The National Network for Children (NNC) recently released its “Report Card 2026: What Is State’s Average Performance in Caring for Children?” The report assesses the progress of state policies dedicated to children over the past fifteen years, utilizing data compiled by more than 40 experts across eight evaluated areas. According to Maria Brestnichka of the NNC, the overall average rating for the state’s care for children is 3.28. Brestnichka noted that child well-being emerged as the weakest sector, scoring 2.96.
This low score encompasses critical aspects such as child poverty, access to healthcare services, and the quality of education, suggesting a need for a comprehensive new policy strategy. Bella Damyanova, Coordinator for Children’s Policies at NNC, highlighted the social system, which received a score of 3.41. However, she pointed to a persistent shortage of specialists within this area.
She also reported that two medico-social care homes have yet to be closed. Furthermore, Georgi Elenkov of the NNC addressed the political environment, stating that while there are signs of emerging stability in Bulgarian politics, the primary concern remains the need to achieve policy consistency and restore an expert focus within the National Assembly. The findings underscore that while certain social structures show moderate performance, systemic policy improvements are required to bolster the overall well-being of children.
Topics: #children #average #state
It’s concerning that child well-being is flagged as the weakest area after fifteen years of policy assessment.