The International Lactation Consultant Association highlights the Director General’s report showing increasing global health emergencies that worsen water and food insecurity, especially for women and children.

We stress the life-saving importance of protecting infant and young child feeding, including breastfeeding.

We recall WHA resolution 63.23 (from 2010) where member states agreed to incorporate the Operational Guidance on Infant Feeding in Emergencies into national emergency preparedness and response plans; this was reinforced by WHA 71.9 in 2018; however, member states have made limited progress in meeting their commitments. We urge member states to refocus on this commitment and embed it in national policy.

Incorporating the Operational Guidance will protect and increase breastfeeding during emergencies, contributing to infant food security and protection against infections, which are critical, life-saving outcomes.