Agrisocionomics: Jurnal Sosial Ekonomi Pertanian
Vol 10, No 2 (2026): June 2026

Farming with Remittances: Female Migration, Agricultural Investment, and Social Mobility in Rural Indramayu, Indonesia

Rani Andriani Budi Kusumo (Department of Agricultural Socio-Economics, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Padjadjaran)
Iwan Setiawan (Department of Agricultural Socio-Economics, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Padjadjaran)
Mahra Arari Heryanto (Department of Agricultural Socio-Economics, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Padjadjaran)
Anne Charina (Department of Agricultural Socio-Economics, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Padjadjaran)
Gema Wibawa Mukti (Department of Agricultural Socio-Economics, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Padjadjaran)



Article Info

Publish Date
18 Jun 2026

Abstract

Low levels of farmer welfare remain prevalent in many agrarian communities. The international migration of women has emerged as a key strategy for farming households to cope with poverty and enhance their livelihoods. This study examines how remittances from female migrant workers are invested in agriculture and assesses their impact on the social mobility of farming households. The research was conducted in Kroya District, Indramayu Regency, a rural and agriculture area with persistently high levels of poverty. This study using a qualitative approach and case study method. The study involved a survey of 50 returnee female migrant, and in-depth interviews with various stakeholders, including village officials, community leaders, and labor brokers. Data were analyzed thematically. The findings show that land is a crucial asset for households of female migrant workers. Accordingly, remittances are primarily used to purchase land, which enhances household food security and elevates their social standing within the village. However, the use of remittances to modernize agricultural production remains limited. This suggests that while remittances strengthen livelihood assets—particularly natural, physical, and social capital—they do not automatically translate into increased agricultural productivity. These findings highlight the need for supportive policies that promote the productive and sustainable use of remittances in agriculture.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

agrisocionomics

Publisher

Subject

Agriculture, Biological Sciences & Forestry

Description

Agrisocionomics (Jurnal Sosial Ekonomi dan Kebijakan Pertanian) memuat naskah hasil penelitian bidang sosial, ekonomi dan kebijakan pertanian. Agrisocionomics diterbitkan oleh Program Studi Agribisnis, Fakultas Peternakan dan Pertanian Universitas Diponegoro. Agrisocionomics terbit dua kali setahun, ...