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Strengthening systems for integrated early childhood development services: a cross‐national analysis of governance
Author(s) -
Britto Pia Rebello,
Yoshikawa Hirokazu,
Ravens Jan,
Ponguta Liliana Angelica,
Reyes Maria,
Oh Soojin,
Dimaya Roland,
Nieto Ana María,
Seder Richard
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
annals of the new york academy of sciences
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.712
H-Index - 248
eISSN - 1749-6632
pISSN - 0077-8923
DOI - 10.1111/nyas.12365
Subject(s) - corporate governance , business , quality (philosophy) , scale (ratio) , low and middle income countries , political science , economic growth , developing country , economics , geography , philosophy , cartography , finance , epistemology
While there has been substantial growth in early childhood development (ECD) services in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs), there is considerable inequity in their distribution and quality. Evidence‐based governance strategies are necessary, but currently they are insufficient for widespread, quality implementation. In particular, there is a limited understanding of the use of systems approaches for the analysis of ECD services as they go to scale. The aim of this paper is to present findings from four countries, using a cross‐national case study approach to explore governance mechanisms required to strengthen national systems of ECD services. While different sets of governance strategies and challenges were identified in each country, overarching themes also emerged with implications for systems strengthening. Study results focus on local, mid‐level and central governance, with recommendations for effective coordination and the integration of ECD services in LMICs.