Women and Work in Indonesia

The book offers a comprehensive look at women's work in Indonesia, exploring various roles and challenges they face in modern society.

This insightful examination, Women and Work in Indonesia, is crafted by Indonesian scholars who draw from extensive fieldwork experiences across the archipelago. The book delves into the multifaceted nature of work for women in contemporary Indonesia, employing a broad definition that encompasses not just paid employment but also the roles women fulfill in home life, childcare, and various cultural practices. By focusing on how women themselves define their work, the authors challenge traditional assumptions about economic activity and highlight the diverse contributions women make to their communities.

In exploring the contrasts between 'new' and 'old' forms of work, Women and Work in Indonesia addresses the significant impacts of migration and the shaping influence of religion, particularly Islam, on women’s work experiences. The book spans various settings, both rural and urban, covering regions such as Sumatra, Bali, Lombok, Java, Sulawesi, and Kalimantan. It presents a wide array of employment types, from agricultural and industrial roles to emerging opportunities in media and tourism, illustrating how capitalism and globalization intertwine with local culture to create distinct gendered patterns of work.

Furthermore, the book critically examines the value placed on women's traditional roles, such as agricultural labor and domestic responsibilities. It challenges the notion of women being solely defined as mothers and housewives, showcasing how they navigate and redefine their identities through kinship and community ties. Overall, Women and Work in Indonesia is a significant contribution to understanding the complexities of women's work in a rapidly changing society.