The struggle for women’s representation in Indonesian politics: an uphill battle
Source: Medriva
A Step Forward but Not Enough
In the 2019 general election, Indonesians elected more women into the national parliament than ever before, with women’s representation rising to 20.9%. This increase was attributed to the implementation of a 30% candidate quota for women, which compelled political parties to nominate more women candidates. However, this quota did not lead to equal representation, as more than 20% of electoral districts did not elect any women to parliament.
The Barriers Women Face
Women candidates in Indonesia face significant obstacles that hinder their successful entry into politics. These challenges include patriarchal attitudes, economic inequality, and the dominance of political dynasties. High campaign costs and the need for name recognition often mean that elite women and celebrities are more likely to be nominated. However, these women are not necessarily representative of the broader population of Indonesian women, and their candidacies can reinforce existing inequalities.
Click here to read the full article published by Medriva on 7 February 2024.
Image source: Medriva
A Step Forward but Not Enough
In the 2019 general election, Indonesians elected more women into the national parliament than ever before, with women’s representation rising to 20.9%. This increase was attributed to the implementation of a 30% candidate quota for women, which compelled political parties to nominate more women candidates. However, this quota did not lead to equal representation, as more than 20% of electoral districts did not elect any women to parliament.
The Barriers Women Face
Women candidates in Indonesia face significant obstacles that hinder their successful entry into politics. These challenges include patriarchal attitudes, economic inequality, and the dominance of political dynasties. High campaign costs and the need for name recognition often mean that elite women and celebrities are more likely to be nominated. However, these women are not necessarily representative of the broader population of Indonesian women, and their candidacies can reinforce existing inequalities.
Click here to read the full article published by Medriva on 7 February 2024.
Image source: Medriva