The Economic Impact of Violence Against Women: An Unseen Cost We Can't Afford

The intersection of economics and gender-based violence demands our urgent attention. Violence against women and children is not only a moral and social issue but also an economic one that affects us all. In this blog post, we will explore the direct and indirect costs of violence, its impact on interstate commerce, and the need for stronger measures to combat it.

The Staggering Costs of Violence

The direct costs of violence are staggering. Medical care, legal proceedings, and services for survivors all contribute to a significant financial burden. However, it is the indirect costs that are far more insidious. Lost productivity, decreased earning potential, and the long-term psychological impact are just the tip of the iceberg. These costs not only affect the individual survivor but also have a broader impact on the economy as a whole.

The Impact on Interstate Commerce

According to evidence presented to Congress, gender-based violence has a substantial adverse effect on interstate commerce. It deters potential victims from traveling and engaging in employment in interstate business, thus diminishing national productivity and increasing costs.

In fact, Congress estimated annual costs of $3 billion in 1990 and $5 to $10 billion in 1993 due to domestic violence and sexual assault. The economic impact of gender-based violence is comparable to the racial discrimination of the 1960s, reducing the mobility of employees and their production and consumption of goods shipped in interstate commerce.

The Urgent Need for Action

During the dissent in the case of United States v. Morrison, Justice Souter noted that the bill addressing this issue contained a "mountain of data assembled by Congress...showing the effects of violence against women on interstate commerce." This data is a testament to the profound economic repercussions of gender-based violence and echoes the urgent need for stronger enforcement of measures to combat it.

This issue goes beyond partisanship and transcends political boundaries.

"mountain of data assembled by Congress...showing the effects of violence against women on interstate commerce." - Justice Souter

The Commerce Clause, which grants Congress the power to regulate commerce among the states, is being utilized to address the economic impact of gender-based violence. It is clear that this issue extends beyond state and national borders, placing a significant burden on taxpayers and the economy at large.

Effective Solutions

To address this issue effectively, we need more than just programs. We must establish effective mechanisms to counteract and assist survivors of state-sanctioned abuse. The Violence Against Women Act ensures support for survivors, even without a conviction. However, the failure to acknowledge the crimes committed hinders survivors from receiving the support they need, often leading to disparities based on affluence and means.

We must confront the uncomfortable truth that some state systems have been complicit in perpetuating this cycle of violence. Instances where women and children face persecution for speaking out against state-sanctioned abuse are a direct violation of their rights and pose an economic detriment to our society.

Creating an environment where open conversations about these issues can take place without fear of prosecution is crucial. Recognizing that violence against women and children is not just a social issue but also a barrier to economic prosperity is the first step towards healing and progress.

Don't Be A Bystander

Together, we can create a society where the economic impact of gender-based violence is recognized, survivors receive the support they deserve, and everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Resources:https://www.law.cornell.edu/supct/html/99-5.ZD.html

The Violence Against Women Act

https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/03/16/fact-sheet-reauthorization-of-the-violence-against-women-act-vawa/

The Hill: Battered and broken: The many consequences of domestic violence by Laura Frombach

https://thehill.com/opinion/civil-rights/4321861-battered-and-broken-the-many-consequences-of-domestic-violence/