Early Childhood Education and Care in the Western Balkans : Investing for Children, Families, and Jobs

Overview & Synopsis

Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) encompasses publicly regulated services that provide education and childcare for children from birth until the start of primary education. ECEC plays a critical role in fostering children’s cognitive, social, and emotional development, enhancing school readiness, and supporting parental employment, particularly among women. In the Western Balkans, expanding access to quality ECEC is essential not only for children’s long-term learning and well-being but also for promoting inclusive economic growth and gender equality. Despite strong evidence of its benefits, the region continues to face persistent challenges in delivering equitable, affordable, and high-quality ECEC services. Enrollment rates remain significantly below European Union averages, especially for children under three and those from marginalized groups, including low-income households, Roma communities, and rural populations. Public provision has struggled to keep pace with rising demand, while private and community-based services remain limited due to financing and regulatory constraints. This report examines these challenges, analyzes their underlying causes, and identifies policy options to strengthen ECEC systems and promote inclusive access across the Western Balkans.