Indonesia’s Garment Industry Inequality on Women’s Workers and Empowering Women Workers

CIVICS EDUCATIONAL SOCIAL PROJECT

RESEARCH ARTICLE

 

 

  

“Indonesia’s Garment Industry Inequality on Women’s Workers and Empowering Women Workers”

___________________________________________________

Proposed by :

Dinda Sandikta Putri

1201213262

TI-45-INT

 

 

BACHELOR'S STUDY PROGRAM IN INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING

SCHOOL OF INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING

TELKOM UNIVERSITY

2023

 Indonesia’s Garment Industry Inequality on Women’s Workers and Empowering Women Workers

Dinda Sandikta Putri1

{dsandikta@gmail.com1}

Abstract. This research explores the gender-based disparities in Indonesia's garment industry, focusing on issues such as unequal pay, gender discrimination, and poor working conditions. The study uses observational research and secondary data analysis to quantify and humanize these inequalities, emphasizing the need for action to advance gender equality and empower women. The proposed strategy includes a public awareness campaign, policy changes, community engagement, and strategic media utilization. The campaign aims to educate and gain public support by promoting fair labor practices, equal pay, and enhanced working conditions. Collaboration between legislators, women's rights organizations, and industry stakeholders is crucial to drive significant transformations. Community events, dialogues, and workshops are also essential to challenge entrenched social norms and promote women's rights. Strategic media utilization, including both traditional and digital platforms, can amplify the campaign's message and cultivate public advocacy. The comprehensive implementation of this strategy aims to cultivate a more equitable, inclusive, and just workplace that transcends existing gender disparities. By collective efforts in pursuit of gender equality and women's empowerment within this sector, we can pave the path to a brighter future where every individual, regardless of gender, enjoys equal opportunities for success. Media, both traditional and digital, will play a vital role in spreading our message and building public support.

Keywords: Women Workers; Gender Equality; Indonesia's Garment Industry; Social Campaign; Human Rights

1   Introduction

The global garment and textile industry, particularly in Indonesia, is thriving due to its significant representation of women. However, the industry faces gender-based career inequality, with women facing low salaries, substandard working conditions, and increased risks to their physical and mental well-being. These disparities raise questions about the industry's commitment to fostering an environment of equality and inclusivity. Despite these challenges, women in the industry have remarkable potential comparable to their male counterparts. Recognizing and harnessing this potential aligns with principles of fairness and justice, and serves as a strategic imperative for sustaining and enhancing the industry's competitiveness on a global scale. Addressing gender-based career inequality is not just an ethical consideration but an economic necessity. Diverse and inclusive workplaces foster innovation, enhance productivity, and contribute to the overall success and resilience of industries. To dismantle barriers hindering women's progress, multifaceted initiatives should be implemented, including ensuring equal pay, improving working conditions, and prioritizing the physical and mental health of female employees. Balancing the scales within the apparel and textile sector is not just about rectifying existing disparities; it is a strategic imperative for a more vibrant, resilient, and forward-thinking industry in Indonesia.

There are a variety of reasons why women choose to work, including helping out around the house to provide for their families as the main provider of income. In order to bring light to the wide-ranging gender differences that still exist in this field, this research paper sets out to investigate their actual experiences. An analysis of a real case study involving a garment factory serves as an example of the realities of the difficulties faced by women in this industry. The study also explores the many variables that lead to these disparities, such as unfair labor practices and deeply rooted social norms. It also highlights the legislative actions and empowerment programs designed to reduce these differences, highlighting their critical role in improving the working conditions of female employees. This research paper's main goal is to increase public awareness of the numerous challenges faced by Indonesian women working in the apparel industry and to suggest workable solutions that help them overcome these challenges. By doing so, we hope to promote an equitable and just workplace in this crucial industry.

