The World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA) is a global network of individuals
& organisations concerned with the protection, promotion & support of breastfeeding worldwide.
WABA action is based on the Innocenti Declaration, the Ten Links for Nurturing the Future and the
Global Strategy for Infant & Young Child Feeding. WABA is in consultative status with UNICEF & an NGO
in Special Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations (ECOSOC).
  
WABA
Countries - M/N 

Macedonia  

Current situation in the country regarding breastfeeding:  

  • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes: Being studied. 
____________________ 
Sources of information  
 
  • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes - This table was prepared with the assistance of the International Code Documentation Centre (ICDC). - Nutrition section, UNICEF, December 1998 

    •  

    Madagascar   

    Current situation in the country regarding breastfeeding:  

    • Percent of all infants aged 0-4 months who were exclusively breast-fed the day before a survey interview: 47%, 1997. 
    • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes as of December 1998: Law. 
    • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding: 50 of 731 total. 
    • Length of maternity leave: 14 weeks. 
    • Length of paternity leave: 10 days. 
    • Cash benefits for maternity leave (per cent of wage): 100. 
    • Who pays? 50% Employer / 50% Social Security. 
    • Women's share of adult labour force (% age 15 and above): 44. 
    ____________________ 
    Sources of information  
     
  • Percent of all infants aged 0-4 months who were exclusively breast-fed the day before a survey interview - BFHI analysis report, Nutrition section, UNICEF, February 1999  
  • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes - This table was prepared with the assistance of the International Code Documentation Centre (ICDC). - Nutrition section, UNICEF, December 1998 
  • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding - Country Profiles (BFHI analysis report, Nutrition section, UNICEF), February 1999. 
  • Length of maternity, paternity and parental leave -The World of Work, No. 24. April 1998; and for those not included there, Conditions of Work Digest: Maternity and work, Vol. 13, 1994. 
  • Cash benefits for maternity leave (per cent of wage) and Who pays? - ILO. The World of Work, no 24. April 1998. 
  • Women's share of adult labour force (% age 15 and above) - UNDP. Human Development Report 1998.  

    •  

    Malawi 

    Current situation in the country regarding breastfeeding: 

    • Percent of all infants aged 0-4 months who were exclusively breast-fed the day before a survey interview: 11%, 1997.
    • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes: Voluntary.
    • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding: 7 of 48 total.
    • Women's share of adult labour force (% age 15 and above): 49.
    ____________________ 
    Sources of information 
     
  • Percent of all infants aged 0-4 months who were exclusively breast-fed the day before a survey interview - BFHI analysis report, Nutrition section, UNICEF, February 1999 
  • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes - This table was prepared with the assistance of the International Code Documentation Centre (ICDC). - Nutrition section, UNICEF, December 1998
  • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding - Country Profiles (BFHI analysis report, Nutrition section, UNICEF), February 1999.
  • Women's share of adult labour force (% age 15 and above) - UNDP. Human Development Report 1998. 

    •  

    Malaysia 

    Current situation in the country regarding breastfeeding: 

    • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes: Voluntary.
    • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding: 281 of 324 total.
    • Length of maternity leave: 60 days.
    • Length of paternity leave: 3 days.
    • Cash benefits for maternity leave (per cent of wage): 100.
    • Who pays? The Employer.
    • Women's share of adult labour force (% age 15 and above): 37.
    ____________________ 
    Sources of information 
     
  • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes - This table was prepared with the assistance of the International Code Documentation Centre (ICDC). - Nutrition section, UNICEF, December 1998
  • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding - Country Profiles (BFHI analysis report, Nutrition section, UNICEF), February 1999.
  • Length of maternity, paternity and parental leave -The World of Work, No. 24. April 1998; and for those not included there, Conditions of Work Digest: Maternity and work, Vol. 13, 1994.
  • Cash benefits for maternity leave (per cent of wage) and Who pays? - ILO. The World of Work, no 24. April 1998.
  • Women's share of adult labour force (% age 15 and above) - UNDP. Human Development Report 1998. 

    • Relevant quotes from the ILO Report V (2): Maternity Protection at Work regarding: Maternity leave, Financing of benefits and Provisions for nursing mothers:  

    • A woman to whom the Convention applies, on production of a medical certificate stating the presumed date of her confinement, is not entitled to a period of maternity leave of not less than 12 weeks. Twelve weeks' maternity leave is too long and would discourage employers from employing women. - MEF: No. Some countries provide less than 12 weeks and entitlement should remain at the existing level. - MTUC: A woman to whom the Convention applies, on production of a medical certificate stating the presumed date of her confinement, should be entitled to a period of maternity leave of not less than 12 weeks. 
    • The cash and medical benefits should be provided through compulsory social insurance; depending on contract of service. 
    • A woman should be entitled to daily break(s) to nurse her child. MTUC: The woman should be entitled to daily break(s) to nurse her child and the breaks should be counted as working time and remunerated accordingly. 
     

