The project “Social Contract for Early Childhood” is implemented by the “For Our Children” Foundation in partnership with Equilibrium Association, Ruse, and Free Youth Center Association, Vidin. The National Association of Municipalities in the Republic of Bulgaria is an associated partner.
The initiative aims to engage citizens, non-governmental organizations, and institutions in creating a better environment for the development of young children. The focus is on the importance of the early years of life and the need to ensure an equal start for every child.
At the core of the project is the development of a Social Contract – a document created through an open and consultative process that formulates a shared vision, principles, and concrete commitments. It brings together various stakeholders, including national and local institutions, NGOs, academia, businesses, media representatives, and parents.
The project applies a bottom-up approach based on the real needs of citizens and local communities. This model encourages people’s active participation in shaping policies and decisions affecting children and their families.
The activities will be implemented in four regions – Sofia, Plovdiv, Ruse, and Vidin – involving 11 municipalities. Civic forums will be organized to discuss key challenges and solutions related to support for young children and their families, followed by local initiatives aimed at raising awareness and encouraging dialogue with institutions. The proposals developed during the forums will be summarized and presented to local authorities.
Equilibrium will organize nine civic forums in Ruse, Slivo Pole, Tsenovo, and Dve Mogili. The aim is to collect and analyze information from parents and professionals regarding the challenges of early childhood development, as well as to identify needs and formulate recommendations in this field.
At the national level, a coalition of organizations, experts, and citizens will be established to develop the Social Contract based on the proposals emerging from the civic forums. The document will be promoted through an online platform for information and participation, as well as through the communication campaign “The Best for the First Seven Years,” involving public figures and advocates. The project will conclude with a public event during which the Social Contract will be officially presented and signed by key stakeholders.
The project is implemented with the support of the Swiss-Bulgarian Cooperation Programme, Civic Engagement and Transparency Facility (CETF) 2024–2029. The views and opinions expressed are solely those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the governments of Switzerland or Bulgaria.