Does love really mean asking permission for every single euro? Put like that, it sounds absurd. Yet economic violence is one of the most widespread and least recognised forms of violence, precisely because it's disguised as care.
How it starts
Almost always with words that sound kind:
- “You don't need to work, I earn enough for both of us.”
- “Why do you need a card? I'll pay for everything.”
- “You have to choose: your job or me.”
One remark at a time, you lose access to the bank account, you have to justify every purchase, you stop making decisions. Even about yourself.
It's not protection. It's forced dependence.
Economic violence happens when you're not allowed to work, when you have to account for every euro, when you're told you can't handle money. The aim is always the same: to make you dependent, and so less free to leave.
It also affects women who work
Having a salary isn't always enough to be free. A joint account emptied, a mortgage in his name only, “shared” expenses decided by one person: these are forms of economic violence even when there's a salary. Because the point isn't how much you earn, but who decides.
Someone who loves you makes you free, not dependent.
Financial independence isn't a luxury: it's your right. If you recognise yourself in these lines, talk to 1522. It's free, anonymous and open 24 hours a day.
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