Helen Keller International

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Meeting: 

78th WHA Individual Statements

Agenda Item: 
- Item 13.9 Global strategy for Women’s, Children’s and Adolescents’ Health
Statement: 

The aggressive digital marketing of breast-milk substitutes (BMS) significantly undermines global efforts to promote exclusive breastfeeding, crucial for preventing malnutrition and reducing infant mortality.

In light of this challenge, we urge Member States to adopt the proposed resolution to regulate the digital marketing of breast milk substitutes. We urge governments, policymakers, and parliamentarians to take the following actions: revise laws and regulations on BMS marketing to align with WHO guidance, strengthen monitoring systems to identify and report unlawful digital marketing promptly; include all relevant government agencies in the regulation process; and allocate sufficient budgets and resources to enforce national Code legislation effectively. Implementing these measures can protect families from manipulative practices, bolster exclusive breastfeeding rates, and foster a healthier future for generations.