2   Literature Review

1. Human Rights Regulations for Women Indonesia (UUD 1945)

UU Nomor 39 tahun 1999 part nine there are (7) articles between articles 45-51. The types of legal systems that regulate women's rights in Indonesia are as follows:

1. Women's rights in politics

2. Women's rights in the field of citizenship

3. Women's rights in the field of education

4. Women's rights in the field of employment

An employee is an individual who receives compensation or remuneration in various forms. In accordance with the provisions outlined in Law Number 13 of 2003, specifically in Article 1 concerning employee regulations, women as employees who actively participate in national development hold the right to equal opportunities with men in various developmental activities (Susanti, 2000: 9).

The legal foundation governing women's rights in the field of employment is rooted in international instruments such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), specifically in Article 23. Furthermore, at the international level, it is outlined in Article 6, Article 7, and Article 8, clauses (1a) and (1b) of international conventions relating to economic, social, and cultural rights, which encompass the rights of individuals in relation to their professions and occupations, applicable to all individuals. Legal foundations are also embedded in Article 11 of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), particularly in Article 3 of the convention concerning political rights of women, which addresses the protection of rights specifically for all women. At the national level, Indonesia possesses legal instruments as enshrined in Law Number 39 of 1999 on human rights, Article 49, clause (1).

5. Women's rights in the health sector

6. Upholding women's rights through law

7. Women's rights in marriage

2. Women Workers in Indonesia

Indonesia's transition to democracy in 1998 marked a significant shift in the nation's history, but the long rule of President Suharto left a lasting impact on gender inequality. As Indonesia faces the Fourth Industrial Revolution, a new frontier emerges, offering unprecedented opportunities for women to break through traditional barriers and increase economic empowerment. However, deep-seated societal norms and policies continue to cast shadows on women's full and active engagement in the labor force. To bridge the gender gap, strategic emphasis on expanding sectors that provide more job opportunities for women becomes imperative. This entails targeted initiatives to break down barriers to entry, including discriminatory practices and biases. Fostering an environment that encourages and supports women's participation in diverse sectors, particularly those emerging in the wake of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, is paramount. Through intentional policy reforms, cultural shifts, and targeted investments, Indonesia can harness the transformative power of the Fourth Industrial Revolution to propel women's rights and participation to new heights, fulfilling the promise of democracy by fostering an inclusive society with equal opportunities.

Fig. 1. Average Wage/Salary for a Month

The data shows a persistent trend of a significant disparity in labor force participation rates (LFPR) between men and women. This pattern persists from August 2021 to February 2022, with men consistently surpassing women's LFPR by approximately 1.5. In August 2022, the LFPR for men reached 83.87 percent, compared to 53.41 percent for women. This indicates that out of 100 working-age male residents, approximately 84 individuals actively engaged in the labor force, while 53.41 individuals for women.The persistent nature of this gender-based disparity calls for a deeper understanding of the underlying factors contributing to this trend. It raises questions about societal dynamics, workplace structures, and potential barriers that may disproportionately affect women's participation in the labor force. By extending the analysis over multiple time intervals, a longitudinal perspective can be gained, allowing for a more nuanced understanding of the persistent nature of this imbalance. As discussions around gender equity and inclusive economic participation continue to grow, understanding LFPR trends is crucial for informed policymaking and targeted interventions. Addressing these disparities is not only an economic imperative but also a step towards a more equitable and inclusive society.

3. Inequality in Salary

The gender pay gap is a persistent issue where women earn less than their male counterparts in the professional world. Factors contributing to this issue include women often having less work experience, societal beliefs that shape workplace dynamics, and unfair treatment towards women in various professional settings. Unconscious biases and gender stereotypes can influence hiring decisions, promotions, and salary negotiations, perpetuating wage disparities. Additionally, occupational segregation disproportionately affects women in historically undervalued or underpaid jobs.The gender equality movement aims to dismantle this pervasive pay gap, advocating for equal compensation for equivalent work and equal opportunities for career advancement. This movement is a testament to the commitment to rectifying systemic imbalances and fostering diverse, inclusive workplaces. Addressing the gender pay gap is a crucial step towards creating a fair and just professional landscape, reflecting the principles of equality and meritocracy that underpin an equitable society.

