REPOSITIONING THE ROLE OF WOMEN IN ELECTIONS: GENDER DISCOURSE AND DISCRIMINATION OF WOMEN

Eka Mulbianti

Authors

Eka Mulbianti PPKn Study Program, Postgraduate, Gorontalo State University, Indonesia

Keywords:

Repositioning; Women's Political Role; Gender Discrimination; Affirmative Action; Substantive Representation

Abstract

Women hold an important position in Indonesia's democratic life, yet their representation in electoral politics remains below the affirmative-action target. This study aims to analyze the repositioning of women's roles in elections and the forms of gender discrimination that continue to limit their political participation. This study employed a library research method by reviewing scholarly articles, books, and legal documents published between 2016 and 2026. The data were analyzed thematically to identify developments in women's representation, forms of gender discrimination, and factors influencing women's participation in the political arena. The findings show that the minimum 30% quota for female candidates has been implemented since 2004, and political parties in the 2024 election formally complied with this requirement, with women accounting for approximately 37% of candidates. However, women's representation in the national parliament reached only about 21.9%. This condition indicates a gap between formal quota compliance and substantive representation. Gender discrimination continues to manifest through marginalization, subordination, stereotyping, violence, and double burdens, which are reinforced by patriarchal culture. In addition, family support, socioeconomic networks, and political dynasties influence women's success in electoral competition. This study concludes that repositioning women's roles requires more than fulfilling numerical quotas. It also requires changes in political culture, reform of political party recruitment, and strengthened political literacy through Civic Education to promote more substantive women's representation.

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