The Influence of cultural values and external support on the effectiveness of GESI approaches in increasing the empowerment of young farmers

Indonesia's sustainable agriculture agenda increasingly relies on youth participation and Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) approach, including within the YESS project, to promote gender-equal access to resources and opportunities. However, patriarchal norms, limited mobility and information for women, weak institutional support, and dependence on external actors can constrain GESI effectiveness at the grassroots. This study examines the influence of socio-cultural values and external support on effectiveness of GESI approach in enhancing the empowerment of young farmers in Indonesia. A quantitative research design was employed using survey data from 152 young farmers who received competitive grants. Data were analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The results indicate that socio-cultural values (β = 0.349; t = 4.713; p < 0.001) and external support (β = 0.404; t = 5.939; p < 0.001) have a significant positive effect on the effectiveness of the GESI approach. Multigroup analysis by gender reveals that socio-cultural values exert a stronger influence among male respondents (β = 0.409), whereas external support is more influential among female respondents (β = 0.444). These findings highlight the critical role of inclusive socio-cultural transformation and gender-responsive external support in strengthening young farmers's empowerment and advancing effective GESI implementation.