Feminist economic theology and gender justice: The case of fisherwomen in Moluccas

Abstract

This article evaluates feminist economic theology as embodied by fisherwomen in the Moluccas, Indonesia. These women, who support families and communities, remain largely invisible in both economic and theological discourses. Fieldwork in eight coastal villages revealed that they carry a double burden – productive labour at sea and unpaid domestic work – while facing structural exclusion. Despite these challenges, they create communal economies based on solidarity and sharing, drawing theological meaning from their Christian faith and local culture. This study uses a feminist theology framework, particularly the works of Ivone Gebara and Elisabeth Schüssler Fiorenza, to explore whether their economic theology reflects an inclusive and transformative vision. The study argues that while elements of resistance are present, a fully gender-just theology is still developing.
Contribution: This study contributes to feminist economic theology by revealing that the economic practices of fisherwomen in the Moluccas are not merely material, but deeply theological. Their practices embody Christian values of solidarity and sharing, transforming economics into a theology that emphasises social justice and self-sacrifice – values overlooked in mainstream economic theory. By foregrounding the lived experiences of marginalised fisherwomen, the article challenges androcentric and capitalist frameworks, offering alternative theological perspectives that enrich the discourse on feminist economic theology.