Fig. 2. Average Wage/Salary for a Month

The table reveals a consistent pattern of male employees earning higher monthly salaries than female employees. As of August 2022, the average monthly net salary for male employees is 3.33 million rupiah, surpassing that of female employees at 2.59 million rupiah. Although both male and female employees experienced an increase in their average monthly net salaries between February and August 2022, the persistent wage gap remains a significant issue. This contrast in earnings raises questions about gender equity and workplace fairness. The data suggests that factors contributing to this wage disparity may include occupational segregation, implicit biases, or systemic issues within the employment framework. The observed increase in average monthly net salaries for both genders signals a positive trajectory, but it is crucial to approach these advancements with a discerning eye. The persistent wage gap serves as a reminder of the challenges in achieving true gender equity in the workplace. A continued exploration of underlying factors contributing to the wage disparity and a collective commitment to implementing strategies that foster a more inclusive and equitable work environment for all employees is necessary.

3   Methods

In order to conduct a thorough investigation of the complex topic of Inequality on Women's Workers in Indonesia's Garment Industry and Empowering Women Workers, this research paper has skillfully combined two different but complementary research methodologies:

1. Observational Research

Observational research is a valuable method for understanding the working conditions and experiences of female employees in the Indonesian garment industry. It allows researchers to immerse themselves in the actual workplace environments, gaining first hand insights beyond surveys or interviews. This method provides a contextually rich and broad understanding of the multifaceted issues faced by women in the industry, offering a qualitative depth that humanizes the data. It provides a holistic view of the challenges and opportunities embedded within the professional journeys of female employees. The timid nature of observational research allows for a natural unfolding of events, capturing the authenticity of women's experiences without external influences that might alter the narrative. In essence, observational research emerges as a dynamic and comprehensive tool, shedding light on the lived experiences of women and contributing to a more nuanced understanding of the complex dynamics at play in the Indonesian garment industry.

2. Secondary Analysis

This study employs secondary analysis as a method to examine historical data, trends, and patterns related to gender-based wage disparities, workplace inequalities, and the status of women workers in the garment industry. This method offers a retrospective lens through which researchers can understand the cyclical nature of challenges and the effectiveness of policy interventions. Secondary analysis traverses temporal dimensions, enabling researchers to discern patterns and trends that have shaped the landscape of gender-based wage disparities over time. It uncovers the historical ebbs and flows, allowing for a comprehensive exploration of changing dynamics within the garment industry. It serves as a beacon illuminating the evolution of workplace inequalities, providing insights into factors that have perpetuated or mitigated gender disparities throughout different period. Secondary analysis also serves as a strategic tool for evaluating the impact and effectiveness of policy interventions. By tracing historical trends, researchers can discern the ripple effects of past policies aimed at addressing gender-based wage disparities and workplace inequalities. This retrospective examination allows for a critical appraisal of the success or limitations of these interventions, contributing to a more informed approach in shaping future policy frameworks.

The study uses observational research and secondary data analysis to examine gender inequalities in the garment industry. It provides a comprehensive understanding of women workers' experiences and assesses the evolving landscape of gender-based disparities. This approach illuminates the challenges faced by women and informs strategies for achieving gender equality and women's empowerment.

