In France, there is no law prohibiting breastfeeding in public spaces.
Therefore, mothers have every right to feed their child in any public place: cafes, restaurants, parks, shopping centers, transport, etc.
Article L. 1111-1 of the Public Health Code guarantees access to breastfeeding, an act recognized as beneficial for the health of the child. In other words, it is illegal to ask a mother to stop breastfeeding or to leave a public place for this reason.
However, the legislation remains implicit, leading to subjective interpretations and situations where mothers are still subjected to derogatory remarks or are expelled from certain spaces.
Prejudices surrounding breastfeeding in public spaces: why this unease?
Despite advances in information on the benefits of breastfeeding, breastfeeding in public is still seen as taboo in some parts of society:
● A sexualization of the breasts:
In many Western cultures, breasts are seen primarily as sexual attributes, making their exposure, even in a natural context such as breastfeeding, disturbing to some.
● Lack of education:
Many people are unaware that breastfeeding in public is a fundamental right and that the well-being of the child takes precedence over all other considerations.
● Social discomfort:
Some people, uncomfortable with breastfeeding, react with inappropriate remarks or attitudes, reinforcing the mothers' feelings of guilt or isolation.
Penalties for discrimination against breastfeeding mothers
French law recognizes that refusing a woman to breastfeed in public constitutes discrimination. According to Article 225-1 of the Penal Code, any distinction made on the basis of pregnancy or maternity may be punished.
If a mother is a victim of such a situation:
1. She can calmly remind people of her rights and explain that breastfeeding is legal in public spaces.
2. In the event of persistent refusal or discriminatory behavior, it may:
○ Report the incident to the police or gendarmerie.
○ Contact the Defender of Rights, responsible for combating discrimination.
However, these legal protections remain unknown, which leaves mothers helpless when faced with these situations.
Breastfeeding in public spaces elsewhere in the world
France is not the only country where breastfeeding in public is still a subject of debate. Here are some examples:
● The United Kingdom:
The law has explicitly protected breastfeeding mothers since 2010.
Any discrimination against a breastfeeding mother in public is illegal.
● The United States:
Although the situation varies from state to state, the majority have legislated to protect the right to breastfeed in public spaces.
● The Nordic countries:
In Sweden or Norway, breastfeeding in public is a completely normalized and socially accepted practice.
These examples show that concrete actions in favor of the normalization of breastfeeding in public spaces are possible and necessary for progress.
Solutions to support breastfeeding mothers
For mothers to be able to breastfeed in public spaces without fear or judgement, it is essential to act on several levels:
1. Raise public awareness:
Information campaigns to remind people that breastfeeding is a natural, legal and beneficial act for babies.
2. Train professionals:
Public and private establishments (cafes, restaurants, shops) should be informed of the legislation in order to avoid any discriminatory behaviour.
3. Create welcoming spaces:
Although mothers are not required to hide away to breastfeed, quiet and comfortable spaces could be provided for those who wish to do so.
4. Promote breastfeeding in public spaces:
Normalize breastfeeding images through media, advertising and social networks to break taboos.
Conclusion: Protect the right to breastfeed everywhere
Breastfeeding in public spaces is a right that every mother should be able to exercise freely and without fear. While French legislation protects breastfeeding mothers, it remains too implicit and unknown, which leaves room for discrimination that is still too frequent.
By promoting breastfeeding and educating society, it is possible to create a caring and inclusive environment where mothers can feed their babies with peace of mind.
Milkyhour is committed to informing, supporting and valuing each stage of your breastfeeding. If you have been confronted with remarks or difficult situations while breastfeeding in public, share your experience in the comments to raise awareness and support other mothers!