Synergizing early childhood and child-friendly policy initiatives: Towards a holistic early education governance model in Indonesia

Abstract

The national early childhood education (ECE) policy and the child-friendly district policy (CFD) are two strategic initiatives aimed at achieving the well-being, protection, and development of children in a holistic manner. Despite their mutually supportive objectives, the implementation of these two policies at the regional level is often carried out separately with minimal intersectoral coordination, resulting in suboptimal implementation effectiveness. This study aims to analyze the collaboration between ECE and CFD policies in creating a comprehensive, inclusive, and sustainable early childhood education management model in Indonesia. The research method used is a qualitative comparative approach with case studies planned in four districts: Ponorogo, Wonogiri, Pacitan, and Madiun, which have implemented both policies simultaneously. Data were obtained through analysis of policy documents, in-depth interviews with education offices and women's empowerment and child protection offices, and observations of coordination and collaboration practices between institutions at the district level. Research findings indicate that the success of policy synergy is largely determined by the commitment of regional leaders, the performance of inter-sectoral coordination forums, and the existence of integrated evaluation mechanisms linking education, social services, and child protection. Districts with strong supporting regulations and community participation demonstrated better policy integration. These findings demonstrate that collaboration in evidence-based governance is a crucial foundation for strengthening a child-sensitive ECE policy ecosystem that aligns with the principles of sustainable development in Indonesia.