4   Discussions

This study investigates gender inequality in Indonesia's garment industry using a hybrid methodology that combines observational research and secondary data analysis. It provides insights into the challenges faced by women in this sector, revealing subtle nuances that quantitative data may overlook. The study also highlights the connection between gender equality and employment, focusing on the specific rights afforded to women within the professional sphere and how they are actualized or fall short of implementation. The findings advocate for change within the garment industry and contribute to a broader dialogue on women's empowerment and gender equality in Indonesia. The study emphasizes the need for systemic reforms to address gender-based disparities and create an environment that fosters inclusivity, equity, and dignity for women in the workplace. It calls for societal transformation, providing both quantitative evidence and qualitative depth to galvanize stakeholders into action. The observational research has provided valuable insights into the experiences of women working in the garment industry, revealing challenges such as unequal pay, gender-based discrimination, and subpar working conditions. This qualitative data offers a human face to the statistics and evokes empathy and understanding. The anecdotal narratives vividly depict the struggles and aspirations of women workers, resonating with audiences. The secondary data analysis provides a historical perspective, tracing the trajectory of gender-based wage disparities and workplace inequalities over time. This narrative highlights the persistence of these disparities and underscores the urgency of addressing them. By contextualizing the present challenges within the historical context, the secondary data analysis empowers the social campaign to present a comprehensive argument for change, highlighting the extent of the problem and potential benefits of gender equity in the workplace. Based on that, the social campaigns that need to be upgraded include:

1. Public Awareness

The proposed campaign aims to address gender-based inequalities in Indonesia's garment industry through public awareness and targeted campaigns. The campaign will involve educational workshops, pamphlets, and brochures to engage the public and potential allies. The workshops will provide in-depth discussions, knowledge-sharing, and information dissemination, fostering a deeper understanding of the issues faced by women in the industry. The campaign will also distribute educational materials to bridge information gaps and dispel misconceptions, creating a more informed and empathetic societal perspective. Public awareness is the foundation for the campaign's broader objectives, fostering a groundswell of support, empathy, and advocacy for gender equity within the garment industry. By laying a strong foundation through awareness campaigns, workshops, and educational materials, the campaign will create a ripple effect of change, questioning societal norms and making gender equality a collective imperative. This strategic pillar will not only highlight existing challenges but also ignite a transformative movement across communities, fostering a more inclusive and equitable future for women in the garment industry.

2. Policy Advocacy

Policy advocacy is a vital tool in addressing the challenges in Indonesia's garment industry, focusing on wage disparities, improving working conditions, and safeguarding women's rights. Collaboration with lawmakers and women's rights organizations is essential to create a legislative environment that promotes fair labor practices, equal pay, and safe work environments for women. Active engagement with industry stakeholders, including companies and manufacturers, is crucial for policy advocacy's success. Public pressure and consumer support are key catalysts for change, as the collective voice of the public can shape legislative reform agendas, prioritizing gender equity, fair compensation, and improved working conditions. Consumer support also amplifies the impact of policy advocacy, as they can influence corporate behavior through their purchasing decisions. This consumer-driven approach signals a demand for responsible business practices and creates a market incentive for companies to adopt socially responsible policies.

3. Community Engagement

The campaign aims to promote women's rights and change mindsets in local communities through various methods such as community events, dialogues, and workshops. It aims to bridge the gap between theoretical frameworks and lived realities by fostering a nuanced understanding of gender equality. Community events provide open discourse, allowing participants to engage with the complexities of gender-based disparities. Workshops are designed to educate and instigate tangible change, fostering comprehensive awareness and breaking down barriers. The campaign's goal is to influence the collective mindset within local communities, challenging prevailing norms and creating a ripple effect that extends beyond workshops and events. The collective efforts empower women workers, foster a profound mindset shift, and contribute to an environment where equity and fairness prevail. Overall, the campaign is a dynamic force for societal transformation.

4. Media

The campaign aims to raise awareness and humanize gender equality in the workplace through social media and traditional media channels. Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn connect with diverse audiences globally, while traditional media channels like television, radio, newspapers, and magazines reach broader audiences. The campaign's emotional core is humanizing the issue by sharing compelling tales of female workers' hardships, bridging the empathy gap and fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges they face daily. Visual storytelling holds particular potency in the digital age, as it can convey the essence of the campaign's message swiftly and powerfully. Collaborating with skilled photographers, videographers, and graphic designers can elevate the visual impact of the campaign. The media component of the campaign is not just a means of communication but a vehicle for societal transformation. By strategically navigating both digital and traditional channels, the campaign seeks to weave a narrative that captivates hearts, informs minds, and inspires collective action.

