In Romania, the number of public kindergartens has decreased significantly, with consequences for access to early childhood education.

<p>INS data show a dramatic decrease in the number of public kindergartens, with the North-East and South-West Oltenia regions among the hardest hit. This trend has led to overcrowding in the remaining kindergartens, impacting on costs for parents and making it difficult for them to carry out their work. Experts underline the need for public policies designed in partnership with parents' associations and specialists in the field.