The Europeans | European news, politics and culture Childcare policy: Who Does It Best?
Oct 31, 2025
Maja Stepančič and Uršula Zaletelj, Slovenian public radio journalists and co-hosts of the parenting podcast Šala za starše, dive into the world of childcare policy across Europe. They explore how these policies shape careers and family life, including Sweden's generous parental leave and Romania's lengthy leave with its risks. Maja and Uršula highlight Slovenia's universal kindergarten access and inclusive practices, while also reflecting on ongoing challenges like gender norms. Their insightful journey is not just for parents, but anyone curious about societal impacts.
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Childcare Drives Gender Equality
- Affordable, state-provided full-time childcare reduces gender inequality by enabling mothers to work full-time.
- Without it, one parent (usually the mother) does unpaid care work and faces career and pension losses.
Icelandic Women’s One-Day Strike
- In 1975, 90% of Icelandic women went on strike and halted work and household chores for a day.
- That protest catalysed major gains in women's emancipation and equal-pay policy in Iceland.
Policy Changes Parenting Culture
- Sweden's 480-day parental leave with 90 reserved days per parent uses "use it or lose it" to normalise fathers' caregiving.
- This design produced a cultural shift where dads routinely take substantial leave.