Policy panel on effective cross-sectoral coordination in ECD: Policy design and implementation

In this session, policymakers from Bulgaria, Montenegro, Serbia, and UNICEF ECARO discussed effective strategies for cross-sectoral coordination in early childhood development (ECD) policies. They emphasized the importance of collaboration across education, health, and social welfare sectors, as well as the crucial role of finance ministries in supporting sustainable policies. 

Key points included the need for robust monitoring and evaluation to track progress, identify gaps, and foster a shared vision across sectors, enhancing policy effectiveness and accountability. The panel underscored the significance of a systems approach, advocating for strong partnerships among government bodies, non-profits, and the private sector to create a cohesive ECD ecosystem. Despite challenges such as funding, engaging finance ministries early and promoting inter-ministerial collaboration can amplify impact, ensuring that ECD policies benefit every child and lead to lasting change.

The speakers in this session were:
- Natalia Miteva, Deputy Minister of Education, Bulgaria
- Milica Marković, Ministry of Health, Montenegro
- Milan Pašić, Ministry of Education, Serbia
- Ivelina Borisova, Policy Advisor, UNICEF Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia (ECARO)
- Mihaela Ionescu, Moderator, ISSA

Видео Policy panel on effective cross-sectoral coordination in ECD: Policy design and implementation канала ISSA - International Step by Step Association