ABSTRACT:
Childcare is underdeveloped in Canada even though the country is a rich federation. Unlike many better-developed social policies, childcare services are delivered primarily through voluntary, non-profit or commercial markets rather than by governments. This policy framework is disadvantageous for all children and families, and has particularly severe consequences for rural, remote and northern Canadians. This article provides an overview of childcare services outside of towns and cities, considering how Canada’s political system of federalism and its liberal social welfare policy architecture work against high quality and equitable childcare services.
Keywords:
Canada; Federalism; Liberal welfare regime; Women’s equality; Rural and aboriginal childcare