Breastfeeding is not a one-woman job. Women who choose to breastfeed need support from their governments, health systems, workplaces, communities and families to make it work. While the evidence on the power of breastfeeding for lifelong health and prosperity is stronger than ever, there is much work to be done in improving breastfeeding rates worldwide. Part I of this global report, From the first hour of life: Making the case for improved infant and young child feeding everywhere, paints a troubling picture about the state of breastfeeding practices around the world. This report reviews the most recent evidence on breastfeeding and provides updated global and regional estimates on early initiation of breastfeeding, exclusive breastfeeding and continued breastfeeding. The report concludes with recommendations to guide policy action on breastfeeding at the national level.