Islamabad hosted a National Nutrition Advocacy Dialogue with Parliamentarians, focusing on breastfeeding, family-friendly policies, and enforcing regulations on breastmilk substitutes.
Organized by UNICEF Pakistan, the Ministry of National Health Services, and Save the Children Pakistan, the event brought together women parliamentarians, experts, and media.
Chief guest Rumina Khurshid Alam emphasized society’s collective responsibility to improve breastfeeding practices, stating, “For children’s health, nothing is more important than supporting breastfeeding mothers.”
UNICEF’s Dr. Anteneh Girma Minas noted, “Breastmilk is the first lifesaving vaccine, laying the foundation for a healthy life.”
Prof. Dr. Shahzad Ali Khan stressed breastfeeding’s importance, warning of long-term consequences for future generations.
Dr. Saba Shuja highlighted the need for family-friendly workplaces, ensuring children receive the best start.
Asyia Naz Tanoli advocated for national standards on family-friendly policies.
UNICEF urged nationwide adoption of the Islamabad Capital Territory Protection of Breastfeeding and Child Nutrition Bill, 2023, and called for:
- Paid parental leave
- Breastfeeding breaks at work
- Affordable quality childcare
- Child grants
UNICEF also stressed speeding up legislation and monitoring breastmilk substitute laws and increasing investment in breastfeeding support.