SYMBOLIC INTERACTIONISM IN THE POLITICAL CAREERS OF WOMEN LEGISLATORS IN JEMBER REGENCY: A QUALITATIVE ETHNOGRAPHIC PHENOMENOLOGICAL STUDY ON GENDER EQUALITY AND SDGS

Abstract

Women remain underrepresented in politics worldwide, especially within male-dominated legislative bodies. This study explores how symbolic interactionism shapes the political journey of women legislators in Indonesia by examining how they navigate gender stereotypes, institutional barriers, and societal expectations. Anchored in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals—particularly Goal 5 (gender equality) and Goal 16 (inclusive institutions)—the research offers insights into strategies for fostering more equitable political participation. Using a qualitative ethnographic phenomenological approach, the study followed a female legislator ("Y") in Jember Regency from 2014 to 2023 through in-depth interviews and participant observation. Data were analyzed through the lens of symbolic interactionism to understand how meanings attached to political symbols—such as ambition, leadership, and integrity—influenced Y’s experiences and strategies. Findings show that Y’s presence challenged dominant stereotypes of women as weak leaders but revealed ongoing struggles in accessing lobbying opportunities and influence within male-dominated networks. Her emphasis on political integrity—resisting vote-buying and transactional politics—highlighted a commitment to public service. However, structural constraints such as party dynamics and power struggles limited her advocacy for gender-sensitive policies. Despite electoral success, systemic gender bias and unequal access to political resources undermined her potential impact. The study demonstrates how symbolic interactionism can illuminate women’s political agency and proposes actionable recommendations: reforming party quotas, enforcing anti-discrimination laws, offering institutional support for female legislators, and conducting comparative studies to inform global policy. By linking symbolic interactionism with the SDG agenda, this research contributes to advancing inclusive governance and sustainable development through gender-equitable political participation.