Asia-Pacific kicks off 28th Regional Scout Conference in Kaohsiung

Nearly 400 Scouts from across the Asia-Pacific Region came together in Kaohsiung on 12 October for the opening of the 28th Asia-Pacific Scout Conference to celebrate Scouting’s achievements over the past triennium and chart the Region’s path forward over the coming years. 

Hosted by the General Association of the Scouts of China, the week-long Conference brings together leaders from 33 National Scout Organizations (NSOs) to strengthen unity, foster meaningful dialogue, and renew shared commitments to advance the Scout Movement across Asia-Pacific. This is the third time that the NSO has hosted a Regional Conference, following events in 1966 and 1989.

As the Region’s governing body, the Asia-Pacific Scout Conference meets every three years to set priorities, review policies and standards, and guide the development of Scouting in one of its most dynamic and diverse regions - stretching from the islands of Kiribati to the vast plains Russian Federation. Home to more than half of the world’s Scouts - 37.2 million members out of 51.4 million, according to the 2023 census - decisions taken at the Conference have the potential to create significant impact beyond the Region’s boundaries. 

Under the theme “Scouting: Integrated Versatility”, this year’s Conference, running until 17 October, features plenary sessions and workshops aimed at building organisational capacity, inspiring collaboration across, and empowering delegates to play an active role in decision-making.

Over the coming days, delegates will discuss and vote on several key items, including the adoption of Conference Resolutions, the election of members to the Regional Scout Committee, and the selection of hosts for both the 29th Asia-Pacific Scout Conference in 2028 and the 34th APR Scout Jamboree in 2029. 

Outside the main plenary hall, participants will also enjoy educational tours, a cultural evening, and a Scout Exhibition featuring collective achievements from the Region over the past triennium. 

The Conference is being held alongside a series of other Scout events, including the 11th Asia-Pacific Youth Forum, where young participants were given opportunities to grow as individuals by enhancing their skills and taking a stronger role in leadership and in decision-making activities.