World Breastfeeding Week 2026 marks the third cycle of the SMAM SDG 2030 campaign, focusing on Thematic Area 1: Nutrition, food security and poverty reduction. The theme acknowledges that, globally, exclusive breastfeeding has reached 47%, approaching the 50% target set by the World Health Assembly for 2025, later expanded to 60% by 2030.
Worldwide, millions of families who wish to breastfeed are unable to do so, not for lack of willingness, but because the systems around them do not provide the necessary support. The first weeks after birth are the period of greatest vulnerability, where pain, latch difficulties, perception of insufficient milk production and low confidence can lead to early weaning.
Among the effective strategies identified are support during the first week, referral to breastfeeding consultants, peer support networks and telephone helplines, especially targeted at first-time mothers, cesarean births and families in vulnerable situations.
Support in the workplace is considered essential to achieving equity. Paid leave, breaks for breastfeeding or expressing milk, and adequate facilities should benefit all workers, including those in the informal sector or in precarious conditions. The campaign calls on all actors in the Breastfeeding Support Network to measure which actions work and expand their reach.
