Scouting and the UN: Renewing Our Vow to Protect Every Child

Scouting has always been more than just knots and camping; it is a global movement dedicated to the safety and empowerment of young people. In a significant move to reinforce this mission, World Scouting and the United Nations have officially renewed their collaboration to advance child protection and safeguarding worldwide.

A Partnership for Safety

The World Organization of the Scout Movement (WOSM) has extended its cooperation framework with the Office of the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General on Violence Against Children (OSRSG-VAC). This partnership, which began in 2019, is built on a shared responsibility: upholding the Convention on the Rights of the Child.

Key Areas of Focus

The renewed agreement focuses on three critical pillars designed to make Scouting the safest environment possible for young people:

  1. “Safe from Harm” Integration: Supporting all 176 National Scout Organizations (NSOs) to meet international safeguarding standards.
  2. Youth Empowerment: Creating educational opportunities that teach children how to protect themselves and their peers from violence.
  3. Advocacy & Policy: Enabling young Scouts to have a seat at the table, contributing to global policies that prevent violence against children.

Expert Guidance

The UN Special Representative, Dr. Najat Maalla M’jid, will continue to provide expert advice to the World Scout Committee. In a recent address, she emphasized: “Making Scouting safer for and with children is crucial. I welcome your commitments to keep children safe.”

What’s Next?

This partnership will take center stage later this year at the 5th World Scout Education Congress in Singapore. World Scouting and the UN will co-host a special event to showcase how safeguarding is being woven into the very fabric of our new 10-year global strategy.

How You Can Get Involved

Safeguarding starts with the individual. You can contribute to this global effort by:

  • Completing your local Safe from Harm training.
  • Learning about the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically Goal 16.2: End abuse, exploitation, trafficking and all forms of violence against and torture of children.

— The Scout Library Team