Mulheres na liderança rural: desafios e estratégias em associações do agreste central sergipano

Abstract

The issue of female representation in leadership positions has been the subject of increasing attention and analysis worldwide, becoming part of the theoretical debate on gender relations and sustainable rural development. Although women occupy relevant positions in the labor market, inequalities persist, especially in agrarian contexts. This research, linked to the Environmental Dynamics and Evaluation research line, aims to analyze the main challenges faced by women in leadership positions in rural associations in the Central Agreste region of Sergipe, as well as the strategies for overcoming these difficulties. The spatial delimitation in the Central Agreste region is justified by the prior identification of an engaged profile of female leaders in the associations of this region, which provided a fertile field for the analysis of power dynamics. The nine (9) women interviewed were selected due to the central role they play in local associations through nominations. This is a qualitative study, composed of the following methodological steps: characterization of the study area; bibliographic and documentary research; data collection through the application of interviews; This study presents a qualitative analysis of the data, conducted using content analysis techniques. It reveals the leading role of women, with an average age over 40, a history of social participation, and predominantly secondary education. Regarding challenges, although bureaucratic and financial barriers are the most frequently cited, the qualitative analysis showed that gender-related obstacles operate in a naturalized and veiled way. The narratives persist regarding the double burden of work, sexism, and the need to adopt masculine behaviors to ensure legitimacy. Conversely, the identified resistance strategies, such as discussion groups, mutual encouragement among women, the adoption of sustainable practices, and the use of digital tools, demonstrate the role of female leaders in building welcoming associative environments. The study is original in expanding the debate on female leadership in rural associative settings, a topic still underexplored in the literature. The research demonstrates scientific and social relevance by aligning with the goals of SDG 5 (Gender Equality). It can be concluded that, although female leaders face structural and gender-related challenges that are naturalized in the rural environment, they articulate effective resistance strategies based on collective support and shared management.