Gender Dynamics in Cooperative Governance: Insights from Women Led Social Enterprises

Abstract

Gender inequality in the governance of social economic organizations, including cooperatives, is still a serious problem that has not been studied in depth. This research aims to understand gender dynamics in the governance of women-led social cooperatives, as well as identify the contributions and challenges faced by women in decision-making positions. This study uses a qualitative approach with a multiple case study design of eight women-based social cooperatives in three provinces in Indonesia. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, participatory observations, and document analysis, which were then analyzed using the NVivo 14 software-assisted thematic analysis method. The results show that cooperatives that adopt participatory governance and transformational leadership models have higher levels of sustainability and broader social impact. Solidarity among female members plays an important role in overcoming cultural barriers, although traditional norms about gender remain a latent challenge. This research has implications for the importance of developing gender inclusion-based policies in cooperatives and strengthening women's leadership capacity. In addition, these findings enrich the literature on the relationship between social innovation, participatory governance, and women's empowerment in the community economic sector.