The International Lactation Consultant Association (ILCA) is a non-state actor in special relations with the World Health Organization (WHO), and wants to highlight the importance of the work WHO does to improve global health through the protection, promotion, and support of breastfeeding, including protection from predatory marketing of products covered by the International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes (Code). It is vital this work continues.
WHO recommends that:
WHO is instrumental in encouraging countries to enact legislation to implement the International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes, and works with UNICEF and IBFAN to report a global update on the status of Code implementation every two years. Additionally, WHO spearheads NetCode, to strengthen country and civil society efforts to monitor the Code.
Along with UNICEF, WHO has called on all maternity facilities to implement the Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding as part of the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI), and provides training materials to support implementation.
WHO, often working with UNICEF, has provided valuable research and many guidelines and other publications to support breastfeeding, including the Global Strategy for Infant and Young Child Feeding.
ILCA supports all countries to maintain their commitment to WHO to advance global health.
The impact of conflicts on vulnerable populations, especially mothers, infants, and young children, is significant and deeply distressing, and the International Lactation Consultant Association® (ILCA®) extends our deepest sympathy to all those affected. We also extend a message of heartfelt support to our members and healthcare colleagues who continue to aid ongoing humanitarian crises and think of our fellow lactation consultants who themselves may be victims of violence.
ILCA® reaffirms its commitment to advocating for essential lactation care and support, especially in emergency situations. Increased breastfeeding and safe Infant and Young Child Feeding in Emergencies (IYCF-E) practices are vital to the health and well-being of infants and young children when food security, clean water, and sanitation may be unpredictable.
To aid those in need during emergencies, ILCA® offers resources for lactation care providers on how to support breastfeeding during emergencies and disasters. We also strongly promote the importance of sustaining breastfeeding, relactation, and nurturing maternal-infant bonds, as much as possible.
At the heart of lactation consulting lies dedication to advancing global health and supporting and caring for diverse communities. We continue to advocate for skilled lactation care during emergencies and support those affected by conflicts. Together, we can make a difference in safeguarding the well-being of mothers, infants, and young children. Please visit the ILCA Emergency Resource Page for more information and access to emergency resources.
International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners® and IBLCE® are registered Service Marks, and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant® and IBCLC® are registered Certification Marks, of the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners and are used with permission herein.
