Islamic Activities as a Social Arena for Building Social Solidarity among Children of Female Migrant Workers

Abstract

The high number of female migrant workers (TKW) in Indramayu Regency not only affects family economic conditions but also creates social and psychological vulnerabilities among left-behind children, including limited parental supervision, low self-confidence, and weak social bonds. Although previous studies have examined the impacts of parental migration, limited attention has been given to the role of Islamic religious activities as social arenas for fostering children’s social solidarity. This study aims to analyze how Islamic religious activities shape the social solidarity of children of female migrant workers in Indramayu Regency. This study employs a qualitative approach with a phenomenological method. Informants were selected purposively, including children of female migrant workers, community leaders, and facilitators of religious activities. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, participant observation, and documentation, and analyzed using an interactive model with Émile Durkheim’s theory of social solidarity as the analytical framework. The findings show that Islamic religious activities, such as Qur’anic recitation, marhabanan, and hadroh, function as structured social arenas where children develop emotional attachment, peer relationships, and a sense of belonging. These activities foster mechanical solidarity through shared experiences and continuous interaction, while also enhancing self-confidence and reducing feelings of social isolation. Participation in these activities enables children to adapt socially and build alternative support systems beyond the family. This study highlights that Islamic religious activities play a dual role as spiritual practices and community-based social institutions that strengthen social cohesion and social integration among children of female migrant workers.