STRENGTHENING ECONOMY OF COASTAL COMMUNITY THROUGH BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM OF MINA RURAL AREA (BDPMRA) IN THE REGENCY OF BANTUL GENDER PERSPECTIVE

Empowering policies related to gender-sensitive programs for the development of marine and fishery sectors are increasingly necessary to reduce poverty and underdevelopment in the coastal areas. The study was aimed to review the access, control, benefits and participation of the fisherwomen in Business Development Program of Mina Rural Areas (BDPMRA) in the regency of Bantul. In addition, it was also used to know the institutional strengthening of the Joint Business Groups of fishermen and fisherwomen in the management of fishery and marine resources. Descriptive qualitative approach was implemented in the research design with the stand point of gender awareness. The data collection techniques were done through in-depth interviews, literature study, observation and FGD. The results showed the weakness of gender disaggregated data, monitoring system and lack of data based on the needs assessment, and the absence of government affirmation resulted in the lower access, control and participation of fisherwomen in BDPMRA. Besides, the program still marginalized vulnerable groups in the coastal areas. The strong desire of the fisherwomen to move forward and improve themselves needed the real, affirmative actions of goverment. Thus, the empowerment program is not only focused on the short-term, practical gender needs but also the investment to increase the capacities of themselves and the institutions managed and run by women.