Breaking the Chains: Understanding and Addressing the Impact of Economic Abuse in Rural Communities for Lasting Empowerment

The isolation prevalent in rural communities contributes to the hindrance of women’s active participation in the workforce. Furthermore, the absence of financial autonomy, accumulation of unfavorable credit, and a history of abuse impede women’s capacity to engage in gainful employment, preventing them from attaining autonomy and self-sufficiency both within relationships and beyond. This research underscores the imperative for policymakers to prioritize initiatives aimed at facilitating the reintegration of rural women into the workforce.

Economic Abuse is a key factor impacting the ability of women in rural Ontario to be resilient through experiences of GBV. Experiences of Economic Abuse in the rural context created barriers to both individual and environmental resilience. Interestingly, even if women had all the internal resources that an individual may need, when faced with limited access to environmental resources (e.g., stable employment or income), they become forcibly dependent on the availability of community supports. Due to their rurality and subsequent limited access and opportunities of supports, the environmental prerequisites to resilience are not in place for many women. Specifically, the isolation of rural communities contributed to women being unable to participate in the workforce. ( Source Yates, Shillington, Tryphonopoulos, Jackson, & MantlerJournal of Rural and Community Development, 18, 1(2023) 1–18)

CCFWE is committed to persistently raising awareness, offering support, enhancing the capacity of service providers, and fostering empowerment. No one in rural areas has to endure the detrimental effects of Economic Abuse in silence. Together, we can construct more robust and economically secure rural communities.

“ In rural settings, Economic Abuse often remains a hidden challenge, impacting the lives of individuals and communities in profound ways. Our commitment to addressing Economic Abuse in rural contexts stems from the recognition that it is a critical issue affecting financial stability, individual well-being, and community resilience” – Meseret Haileysus

Rural communities face unique challenges that exacerbate the impact of economic abuse. Limited access to resources, isolation, and reliance on traditional economic structures can contribute to heightened vulnerability. Recognizing and addressing these challenges is pivotal for creating effective solutions.