Rising Strong in a Drowning Land: Women^s Leadership at the Helm of Transformative Coastal Resilience and Inclusive Climate Governance Rr. M. I. Retno Susilorini, Iskhaq Iskandar, Jamilla Kautsary, Desiana Vidayanti, Afiyati
Pancasakti Tegal University, Sriwijaya University, Sultan Agung Islamic University, Mercu Buana University.
Abstract
Coastal regions in Indonesia are experiencing severe climate-related pressures, including rapid land subsidence, tidal flooding, and continuous shoreline loss. Sriwulan Village in Demak Regency represents one of the most critical cases, where extensive land disappearance and social vulnerability intersect with persistent gender inequalities. This study presents a new approach to coastal resilience by placing women^s leadership at the center of Nature Based Solutions and inclusive climate governance. Using surveys, focus group discussions, spatial analysis, the Livelihood Vulnerability Index, and gender focused assessments guided by the Gender Analysis Pathway and the GESEI framework, the research identifies significant gaps in access, participation, mobility, and disaster information. At the same time, it reveals strong informal leadership roles held by women in community preparedness and environmental stewardship. The study contributes a gender responsive Coastal Resilience Masterplan that delivers ecological restoration, strengthened social cohesion, and improved governance, demonstrating that communities rise when women lead.
