The 42nd World Scout Conference has officially started today, convening virtually 2,300 delegates and observers from 170 registered National Scout Organizations to play an active role in shaping the standards, policies and goals of the Scout Movement.
Taking place from 25 to 29 August, the Conference will engage participants from around the globe to make key decisions about the future direction of the world’s leading educational youth movement.
Under the theme “Bridging the World,” participants will come together through a digital participation platform to join plenary sessions and capacity strengthening workshops, reflect on the progress made since the last World Scout Conference in 2017, take strategic decisions for the strategic plan of the Scout Movement for the next 3 years, network with partner organisations, and explore a virtual exhibition space through a variety of live and on-demand sessions.
Over the next five days, delegates will look back at the achievements of the 2017-2021 triennium, and how Scouting continues to be a positive force for good in the world by equipping young people with the skills to serve their communities and reach their fullest potential. The Conference programme will offer space for Scouts and National Scout Organization leadership to showcase how they are promoting peace, championing the right to non-formal education and contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Throughout the event, delegations will discuss proposed Draft Resolutions and a Constitutional Amendment, select the Hosts for upcoming World Scout Events, and elect 12 new Voting Members to the World Scout Committee to serve during the 2021-2024 triennium. This process will be supported by an innovative e-voting system and protocol for participants to be actively involved in these decisions, and to ensure adherence to the highest standards of ethics, accountability and transparency during the virtual event.
The Conference follows the 14th World Scout Youth Forum that concluded on 22 August and brought together over 700 young participants virtually to take part in key decisions, develop a Youth Forum Declaration and vote on resolutions to be considered by Member Organizations during the World Scout Conference.
“It is exciting to welcome the first virtual and largest World Scout Conference that will gather 170 Member Organizations to take key decisions together that will shape the future of our Scout Movement,” said Param Palany, Chairperson of the 42nd World Scout Conference.
“It has been incredible to witness the hundreds of dedicated volunteers and staff connecting from around the world to put on this event. The fact that we are moving ahead with this event in spite of a challenging time, only shows the strength and resilience of our Scouting family. I wish everyone a great and unforgettable experience during the Conference.”
As with all Scouting events, the health and safety of participants is a top priority. Strict safeguarding measures have been put in place for the virtual event, including mandatory Safe from Harm courses, listening ears, online chat moderation, and a dedicated team available throughout the event to respond to any safety concerns.
The Conference, which celebrated its centenary anniversary in 2020, will be the largest in the Movement’s history connecting thousands of participants virtually, along with many others who will tune in to watch the plenary sessions that will be broadcast live on social media.