    Maldives  

    Current situation in the country regarding breastfeeding:  

    • Percent of all infants aged 0-4 months who were exclusively breast-fed the day before a survey interview: 8%, 1997. 
    • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding: 5 of 5 total. 
    • Women's share of adult labour force (% age 15 and above): 43. 
    ____________________ 
    Sources of information  
     
  • Percent of all infants aged 0-4 months who were exclusively breast-fed the day before a survey interview - BFHI analysis report, Nutrition section, UNICEF, February 1999  
  • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding - Country Profiles (BFHI analysis report, Nutrition section, UNICEF), February 1999. 
  • Women's share of adult labour force (% age 15 and above) - UNDP. Human Development Report 1998.  

    •  

    Mali  

    Current situation in the country regarding breastfeeding:  

    • Percent of all infants aged 0-4 months who were exclusively breast-fed the day before a survey interview: 13%, 1996. 
    • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes: Being studied. 
    • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding: 12 of 60 total. 
    • Length of maternity leave: 14 weeks. 
    • Length of paternity leave: 10 days. 
    • Cash benefits for maternity leave (per cent of wage): 100. 
    • Who pays? The Social Security. 
    • Women's share of adult labour force (% age 15 and above): 46. 
    ____________________ 
    Sources of information  
     
  • Percent of all infants aged 0-4 months who were exclusively breast-fed the day before a survey interview - BFHI analysis report, Nutrition section, UNICEF, February 1999. 
  • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes - This table was prepared with the assistance of the International Code Documentation Centre (ICDC). - Nutrition section, UNICEF, December 1998. 
  • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding - Country Profiles (BFHI analysis report, Nutrition section, UNICEF), February 1999. 
  • Length of maternity, paternity and parental leave -The World of Work, No. 24. April 1998; and for those not included there, Conditions of Work Digest: Maternity and work, Vol. 13, 1994. 
  • Cash benefits for maternity leave (per cent of wage) and Who pays? - ILO. The World of Work, no 24. April 1998. 
  • Women's share of adult labour force (% age 15 and above) - UNDP. Human Development Report 1998.  

    • Relevant quotes from the ILO Report V (2): Maternity Protection at Work regarding: Maternity leave, Financing of benefits and Provisions for nursing mothers:  

    • A woman to whom the Convention applies, on production of a medical certificate stating the presumed date of her confinement, is entitled to a period of maternity leave of not less than 12 weeks. 
    • The cash and the medical benefits should be provided through compulsory social insurance. 
    • The woman should be entitled to daily break(s) to nurse her child and the breaks should be counted as working time and remunerated accordingly. 
     

    Malta  

    Current situation in the country regarding breastfeeding:  

    • Length of maternity leave: 13 weeks. 
    • Cash benefits for maternity leave (per cent of wage): 100.  
    • Who pays? The Social Security. 
    ____________________ 
    Sources of information 
     
  • Length of maternity, paternity and parental leave -The World of Work, No. 24. April 1998; and for those not included there, Conditions of Work Digest: Maternity and work, Vol. 13, 1994. 
  • Cash benefits for maternity leave (per cent of wage) and Who pays? - ILO. The World of Work, no 24. April 1998. 

    •  

    Marshall Islands  

    Current situation in the country regarding breastfeeding:  

    • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding: 0 of 2 total. 
    ____________________ 
    Sources of information  
     
  • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding - Country Profiles (BFHI analysis report, Nutrition section, UNICEF), February 1999.

    •  

    Mauritania  

    Current situation in the country regarding breastfeeding:  

    • Percent of all infants aged 0-4 months who were exclusively breast-fed the day before a survey interview: 60%, 1996. 
    • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes: Being studied. 
    • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding: 1 of 192 total. 
    • Length of maternity leave: 14 weeks. 
    • Length of paternity leave: 10 days. 
    • Cash benefits for maternity leave (per cent of wage): 100. 
    • Who pays? The Social Security. 
    • Women's share of adult labour force (% age 15 and above): 44. 
    ____________________ 
    Sources of information  
     
  • Percent of all infants aged 0-4 months who were exclusively breast-fed the day before a survey interview - BFHI analysis report, Nutrition section, UNICEF, February 1999  
  • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes - This table was prepared with the assistance of the International Code Documentation Centre (ICDC). - Nutrition section, UNICEF, December 1998 
  • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding - Country Profiles (BFHI analysis report, Nutrition section, UNICEF), February 1999. 
  • Length of maternity, paternity and parental leave -The World of Work, No. 24. April 1998; and for those not included there, Conditions of Work Digest: Maternity and work, Vol. 13, 1994. 
  • Cash benefits for maternity leave (per cent of wage) and Who pays? - ILO. The World of Work, no 24. April 1998. 
  • Women's share of adult labour force (% age 15 and above) - UNDP. Human Development Report 1998.  

