The Meaning of Communication in the Lives of Fisherwomen: A Phenomenological Study on the Coast of Padang City

This study aims to explore the meaning of communication in the lives of fisherwomen who live and work along the coastal areas of Padang City. Despite playing a vital role in the fisheries sector, such as processing, drying, and selling marine products, fisherwomen are often not formally recognized as fishermen and are rarely involved in community decision-making processes. Their marginalized position reflects a persistent gender imbalance in coastal social structures. Using a phenomenological approach, this research investigates the lived experiences of fisherwomen through in-depth interviews and participatory observation. The findings reveal that communication plays a central role in their daily lives, not only as a means of information exchange but also as a medium for building solidarity, asserting their roles within the family, and collectively expressing their aspirations. Communication occurs in various forms, including informal conversations at work, group discussions among women, and family dialogues, all of which reflect resilience and social cohesion. The study shows that fisherwomen use communication as a strategy to endure economic and social pressures while shaping their identity as significant contributors to coastal communities. The findings underscore the importance of policies that formally acknowledge women’s roles in the fisheries sector and promote gender-responsive communication strategies in coastal development.