Isnawati Mohamad, Muhammad Jazuli, Muh. Ibnan Syarif, Rahina Nugrahani
Karawo craftsmen, who are mostly women, are still considered to have less prestigious jobs in the social structure of Gorontalo society, Indonesia. The aim of this study was to analyze the gender gap experienced by female karawo craftsmen. Using a qualitative approach with a phenomenological design, this study involved karawo craftsmen as key informants, and karawo distributor as secondary informants. Data were obtained through in-depth interviews, observations, and document studies, then analyzed thematically. This study is in accordance with the paradigm that patriarchal social structures play a major role in creating gender inequality, especially in traditional jobs. The conceptual framework highlights the relationship between gender, social perception, and workload. The finding of this study indicated that although there was no significant difference in wages between men and women, the gap was still visible when it was compared to other daily labor professions that involved more men. This has reflected the low interest of women in professions that require physical labor compared to aesthetic jobs such as karawo. In the midst of a patriarchal culture, women are still burdened with domestic roles as “natural” tasks, so they face a double burden. Thus, this study recommends the unlimited working time flexibility and provision of leave for female Karawo craftsmen. © 2025, University of Gondar. All rights reserved.
Universitas Negeri Semarang, Indonesia
