Child refugee looking toward the sky and a hopeful future (Turkey).

Theory of change

Theory of change

How can we influence governments and policy makers?
Child refugee looking toward the sky and a hopeful future (Turkey).
Child refugee looking toward the sky and a hopeful future (Turkey). © Emektr | Dreamstime Images

Introduction

Early childhood development (ECD) services can make a significant contribution to peacebuilding, social cohesion and sustainable development. High quality ECD services that focus on creating and sustaining nurturing environments can not only improve the child’s short-term developmental outcomes, but they are also associated with improved long-term outcomes in adulthood.

Indeed, if governments, institutions, organizations design and implement ECD programs that build context-specific peace-relevant attitudes, skills and knowledge in children, family, and government institutions; then there will be: (1) increased vertical and horizontal social cohesion, (2) a reduced risk of transgenerational transmission of violence, and (3) increased economic growth and sustainable development within communities, and at national and international levels.

Explore this work area by scrolling through each of the sections and subsections below. 

Additional information relating to this work area will be provided as it becomes available.

Topics & initiatives

Young girl on father's shoulder carries sign "We believe in love" at outdoor event.

Ending cyles of violence: Investing in longterm solutions

In a time of recurring violent conflict and societal shocks, it is vital we invest in long-term solutions to end cycles of violence, and build strong foundations for sustainable development and social cohesion.
Smiling Syrian refugee girl in pigtails holds hand peace sign (Turkey).

Theory of change: Early childhood development & sustainable development

Learn how universal early childhood development services can help vulnerable children and families reach their potential by reducing inequalities and promoting sustainable economic productivity. 
Two happy Thai school girls.

Promoting evidence-based policy

  • Early childhood development & policy in a global context
  • Policy brief: Fathers matter for peace, equity, and social inclusion
  • ECPC Global Call to Action in response to COVID-19 for children in fragile & conflict affected settings
  • Early Years - Shared Education
Young girl sits by her desk in primary school in Akosombo, Ghana, W. Africa.

Economic benefits of early childhood development investments

Advances in neuroscience and economic studies demonstrate that early childhood experiences can have a profound impact on brain development and on a child’s subsequent learning and health, and financial earnings as an adult.
Little boy builds a small house with colorful wooden blocks.

Institutional capacity development for conflict-sensitive and peacebuilding-oriented ECD governance

Learn more about the potential of early childhood services as platforms for leveraging vertical and horizontal social cohesion, and to build relevant institutional competencies.

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