Reaping Equality: Strategies for Gender Roles in Indonesiaʼs Agricultural Transformation

Abstract

This study uses data from Statistics Indonesia for 2010 and 2020 to analyse the correlation between gender and agricultural transformation. It employs descriptive statistics to explore the transformation from food crops to high-value commodities, womenʼs roles in on-farm and non-farm sectors, womenʼs working hours and wages, and rural household income. The findings reveal a complex dynamic. While womenʼs participation in the workforce has increased across Indonesia, their roles in the agricultural sector remain multifaceted. Furthermore, the shift towards high-value commodities presents both challenges and opportunities for women. Although it may lead to increased workloads and marginalisation, it may also offer new income-generating opportunities and opportunities for greater empowerment. This study addresses a critical research gap by examining womenʼs specific experiences and contributions in the transition from food crops to high-value commodities and their role in the shift from agricultural to non-agricultural livelihoods, which remain understudied in the context of Indonesiaʼs agricultural transformation. It emphasises the importance of policies that address gender inequality and empower women to fully participate in and benefit from rural development initiatives.