Gender equality is a fundamental value in Québec. It implies that women and men are equal in all spheres of life, which means that they have:
- the same rights
- the same obligations
- the same responsibilities
- the same chances
- the same opportunities
For immigrants, particularly those who have recently arrived in the country, this can represent a significant change and lead to some difficulties.
For this reason, the files presented below provide access to information on how gender equality is applied in Québec. Six themes are addressed in as many downloadable files:
Equality in Education - Guide (PDF 187 Kb)
L'égalité dans l'éducation - Guide (PDF 199 Kb)
In accordance with the principle of providing equal opportunities for all, the school’s mission is to instruct, to socialize and to qualify students. Public schools are diverse, inclusive, democratic, open and secular.
Equality for Couples and Family - Guide (PDF 219 Kb)
L'égalité dans le couple et la famille - Guide (PDF 232 Kb)
Women and men in couple relationships are equal before the law whether the partners are of the same sex or different sexes. They have the same obligations toward each other and toward their children. Parental authority and family responsibilities are joint obligations, regardless of the type of union.
If a marriage or other union takes place outside of Canada, it is still possible to obtain a legal separation, a divorce or a dissolution. However, the conditions established by law must be met, and one of the spouses must reside on Québec territory. Some countries do not recognize judgments rendered in Québec.
Equality at Work and in Business - Guide (PDF 224 Kb)
L'égalité en emploi et en affaires - Guide (PDF 243 Kb)
Québec has strict rules to ensure that all employees enjoy fair and equal treatment. It has also adopted various measures 
to help individuals better reconcile their family life with their professional life.
Anyone can also become an entrepreneur. A number of organizations offer guidance services to those who wish to carry out a business project.
Equality in Health Care Services - Guide (PDF 188 Kb)
L'égalité dans les services de santé - Guide (PDF 195 Kb)
Everyone, without exception, is entitled to receive healthcare services in a manner consistent with the principles of dignity and respect. To benefit from access to free healthcare services, people newly arrived in Québec must first register with the Régie de l’assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ).
Equality with Regard to the Security, Integrity and Dignity of the Person - Guide (PDF 233 Kb)
Respect for physical integrity is a fundamental right. For years, public institutions and many social groups have been working increasingly hard in their fight against violence, particularly violence targeting women.
Participation in Public Life - Guide (PDF 197 Kb)
L’égalité au regard de la participation à la vie publique - Guide (PDF 205 Kb)
Québec society invites all its citizens to become involved in their communities by, for example:
- working in the public service, be it on the local, provincial or federal level
- becoming a member of a community organization or support group
- expressing their views publicly
Last update: February 23, 2023
