Gender Equality on the Local Political Stage: A Review of Women's Representation in the Lumajang District Peoples’s Council, Indonesia

Abstract

This article investigates the struggle for gender equality in local politics, particularly in the Lumajang District Regional House's Representative Council (DPRD), Indonesia, through a review of regulations and women's representation. Literature study, interviews, and group discussions were employed to gather data. Key findings of this study include an analysis of gender regulations at national and regional levels, women's representation in governmental structures, and challenges faced by women in the political sphere. Despite these regulations showing positive efforts to advocate for gender equality, further evaluation is necessary to account for local power dynamics and the context of colonial history. Furthermore, women's representation in the Regional House of Representative remains low, indicating significant challenges faced by women in politics. Therefore, strengthening gender awareness, increasing women's representation in governmental structures, and investing in women's education and empowerment are crucial. It is hoped that the implementation of these recommendations can bring about positive change in achieving gender equality and justice, as well as building a more inclusive and fair society for all.