This research explores gender inequality in Indonesia's garment industry using a hybrid methodology of observational research and secondary data analysis. It highlights the connection between gender equality and employment, focusing on the specific rights afforded to women in the professional sphere and the disparities in their actualization. The study advocates for transformative change within the industry, emphasizing the need for systemic reforms and an environment fostering inclusivity, equity, and dignity for women in the workplace.Observational research provides valuable insights into the experiences of women working in the garment industry, humanizing statistics and fostering empathy. Secondary data analysis provides a historical perspective on gender-based wage disparities and workplace inequalities, enabling a social campaign to present a comprehensive argument for change. Proposed social campaigns focus on Public Awareness, Policy Advocacy, Community Engagement, and Media Utilization. These campaigns aim to challenge societal norms, educate the public, and bridge information gaps, fostering a more informed and empathetic perspective on gender equality. Policy advocacy seeks legislative reforms, collaborating with lawmakers, women's rights organizations, and industry stakeholders to create an environment that promotes fair labor practices, equal pay, and safe work environments. Community engagement aims for mindset shifts through events, dialogues, and workshops, empowering women workers and creating an environment of equity and fairness. Media utilization humanizes gender equality through compelling stories, strategically utilizing both traditional and digital channels to captivate hearts and inspire collective action.

5   Conclusions and Recommendation

In conclusion, this research serves as a beacon illuminating the intricate web of gender-based disparities deeply embedded in Indonesia's garment industry. The meticulous integration of observational research and secondary data analysis has not only quantified these disparities but has also humanized the experiences of women workers, instigating a compelling call to action for the promotion of gender equality and the empowerment of women in the workplace. The proposed strategy to confront these multifaceted challenges encompasses a nuanced and holistic approach, recognizing the interconnectedness of societal, legislative, and communal factors. At the forefront of this strategy is the imperative creation of a robust public awareness campaign. This campaign stands as the bedrock for transformative change, aiming to educate and garner widespread support. By disseminating information and fostering understanding, it lays the foundation for a society that actively champions gender equality and women's empowerment. Secondly, strategic advocacy for policy changes emerges as a critical component of this comprehensive strategy. Collaborative efforts between legislators, women's rights organizations, and industry stakeholders are paramount to instigate reforms in labor practices, salary structures, and workplace safety. Harnessing the power of consumer support and public pressure becomes instrumental in propelling these changes forward, ensuring a collective voice for the cause.

Community engagement forms the third pivotal element in this strategy, recognizing the need to disrupt deeply ingrained social norms. Through meticulously planned community gatherings, discussions, and workshops, this strategy seeks to foster a profound mindset shift, advancing women's rights and sparking a mental revolution within local communities. The ripple effect of such engagements extends beyond the organized events, contributing to an environment where gender equality becomes a shared value. The dissemination of the campaign's message is facilitated through the strategic use of media platforms, both traditional and digital. By leveraging compelling narratives and in-depth reporting, the media plays a pivotal role in humanizing the issue, making it relatable and inspiring public advocacy. The narratives told through these channels become catalysts for change, resonating with audiences and motivating collective action. In envisioning the future, the implementation of this comprehensive strategy strives to create a workplace that transcends existing gender disparities. The aim is to foster an environment that is not only equitable and inclusive but also just. It is with unwavering belief that collective efforts towards gender equality and women's empowerment within this crucial sector will pave the way for a promising future, where every individual, irrespective of gender, has an equal opportunity to thrive. This research stands as a testament to the potential for transformative change and the realization of a more just and equitable society.

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