Population Europe's collaboration partner COFACE Families Europe and the Centre for Family Studies of ODISEE University of Applied Sciences have launched the “European Observatory on Family Policy”.
The Observatory aims to serve as a platform to delve into the complex and evolving landscape of family policies in European countries. It seeks to identify emerging trends, analyze the existing frameworks and explore the potential for greater integration and collaboration among nations to address the diverse needs of families living in Europe.
The Observatory will therefore also discuss the challenges faced by different countries and regions. By sharing successful practices the platform offers insights into the possibilities for a more harmonized and efficient approach to family policy. By fostering collaboration and integration, partners will work together to build a more supportive and inclusive environment for families, ensuring they are resilient and can thrive while contributing to the strength of our society.
Towards greater family policy integration across Europe.
The Observatory's first report is focused on families with young children. These families have complex necessities in the period before the start of compulsory schooling. Often, these needs cannot be reduced to educational, healthcare or caregiving demands alone. Successful fulfilment of these needs requires a joint effort of different governmental levels in order to build ties and form functioning networks of cooperation over a long period of time. This comparative report aims to investigate possible responses to the multisectoral needs of families by providing an overview of the current alignment and coordination between complementary services and policy areas in Finland, Germany, Italy, Poland and Flanders.
In a time when the well-being of European families is of paramount concern, the report aims to contribute to the ongoing discourse and decision-making processes, providing valuable insights and recommendations for policymakers, researchers, grassroots family organisations and anyone interested in the future of family policies in Europe.