Gender, culture, and power: a cultural theory perspective on green economic policy

A B S T R A C TThis article examines how various beliefs and values support women’s activities in building green economies, mainly in places where Islamic beliefs are crucial. Supporting social justice, taking care of the environment, and economic development are the leading goals of the green economy, yet gender mainstreaming is set aside in very traditional areas. Using Douglas’ Cultural Theory in the study, it can be determined how gender breaks down environmental decision-making through structure, independence, shared beliefs, or by following an inevitable fate. People from academia, leaders who have influence, the government, and female activists were interviewed in this study with the help of purposeful sampling. The study’s data was subjected to thematic analysis using NVivo 12 Plus software. Studies show that cultural beliefs and religious traditions limit women’s involvement in public policy. Nevertheless, through environmentalism and green business, supported by worldwide feminism and equal opinions, women are given more opportunities to perform leadership roles. The conclusion was that for the green transition to be fair, both cultural and gender aspects should be considered in the plans. Any policy related to the environment should include cultural considerations so that sustainable development is reached for every member of the community.