28/02/2023
GIFA (Geneva Infant Feeding Association) operates since 1979 for the protection, promotion and support of breastfeeding.
Who we are
GIFA is a non profit organisation based in Geneva, Switzerland. GIFA is also member of IBFAN (International Baby Food Action Network) which counts 270 groupes and is present in 168 countries worldwide. This video of 7 minutes introduces you to IBFAN’s history and current activities. It was realized on the occasion oft the the celebration for the 40 years of the International Code international en 2021.
Our commitment
Breastfeeding is the most natural way to feed babies and young children. It helps prevent infectious diseases and contributes to the reduction of non-communicable diseases in both the child and the mother (cardiovascular diseases, overweight and obesity, diabetes, some cancers and some allergies).
The most recent research reveals the epigenetic role of breast milk in programming long-term health.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), “breastfeeding is now the most effective preventive action to improve child survival and health… More than one million deaths of children under five years of age could be prevented each year if breastfeeding practices were improved …. “
As a public health measure, WHO recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life, followed by continued breastfeeding for up to 2 years or more, with the introduction of safe and appropriate complementary foods from 6 months of age (World Health Assembly Resolution 54.2, 2001). The Lancet Breastfeeding Series 2023 reaffirms the importance of these recommendations
Our principles and values
GIFA, as well as all groups of the IBFAN network, adopts the 7 guiding principles of IBFAN and does not receive finances, donations or presents in any form from the baby food industry or any other company not conform with the International Code of marketing of breastmilk substitutes.
- IBFAN 7 Principles
- IBFAN Funding Policy
- IBFAN Mission and Vision
- IBFAN position sur les Parrainages et les conflits d’intérêt (in french)
Funding
GIFA’s activities and functioning are mainly financed by government and non-governmental development grants for the entire IBFAN network. Other sources of income include membership contributions, publication income, as well as short-term grants for specific activities (research, publications, conferences).
Your donation is be very valuable, thank you in advance!
IBFAN and GIFA members are committed to not receiving, in any form whatsoever, any funding, donation or gift from the infant food industry.
Statutes
Executive Committee (2023)
- Robert Peck, President
- Cyril Ritchie, Vice-President,
- Bernard Nyffenegger, Treasurer
Become a member
By becoming an individual or institutional member of our GIFA association, you receive our publications regularly and free of charge, and you can participate in our annual General Assembly. IBFAN and GIFA members are committed to not receiving any form of funding, donations or gifts from the baby and infant food industry. To become a member, fill out the form at the bottom of our website or contact us at info@gifa.org.