Strategi Politik dan Partisipasi Perempuan dalam Kontestasi Pilgub Lampung 2018

Women's participation in local politics continues to face various challenges, including limited political support, restricted access to candidacy, and issues of gender representation. This study aims to analyze women's political strategies in the 2018 Lampung gubernatorial election, focusing on the victory of Chusnunia Chalim as a female vice-gubernatorial candidate. This study employs a qualitative approach using a case study method, with data collected through in-depth interviews and documentation. The analysis focuses on campaign strategies, political communication, social networks, political party support, and factors influencing public acceptance of female candidates. The findings indicate that Chusnunia Chalim's success was associated with her individual capacity, educational background, organizational experience, involvement in political parties, effective political communication, voter loyalty, and campaign strategies tailored to voter characteristics. Furthermore, women's leadership and empowerment programs were among the political issues incorporated into her campaign approach. The study also finds that the challenges facing women's participation in local politics are not solely related to cultural and religious factors but also to limited political party support, restricted access to political networks, and competition in electoral contests. This study highlights the importance of strengthening women's capacity, increasing institutional support from political parties, and expanding political opportunities to promote women's representation in regional leadership.