We are pleased to share an important positive development resulting from the constructive dialogue between COTSEV and the PMO.

Following our joint efforts to promote equal opportunities and better support for families within the European Institutions, the PMO has confirmed an important extension of the childcare reimbursement framework.

Starting from the next academic year, it will be possible to invoice directly to the PMO, including for partial or additional contracts, transport to a regular family care setting, such as care provided by grandparents or other caregivers.

This follows the same principle already applied to transport to the European Commission's childcare facilities and to dual enrolment arrangements for the children of separated parents.

This represents much more than an administrative improvement.

It is a recognition that families organise childcare in different ways and that these different realities deserve equal consideration and equal access to support.

As COTSEV, we strongly advocated for a broader interpretation of caregiving, one that reflects today's diverse family structures and acknowledges the essential role played not only by institutional childcare services but also by grandparents, separated parents and other trusted caregivers who contribute every day to children's well-being.

We would like to sincerely thank the PMO for its openness, its willingness to engage in constructive discussions and its commitment to finding practical solutions that benefit the wider European Institutions community.

This achievement demonstrates what can be accomplished through dialogue, cooperation and a shared commitment to fairness, inclusion and equal opportunities.

We will continue working together with all stakeholders to ensure that our services evolve in line with the real needs of our families and our community.