The World Organization of the Scout Movement: Empowering Youth Globally

The World Organization of the Scout Movement: Empowering Youth Globally

Imagine a vast network of young people across the world, united by shared values and a sense of adventure. This is the Scout Movement, an international organization that cultivates leadership, resilience, and compassion in youth through a variety of programs and events. At its helm is the World Organization of the Scout Movement (WOSM), which serves as the global umbrella organization for the Scout Movement, supporting the development of Scouting in over 170 countries.

Origins of the Scout Movement

The Scout Movement was birthed in 1907 by Lord Robert Baden-Powell, a British Army officer, who sought to use his military skills to develop a program that would educate young people for life. His book, Scouting for Boys, introduced the concept of scouting to the world, and the first Scout Troop was formed in 1908.

The World Organization of the Scout Movement

WOSM is the global authority for Scouting and is made up of the World Scout Committee, the World Scout Conference, the World Scout Bureau, and the World Scout Foundation. The World Scout Conference, held every four years, is the supreme governing body of the Movement and elects the World Scout Committee. The World Scout Bureau, based in Geneva, Switzerland, serves as the administrative center of WOSM, supporting the activities and coordination of the global Scout Movement.

Programs and Events

The Scout Movement encompasses a variety of programs and events aimed at developing young people's physical, mental, and social skills. Some of these include:

1. World Scout Jamboree: A massive event held every four years, bringing together thousands of young people from around the world to participate in activities, workshops, and camps.

2. World Scout Moots: Regional events that cater to young people aged 18 to 26, providing opportunities for adventure, teamwork, and leadership development.

3. World Scout Environment Program: An initiative aimed at promoting environmental conservation and sustainability, incorporating activities like tree planting, nature hikes, and waste management projects.

4. World Scout Youth Forum: A platform that encourages young people to engage in discussions on relevant issues and take action to create positive change.

5. World Scout Gender Equality Charter: A commitment to promoting gender equality within the Scout Movement and within the wider community.

The Scout Promise and Law

Scouting is built on a foundation of shared values, as expressed by the Scout Promise and Law:

Scout Promise:

• On my honor, I promise that I will do my best
• To do my duty to God and my country, and to the world community
• To help other people at all times
• To keep the Scout Law

Scout Law:

1. A Scout is trustworthy
2. A Scout is loyal
3. A Scout is helpful
4. A Scout is friendly
5. A Scout is courteous
6. A Scout is kind
7. A Scout is obedient
8. A Scout is cheerful
9. A Scout is thrifty
10. A Scout is brave
11. A Scout is clean
12. A Scout is reverent

WOSM's Impact on the World

The Scout Movement has had a profound impact on the world, fostering a spirit of cooperation and understanding among young people from diverse backgrounds. Scouting has been utilized to promote peace, combat poverty, and protect the environment, and it continues to evolve and adapt to the needs of the global community.

Through WOSM, young people around the world are provided with opportunities to learn, grow, and make a positive difference in their communities and the world at large. Scouting remains a powerful force for good, inspiring young people to be active global citizens and shaping the leaders of tomorrow.