Women's Eco-Theology Movement in Indonesia: Responses and Strategies of Four Religious-Based Women's Organizations Addressing Climate Change)

Universitas Sebelas Maret, Jl. Ir. Sutami 36 A Kentingan, 57126 Surakarta, Indonesia

^* Corresponding author: yuyun_sunesti@staff.uns.ac.id

Abstract

This study analyzes the role of women's religious organizations in Indonesia in addressing climate change issues. As an archipelagic country vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, Indonesia requires the involvement of various elements of society, including faith-based organizations that have significant outreach in grassroots communities. The research employs a qualitative method, drawing on secondary data from various relevant literature sources regarding climate change programs. The findings indicate that religious women's organizations—such as Aisyiyah, Muslimat NU, Wanita Katolik Republik Indonesia (WKRI-Women’s Catholic Organization of the Republic of Indonesia)), and Wanita Hindu Dharma Indonesia (WHDI- Women’s Hindu Dharma of Indonesia)—have developed diverse response strategies to climate change, each reflecting the distinct religious values they uphold. These responses include the development of environmental theology, education about climate change, policy advocacy, sustainable economic practices, and community-based adaptation efforts. The study concludes that religious women's organizations possess considerable potential in addressing the climate crisis by integrating religious values with climate adaptation and mitigation practices. However, to optimize their role, these organizations require enhanced capacity building and improved coordination.