ECONOMIC EMANCIPATION TO END SGBVF

AS the world commemorates the 16 days of activism against sexual, gender-based violence and femicide (SGBVF), let us look into the role that the economy plays both in perpetuating and curbing SGBVF. In Eswatini, gender-based violence is a persistent challenge, disproportionately affecting women and girls with approximately 1 in 3 females having experienced some form of sexual abuse by age 18, and 48 per cent of women reporting to have experienced some form of sexual violence in their lifetime.

These are recent statistics as presented by UNFPA Eswatini. Gender roles and gender norms are identified as the key factors driving gender-based violence in Eswatini. The economy has also been cited to play a major role in promoting SGBVF in Eswatini. Ending SGBVF is a multi-sectorial effort and requires concerted efforts from all sectors, however, the economy is also key in addressing issues of SGBVF. Allow me to start by looking into issue of economic deprivation.

Economic deprivation

Economic deprivation plays a significant role in exacerbating gender-based violence (GBV). When individuals and families face financial hardship, the stress and frustration resulting from economic insecurity can manifest in various harmful behaviours, including domestic violence. Economic deprivation limits access to essential resources such as education, healthcare and employment opportunities, which can trap survivors, particularly women, in abusive relationships. Financial dependence on the abuser often forces survivors to stay, as they may lack the means to support themselves and their children.

Moreover, economic deprivation can lead to social isolation and reduced support networks, making it more challenging for survivors to seek help and escape the cycle of violence. Addressing economic deprivation through policies that promote economic stability, job creation and equal access to resources is crucial in combating gender-based violence and empowering individuals to lead safer, more independent lives. It is therefore important that as the country continues to pursue its economic development goals, that we leave no one behind. The economy plays a crucial role in empowering saviors and also in makings sure that both men and women are able to play their gender roles effectively. Economic deprivation inhibits the attainment of both practical and strategic gender needs. We need to work hard as a country to create economic opportunities for our people and also ensure equitable access for both men and women to those opportunities.

Economic opportunities

Access to opportunities plays a crucial role in fighting sexual and gender-based violence. When individuals, especially women and girls, have access to education, employment and financial resources, they gain greater independence and agency. This empowerment allows them to make choices that can reduce their vulnerability to violence. For example, economic opportunities can provide women with the means to leave abusive relationships and support themselves and their families. Education can raise awareness about rights and resources, enabling individuals to recognise and report SGBVF.

Additionally, access to opportunities can foster a more inclusive and equitable society, where gender norms and stereotypes are challenged, and violence is less tolerated. By addressing the root causes of SGBVF and providing avenues for empowerment, access to opportunities can significantly contribute to the prevention and reduction of violence. We need to fast track efforts to improve access and retention to education and all through to tertiary education for our people. We need to grow an economy that creates jobs for all our people. We need to ensure that our people have access to health and health care. We need to engender and reconfigure our capital expenditure programmes and our recurring expenditures as a country to ensure that tax revenues work for all emaSwati.

Expenditure catalyst

The economic growth of the past few years has been driven largely by public expenditures. Government needs to show commitment to ending SGBVF through her expenditures. We need to ensure that the capital budget is made gender aware or at least the recipients of the capital expenditure must pass a gender audit. They must show how they are involving men and women and people living with disabilities in the projects which are being pursued. It is important to also ensure that men and women are equal beneficiaries of the recurring expenditure budget items. This will ensure that we are able to move the nation forward wholistically and we challenge the SGBVF in all forms. Civil society needs to rise to the occasion and call for government commitment to ending SGBVF, we have been too reactive as a country. It is imperative to understand that a wholistic approach is the only way to end SGVVF.

Sector wide efforts

Sector-wide approaches are pivotal in ending sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) as they foster comprehensive and coordinated efforts across different sectors, such as health, education, justice and social services. By integrating strategies and resources, these approaches address the multifaceted nature of SGBV. They ensure that survivors receive holistic support, including medical care, legal aid and psychological counselling. Collaborative efforts also enhance prevention by promoting gender equality, raising awareness, and implementing robust policies. By bringing together various stakeholders and sectors, sector-wide approaches create a unified front against SGBV, ultimately leading to more effective and sustainable solutions.

Post your comment

Your name:

Your e-mail address:

Add your comments:

Please enter the code you see in the image:

Image:

Code: