The Dynamics of Women's Roles in Timor-Leste's Traditional Communities Due to Urbanization
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Urbanization is a social phenomenon that brings significant changes to the structure of people's lives, including those of traditional communities in Timor-Leste. This process affects women's roles, gender relations, identity, and well-being. This study aimed to analyze changes in women's roles within traditional Timorese communities as a result of urbanization, particularly in the economic, social, cultural, and gender-relations dimensions. The study employed a qualitative descriptive-analytical approach using in-depth interviews, field observations, and document analysis. Informants were selected purposively based on their social backgrounds, ages, and migration experiences. The data were analyzed thematically through data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The findings showed that urbanization encouraged a shift in women's roles from the domestic sphere to the public and economic spheres, increased their participation in family decision-making, and contributed to the development of more independent identities. However, women also faced various challenges, including double burdens, economic instability, cultural pressures, and limited social protection. Urbanization created opportunities for empowerment but also had the potential to intensify vulnerability when not supported by gender-responsive policies. The study concluded that the effects of urbanization on women were multidimensional and influenced by access to education, decent employment, social networks, and public policy support. Therefore, an inclusive and gender-sensitive development approach is needed to support the well-being of women in traditional communities in Timor-Leste.
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