The Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) was launched in 1991 by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) with the aim of protecting, promoting, and supporting breastfeeding in maternity care facilities, ensuring they follow the WHO/UNICEF "Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding" and adhere to the 1981 International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes. Implementation of the BFHI contributes to a better start to breastfeeding, reduced use of breast-milk substitutes, and higher rates of exclusive breastfeeding.
The strategy remains relevant in light of WHO challenges and goals: increasing exclusive breastfeeding rates among infants under six months of age to at least 50% by 2025.
Various studies have indicated that the continuation of breastfeeding depends on the incorporation of community support mechanisms (Step 10 of the Ten Steps). A dose-response relationship exists: exposure to a greater number of steps is associated with better breastfeeding outcomes.
In efficacy studies involving 15,096 newborns, its implementation led to a 45% increase in exclusive breastfeeding rates at 6 months and a 26% increase in the continuation of breastfeeding.
In 2026, under the theme "Breastfeeding for a sustainable start in life: strengthening what works," the WHO and PAHO are calling for the strengthening of strategies that work. The BFHI is one such strategy, helping ensure that all children have the best start in life, regardless of their circumstances.
