If you’re seeking in-depth statistics, research, and global quotes about how increased privatization and private equity are affecting Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC), look no further than the newly released “The Privatisation Playbook: Facts on the finance sector’s takeover of early childhood education and care.” This playbook is co-published by Education International (EI) and Public Services International (PSI), a global union federation representing 20 million workers in essential public services across 163 countries.
The Growing Issue of Privatization in ECEC
Public funding for ECEC services worldwide is struggling to meet the needs of families. In contrast, wealthy investors and private equity firms are profiting from the sector, leading to declines in service quality, worsening working conditions, and increased costs for both parents and the public.
A recent study by Education International found that nearly 90% of education unions believe privatization is rising in early childhood education. Workers in non-state schools often face lower wages, more short-term contracts, and less job security compared to their public sector peers.
Unionization as a Solution
The playbook emphasizes that unionizing is a collective way to protect ECE personnel. For instance, Canada’s “Child Care Connections” study indicates that unionized child care teachers earn 8.3% more, experience lower turnover rates, and contribute to higher-quality programs.
In Spain, CCOO early education members went on strike in 2023 to demand better pay after two years of unsuccessful negotiations with private employers.
Advocating for Public Provision
EI and its affiliates continue to advocate for early childhood education as a public good and a fundamental right that should be accessible to all children, especially those who are vulnerable and marginalized. EI General Secretary David Edwards stated, “Our ‘Go Public! Fund Education’ campaign urges governments to invest in public education and resist budget cuts, austerity, and privatization. This ensures a strong start for every child and upholds the dignity of those guiding their early educational years.”
The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) also highlighted that early childhood services in market conditions often suffer from shortages and poor quality, underscoring the need for government intervention. OECD research suggests that the advantages of well-supported early childhood services significantly outweigh their costs.
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