The 43rd World Scout Conference has successfully amended and unanimously approved the new Strategy for Scouting, which will guide the global Movement for the next decade. This strategy, along with the World Triennial Plan for 2024-2027, was shaped by Member Organizations working together to address key issues like sustainability, youth leadership, and peace education.
A significant amendment focused on integrating environmental sustainability with economic growth and social well-being. Ivo Faria, Vice President of the Portuguese Scout Federation, expressed support for Scouting’s role, saying: “We are confident that Scouting can also be an active player through our youth in the economic development and social well-being of our communities. So we believe that sustainability should include environmental sustainability while balancing economic growth and social well-being.”
In addition to the Strategy for Scouting, Member Organizations voted on several Conference Resolutions submitted by the World Scout Committee and various National Scout Organizations (NSOs). Approved resolutions included the admission of new NSO members from Antigua and Barbuda, Congo, Mali, and Scouts of Albania. Responding to global inflation, the Committee also proposed a 5% increase in World Scouting’s registration fees, the first adjustment since 2011.
The Conference also addressed the safety and governance of World Scout Events. An update to the World Safe from Harm Policy was approved, ensuring that it meets international standards and includes an enforcement mechanism. A significant amendment to the constitution was also made, granting the World Scout Committee clear authority over the organisation, execution, and governance of World Scout Events, such as the World Scout Jamboree and the World Scout Moot. This amendment will empower the Committee to intervene in decision-making with the Host, when necessary, reinforcing World Scouting’s commitment to strong governance and safety.
Among Resolutions from National Scout Organizations, Colombia called for a World Mental Health Policy to address the mental health needs of Scouts, particularly in light of global challenges like COVID-19. This resolution received strong support from Palestine, which emphasised the importance of applying Safe from Harm procedures to support the well-being of Scouts. Another resolution addressed the prevention of gender-based violence, highlighting the role of young people in promoting gender equality and creating safe, respectful environments within Scouting.
The Conference also approved of a resolution on “Living Together in Peace”, underscoring the Movement’s commitment to peace education. Passionate interventions from delegates representing Ukraine, Palestine, Mali, and Germany emphasised the importance of this resolution in strengthening the global commitment to peace.
The incoming World Scout Committee will be responsible for finalising and publishing the World Triennial Plan by 31 December 2024, ensuring that the resolutions and strategies approved during this Conference are implemented effectively, paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future for Scouting worldwide.
