“Our sworn police service is currently made up of about 22% women, representing almost all ranks within the organization, right up to Deputy Chief,” says Chief Warren Driechel. “I signed the 30 Forward Pledge today to show my commitment, and that of our service, to increasing this number beyond 30%, with the future vision of seeing many more of those women advance to positions of leadership throughout their careers with us.”
Gender diversity in policing brings a broader range of perspectives and experiences, enriches the information and ideas available within police services, and ultimately supports more effective, innovative and inclusive decision-making.
Over the past five years, the EPS has maintained an average of about 23% women in its ranks. The 30 Forward Pledge not only reaffirms the Service’s commitment to recruiting more women, but also aims to identify and address any cultural or systemic barriers that could affect the promotion and retention of women within the organization.
The Edmonton Police Service is one of several police organizations across the country committing to the 30 Forward Pledge.