Summary :

In France, breastfeeding rates are low, with only 10% of mothers still breastfeeding at 6 months, far from the WHO recommendations. This delay is explained by maternity leave that is too short, persistent prejudices, and a lack of support. Abroad, countries such as Sweden, Germany, and regions of Asia promote breastfeeding through favorable policies and appropriate support. To make progress, France could extend maternity leave, strengthen support, raise public awareness, and set up spaces dedicated to breastfeeding.

In France, it is legal for mothers to breastfeed in public places, in accordance with Article L. 1111-1 of the Public Health Code. However, the absence of explicit legislation leads to varied interpretations and exposes mothers to comments or discrimination. Prejudices, such as the sexualization of breasts, lack of education or social discomfort, still make breastfeeding in public taboo.

Denying a mother the right to breastfeed in public is considered discrimination under Article 225-1 of the Penal Code, and victims can file a complaint or contact the Ombudsman. Comparatively, countries such as the United Kingdom and the Nordic countries are more normalizing this practice.

To improve the situation, awareness campaigns, training of professionals, creation of adapted spaces, and promotion of breastfeeding in the media are proposed. The objective is to guarantee mothers a caring environment to exercise their right to breastfeed without fear or judgment.