Sawasya JP through UN Women launches a new study on the economic cost of violence against women in Palestine

The study provides the first comprehensive national analysis of the economic impact of violence against women in Palestine, demonstrating that gender-based violence is not only a grave violation of human rights but also places a significant economic burden on individuals, families, institutions and the national economy.

According to the study, the overall annual economic cost of violence against women in Palestine is estimated at approximately NIS 297.45 million (USD 86.47 million). This includes costs borne by individuals and households, as well as the cost of inaction, such as lost productivity, unpaid care work and out-of-pocket expenditure. It also includes costs incurred by institutions and service providers responding to violence and delivering services.

The findings highlight that violence against women has impacts beyond the immediate harm experienced by survivors. The economic burden includes lost income, reduced productivity, increased health and legal costs, and significant unpaid care work, all of which affect households, communities and the broader economy. 

The research also underscores the scale of violence experienced by women. Data from the 2019 Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics survey indicates that indicates that many women experience various forms of violence, including psychological, physical, sexual and economic violence within and outside the household. 

By translating these impacts into economic terms, the study provides critical evidence to support policy reform, strengthen prevention efforts, and guide investment in services for survivors.

Produced by UN Women under the Sawasya III Joint Programme, a joint initiative implemented with United Nations Development Programme and UNICEF, the study provides evidence-based insights to inform policies, programmes and budgeting processes aimed at preventing violence against women and strengthening survivor-centred services.

“This study demonstrates that violence against women carries profound economic consequences for families, communities and institutions. By quantifying these costs, we hope to strengthen evidence-based policymaking and support national efforts to invest in prevention, protection and access to justice for women and girls. Through the Sawasya programme, we remain committed to supporting institutions and partners in translating this evidence into concrete reforms and stronger services for survivors.” Hanan Kamar, Rule of Law and Protection Specialist at UN Women, Sawasya III Joint Programme

Through the Sawasya programme, the findings of this study will contribute to strengthening policy dialogue and national reform efforts to improve laws, policies, and institutional responses to gender-based violence.

The evidence will support decision-makers, including legislators, government counterparts, justice sector actors, and service providers—in advancing evidence-based reforms, particularly in relation to the Family Protection Bill, and in shaping more responsive legal and policy frameworks.

It will also enhance understanding of the broader social and economic impacts of violence against women, informing more effective planning, resource allocation, and survivor-centred prevention and response services.

By highlighting the significant economic costs of violence, the study also provides a strong evidence base to advocate for sustained investment in prevention, protection and access to justice, reinforcing that addressing violence against women is not only a human rights obligation but also a critical social and economic priority.

Speaking during the event, representatives emphasized that investing in prevention, protection and access to justice is essential not only to safeguard women’s rights but also to strengthen social and economic resilience in Palestine.

The launch took place during the online closing event of the International Women’s Day campaign “We Survive, We Lead,” which highlights the leadership and resilience of Palestinian women across communities and institutions. The campaign underscores that Palestinian women continue to sustain essential services, mobilize support networks and advocate for dignity, justice and equal rights despite ongoing challenges.

The event also featured high-level participation, including Dr. Ramiz Alakbarov, Deputy Special Coordinator, Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, and H.E Mona Al Khalili, the Minister of Women’s Affairs, as well as H.E Ambassador Tarja Kangaskorte, Representative Office of Finland. It also featured representatives from United Nations agencies, government institutions, diplomatic missions and women-led organizations to reflect on progress and renew commitments to advancing gender equality and ending violence against women.

By shedding light on the economic dimensions of violence against women, the study aims to support policymakers, institutions and civil society in strengthening coordinated responses, improving service provision and investing in prevention strategies that protect the rights and wellbeing of women and girls across Palestine.