Overview

• Micro-crèches across France are participating in a 'crèches mortes' protest to oppose a proposed government decree tightening regulations on their operations.
• The decree seeks to align micro-crèches' staffing and qualification standards with those of larger childcare facilities, citing concerns over safety and quality of care.
• Private micro-crèche operators warn the changes could result in the loss of up to 40,000 childcare places and thousands of jobs, particularly in rural areas where these facilities are more common.
• The government justifies the reforms by referencing reports highlighting safety risks and insufficient oversight in some micro-crèches, including incidents of neglect and abuse.
• The proposed rules, which may take effect in September 2026, include requirements for more qualified staff and stricter management structures, sparking criticism over a lack of prior consultation with stakeholders.