World Breastfeeding Week (WBW) is a global campaign coordinated by the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA). Recognized as one of the largest collaborative initiatives of its kind, WBW is supported by major international organizations including the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF. The campaign aims to raise awareness of the numerous benefits of breastfeeding for infants, mothers, and communities.

Since its launch in 1991, WBW has been celebrated annually in approximately 120 countries. In 2016, it became officially aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), highlighting its relevance in advancing global health and development. While most countries observe WBW from August 1–7, others may commemorate it in May, October, or November, depending on national health priorities and calendar planning.

To learn more about how you can participate in WABA’s advocacy efforts, visit www.worldbreastfeedingweek.org.

GFCNI is proud to support and take part in World Breastfeeding Week with its own dedicated campaign under the slogan "Protect and Promote Breastfeeding for the Best Start in Life."

While we champion breastfeeding for every newborn, our focus remains on the most vulnerable infants – preterm babies and newborns requiring intensive medical care. These infants often face additional challenges that can interfere with breastfeeding, making targeted support not only essential but lifesaving.

Through awareness, advocacy, and global collaboration, we work to ensure that every baby – regardless of their circumstances – has the opportunity to benefit from the power of breastmilk. 

We invite you to join GFCNI’s 2025 social media campaign! Download the material and use it for your own social media posts. Tag us @gfcni on Facebook and gfcni_newborn on Instagram and X (formerly Twitter), and use #BreastfeedingIsAJourney to help us find and like your posts.

Preterm and hospitalized newborns can gain even greater health benefits from breastmilk than healthy, full-term babies. However, they are significantly less likely to be breastfed. This gap arises from a range of medical, emotional, and systemic challenges.

In the early days and weeks, many preterm babies are physically unable to breastfeed. They may struggle to coordinate sucking and swallowing, lack the strength to feed, or have underdeveloped digestive systems. These medical limitations often delay or complicate direct breastfeeding.

Mothers of preterm or hospitalized infants also face additional hurdles. Many lack access to accurate information and specialized support, leaving them uncertain about how to express, store, or provide breastmilk. Emotional stress – whether self-imposed or influenced by family and societal expectations – can further complicate the experience, making it more difficult to establish or sustain breastfeeding.

At GFCNI, we aim to raise awareness about the importance of breastfeeding support for every mother, especially those in complex situations such as having a preterm or sick baby requiring neonatal intensive care.