Mainstreaming Gender Equality and Promoting Work-Life Balance

Programme Summary

Why is the programme needed? Across the European Union, more than 6 million women in their mid- to late twenties are unable to work full-time due to family responsibilities. In Romania, the labour market participation for women with young children is markedly lower than that of women with older children, mainly due to care responsibilities. Roma women face additional obstacles in accessing the labour market, and only 11% of Roma women in Romania are in employment. The last years have seen child care facilities for the youngest children undergoing changes or closing down, and the Romanian child care system currently lacks an early education component. What will the programme achieve and who are the beneficiaries? The programme will promote a more balanced labour participation of both men and women by improving access to early education for Romanian children in the age group 0-3 years, as well as disabled children in the age group 0-7 years. The programme will have a special focus on access for the most vulnerable groups, including Roma. How will it be achieved? The programme consists of one call for proposals, and will result in the following: - 14 educational centres and day care centres for the youngest children and children with special needs. - 350 new places in pre-school education, out of which 70 places will be reserved for Roma children - At least 14 workshops to raise awareness of work-life balance issues among Romanian men and women. How will bilateral relations be strengthened? The promotion of a better balance between work and family life is a common aim and priority for both Romania and the Donor states. The universal provision of good-quality childcare services has been one of the key factors contributing to the high female labour market participation rate in the Nordic countries. The programme aims to strengthen cooperation in these areas through mutual learning and exchanges of experience. Who can apply for funding under this programme? Only local public entities registered in Romania are eligible as project applicants. There will be one call for proposals to support initiatives to establish educational centres and day care centres for young children. Project grants will range from €170,000 to €360,000. What are the partnership opportunities? The promotion of a better work life balance through the provision of affordable and accessible childcare is a priority Romania shares with the Donor countries. The programme is well suited for bilateral project partnerships, and the programme will encourage and support project level partnerships between entities in Romania and the Donor states, through facilitating the search for relevant partners. A match making seminar will be organised in advance of the call for proposals.