Representation of Women Legislative Candidates through Internal Community Development in the 2019-2024 Legislative Elections at the Electoral District of Bengkulu Province

Abstract

The representation of women in the political arena is pivotal, especially in the legislative institutions. However, the role of female legislative candidates in social capital and community development has rarely been investigated. This research aims to scrutinize the representation of women legislative candidates via political community development programs in the 2019-2024 legislative elections at the electoral district of Bengkulu Province. Using descriptive qualitative methodology, the data in this study were obtained using purposive snowball surveys via Google Forms and the Lime Survey platform involving 567 respondents. Survey sampling was conducted using the purposive sampling method. In addition, in-depth interviews and focus group discussions were done with selected participants via Zoom/Google Meet. The data were then analyzed using the Neuman's (2011) scheme through several stages including examining, sorting, categorizing, evaluating, comparing, synthesizing, and contemplating. The findings of the study reveal the profile of female legislative candidates in the Bengkulu electoral district and their community development programs. Apart from that, the considerations of beginner voters in choosing women legislative candidates are also explained. This study can enrich the body of knowledge about gender equality and the role of women in the context of legislative institutions.