Transforming Lives Through (Human Resource Due Diligence )HREDD and Gender Inclusion in Indonesia

In the serene landscapes of Kaloran District, nestled within Central Java Province, a transformative journey began. At the heart of this effort was Koperasi Agro Bumbu Qtha, a cooperative deeply committed to sustainable agriculture and the well-being of its members. With the support of Fairtrade and its guiding principles, a pivotal workshop unfolded, addressing Human Rights and Environmental Due Diligence (HREDD) and gender policy development. This initiative was a testament to Fairtrade’s dedication to fostering sustainable communities, where equality and empowerment reign.

The workshop in Kaloran District aimed to bridge gaps in understanding and address the pressing issues of gender inequality and human rights risks within the cooperative’s operational framework. It brought together a diverse group of participants, including farmers and family members of the cooperative’s members. Despite logistical challenges that limited attendance, the event successfully united 26 dedicated individuals. Their voices carried the aspirations of their communities, representing not just their own farms but the larger network of the Serikat Paguyuban Petani Qaryah Thayyibah, the parent organization of Koperasi Agro Bumbu Qtha.

On the first day, the focus was on demystifying the HREDD process. The facilitators emphasized the necessity of aligning with Fairtrade Standards, not only as a compliance measure but as a pathway to economic and environmental sustainability. Discussions highlighted how addressing human rights and environmental risks—such as unsafe chemical usage—could open doors to sustainable trading benefits. Group discussions delved into identifying risks, fostering a shared understanding of the challenges ahead.

Day two shifted the spotlight to gender equality. Participants explored the nuances of gender norms, biases, and the structural barriers women face in public and organizational settings. They learned about Indonesia’s national gender strategy and how these frameworks align with Fairtrade’s HREDD guidelines. The interactive sessions revealed significant issues, such as wage inequality and women’s underrepresentation in village-level decision-making. Yet, within Koperasi Agro Bumbu Qtha, there was hope, as the cooperative already showcased notable women’s participation.

Through open dialogue, participants identified key risks—chemical usage practices, wage disparities, and deforestation—and brainstormed solutions. Addressing these issues requires collaborative efforts involving local authorities, governmental agencies, and community advocacy. Recommendations included engaging younger generations through awareness programs and developing robust grievance mechanisms, particularly for gender-based violence.

Fairtrade’s role in this initiative underscores its commitment to systemic change. By collaborating with local stakeholders, including Indonesia’s Ministry of Women Empowerment and Child Protection, and leveraging the cooperative’s internal structures, Fairtrade fosters resilience and equity. These efforts align with donor support from institutions like [Insert Donor Names], whose contributions enable such impactful initiatives. The logos and social media handles of these donors should proudly accompany every narrative of progress.

The impact of the workshop resonated deeply with participants. Fatkhur Rohman, a 24-year-old farmer, appreciated the light and approachable discussions, which encouraged open participation. Suryati, a 44-year-old member, highlighted her newfound understanding of gender rights and human rights risks, expressing hope for increased participation of women in future meetings. These voices reflect the workshop’s success in creating awareness and sowing seeds of change.

The workshop in Kaloran District is just the beginning. Follow-up actions include advocacy at sub-village levels, extending awareness initiatives to other regencies like Pati and Wonogiri, and integrating HREDD processes into the cooperative’s internal management systems. By fostering inclusivity and addressing systemic issues, Koperasi Agro Bumbu Qtha, with the steadfast support of Fairtrade, charts a path toward a sustainable and equitable future.

This initiative exemplifies the power of collaboration and commitment in tackling global challenges at the grassroots level. Fairtrade’s unwavering dedication to human rights, environmental sustainability, and gender equality continues to inspire and drive progress, one community at a time.