Abstract

Breastfeeding is important for maternal and child health and social development. Although Vietnam has progressively developed a policy framework to protect, promote, and support breastfeeding, breastfeeding practices remain below recommended levels and vary across population groups and social contexts. Drawing on a review of relevant policy documents and studies, this article examines the development of breastfeeding policy in Vietnam over successive periods and assesses its achievements, gaps, and emerging challenges. The findings indicate that Vietnam has established a relatively comprehensive policy framework. However, a gap persists between policy and practice, characterized by uneven implementation, limited monitoring, and a tendency to place primary responsibility on mothers. The article therefore highlights the need to shift from an approach centered on individual responsibility toward stronger supportive policies and enabling conditions that foster a more favorable environment for breastfeeding.

Keywords: Breastfeeding, breastfeeding policy, nutrition policy, policy implementation, Vietnam.