ASSESSING THE IMPACT OF GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE ON WOMEN'S ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES

ASSESSING THE IMPACT OF GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE ON WOMEN'S ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES.

Chapter One: Introduction

Background of the Study

Gender-based violence (GBV) is a pervasive issue that affects millions of women worldwide, with particularly severe implications in developing countries. GBV not only inflicts physical and psychological harm on women but also significantly hampers their economic empowerment. Economic empowerment is a critical aspect of gender equality, enabling women to participate fully in economic activities, contribute to household incomes, and improve their social status (World Bank, 2018). However, the prevalence of GBV in many developing countries poses a substantial barrier to these outcomes. Women who experience GBV often face long-term economic consequences, including loss of income, limited access to education and employment opportunities, and increased dependence on others for financial support (Heise & Kotsadam, 2015).

 

The economic implications of GBV are far-reaching. In many cases, survivors of GBV are unable to work due to injuries, mental health issues, or societal stigma. Additionally, the fear of violence can restrict women's mobility and their ability to engage in economic activities, further limiting their opportunities for economic advancement (Vyas & Watts, 2009). Moreover, GBV can result in substantial economic costs at the national level, including increased healthcare expenses, lost productivity, and reduced economic growth (Duvvury et al., 2013). Addressing the economic impact of GBV is crucial for the overall development of nations, as it is intertwined with broader issues of poverty, inequality, and social justice.

 

In recent years, there has been growing recognition of the need to address GBV as a critical component of efforts to promote women's economic empowerment in developing countries. Various international organizations, including the United Nations and the World Bank, have highlighted the importance of integrating strategies to combat GBV into broader economic development programs (United Nations, 2020). This study seeks to assess the impact of GBV on women's economic empowerment in developing countries, with a focus on identifying the specific economic challenges faced by survivors and exploring potential strategies to mitigate these effects.

 

Statement of the Problem

The economic empowerment of women is widely recognized as a key driver of economic development and poverty reduction in developing countries. However, the prevalence of gender-based violence poses a significant obstacle to achieving this goal. Women who experience GBV often suffer from physical and psychological trauma, which can severely limit their ability to participate in economic activities. This not only affects their personal economic situation but also has broader implications for the economic development of their communities and countries (Heise & Kotsadam, 2015).

 

Despite the growing recognition of the link between GBV and women's economic empowerment, there remains a significant gap in the understanding of how these two issues intersect, particularly in developing countries. While some studies have explored the economic costs of GBV, there is a need for more comprehensive research that examines the specific ways in which GBV impacts women's economic empowerment and the long-term economic consequences for survivors. Moreover, there is a need to identify effective strategies and interventions that can help mitigate the economic impact of GBV and support the economic empowerment of survivors.

 

This study aims to address these gaps by assessing the impact of GBV on women's economic empowerment in developing countries. It will explore the economic challenges faced by survivors, the broader economic implications of GBV, and potential strategies to support the economic empowerment of women affected by GBV.

 

Objectives of the Study

To examine the specific economic challenges faced by survivors of gender-based violence in developing countries.

To assess the broader economic implications of gender-based violence on community and national economic development.

To identify strategies and interventions that can support the economic empowerment of women affected by gender-based violence.

 

Research Questions

What are the specific economic challenges faced by survivors of gender-based violence in developing countries?

How does gender-based violence impact community and national economic development in developing countries?

What strategies and interventions can support the economic empowerment of women affected by gender-based violence?

 

Significance of the Study

This study is significant for various stakeholders, including policymakers, development organizations, and women's rights advocates. For policymakers, the study will provide valuable insights into the economic impact of GBV and the need for integrated strategies that address both economic empowerment and GBV prevention. Development organizations can use the findings to design and implement programs that effectively support survivors of GBV and promote their economic empowerment. Women's rights advocates will benefit from a deeper understanding of the economic dimensions of GBV, enabling them to advocate more effectively for comprehensive solutions that address the root causes of GBV and its economic consequences.

 

Scope and Limitations of the Study

The study will focus on the impact of gender-based violence on women's economic empowerment in developing countries, with particular emphasis on regions where GBV is prevalent and where women face significant economic challenges. The study will include a review of existing literature, case studies of specific countries or communities, and interviews with survivors and experts in the field.

Limitations may include:

Data Availability: Access to reliable data on GBV and its economic impact in developing countries may be limited, affecting the depth of analysis.

Cultural Sensitivity: The study may encounter challenges related to cultural norms and sensitivities around discussing GBV, particularly in certain regions.

Scope of Analysis: Given the diversity of developing countries, the study's findings may not be universally applicable across all regions.

 

Definitions of the Study

Gender-Based Violence (GBV): Any harmful act directed at an individual based on their gender, including physical, sexual, psychological, and economic abuse.

Economic Empowerment: The ability of individuals, particularly women, to participate fully in economic activities, access economic resources and opportunities, and make decisions that contribute to their economic well-being.

Developing Countries: Countries with lower levels of industrialization, lower standards of living, and lower Human Development Index (HDI) compared to developed countries.

 

References

Duvvury, N., Callan, A., Carney, P., & Raghavendra, S. (2013). Intimate Partner Violence: Economic Costs and Implications for Growth and Development. Women’s Voice, Agency, and Participation Research Series 2013 No. 3. World Bank.

Heise, L., & Kotsadam, A. (2015). Cross-national and multilevel correlates of partner violence: An analysis of data from population-based surveys. The Lancet Global Health, 3(6), e332-e340.

United Nations. (2020). The Sustainable Development Goals Report 2020. United Nations.

Vyas, S., & Watts, C. (2009). How does economic empowerment affect women’s risk of intimate partner violence in low and middle-income countries? A systematic review of published evidence. Journal of International Development, 21(5), 577-602.

World Bank. (2018). Women, Business and the Law 2018. World Bank Group.