    •  

    Mauritius  

    Current situation in the country regarding breastfeeding:  

    • Percent of all infants aged 0-4 months who were exclusively breast-fed the day before a survey interview: 16%, 1991. 
    • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes: Being studied. 
    • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding: 6 of 9 total. 
    • Length of maternity leave: 12 weeks. 
    • Cash benefits for maternity leave (per cent of wage): 100. 
    • Who pays? Employer. 
    • Women's share of adult labour force (% age 15 and above): 31. 
    ____________________ 
    Sources of information  
     
  • Percent of all infants aged 0-4 months who were exclusively breast-fed the day before a survey interview - BFHI analysis report, Nutrition section, UNICEF, February 1999  
  • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes - This table was prepared with the assistance of the International Code Documentation Centre (ICDC). - Nutrition section, UNICEF, December 1998 
  • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding - Country Profiles (BFHI analysis report, Nutrition section, UNICEF), February 1999. 
  • Length of maternity, paternity and parental leave -The World of Work, No. 24. April 1998; and for those not included there, Conditions of Work Digest: Maternity and work, Vol. 13, 1994. 
  • Cash benefits for maternity leave (per cent of wage) and Who pays? - ILO. The World of Work, no 24. April 1998. 
  • Women's share of adult labour force (% age 15 and above) - UNDP. Human Development Report 1998.  

    • Relevant quotes from the ILO Report V (2): Maternity Protection at Work regarding: Maternity leave, Financing of benefits and Provisions for nursing mothers:  

    • A woman to whom the Convention applies, on production of a medical certificate stating the presumed date of her confinement, is entitled to a period of maternity leave of not less than 12 weeks. 
    • The cash and the medical benefits should be provided through compulsory social insurance, public funds and in a manner determined by national law and practice. 
    • The woman should be entitled to daily break(s) to nurse her child. The breaks should be counted as working time and remunerated accordingly, if more than 12 months' continuous service has been attained by the mother. 
     

    Mexico  

    Current situation in the country regarding breastfeeding:  

    • Percent of all infants aged 0-4 months who were exclusively breast-fed the day before a survey interview: 38%, 1987. 
    • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes as of December 1998: Many provisions law. 
    • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding: 581 of 847 total. 
    • Length of maternity leave: 12 weeks. 
    • Cash benefits for maternity leave (per cent of wage): 100.  
    • Who pays? The Social Security. 
    • Women's share of adult labour force (% age 15 and above): 32. 
    ____________________ 
    Sources of information  
     
  • Percent of all infants aged 0-4 months who were exclusively breast-fed the day before a survey interview - BFHI analysis report, Nutrition section, UNICEF, February 1999  
  • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes - This table was prepared with the assistance of the International Code Documentation Centre (ICDC). - Nutrition section, UNICEF, December 1998 
  • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding - Country Profiles (BFHI analysis report, Nutrition section, UNICEF), February 1999. 
  • Length of maternity, paternity and parental leave -The World of Work, No. 24. April 1998; and for those not included there, Conditions of Work Digest: Maternity and work, Vol. 13, 1994. 
  • Cash benefits for maternity leave (per cent of wage) and Who pays? - ILO. The World of Work, no 24. April 1998. 
  • Women's share of adult labour force (% age 15 and above) - UNDP. Human Development Report 1998.  

    • Relevant quotes from the ILO Report V (2): Maternity Protection at Work regarding: Maternity leave, Financing of benefits and Provisions for nursing mothers:  

    • A woman to whom the Convention applies, on production of a medical certificate stating the presumed date of her confinement, is entitled to a period of maternity leave of not less than 12 weeks, but this duration could be excessive in some countries. 
    • The woman should be entitled to daily break(s) to nurse her child and the breaks should be counted as working time and remunerated accordingly. 
     

    Republic of Moldova   

    Current situation in the country regarding breastfeeding:  

    • Percent of all infants aged 0-4 months who were exclusively breast-fed the day before a survey interview: 
    • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes as of December 1998: No action. 
    • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding: 6 of 45 total. 
    ____________________  
    Sources of information  
     
  • Percent of all infants aged 0-4 months who were exclusively breast-fed the day before a survey interview - BFHI analysis report, Nutrition section, UNICEF, February 1999 
  • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes - This table was prepared with the assistance of the International Code Documentation Centre (ICDC). - Nutrition section, UNICEF, December 1998 
  • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding - Country Profiles (BFHI analysis report, Nutrition section, UNICEF), February 1999. 

