COFACE: Introducing a new editorial series: Insights on Family Policies
EUROPEAN OBSERVATORY ON FAMILY POLICY Introducing our new editorial series: Insights on Family Policies We are thrilled to announce the launch of our new editorial series, Insights on Family Policies, published by the European Observatory of Family Policy. This series delves into contemporary developments in family policy across Europe, focusing on innovative approaches to designing, implementing, and coordinating policies that support families in rapidly evolving societal contexts. About the Series “All meaningful change starts with the skills of reimagining things. The family policy models featured in the Insights help make visible an alternative future, one with integrated, innovative and people centred policies that reflect the realities of families.” (Annemie Drieskens, Founding Chair of the Observatory Steering Group 2022 – 2025) Insights on Family Policies examines cross-sectoral strategies that integrate health, education, and social care systems to address the complex needs of families. Rejecting traditional policy silos, the series emphasises holistic frameworks that prioritize multi-agency cooperation, accessibility, and responsiveness. By showcasing evidence-based research and national innovations, the series aims to inform policymakers, practitioners, and scholars while fostering dialogue on effective family support mechanisms. Discover the First Three Dossiers The inaugural issue features studies exploring integrated family policy models supporting families with young children in Italy, Flanders, and Germany: 1. Italy’s integrated early childhood system This dossier discusses Italy’s transformative 2015-2017 reform, which merged day-care and preschool services into a unified cycle for children aged 0–6. The study highlights the challenges of reconciling fragmented governance structures and financing models while striving for inclusivity, accessibility, and quality. Key contributions from experts like Raffaella Milano and Giorgio Tamburlini underscore the need to combat regional disparities and reframe day-care as a developmental right rather than an employment support. 2. Flanders’ Houses of the Child Focusing on Flanders’ innovative Huizen van het Kind, this dossier explores a decentralised network of integrated family support services. Established in 2013, these hubs provide universal access to healthcare, parenting support, and social initiatives while prioritising vulnerable families. Articles by Kathleen Emmery and Ivan Pauwels examine the successes and challenges of this model, including funding disparities and the critical role of local authorities in coordinating multi-sector collaboration. 3. Germany’s Preventive Social Policies This study investigates Germany’s evolving social state, emphasizing preventive strategies like the Frühe Hilfen (Early Intervention) program and Präventionsketten (prevention chains). Jörg Fischer and colleagues highlight efforts to bridge gaps between childcare, health, and welfare systems through evidence-based, participatory approaches. The dossier underscores the importance of localised implementation and inter-institutional cooperation in addressing family poverty and inequality. Why read this series? Insights on Family Policies is published by the European Observatory on Family Policy, a joint initiative by COFACE Families Europe and Odisee University. The Observatory documents trends and brokers knowledge to integrate a family perspective into policymaking, advocating for enhanced cross-sectoral and interprofessional cooperation in providing household support across generations We invite you to explore these studies and join the conversation about building more equitable and responsive family support systems. Read the dossiers here. You can follow the activities of the Observatory and stay updated on future initiatives and publications by signing up here: Link to Observatory mailing list Thank you for your continued interest in our work. Together, we can contribute to a more integrated and inclusive approach to family policy in Europe. //ENDS Notes to the editor: 1.The European Observatory on Family Policy aims to serve as a platform for the observation, analysis, and dissemination of evidence on family policy and other social concerns directly relevant to family well-being across the European Union. 2. The European Observatory on Family Policy is a joint research programme of COFACE Families Europe and the Centre for Family Studies of ODISEE University of Applied Sciences. COFACE Families Europe is a European network of civil society associations representing the interests of families (all types, without discrimination). COFACE’s areas of work include social/family policy, education, disability, gender equality, migration, consumer issues, and also protection of children online, privacy, data protection, and reflections on technological developments and how they may impact families. More: www.coface-eu.org For more information, please contact Martino Serapioni, Research Programme Coordinator mserapioni@coface-eu.org Our mailing lists and your data Would you like to sign up to receive our news? Subscribe here By clicking on “subscribe to list” you are giving COFACE consent to send you our monthly updates and media releases. 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