International Organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and Unicef aiming at the
establishment of a minimum institutional framework which will guarantee the free and autonomous
exercise of the right to breastfeeding, initiated the „Innocenti Declaration‟.
Aim: The aim of the study was to present the applicable legislative and wider institutional framework of
breastfeeding in Greece and assess whether the aforementioned institutional framework and practices
facilitate, allow and support mothers' free decision as regards the diet of their children.
Method: Last decade‟s papers (declarations and decisions) of WHO, UNICEF and other organizations,
related to policies of promotion of the breastfeeding worldwide as well as relevant Greek Legislation, were
explored.
Results: Although parts of the „Innocenti Declaration‟ have been adopted by Greek legislation, the content
and application of such legislation appears to be lacking in relation to controlling and regulating the
marketing and distribution of breast milk substitutes. Moreover, health care practices and procedures as
implemented by hospitals and clinics alongside health care professionals‟ training appear to be deviating
from the Declaration‟s „‟Ten Steps for successful breastfeeding‟‟.
Conclusion: The Greek institutional framework do not appear to create the appropriate environment and
the safest conditions for the proper information and support of the parents about breastfeeding.