Economic abuse, often overlooked, is a type of abuse faced by many who survive domestic violence. As South Africa observes 16 Days of Activism, Scorpion Legal Protection is shining a light on this less talked about, but significant, form of abuse, what it involves and the causes.
What Is Economic Abuse?
The Domestic Violence Amendment Act 14 of 2021 defines economic abuse as withholding financial resources or necessities from an abused individual. It involves abusers restricting, exploiting, or undermining the victim's access to money, basic needs like food and clothing, transportation, or a place to live. This form of abuse is designed to control and limit someone's independence. Economic abuse takes various forms, which include:
- Control over finances: The abuser may withhold access to funds, closely monitor and control spending, or force the victim to surrender their income.
- Employment sabotage: Abusers often limit the victims' ability to maintain stable employment by causing disruptions to interfere with job security. Worse, they can be self-sufficient and restrict the victim from earning an income at all.
- Debt coercion: Manipulating victims into taking on unnecessary debt.
What Causes Economic Abuse?
Economic abuse can be caused by various factors. Some of the key contributors are:
- Power imbalances: Occur when one partner holds more control over the financial resources and uses it as a means to use power and control over the other partner.
- Gender inequalities: South Africa, like many other countries, continues to face gender inequalities, which come in the form of lower wages and limited economic opportunities.
- Unemployment and poverty: High rates of unemployment and poverty are common issues in South Africa, making individuals more vulnerable to economic abuse.
- Cultural and traditional beliefs: In some cases, cultural norms and traditional beliefs may give men greater control over financial matters, leading to economic abuse against their partners.
- Lack of legal protection and awareness: Many individuals are not fully aware that economic abuse is a form of domestic violence and struggle to seek help or support.
Recognising the signs, understanding the impact, and seeking assistance are all very important steps towards breaking free from this cycle of abuse. By raising awareness and supporting those affected, we can collectively work towards a society free from economic abuse and its damaging effects. During the 16 Days of Activism, Scorpion Legal Protection is encouraging people who are experiencing abuse, which includes economic abuse, to reach out to us for help. We at Scorpion have partnered with FAMSA and both legal policy and funeral plan members have free access to their service. Click here to find out more.
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*This is only basic legal advice and cannot be relied on solely. The information is correct at the time of being sent to publishing.