In a recent review, the National Audit Office concludes that the state is not doing enough to combat economic violence in close relationships. Skilsmässoliv has extensive experience of helping and being a meeting place for people who have been subjected to various forms of economic violence, ranging from someone taking control of another person's economy to making it difficult to work and provide for oneself.
It's not just women who are exposed, but it's much more common. But one should know that men are also affected, says Sara Zachrisson, representing the network.
One usually says that seven out of ten women cannot afford to divorce even if they wanted to, it's a form of economic violence.
Sara Zachrisson believes that many women live without knowledge of their rights and that subtle economic violence can be difficult to identify.
This is a very important issue. When you enter into a marriage, you should know what happens to the economy in the event of a divorce. Knowledge of economics, laws regarding division of property, pensions, and similar things should be included in the school curriculum. I think it could help a lot and be a preventive measure, she says.
Those who are subjected to economic violence can get some access to legal aid, but it's not always easy depending on the overall economic situation. Therefore, it's few who can afford to hire a lawyer in a dispute.
I'm calling for more support and general legislative changes, as well as prioritizing the well-being of children to a greater extent and having the goal of divorcing fairly, says Sara Zachrisson.
