Gender Role in Farmers’ Livelihood Strategies at Peatland Area of Fire-Prone in Ogan Komering Ilir Regency South Sumatra Province

Abstract

Peatland management cannot be separated from the involvement of men and women. Gender role in farmer’s livelihoods on peatlands are an important factor for the implementation of community livelihood strategies after the policy of prohibiting burning in land management. The research is a survey research using a qualitative approach. The research was conducted in Pulu Beruang Village and Kayu Labu Village, Ogan Komering Ilir Regency. Data collection was carried out through field observations, interviews and Focus Group Discussions conducted in each village. Research indicated that in both villages, the dominant role in agricultural activities is significant by men, while women’s role in household activities. In terms of access to natural resource management, women and men have equal opportunities. The existence of peat management policy that tends to limit men in carrying out their livelihood systems makes women play a role in earning a living. Men dominate asset ownership, but women have an important role in decision making.