Meet Anwar Fazal: The Breastfeeding Champion

Anwar Fazal is known for his relentless pursuit of healthier lives for babies and mothers worldwide. Over six decades, he's played a crucial role in setting up several civil society groups focused on health, human rights, environment, and peace. But his journey into the breastfeeding movement is particularly notable. It all started with the International Baby Food Action Network (IBFAN), which sparked the creation of other organizations like Health Action International (HAI), Pesticide Action Network (PAN), and the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA). These groups developed rules on marketing infant foods, pharmaceuticals, and pesticides. They also initiated World Breastfeeding Week, celebrated globally.

Anwar's education in Economics and Education at the University of Malaya shaped his perspective. He's been a visiting professor at the University of Science Malaysia and the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM). His work has earned him prestigious awards like the Right Livelihood Award, often called the "Alternative Nobel Prize, " for his contributions to breastfeeding and health issues. La Leche League International (LLLI) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have also honored him. He continues to write extensively about breastfeeding and serves as the Chairperson Emeritus of WABA. Despite his achievements, Anwar remains focused on protecting, promoting, and supporting breastfeeding.

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