Global breastfeeding scorecard 2021: protecting breastfeeding through bold national actions during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond

Overview

Breastfeeding is one of the most effective ways to ensure child health and survival. Breastmilk contains antibodies that help protect against many common childhood illnesses. Breastfed children perform better on intelligence tests and are less likely to be overweight or obese later in life. Women who breastfeed also have a reduced risk of cancer and type II diabetes. It is estimated that inadequate breastfeeding is responsible for 16% of child deaths each year.

The Global Breastfeeding Collective has identified seven policy priorities for countries to protect, promote and support breastfeeding. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the urgency of implementing these policy priorities but has also created new challenges for their implementation. The Global Nutrition Summit in December 2021 will draw worldwide attention on the extent to which countries are ready to boldly commit to the health and nutrition of their mothers and children. Committing to significant action in support of breastfeeding will be critical.

The Global Breastfeeding Scorecard examines national performance on key indicators of the seven policy priorities. The Scorecard is designed to encourage and document progress on the promotion, protection and support of breastfeeding.