Understanding of Inclusion in Public Policy for Early Childhood Programs from Human Capabilities and Recognition Approach: Case Study on Buen Comienzo, Medellin-Colombia

Through a case study carried out between 2016 and 2018, this research sought to understand concepts and practices of inclusion that are present in Public Policy for Early Childhood, from the approach of human capabilities by Martha Nussbaum and the critical theoretical perspective of recognition by Axel Honneth. Children, families, and civil servants at Buen Comienzo Program in Medellin-Colombia participated in this study. Data were obtained through a documentary review, non-participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and interactive techniques. The results report that multiple conceptions and practices of inclusion-exclusion coexist, some are based on broad and multidimensional visions that recognize human diversity; others are restricted to certain population groups or people; and some are closer to human development. These conceptions expand or restrict children's capabilities in the three spheres of recognition: affective, legal and social.