Gender Relations between Men and Women in Village Government Decision-Making

Abstract

study aims to examine the dynamics of gender relations in decision-making in Pesagi village, Kayen sub-district, Pati district. The main focus of this research is to understand the extent to which women are involved in the decision-making process and how to improve the role of women in line with the enactment of Law No. 6 of 2014 on Villages, which provides new opportunities for women's participation. This research uses a qualitative approach with the methods of in-depth interviews, participatory observation, and document analysis to obtain a comprehensive picture of women's participation in village decision-making. By testing the validity of the data using the Triangulation technique, namely comparing and reviewing the degree of trust in information obtained through different times and tools in qualitative research. The results show that despite formal recognition of women's role in village governance, their active participation is still limited. Women tend to be involved in domestic and community issues, such as health and social welfare, while men dominate areas of physical village development. Deep-rooted gender stereotypes and inequalities in access and opportunity are also factors inhibiting women's participation, and decision-making by women is often influenced by men. Based on the explanation from the analysis of men's and women's gender relations in decision-making in Pesagi village, to increase women's participation in village decision- making, a comprehensive strategy is needed, including training and capacity building, setting quotas for women's representation, and active support from the female village head. So that women can contribute more significantly to village development and ensure gender-equitable policies.