Women Participation in the Implementation of REDD + Program “Reduction Emission from Deforestation and Degradation” in Kapuas District Central Kalimantan

Abstract

This study aims to examine the extent of womenÂ’s participation in the implementation of the KFCP (Kalimantan Forest and Carbon Partnership) Project in Central Kalimantan and provides recommendations for the women requirements in the context of developing strategies and programs related to the project area. The expected outcomes of this study may provide the necessary information for monitoring and evaluation in the implementation of project activities in particular matters relating to women and their participation for future program improvement. Sampling is done by using purposive sampling technique, targeting several respondents such as community leaders, traditional leaders, village officials and village communities, especially women. Data collection was done by observation, interview, and documentation study. The data obtained were analyzed by a descriptive method. The result of the research shows that the participation rate of women is feeble, mostly only at the level of Tokenism, where the role is only heard and allowed to argue, but their views and opinions have not influenced policy. The participation level is lower in the village of Sei Ahas and the village of Katimpun, only at the Non-Participations level, because their involvement is to educate not to express opinions about REDD + projects. This lack of participation is due to socio-political and cultural societies that still retain traditional gender roles which only locate and position women for domestic affairs thus undermining their position in public spaces. Besides, discrimination by male leaders and their lack of self-esteem, and low levels of education weaken them to play a role in their village community even in the implementation of the KFCP project.