A new policy brief underscores the critical need for G20 nations to prioritize investment in early childhood development (ECD), highlighting that under investment in this area exacerbates social and economic inequalities. This comprehensive analysis, produced by a coalition of leading organizations, including among others the Learning for Well-being Institute, the International Federation for Family Development, Family Talks, the University of York, UNICEF, Columbia University and Theirworld, makes a compelling case for action ahead of the 2024 G20 Summit.
The High Costs of Inaction
The brief illustrates the stark disparities in public spending on children across different age groups, with the youngest children consistently receiving the least support. While the European Union allocates a significant proportion of resources to children under six, many low- and middle-income countries spend drastically less, with some African nations allocating less than $100 per child in this critical age group.
“Child development begins from day one, yet our investment priorities don’t reflect this reality,” said a spokesperson for the Learning for Well-being Institute. “The evidence is clear: neglecting early childhood interventions leads to poorer outcomes for children, families, and societies at large.”
Evidence-Based Recommendations
The brief builds on commitments made during past G20 summits, such as the 2018 Early Childhood Development Initiative and the 2023 Bhopal Declaration, both of which emphasized the importance of universal social protection and ECD as catalysts for inclusive growth.
Key recommendations include:
– Introducing Universal Child Benefits (UCB): These foundational policies can eradicate child poverty when properly sized and structured.
– Scaling up maternal and parental leave: Paid leave policies and birth grants can create a supportive environment for families.
– Enhancing early education investments: Accessible, high-quality preschool programs yield long-term benefits for both children and their communities.
– Focusing on inclusive data collection: Reliable metrics are essential for monitoring progress and identifying areas for improvement.
The Role of Collaborating Organizations
Each contributing organization brings a unique perspective to the issue:
Learning for Well-being Institute emphasized holistic approaches that address children’s physical, emotional, and social well-being.
International Federation for Family Development highlighted the role of strong family policies in reducing poverty and inequality.
University of York’s research provided critical insights into the economic returns of ECD investments.
Brookings Institution framed these findings in the context of global policy, urging G20 leaders to seize this “inflection point for young children.”
A Global Imperative
“The data is sobering, but it also gives us a roadmap,” said a representative from Brookings Institution. “We know what works—now we need the political will to implement these solutions.”
The upcoming G20 Summit presents a unique opportunity to turn these insights into action. As leaders prepare to meet, the message from this coalition is clear: investing in the youngest members of society isn’t just a moral imperative; it’s an economic one.
For more information, visit:
T20 Policy Brief
Learning for Well-being Institute
Family Talks
University of York,
Brookings Institution
