World Breastfeeding Week 2023, observed from August 1 to August 7, brings global attention to the essential role of breastfeeding in infant health and development. This year’s theme, “Let’s make breastfeeding and work, work!”, focuses on promoting breastfeeding in the workplace and advocating for maternity rights that empower women to breastfeed while pursuing their professional careers. The campaign aims to raise awareness about the importance of extended maternity leave and workplace accommodations to support breastfeeding beyond the initial months.
Breastfeeding is crucial for infant health, providing essential nutrition and antibodies that protect against diseases. However, current statistics reveal that fewer than half of infants under 6 months old are exclusively breastfed. The campaign seeks to create supportive environments by encouraging government policies and laws that protect and promote breastfeeding. It highlights the need for maternity leave of at least 18 weeks, ideally extending beyond 6 months, and workplaces that provide facilities for breastfeeding or expressing milk.
World Breastfeeding Week has its origins in the 1990 Innocenti Declaration, which recognized breastfeeding as vital for child health and survival. Since then, the week has evolved to address various aspects of breastfeeding and advocate for better support systems. This year’s celebration is an opportunity to unite individuals, communities, and governments in promoting breastfeeding as a fundamental element of infant well-being.
