Gender and Politics in Post-Reformasi Indonesia: Women Leaders within Local Oligarchy Networks

This book explores the political role of women leaders in local government in Indonesia, using a gendered perspective to uncover the challenges and difficulties they encountered. It provides a rich empirical account of the current features of female political leaders and their political and familial linkages, contributing to the work of scholars and political activists seeking to unpack the process and progress of democratization in post-reformasi Indonesia.

Format: Hardback
Length: 152 pages
Publication date: 03 July 2022
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

This book delves into a comprehensive exploration of the political role of women leaders in local government in Indonesia, employing a gendered lens to uncover a profound understanding of their contributions. The narrative begins with the captivating stories of two remarkable women who achieved remarkable victories in the local elections of 2010 and 2011, respectively, in Indramayu and Tangerang Selatan. These women serve as the focal point for a thoughtful discussion on the role of female political leaders within the broader political landscape of Indonesia. Through their experiences, the book sheds light on the numerous challenges and complexities these women encountered as they sought to attain power and promote local democracy. It highlights the patriarchal nature of the oligarchy and the systemic barriers that hindered their progress. By providing a rich empirical account of the current characteristics and political and familial relationships of female political leaders, this book makes a significant contribution to the field of scholars and political activists who are dedicated to unraveling the process and progress of democratization in post-reformasi Indonesia. It underscores the indispensable role of women's political participation and leadership in shaping the nation's democratic future. Moreover, this book champions the increasing importance of Indonesian women in the democratic process, despite the enduring challenges posed by familial ties and political dynasty factors that continue to hinder democratization. These trends are prevalent across multiple Southeast Asian countries in the twenty-first century. This translated and updated co-publication, led by one of Indonesia's esteemed scholars in women's studies, is a testament to the power of feminist scholarship and its ability to shed light on critical social issues. It is a valuable resource for scholars and students interested in gender and politics, offering insights into the complex dynamics of power and governance in Indonesia and beyond.

Weight: 430g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811917332
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022