The Elusive 30%: Analyzing the Barriers to Female Representation in the Indonesian Parliament for East Nusa Tenggara (NTT)

Abstract

This study delves into the evolution of women’s involvement in global politics, with a specific focus on their journey to leadership roles, using Indonesia as a case study. The research adopts a phenomenological paradigm and employs a qualitative methodology. Despite the existence of a 30% quota for women’s representation, the progress in increasing the number of women in legislative roles has only marginally surpassed this benchmark. This slow development underscores the need to address the issue of women’s representation, considering that certain policies lack a pro-women attitude, such as the Bill on the Elimination of Sexual Violence. By drawing from previous research, personal analysis, and interviews with women representatives in the Indonesian Parliament for East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), this research seeks to comprehend the obstacles encountered by women during campaigns and the implications of these challenges for their political representation. Additionally, the study investigates why the set quotas are not being met and the impact of the increasing yet still insufficient representation of women on government policies. Preliminary findings indicate a rise in women’s political representation, but the anticipated substantial impact on pro-women policies is yet to be observed. This study highlights the significance of the role of political parties in nurturing competent women leaders. Its aim is to provide recommendations to the Indonesian Parliament and commissions, particularly those addressing women’s health and employment issues.
 Keywords: women, legislative, leadership, transformational