Women rejecting motherhood in Indonesia

ABSTRACT: This thesis explores the phenomenon of women rejecting motherhood in Indonesia, situating this personal choice within broader feminist theories, historical narratives, socio-economic conditions, and cultural-religious contexts. Drawing on radical, Marxist, and third-wave feminist perspectives alongside interpretations of Islamic discourse, the study critically examines how motherhood has been historically constructed as a normative expectation that defines womanhood and restricts autonomy. The analysis begins by theorizing motherhood as a socially and ideologically embedded institution and then contextualizes its evolution in Indonesia across four major periods: the Colonial Era, Old Order, New Order, and Reform Era. Each era shaped gender roles through differing national, religious, and political ideologies. The research identifies a growing movement of women in contemporary Indonesia choosing to be childfree, influenced by factors such as economic instability, career aspirations, individual autonomy, mental health awareness, and disillusionment with state policies. It highlights how these decisions represent a form of resistance to entrenched societal norms that equate womanhood with motherhood. Moreover, the thesis explores the intense social, cultural, and religious backlash faced by childfree women, including stigmatization, familial pressure, and accusations of immorality or selfishness. Despite these challenges, many childfree individuals are reclaiming their narratives and advocating for diverse expressions of fulfillment beyond traditional family structures. Through an interdisciplinary analysis of the lived experiences of childfree women in Indonesia, this research examines how their decisions reflect broader changes in societal values, gender expectations, and personal priorities. By situating individual choices within historical, cultural, and structural frameworks, it highlights the complex interplay between personal piety and collective norms. The passage underscores the importance of culturally acknowledging various life paths and definitions of fulfillment that go beyond traditional roles and expectations. This acknowledgment contributes to a developing understanding of identity, adulthood, and social contribution within contemporary Indonesian society. Keywords: Motherhood, Childfreedom, Gender roles, Women's autonomy, Islam and Modernity