Economic abuse is a form of intimate partner violence (IPV) that can have lasting impacts on survivors’ financial security, employment, housing, and ability to leave an abusive relationship. Yet, there is limited Canadian research on its prevalence and impacts, and significant gaps in how systems and services recognize and respond to economic abuse. The Economic Abuse in Canada Research Project is a multi-year research partnership led by the University of Windsor and community and academic partners, including Western University, McGill University, Camino Wellbeing + Mental Health, Canadian Center for Women’s Empowerment, The Rural Development Network, WomanACT, and Atira BC, working to build Canadian evidence on economic abuse and strengthen responses to survivors. The project examines how economic abuse affects women across Canada and how social, legal, financial, and criminal justice systems currently respond.
The research focuses on three key areas: understanding the prevalence, risk factors, and impacts of economic abuse in Canada; examining how service providers and systems identify and respond to economic abuse; and strengthening support for survivors and service providers. Through national research, engagement with frontline service providers, and the development of practical training and financial empowerment resources, the project aims to translate research into meaningful improvements in policy and practice. Ultimately, the project seeks to advance responses that recognize economic security as an essential part of survivor safety, recovery, and long-term independence.
This project has been funded through SSHRC Gender-Based Violence Research Initiative
Get Involved
For more information or to get involved, please contact:
Priya Shastri
Director of Programs
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