Lack of affordable preschool care in Czechia and Europe hinders parental employment and widens social gaps.
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The lack of accessible preschool care in the Czech Republic remains a persistent issue despite its frequent mention in political campaigns. Both capacity and cost are concerns; while state daycare costs around 2400 CZK monthly for an average family, childcare can reach 6400 CZK. The main problem is accessibility, as studies show that up to a third of children cannot access daycare in certain municipalities. While wealthier areas near cities have some private alternatives, smaller towns lack these options and necessary staff. Expanding state preschool capacity yields a positive return for public finances, with each additional child bringing in about 46,000 CZK annually through increased parental employment and taxes. However, insufficient capacity deepens social inequalities, as children from lower-income families are most affected. This forces parents, often mothers, to forgo work, creating a cycle where lack of childcare prevents re-entry into the workforce. Overall, only about 60% of women with young children in the Czech Republic have access to care, one of the lowest rates in the EU. Internationally, preschool issues vary: Ireland has high costs and long waiting lists; Italy shows significant regional disparities; while Sweden guarantees places for over 95% of children at a low cost, the EU aims for member states to ensure spots for 45% of three-year-olds by 2030, a goal only a few northern countries are approaching.
