Federal return-to-office mandate risks reversing gains for women workers in Canada

Flexible telework arrangements are not simply a workplace perk; they are an important tool for supporting women's full participation in the workforce and building a more inclusive labour market. As Canada's largest employer, the federal government should lead by example.

Treasury Board President Shafqat Ali. The federal government expanded its return-to-office requirements as of July 6, with many federal staff now expected to work in the office four days per week. What has received less attention is the uneven impact of the return to office mandate on women employees, writes Angela Joya.The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Opinion

BY ANGELA JOYA

July 15, 2026

The federal government expanded its return-to-office requirements as of July 6, with many federal employees now expected to work in the office four days per week.

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