Dhaka: Every child has the right to the best possible start in life, and every mother deserves the support she needs to breastfeed successfully, said the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF on Tuesday, calling for stronger action to protect, promote, and support breastfeeding in Bangladesh.
According to United News of Bangladesh, in a joint statement, UNICEF Representative ad interim to Bangladesh Gillian Mellsop and WHO Representative to Bangladesh Dr Ahmed Jamsheed Mohamed emphasized their commitment to collaborating with the Bangladesh government and partners to realize this vision. They highlighted the importance of strengthening health systems, empowering families, and creating an environment conducive to breastfeeding and child development.
The UN agencies noted that breastfeeding offers significant health benefits, providing infants with essential nutrients for the first six months, protecting against diseases, boosting the immune system, and supporting growth and brain development. For mothers, it reduces the risk of non-communicable diseases and contributes to healthier families and communities.
New findings from the Bangladesh Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) 2025 reveal a decline in breastfeeding rates, with exclusive breastfeeding of infants under six months decreasing from 62.6% in 2019 to 56.6% in 2025. Early initiation of breastfeeding has also dropped from 46.6% to 30.4% during the same period. The statement underscores the urgent need for enhanced support for mothers and families.
The UN agencies acknowledged that while breastfeeding is natural, it requires support. Many mothers lack the necessary guidance and practical assistance during pregnancy, childbirth, and postnatal periods. Additionally, inadequate maternity protection and exposure to inappropriate marketing of breast-milk substitutes pose significant challenges.
WHO and UNICEF advocate for robust health systems, trained health workers, community support, and the expansion of the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative to improve breastfeeding outcomes. They emphasized the economic benefits of investing in breastfeeding, noting that every US$1 invested yields an estimated US$59 in returns through reduced healthcare costs and improved educational and economic outcomes.
The agencies call on the government, private sector, and communities to fortify measures supporting breastfeeding, ensuring health workers are equipped to assist mothers. They stress the importance of maternity protection, breastfeeding-friendly workplaces, and full enforcement of the International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes.
Moreover, breastfeeding support should be integrated into health, nutrition, and social protection programs to assist mothers, especially those in vulnerable situations. Stronger data, monitoring, and research are crucial for tracking progress and guiding actions.
The WHO and UNICEF conclude that investing in breastfeeding is a strategic move for Bangladesh, saving lives, improving health and nutrition, enhancing learning, and contributing to sustainable development.