Inequalities in early childhood education and care participation

The participation of children in early childhood education and care (ECEC) in the EU has been on the rise in the period 2015-2024, but with evident differences based on socio-economic status and region. The participation gap increases for children under the age of three, while it is gradually decreasing for older children, with Croatia lagging behind the EU average, especially in its underdeveloped areas. Since it is unlikely to meet the Barcelona objectives, Croatia needs policies that increase the availability and affordability of ECEC, while special attention needs to be paid to the inclusion of children from vulnerable groups.