On International Equal Pay Day 2024, COFACE member FIAPAS took a strong stand against economic violence targeting women in the workplace. Economic violence refers to practices that undermine women’s financial autonomy and security, often hidden behind unequal pay, denied labor rights, or exploitation within family businesses. In this context, Fiapas sheds light on a disturbing reality faced by many women who are unaware of their economic vulnerability until it’s too late.
In a short a short film which is part of their series “Ahora nos vais a escuchar – Now You’re Going to Hear Us,” we learn about the story of María, a woman who worked tirelessly in her family’s tapas bar for decades. While María managed the kitchen and supplies, her husband Juan handled the finances. Their son Miguel, diagnosed with ALS in 2008, gradually lost mobility until he was confined to a wheelchair, under the care of his parents. This routine worked for many years in the family, until Juan died of a heart attack, leaving María a widow. After many years, María decided to apply for her retirement with plans to either close or sell the business. She hoped to hire a professional to help care for her son, finally giving her a chance to rest from her work obligations but she discovers a devastating truth instead: Juan had stopped paying her Social Security contributions for over ten years, leaving her with no right to a dignified pension after a lifetime of hard work. Instead of enjoying her well-deserved retirement, María is forced to continue working to support herself and her son.
This situation highlights how economic violence within family businesses—such as failing to ensure a partner’s labor rights—can leave women vulnerable, even after years of contribution. Fiapas emphasizes that economic exploitation is a form of violence, stripping women of their financial independence and security.
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