Le protocole sociojudiciaire en matière de violence conjugale: Une mobilisation ciblée pour une innovation limitée dans un champ fortement conflictuel

Abstract

Cross-sector collaboration that leads to sustained systematic referral to police and social–legal support for women victims of conjugal violence continues to present a challenge in this field of intervention. This article discusses an evaluation of planning practices used for the development, implementation and sustainability of this type of innovative initiative: the socio-legal protocol in the region of Bas Saint-Laurent in Québec. The approach used was a longitudinal interpretive study based on a social theory of innovation, the theory of innovation translation. The planning practices deployed consisted in a strategic breakdown of the desired outcome and actors to mobilise, and the implementation of collaborative arrangements that made it possible to overcome controversies that have historically divided this field. The study shows that initial commitment of the various actors and demonstration of the feasibility of such an initiative are not enough to ensure it is sustained within organisations. These types of innovations rest on a patiently constructed network of alliances that is never stabilised. To facilitate continuity of these initiatives, their promoters must maintain a constant vigilance aimed at perpetually reinforcing the network of actors and preventing committed sectors from discontinuing their participation.