    • Relevant quotes from the ILO Report V (2): Maternity Protection at Work regarding: Maternity leave, Financing of benefits and Provisions for nursing mothers:  

    • A woman to whom the Convention applies, on production of a medical certificate stating the presumed date of her confinement, is entitled to a period of maternity leave of not less than 12 weeks. 
    • The cash and the medical benefits should be provided through compulsory social insurance, public funds and in a manner determined by national law and practice. 
    • The woman should be entitled to daily break(s) to nurse her child and the breaks should be counted as working time and remunerated accordingly. 
      

    Mongolia   

    Current situation in the country regarding breastfeeding:   

    • Percent of all infants aged 0-4 months who were exclusively breast-fed the day before a survey interview: 93%, 1998.  
    • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes:  
    • Few provisions law.  
    • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding: 93 of 355 total.  
    • Length of maternity leave: 15 weeks.  
    • Length of paternity leave: an unspecified period of " short-term leave".  
    • Women's share of adult labour force (% age 15 and above): 47.  
    ____________________  
    Sources of information  
     
  • Percent of all infants aged 0-4 months who were exclusively breast-fed the day before a survey interview - BFHI analysis report, Nutrition section, UNICEF, February 1999  
  • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes - This table was prepared with the assistance of the International Code Documentation Centre (ICDC). - Nutrition section, UNICEF, December 1998  
  • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding - Country Profiles (BFHI analysis report, Nutrition section, UNICEF), February 1999.  
  • Length of maternity, paternity and parental leave -The World of Work, No. 24. April 1998; and for those not included there, Conditions of Work Digest: Maternity and work, Vol. 13, 1994.  
  • Cash benefits for maternity leave (per cent of wage) and Who pays? - ILO. The World of Work, no 24. April 1998.  
  • Women's share of adult labour force (% age 15 and above) - UNDP. Human Development Report 1998.  

    •   

    Montserrat   

    Current situation in the country regarding breastfeeding:   

    • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding: 0 of 1 total.  
    ____________________  
    Sources of information   
     
  • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding - Country Profiles (BFHI analysis report, Nutrition section, UNICEF), February 1999.  

    •   

    Morocco   

    Current situation in the country regarding breastfeeding:   

    • Percent of all infants aged 0-4 months who were exclusively breast-fed the day before a survey interview: 45%, 1997.  
    • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes as of December 1998: Measure drafted awaiting final approval.  
    • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding: 17 of 98 total.  
    • Length of maternity leave: 12 weeks.  
    • Cash benefits for maternity leave (per cent of wage): 100.  
    • Who pays? The Social Security.  
    • Women's share of adult labour force (% age 15 and above): 34.  
    ____________________  
    Sources of information   
     
  • Percent of all infants aged 0-4 months who were exclusively breast-fed the day before a survey interview - BFHI analysis report, Nutrition section, UNICEF, February 1999  
  • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes - This table was prepared with the assistance of the International Code Documentation Centre (ICDC). - Nutrition section, UNICEF, December 1998  
  • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding - Country Profiles (BFHI analysis report, Nutrition section, UNICEF), February 1999.  
  • Length of maternity, paternity and parental leave -The World of Work, No. 24. April 1998; and for those not included there, Conditions of Work Digest: Maternity and work, Vol. 13, 1994.  
  • Cash benefits for maternity leave (per cent of wage) and Who pays? - ILO. The World of Work, no 24. April 1998.  
  • Women's share of adult labour force (% age 15 and above) - UNDP. Human Development Report 1998.  

    • Relevant quotes from the ILO Report V (2): Maternity Protection at Work regarding: Maternity leave, Financing of benefits and Provisions for nursing mothers:   

    • A woman to whom the Convention applies, on production of a medical certificate stating the presumed date of her confinement, is entitled to a period of maternity leave of not less than 12 weeks.  
    • The woman should be entitled to daily break(s) to nurse her child and the breaks should be counted as working time and remunerated accordingly.  
      

    Mozambique   

    Current situation in the country regarding breastfeeding:   

    • Percent of all infants aged 0-4 months who were exclusively breast-fed the day before a survey interview: 37%, 1997.  
    • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes:  
    • Few provisions law.  
    • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding: 0 of 36 total.  
    • Length of maternity leave: 60 days  
    • Cash benefits for maternity leave (per cent of wage): 100.  
    • Who pays? The Employer.  
    • Women's share of adult labour force (% age 15 and above): 49.  
    ____________________  
    Sources of information   
     
  • Percent of all infants aged 0-4 months who were exclusively breast-fed the day before a survey interview - BFHI analysis report, Nutrition section, UNICEF, February 1999  
  • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes - This table was prepared with the assistance of the International Code Documentation Centre (ICDC). - Nutrition section, UNICEF, December 1998  
  • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding - Country Profiles (BFHI analysis report, Nutrition section, UNICEF), February 1999.  
  • Length of maternity, paternity and parental leave -The World of Work, No. 24. April 1998; and for those not included there, Conditions of Work Digest: Maternity and work, Vol. 13, 1994.  
  • Cash benefits for maternity leave (per cent of wage) and Who pays? - ILO. The World of Work, no 24. April 1998.  
  • Women's share of adult labour force (% age 15 and above) - UNDP. Human Development Report 1998.  

