Employment Opportunities as a Mediator Between Economic Growth and Poverty Reduction: A Study in Bener Meriah Regency

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the causal relationships between employment opportunities, economic growth, and poverty in Bener Meriah Regency using path analysis. The research highlights how employment opportunities serve as a key variable influencing both economic growth and poverty reduction. Using secondary data from relevant regional agencies and national statistics, the study applies a quantitative approach to examine the direct and indirect effects of employment opportunities on economic outcomes. The findings reveal that employment opportunities significantly contribute to economic growth and have a substantial negative effect on poverty levels. Moreover, economic growth mediates the relationship between employment and poverty, indicating that increasing productive employment is essential for sustainable poverty alleviation. The results offer important implications for local governments in designing inclusive economic policies, particularly in regions dependent on agriculture and tourism sectors. Strengthening employment-based development strategies is recommended to enhance regional welfare and accelerate poverty reduction efforts.