Abstract:

The Copé-Zimmermann Act aims at introducing parity between men and women on boards of directors, it has celebrated its tenth anniversary in January 2021. Since 1970, there has been a proliferation of legislation aimed at combating inequality in the workplace and promoting women's access to jobs and careers, as well as equal pay. Although progress has been made, it has been slow, despite the increase in the number of qualified women on the labour market over the last 30 years. It was only in 2019, after several reports revealed persistent inequalities in the civil service, that obligations like those imposed on the private sector were extended to public administrations, particularly municipalities. This study focuses on the local civil service, in particular municipalities, which are now required to adopt professional equality policies. After a review of the main laws and charters, we will conduct an exploratory study of the implementation of these measures in two local authorities. Qualitative research and participant observation will shed light on how these local authorities have initiated policies in favor of professional equality and the resources they have at their disposal to achieve this. Finally, the study will highlight the strategies employed by managers to mobilize stakeholders and promote equality.

Keywords: professional equality, local civil service, municipal policies