    • Relevant quotes from the ILO Report V (2): Maternity Protection at Work regarding: Maternity leave, Financing of benefits and Provisions for nursing mothers:   

    • A woman to whom the Convention applies, on production of a medical certificate stating the presumed date of her confinement, is entitled to a period of maternity leave of not less than 12 weeks.  
    • The cash and the medical benefits should be provided through compulsory social insurance, public funds and in a manner determined by national law and practice.  
    • The woman should be entitled to daily break(s) to nurse her child and the breaks should be counted as working time and remunerated accordingly.  
      

    Myanmar   

    Current situation in the country regarding breastfeeding:   

    • Percent of all infants aged 0-4 months who were exclusively breast-fed the day before a survey interview: 30%, 1995.  
    • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes: Being studied.  
    • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding: 210 of 711 total.  
    • Length of maternity leave: 12 weeks.  
    • Length of paternity leave: 6 days.  
    • Cash benefits for maternity leave (per cent of wage): 66.7.  
    • Who pays? The Social Security.  
    • Women's share of adult labour force (% age 15 and above): 43.  
    ____________________  
    Sources of information   
     
  • Percent of all infants aged 0-4 months who were exclusively breast-fed the day before a survey interview - BFHI analysis report, Nutrition section, UNICEF, February 1999  
  • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes - This table was prepared with the assistance of the International Code Documentation Centre (ICDC). - Nutrition section, UNICEF, December 1998  
  • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding - Country Profiles (BFHI analysis report, Nutrition section, UNICEF), February 1999.  
  • Length of maternity, paternity and parental leave -The World of Work, No. 24. April 1998; and for those not included there, Conditions of Work Digest: Maternity and work, Vol. 13, 1994.  
  • Cash benefits for maternity leave (per cent of wage) and Who pays? - ILO. The World of Work, no 24. April 1998.  
  • Women's share of adult labour force (% age 15 and above) - UNDP. Human Development Report 1998.  

    • Relevant quotes from the ILO Report V (2): Maternity Protection at Work regarding: Maternity leave, Financing of benefits and Provisions for nursing mothers:   

    • A woman to whom the Convention applies, on production of a medical certificate stating the presumed date of her confinement, is entitled to a period of maternity leave of not less than 12 weeks.  
      

    Namibia   

    Current situation in the country regarding breastfeeding:   

    • Percent of all infants aged 0-4 months who were exclusively breast-fed the day before a survey interview: 22%, 1992.  
    • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes as of December 1998: Measure drafted awaiting final approval.  
    • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding: 35 of 35 total.  
    • Length of maternity leave: 12 weeks.  
    • Cash benefits for maternity leave (per cent of wage): As prescribed.  
    • Who pays? The Social Security.  
    • Women's share of adult labour force (% age 15 and above): 41.  
    ____________________  
    Sources of information   
     
  • Percent of all infants aged 0-4 months who were exclusively breast-fed the day before a survey interview - BFHI analysis report, Nutrition section, UNICEF, February 1999  
  • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes - This table was prepared with the assistance of the International Code Documentation Centre (ICDC). - Nutrition section, UNICEF, December 1998  
  • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding - Country Profiles (BFHI analysis report, Nutrition section, UNICEF), February 1999.  
  • Length of maternity, paternity and parental leave -The World of Work, No. 24. April 1998; and for those not included there, Conditions of Work Digest: Maternity and work, Vol. 13, 1994.  
  • Cash benefits for maternity leave (per cent of wage) and Who pays? - ILO. The World of Work, no 24. April 1998.  
  • Women's share of adult labour force (% age 15 and above) - UNDP. Human Development Report 1998.  

    • Relevant quotes from the ILO Report V (2): Maternity Protection at Work regarding: Maternity leave, Financing of benefits and Provisions for nursing mothers:  

    • A woman to whom the Convention applies, on production of a medical certificate stating the presumed date of her confinement, is entitled to a period of maternity leave of not less than 12 weeks.  
    • The cash and the medical benefits should be provided through compulsory social insurance and in a manner determined by national law and practice.  
    • The woman should be entitled to daily break(s) to nurse her child and the breaks should be counted as working time and remunerated accordingly.  
      

