Pemberdayaan Ekonomi Perempuan Pada Keluarga Perajin Kerang di Kampung Blekok Situbondo

Abstract

WOMEN'S ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT IN THE FAMILIES OF SHELL CRAFTERS IN KAMPUNG BLEKOK, SITUBONDO This study explores the economic empowerment of coastal women in Kampung Blekok, Klatakan Village, Situbondo, who work as household-scale shell craft artisans. Using a descriptive qualitative approach, data were collected through observation, interviews, and documentation, then analyzed using data reduction, display, and conclusion drawing. The findings show that women’s economic empowerment significantly improves household income and strengthens the local economy despite challenges such as limited capital, low digital literacy, seasonal raw material shortages, and patriarchal culture. Women actively participate in production, independently manage their earnings, and contribute to reducing household poverty while increasing confidence and economic independence. Community empowerment is supported through collaboration with village institutions, cooperatives, women’s organizations, youth groups, NGOs, and government agencies. However, business sustainability is still constrained by inadequate infrastructure, conventional marketing, limited occupational health and safety awareness, and administrative barriers to obtaining Business Identification Numbers (NIB). Overall, integrated empowerment strategies are essential to support sustainable livelihoods and improve the welfare of coastal women and their families.