Women’s voices for the earth: Communication strategies of women candidates on environmental issues in the 2024 election

¹ Department of Communication, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Malikussaleh University, Aceh, Indonesia
² Department Of Sociology, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Malikussaleh University, Aceh, Indonesia

^* Corresponding author: ainol.mardhiah@unimal.ac.id

Abstract

Environmental issues have become a major focus in political agendas, including the selection of legislative candidates. This research aims to understand the communication strategies of women legislative candidates in shaping political narratives related to environmental issues in Aceh ahead of the 2024 legislative elections. This includes analyzing the communication approaches used, such as through mass media, social media platforms, and direct meetings with voters. Methods: This study used a qualitative approach. Data were collected through interviews, observations, and content analysis of messages delivered by women legislative candidates through various communication channels. Results showed that women legislative candidates successfully used persuasive language to relate environmental issues to voters’ daily lives. Communication strategies included active participation in mass media, use of social media platforms, and direct meetings with voters. The narratives developed strengthened voters’ perceptions of the impact of environmental issues in the local context. This research shows that women in Aceh politics play an important role in shaping political messages related to the environment. Skillful communication strategies helped strengthen the relationship between women legislative candidates and voters, while the narratives created a deeper and more personal understanding of environmental issues.