    Nepal   

    Current situation in the country regarding breastfeeding:   

    • Percent of all infants aged 0-4 months who were exclusively breast-fed the day before a survey interview: 83%, 1996.  
    • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes as of December 1998: Law.  
    • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding: 7 of 103 total.  
    • Length of maternity leave: 52 days.  
    • Length of paternity leave: 30 days.  
    • Cash benefits for maternity leave (per cent of wage): 100.  
    • Who pays? The Employer.  
    • Women's share of adult labour force (% age 15 and above): 40.  
    ____________________  
    Sources of information  
     
  • Percent of all infants aged 0-4 months who were exclusively breast-fed the day before a survey interview - BFHI analysis report, Nutrition section, UNICEF, February 1999  
  • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes - This table was prepared with the assistance of the International Code Documentation Centre (ICDC). - Nutrition section, UNICEF, December 1998  
  • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding - Country Profiles (BFHI analysis report, Nutrition section, UNICEF), February 1999.  
  • Length of maternity, paternity and parental leave -The World of Work, No. 24. April 1998; and for those not included there, Conditions of Work Digest: Maternity and work, Vol. 13, 1994.  
  • Cash benefits for maternity leave (per cent of wage) and Who pays? - ILO. The World of Work, no 24. April 1998.  
  • Women's share of adult labour force (% age 15 and above) - UNDP. Human Development Report 1998.  

    •   
     

    Netherlands Antilles  

    Current situation in the country regarding breastfeeding:  

    • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes: No information 
    • Women as % of adult (15+) labour force: 39. 
    ____________________  
    Sources of information  
     
  • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes - This table was prepared with the assistance of the International Code Documentation Centre (ICDC). - Nutrition section, UNICEF, December 1998 
  • Woman as % of adult (15+) labour force - The World's Women 1995, Trends and Statistics, United Nations. Social Statistics and Indicators Series K No. 12. 

    •   

    Netherlands  

    Current situation in the country regarding breastfeeding:  

    • Percent of all infants aged 0-4 months who were exclusively breast-fed the day before a survey interview: 26%, 1997. 
    • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes as of December 1998: Many provisions law. 
    • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding: 4. 
    • Length of maternity leave: 16 weeks 
    • Length of paternity leave: A worker is entitled to "a short period of leave for a period of time which is considered to be fair" in relations to the birth of his child. 
    • Length of parental leave: Workers are entitled to work reduced hours, but at least 20 hours a week, for maximum uninterrupted period of six months until the child enters primary school 
    • ( i.e. the age of 4 years). 
    • Cash benefits for maternity leave (per cent of wage): 100. 
    • Who pays? The Social Security. 
    ____________________  
    Sources of information  
     
  • Percent of all infants aged 0-4 months who were exclusively breast-fed the day before a survey interview - BFHI analysis report, Nutrition section, UNICEF, February 1999 
  • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes - This table was prepared with the assistance of the International Code Documentation Centre (ICDC). - Nutrition section, UNICEF, December 1998 
  • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding - Country Profiles (BFHI analysis report, Nutrition section, UNICEF), February 1999. 
  • Length of maternity, paternity and parental leave -The World of Work, No. 24. April 1998; and for those not included there, Conditions of Work Digest: Maternity and work, Vol. 13, 1994. 
  • Cash benefits for maternity leave (per cent of wage) and Who pays? - ILO. The World of Work, no 24. April 1998. 

    • Relevant quotes from the ILO Report V (2): Maternity Protection at Work regarding: Maternity leave, Financing of benefits and Provisions for nursing mothers:  

    • A woman to whom the Convention applies, on production of a medical certificate stating the presumed date of her confinement, is entitled to a period of maternity leave of not less than 12 weeks. 
    • The cash and the medical benefits should be provided through compulsory social insurance, public funds and in a manner determined by national law and practice. 
    • The woman should be entitled to daily break(s) to nurse her child and the breaks should be counted as working time and remunerated accordingly. 
      

    New Zealand  

    Current situation in the country regarding breastfeeding:  

    • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes: Voluntary. 
    • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding: 0. 
    • Length of maternity leave: 14 weeks. 
    • Length of paternity leave: 2 weeks. 
    • Duration of parental leave*: 1 year. 
    • Cash benefits for maternity leave (per cent of wage): 0. 
    ____________________  
    Sources of information  
     
  • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes - This table was prepared with the assistance of the International Code Documentation Centre (ICDC). - Nutrition section, UNICEF, December 1998 
  • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding - Country Profiles (BFHI analysis report, Nutrition section, UNICEF), February 1999. 
  • Length of maternity, paternity and parental leave -The World of Work, No. 24. April 1998; and for those not included there, Conditions of Work Digest: Maternity and work, Vol. 13, 1994. 
  • Cash benefits for maternity leave (per cent of wage) and Who pays? - ILO. The World of Work, no 24. April 1998. 

