Gender Equality and Labor Rights in Indonesia's Palm Oil Industry: Protecting Women Plantation Workers in Sumatra
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65815/gnke5t53Keywords:
Women workers, palm oil, labor rights, gender equality, SumatraAbstract
Indonesia's palm oil industry employs a large number of women in agricultural and plantation-related activities, yet women workers may experience unequal remuneration, insecure employment arrangements, limited social protection, and occupational risks. This article examines the human rights implications of working conditions experienced by women plantation workers in Sumatra. Using normative juridical and socio-legal analysis, the study evaluates labor law, gender equality principles, occupational safety standards, and corporate responsibilities. The article argues that formal recognition of equal employment rights is insufficient when structural inequalities remain embedded in recruitment, remuneration, job classification, and access to social protection. Women workers in informal or temporary positions may be particularly vulnerable because their employment status can limit access to statutory protections. The study proposes a gender-responsive labor rights framework incorporating equal remuneration, formal employment recognition, reproductive health protection, occupational safety, social security, and accessible grievance mechanisms. The article further emphasizes the responsibility of plantation companies and supply-chain actors to identify and address gender-based labor risks. Strengthening protection for women plantation workers would advance Indonesia's human rights commitments while contributing to more responsible and sustainable agricultural production.
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