On 1 June 2026, FIL‑IDF celebrated World Milk Day through a week‑long global campaign from 25 to 31 May, aligned with the United Nations International Year of the Woman Farmer (IYWF 2026).
Under the theme “Milk Has Many Faces: Most of Them Are Women”, the campaign explored the diverse and essential roles women play across the dairy value chain, from farm to laboratory, processing and governance..
A week of global perspectives
Throughout the week leading up to World Milk Day, we highlighted women contributing to dairy across five continents, reflecting the diversity of production systems and professional roles.
The campaign showcased women:
- At farm level, supporting dairy production, livelihoods and food security
- In processing and cheesemaking, preserving traditions while adapting to modern standards
- In veterinary and animal health roles, strengthening herd health and milk quality
- In science and research, advancing knowledge in nutrition, safety and innovation
- In policy, standards and governance, shaping science‑based frameworks for global dairy systems
Addressing visibility and recognition
Across all profiles, a common theme emerged: women are central to dairy systems worldwide, yet their contributions are often underrepresented.
From informal on‑farm roles to leadership positions in research, veterinary services and policy, the campaign highlighted both:
- The scale of women’s involvement in dairy, and
- The importance of ensuring their roles are visible, recognised, and supported
Connecting knowledge, practice and impact
The campaign also underscored how dairy systems rely on a connected network of expertise. Women contribute not only through production, but also by:
- Translating science into practice
- Ensuring food safety and quality
- Supporting animal health and welfare
- Strengthening sustainability and innovation
These contributions help ensure that dairy remains a safe, nutritious and trusted food source across regions.
A shared global message
World Milk Day 2026 reinforced that dairy is shaped by a wide range of roles and perspectives, brought together through knowledge, collaboration and experience.
By highlighting women across the value chain, the campaign reflected our vision to nourish the world by advancing dairy knowledge, recognising that inclusive systems are fundamental to the future of dairy.
