World Scouting's statement on the humanitarian situation in Gaza
World Scouting remains deeply alarmed by the appalling humanitarian conditions and famine in Gaza. We call for an immediate ceasefire, urgent humanitarian access, and principled leadership to uphold the human rights of all children and young people.
No matter their nationality, faith, or circumstance all children and young people have the right to grow up in peace with equal access to education, health, and safety. More than 17,000 children have been killed and 33,000 injured in Gaza since October 2023. Families continue to be forcibly displaced, and children are living in fear, cut off from the safety, hope and support that all young people deserve.
In Palestine, hundreds of local Scout leaders continue to lead and support young people and communities under the most difficult circumstances. Together, their efforts have supported people in Gaza with psychosocial support, non-formal learning, and provided basic shelter, food, and first aid.
We join the United Nations’ call for an immediate ceasefire, rapid, and unrestricted humanitarian access, and the immediate release of all hostages. We call on all parties, the international community, and leaders at all levels to show principled leadership for peace and uphold the fundamental rights of children and youth to ensure that their safety, dignity, and future are not lost to war.
