Croatian Scouts’ “Boranka” campaign wins Intercultural Achievement Award for Sustainability
World Scouting is proud to celebrate the Scout and Guide Association of Croatia’s environmental initiative, Boranka, which has been awarded the 2025 Intercultural Achievement Award (IAA) in the category of Sustainability. The recognition, presented annually by the Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs of Austria, highlights global projects that foster dialogue, cooperation, and positive social impact across cultures.
Now in its 12th edition, the Intercultural Achievement Award received applications from more than 300 organisations worldwide. Boranka stood out to an independent international jury for its creative approach to environmental restoration, community mobilisation, and cross-border collaboration. The ceremony took place in Vienna, where representatives of the Croatian Scout Association, together with partners from Imago Ogilvy and the HEARTH agency, were welcomed by senior diplomatic representatives from Croatia and Austria, as well as members of the Austrian Scout Association, Pfadfinder und Pfadfinderinnen Österreichs.
Boranka, now the largest volunteer-led reforestation campaign in Europe, was established in 2018 as a response to the devastating wildfires in Dalmatia. Since then, more than 11,000 volunteers have taken part, planting over 130,000 seedlings, acorns, and seeds in fire-affected areas. Its success is built on an innovative blend of ecological action, youth engagement, and strong partnerships between civil society, public institutions, and the private sector.
What started as a national initiative has grown into an inspiring example of international solidarity. Since 2021, Boranka’s activities have expanded to North Macedonia, Montenegro, and Bosnia and Herzegovina, demonstrating how Scouts and communities from different cultures and countries can come together to restore nature and protect shared environments. The campaign has become a model of good practice that reflects Scouting’s core values of service, peace, and sustainability.
This latest award joins a growing list of honours for Boranka and serves as a powerful reminder of how Scouts are contributing to a more sustainable world. World Scouting congratulates the Scout and Guide Association of Croatia and all partners and volunteers involved for their vision, dedication, and leadership.