Supportive Male Partners: Catalysts for Gender Mainstreaming in Energy Sector

In the quest for gender equality and social inclusion (GESI) in the energy sector, the role of supportive male partners emerges as a transformative force. Their involvement not only amplifies women's voices but also fosters an environment where both genders can thrive. This story explores the impact of male partners in the communitiy, highlighting how their support catalyzes the integration of gender considerations into energy policies and projects. 

The ACCESS project, aimed at integrating GESI into energy initiatives, has witnessed changes across target villages. In Indonesia, the project targeted rural communities where access to energy resources is limited, and traditional gender roles are entrenched. Here, women often find themselves sidelined in both decision-making processes and technical operations within the energy sector. However, the ACCESS project has catalyzed a shift, demonstrating that the support of male partners can pave the way for increased female participation. 

In many target villages, women aspiring to become energy operators faced significant barriers, primarily stemming from cultural norms. However, male partners began to step up, challenging these norms. For instance, in a village in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), a woman named Sari dreamed of attending a training session in Jakarta to enhance her skills in solar energy management. Initially hesitant, her husband, Alex, recognized the potential benefits for their community. “I knew that if Sari succeeded, we all would benefit,” he said. Encouraging her to pursue her training, Alex took on additional household responsibilities, ensuring Sari could focus on her involvement during the training session. Upon her return, he engaged with her materials, learning alongside her and providing practical support in her new role as a local operator. 

The journey of female empowerment did not stop with individual stories. During field visits in Timor-Leste, potential female operators expressed their ambitions to participate in operations and maintenance activities in their aldeias. Yet, they often faced skepticism from their communities. In one particularly inspiring instance, Lucia Perreira, the head of aldeia Moleana in Bobonaro Municipality, emerged as a beacon of hope. With the unwavering support of her husband, Lucia shattered traditional patriarchal norms. He actively participated in discussions about gender equality and even organized community meetings to advocate for women's roles in leadership and technical duties. Their collaboration inspired other men in the community to reflect on their own roles, sparking a ripple effect of change. 

Central to these transformations were the village facilitators, who played a crucial role in translating GESI principles into locally relevant strategies. Initially facing resistance from men who were accustomed to traditional gender roles, the facilitators adopted a family-oriented approach. They engaged men in discussions about shared responsibilities and the benefits of supporting their wives. For instance, by encouraging fathers to take on childcare duties, they began dismantling long-standing gender expectations. These practical sessions created a safe space for open dialogue, enabling men to express their fears and uncertainties while fostering a deeper understanding of gender equality. 

The impact of supportive male partners extended beyond individual households. As these men became champions of gender equality, they set examples for others in their communities. Alex, for instance, not only supported Sari but also took on the role of a mentor to other men, demonstrating that their involvement was not just beneficial but essential.  

The stories of supportive male partners within the ACCESS project illustrate the transformative potential of collaboration in promoting gender equality in the energy sector. By actively challenging traditional norms and advocating for their wives, these men contribute to a more equitable environment where both genders can thrive. Their involvement serves as a reminder that gender equality is not solely a women's issue but a collective responsibility that enriches communities as a whole. As the energy sector continues to evolve, the presence of male champions will be pivotal in creating a sustainable and inclusive future for all.