    • Relevant quotes from the ILO Report V (2): Maternity Protection at Work regarding: Maternity leave, Financing of benefits and Provisions for nursing mothers:  

    • "Should a woman to whom the Convention applies, on production of a medical certificate stating the presumed date of her confinement, be entitled to a period of maternity leave of not less than 12 weeks?" - It is more appropriate to provide for a period of parental leave. The requirement of a medical certificate may be a barrier where prenatal care and attendance at birth may be provided by a medical professional who is not able to issue a medical certificate, e.g. midwives. The form of certification should be determined according to national laws and practice. - NZCTU: Some form of certification consistent with national law and practice should be provided by a woman before she is entitled to take 12 weeks' leave. 
    • The cash and the medical benefits should be provided in a manner determined by national law and practice. 
    • "Should a woman be entitled to daily break(s) to nurse her child? If so, should such breaks be counted as working time and remunerated accordingly?" - This is not a matter for international obligations. Specific arrangements for nursing should be a matter for negotiation between the parties to an employment contract. NZEF: Arrangements of this nature are best left to the employer and employee, since work situations vary markedly. NZCTU: The woman should be entitled to daily break(s) to nurse her child and the breaks should be counted as working time and remunerated accordingly. 
      

    Nicaragua  

    Current situation in the country regarding breastfeeding:  

    • Percent of all infants aged 0-4 months who were exclusively breast-fed the day before a survey interview: 11%, 1993. 
    • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes as of December 1998: Measure drafted awaiting final approval. 
    • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding: 9 of 23 total. 
    • Length of maternity leave: 12 weeks. 
    • Cash benefits for maternity leave (per cent of wage): 60. 
    • Who pays? The Social Security. 
    • Women's share of adult labour force (% age 15 and above): 34. 
    ____________________  
    Sources of information  
     
  • Percent of all infants aged 0-4 months who were exclusively breast-fed the day before a survey interview - BFHI analysis report, Nutrition section, UNICEF, February 1999 
  • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes - This table was prepared with the assistance of the International Code Documentation Centre (ICDC). - Nutrition section, UNICEF, December 1998 
  • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding - Country Profiles (BFHI analysis report, Nutrition section, UNICEF), February 1999. 
  • Length of maternity, paternity and parental leave -The World of Work, No. 24. April 1998; and for those not included there, Conditions of Work Digest: Maternity and work, Vol. 13, 1994. 
  • Cash benefits for maternity leave (per cent of wage) and Who pays? - ILO. The World of Work, no 24. April 1998. 
  • Women's share of adult labour force (% age 15 and above) - UNDP. Human Development Report 1998. 

    • Relevant quotes from the ILO Report V (2): Maternity Protection at Work regarding: Maternity leave, Financing of benefits and Provisions for nursing mothers:  

    • A woman to whom the Convention applies, on production of a medical certificate stating the presumed date of her confinement, is entitled to a period of maternity leave of not less than 12 weeks. 
    • The cash and the medical benefits should be provided through compulsory social insurance, public funds and in a manner determined by national law and practice. 
    • The woman should be entitled to daily break(s) to nurse her child and the breaks should be counted as working time and remunerated accordingly. 
      

    Niger  

    Current situation in the country regarding breastfeeding:  

    • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes: Being studied. 
    • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding: 20 of 100 total. 
    • Length of maternity leave: 14 weeks. 
    • Cash benefits for maternity leave (per cent of wage): 50. 
    • Who pays? The Social Security. 
    • Women's share of adult labour force (% age 15 and above): 44. 
    ____________________  
    Sources of information  
     
  • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes - This table was prepared with the assistance of the International Code Documentation Centre (ICDC). - Nutrition section, UNICEF, December 1998 
  • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding - Country Profiles (BFHI analysis report, Nutrition section, UNICEF), February 1999. 
  • Length of maternity, paternity and parental leave -The World of Work, No. 24. April 1998; and for those not included there, Conditions of Work Digest: Maternity and work, Vol. 13, 1994. 
  • Cash benefits for maternity leave (per cent of wage) and Who pays? - ILO. The World of Work, no 24. April 1998. 
  • Women's share of adult labour force (% age 15 and above) - UNDP. Human Development Report 1998. 

    • Relevant quotes from the ILO Report V (2): Maternity Protection at Work regarding: Maternity leave, Financing of benefits and Provisions for nursing mothers:  

    • A woman to whom the Convention applies, on production of a medical certificate stating the presumed date of her confinement, is entitled to a period of maternity leave of not less than 12 weeks. 
    • The cash and the medical benefits should be provided in a manner determined by national law and practice. 
    • The woman should be entitled to daily break(s) to nurse her child and the breaks should be counted as working time and remunerated accordingly. 
      

