Day 3 of 16 Days of Activism Against GBV
The Hidden Trap of Economic Abuse
Money is a powerful tool—and in the hands of an abuser, it becomes a weapon to control and trap victims. On Day 3 of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, we’re shining a spotlight on economic abuse—an often-overlooked form of abuse that can keep victims in harmful relationships for years.
Economic abuse isn’t just about money—it’s about power, control, and stripping someone of their independence.Today, we’ll explore what economic abuse is, how it manifests, and what victims can do to break free.
What is Economic Abuse?
Economic abuse occurs when an abuser uses financial control to manipulate and dominate their partner. It’s a tactic designed to create dependency, making it nearly impossible for victims to leave the relationship or rebuild their lives.
Unlike physical abuse, economic abuse is subtle, but its impact is profound—it’s one of the biggest reasons victims stay trapped in abusive situations.
Examples of Economic Abuse
Controlling Finances
The abuser controls all the household finances, leaving the victim without access to money.
Example: Denying the victim access to their own bank account or requiring them to ask for money for basic needs.
Sabotaging Employment
Preventing the victim from working or interfering with their job to ensure financial dependency.
Example: Constantly showing up at the victim’s workplace to create conflict, forcing them to quit.
Creating Debt
Forcing the victim to take out loans or credit cards in their name, leaving them with crippling debt.
Example: An abuser maxes out a credit card in the victim’s name and refuses to pay it off.
Withholding Financial Support
Refusing to contribute to household expenses or withholding child support to punish the victim.
Example: An abuser stops paying rent, knowing it will jeopardize the victim’s housing stability.
Exploiting Earnings
Taking control of the victim’s income or forcing them to hand over their paycheck.
Example: An abuser demands that their partner’s salary be deposited into their account instead.
Economic Abuse in South Africa
In South Africa, economic abuse is recognized under the Domestic Violence Act, but it remains a pervasive issue. With high unemployment rates and economic inequality, many victims, especially women, lack the resources to leave abusive relationships.
Key Stats:
58% of women in South Africa have experienced financial abuse in their lifetime.
Women in abusive relationships are more likely to experience poverty, even after leaving, due to debt and lack of support.
Economic abuse often coexists with other forms of abuse, making it harder for victims to escape.
Globally, economic abuse affects victims across all demographics. According to the World Bank, financial dependence is one of the top reasons victims return to or stay in abusive relationships.
The Devastating Impact of Economic Abuse
Economic abuse isn’t just about controlling money—it affects every aspect of a victim’s life:
Trapped in the Cycle
Without access to money or resources, victims feel they have no choice but to stay.Loss of Independence
Victims often lose the ability to make decisions about their own lives, further eroding their confidence.Long-Term Financial Damage
Debt, ruined credit scores, and lack of work experience leave lasting scars, even after the abuse ends.Emotional Toll
The stress of financial dependency exacerbates anxiety, depression, and feelings of hopelessness.
How to Recognize Economic Abuse
It can be challenging to identify economic abuse, especially in cultures where financial control is normalized. Here are some warning signs:
You’re not allowed to access or manage your own money.
You’re discouraged or prevented from working.
You’re forced to justify every expense.
You’re held responsible for debt you didn’t consent to.
You’re made to feel guilty for wanting financial independence.
Breaking Free from Economic Abuse
Acknowledge the Abuse
The first step is recognizing the behavior as abusive. Economic abuse is real, and it’s not your fault.Seek Professional Help
Counseling: Connect with organizations that specialize in domestic violence.
Financial Advisors: Work with experts who can help you rebuild financial stability.
Build a Financial Safety Net
Start saving small amounts in a hidden account if it’s safe to do so.
Look for financial literacy resources to empower yourself.
Document the Abuse
Keep records of financial transactions, debts, and any proof of economic abuse. This can be crucial if legal action becomes necessary.Create a Safety Plan
Reach out to trusted friends or family for support.
Work with local shelters or organizations that can provide temporary housing and resources.
How to Support Victims of Economic Abuse
If you know someone experiencing economic abuse, here’s how you can help:
Listen and Validate
Avoid judgment or advice that might overwhelm them. Simply listening can be a lifeline.
Offer Practical Help
Assist with job searches, financial planning, or connecting them to resources.
Encourage Professional Support
Direct them to organizations that specialize in domestic violence and financial abuse.
Resources in South Africa
Rise Against Domestic Violence: www.riseagainstdomesticviolence.co.za
Tears Foundation: SMS “HELP” to 35859
Women’s Legal Centre: 021 424 5660
Globally, organizations like UN Women, National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV), and Refuge UKoffer support and resources for economic abuse victims.
Economic Empowerment is Key
Breaking free from economic abuse isn’t just about leaving the abuser—it’s about reclaiming independence and rebuilding a life free from control. Here are a few empowering steps:
Educate Yourself: Learn about budgeting, saving, and financial planning.
Find Support Groups: Connect with others who’ve experienced economic abuse to share resources and encouragement.
Advocate for Change: Raise awareness about economic abuse and push for policies that protect victims.
Today’s Challenge: Take a Stand Against Economic Abuse
Share This Post
Help raise awareness about economic abuse by sharing this post with your network.Use the Hashtags
Amplify the conversation with #16DaysOfActivism, #EconomicAbuse, and #EndGBV.Support Victim Empowerment
Donate to or volunteer with organizations that help victims of economic abuse rebuild their lives.
Every Day Counts
Economic abuse is a silent weapon, but awareness is the first step to dismantling its power. Together, we can shine a light on this hidden form of control and empower victims to reclaim their independence.
Let’s make every day—far beyond these 16—count in the fight against GBV.
#16DaysOfActivism #EconomicAbuse #EndGBV #RiseTogether
