimacy. Think of civil rights leaders finding allies in the courts or sympathetic northern politicians.
3. Elite Divisions: Are the people in power united, or are they fighting among themselves? When elites disagree – maybe conservatives split on an issue, or different branches of government clash (like courts vs. parliament) – it creates space for movements to maneuver. They can exploit these divisions to gain support or block opponents.
4. State Capacity & Repression: How strong is the government, and how does it typically respond to challenges? A weak state might struggle to suppress a movement, creating an opportunity. Conversely, a very strong, repressive state can slam the door shut, making protest extremely risky. The level of police violence or censorship are factors here.

Why does this matter for movements?

Activists aren't passive. They constantly scan this political landscape. They ask: Is now a good time to protest? Who in power might listen to us? Are our opponents divided? Recognizing a favorable opportunity structure helps movements decide when to mobilize publicly, what tactics to use (e.g., lobbying vs. mass demonstrations), and where to direct their energy for maximum impact. For instance, a movement might launch a major campaign just after an election where allies gained seats, or exploit a scandal affecting their opponents.

A Simple Example: Imagine a group pushing for environmental laws. If a major oil spill happens, causing public outrage (an opening), and a new "green" party gains influence in parliament (potential allies), while the traditional parties argue over energy policy (elite divisions), the opportunity structure becomes very favorable. Their chances of success suddenly look much brighter. They’d likely ramp up action right then. Conversely, if the government is stable, unified against regulation, and cracking down on protests, the same group might focus on quieter, long-term organizing instead.