    Nigeria  

    Current situation in the country regarding breastfeeding:  

    • Percent of all infants aged 0-4 months who were exclusively breast-fed the day before a survey interview: 2%, 1990. 
    • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes as of December 1998: Many provisions law. 
    • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding: 1036 of 6494 total. 
    • Length of maternity leave: 12 weeks. 
    • Cash benefits for maternity leave (per cent of wage): 50. 
    • Who pays? The Employer. 
    • Women's share of adult labour force (% age 15 and above): 36. 
    ____________________  
    Sources of information  
     
  • Percent of all infants aged 0-4 months who were exclusively breast-fed the day before a survey interview - BFHI analysis report, Nutrition section, UNICEF, February 1999 
  • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes - This table was prepared with the assistance of the International Code Documentation Centre (ICDC). - Nutrition section, UNICEF, December 1998 
  • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding - Country Profiles (BFHI analysis report, Nutrition section, UNICEF), February 1999. 
  • Length of maternity, paternity and parental leave -The World of Work, No. 24. April 1998; and for those not included there, Conditions of Work Digest: Maternity and work, Vol. 13, 1994. 
  • Cash benefits for maternity leave (per cent of wage) and Who pays? - ILO. The World of Work, no 24. April 1998. 
  • Women's share of adult labour force (% age 15 and above) - UNDP. Human Development Report 1998. 

    •   

    Nigeria  

    Current situation in the country regarding breastfeeding:   

    • Percent of all infants aged 0-4 months who were exclusively breast-fed the day before a survey interview: 2%, 1990.  
    • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes as of December 1998: Many provisions law.  
    • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding: 1036 of 6494 total.  
    • Length of maternity leave: 12 weeks.  
    • Cash benefits for maternity leave (per cent of wage): 50.  
    • Who pays? The Employer.  
    • Women's share of adult labour force (% age 15 and above): 36.  
    ____________________  
    Sources of information   
     
  • Percent of all infants aged 0-4 months who were exclusively breast-fed the day before a survey interview - BFHI analysis report, Nutrition section, UNICEF, February 1999  
  • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes - This table was prepared with the assistance of the International Code Documentation Centre (ICDC). - Nutrition section, UNICEF, December 1998  
  • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding - Country Profiles (BFHI analysis report, Nutrition section, UNICEF), February 1999.  
  • Length of maternity, paternity and parental leave -The World of Work, No. 24. April 1998; and for those not included there, Conditions of Work Digest: Maternity and work, Vol. 13, 1994.  
  • Cash benefits for maternity leave (per cent of wage) and Who pays? - ILO. The World of Work, no 24. April 1998.  
  • Women's share of adult labour force (% age 15 and above) - UNDP. Human Development Report 1998.  

    •   

    Norway   

    Current situation in the country regarding breastfeeding:   

    • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes as of December 1998: Many provisions law.  
    • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding: 35 of 60 total.  
    • Length of maternity leave: 18 weeks.  
    • Length of paternity leave: 2 weeks.  
    • Length of parental leave (including maternity and paternity leave): 3 years.  
    • Cash benefits for maternity leave (per cent of wage): 100 and 26 extra paid weeks by either parent.  
    • Who pays? The Social Security.  
    ____________________  
    Sources of information  
     
  • Percent of all infants aged 0-4 months who were exclusively breast-fed the day before a survey interview - BFHI analysis report, Nutrition section, UNICEF, February 1999  
  • National Implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes - This table was prepared with the assistance of the International Code Documentation Centre (ICDC). - Nutrition section, UNICEF, December 1998  
  • Number of hospitals/maternities officially designated by UNICEF as "Baby Friendly," having fulfilled 10 criteria supportive of breastfeeding - Country Profiles (BFHI analysis report, Nutrition section, UNICEF), February 1999.  
  • Length of maternity, paternity and parental leave -The World of Work, No. 24. April 1998; and for those not included there, Conditions of Work Digest: Maternity and work, Vol. 13, 1994.  
  • Cash benefits for maternity leave (per cent of wage) and Who pays? - ILO. The World of Work, no 24. April 1998.  

    • Relevant quotes from the ILO Report V (2): Maternity Protection at Work regarding: Maternity leave, Financing of benefits and Provisions for nursing mothers:   

    • A woman to whom the Convention applies, on production of a medical certificate stating the presumed date of her confinement, is entitled to a period of maternity leave of not less than 12 weeks.  
    • The cash and the medical benefits should be provided in a manner determined by national law and practice.  

      • "Should a woman be entitled to daily break(s) to nurse her child?" - This would be in accordance with national legislation. "Should such breaks be counted as working time and remunerated accordingly?" - This depends on the agreement between the employer and employee.
      

      Country Situation Files  - Alphabetical order

      A    |    B    |    C    |    D    |    E    |    F    |    G    |    H    |

      I     |    J    |    K    |    L    |    M    |    N   |    O    |    P    |

      Q    |    R   |    S     |    T   |    U    |    V   |    W   |    Y    | Z

World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action
Site Map PO Box 1200, 10850  Penang, Malaysia  |  Tel: 604-6584816  |  Fax: 604-6572655  |  E-mail: waba@waba.org.my   | http://www.waba.org.my