Group 6: Artificial feeding in emergencies

Constraints Lack of knowledge about risks, what to do and need All stakeholders, incl donors, governments, NGOs, INGOs, media, military, professional bodies, field workers, local civil groups, mothers Communications Above is a difficult message to communicate Not being communicated Flow of unsolicited donations Undermines management and control How to practically deal with unsolicited donations not clear

Constraints Lack of political commitment (tiers of resistance) Government to government Internal Professional groups How to identify who are the political players – formal and informal – and the balance of power

Constraints Target for artificial feeding is ill-defined Lack of needs assessment to quantify numbers Lack of willingness to take on artificial feeding Small group Unclear what to do? Difficult? Resources? Knowledgeable unwilling to be involved - void Applying criteria in the Operational Guidance on artificial feeding (section 6)

Strategic Directions Communication Strategy Advocacy stakeholders Tools on key messages, e.g. CREATE Internal: Engage with communications department, e.g. avian flu Build relationships with journalists pre-emergency Preparedness communications, eg donors, embassies, media Guidance on managing unsolicited donations E.g. Alternative of use of infant formula, eg porridge E.g. Return of formula E.g. Engaging the media, other stakeholders

Strategic Directions Develop implementing guidelines Identify lead agency Apply criteria of need (A) FASS criteria Developed for emergency context e.g. feasible - funding, capacity, logistics Field testing