The week of January 27, 2025 marks the launch of Les Élu.e.s en action, a 3-year project funded by Women and Gender Equality Canada. This project aims to improve the working conditions and working climate within municipalities in the Eastern Townships, by collaborating with those who are directly involved in the public sector. To have a better understanding of the issues and barriers experienced in municipal politics in the Townships, we want to bring together those directly involved through various forms of activities.

The first step consists of organizing round tables in each MRC of the Townships, bringing together mayors and municipal councilors to identify their challenges and together reflect on solutions. In particular, issues such as access, participation and advancement of women in municipal politics. These meetings will serve as a basis for co-constructing solutions adapted to local realities.

The second stage is the creation of what is currently named a ‘network’ that will bring together elected officials, municipal employees, former elected officials, researchers, men and women and other stakeholders to work on the solutions identified in the round tables. In anticipation of the municipal elections on November 2, 2025, one of the first objectives of the Network will be to implement solutions raised during the round tables and between members of the Network, while publicly promoting the municipal world.

The role of PEPINES will be, not only to support this Network with resources and expertise, but also to ensure its sustainability and effectiveness.

A source of mobilization, partnership, mutual assistance and learning, the Network will develop according to the wishes and needs of its participating members.