Understanding Conservation Officers’ Roles and Challenges in Sri Lanka’s Marine Sector

This study examines the factors shaping marine conservation officers’ self-legitimacy (i.e. their belief in their authority and right to enforce rules), as well as their work conditions and enforcement challenges in Sri Lanka. Focusing on Sri Lanka as a case study, it explores how these factors influence officers’ commitment to and effectiveness in achieving conservation objectives. The study draws on semi-structured interviews conducted across eighteen fisheries harbours with 35 Coast Guard officers.