Responding to conflict in the Middle East

We cannot begin to understand the toll the conflict is having on those young people and families affected. This includes those in direct danger, who’ve been displaced or whom, tragically, have already lost their lives.

Many more are fearful for their safety, unable to travel home, have lost their livelihoods or access to education.

Supporting Scouts

We’re actively supporting Scouts in the region, including members of British Scouting Overseas caught up in the crisis. We’re helping these groups to stay connected, making sure young people have access to non-live digital programmes. 

Here in the UK, we’re also hearing from many Scouts and volunteers who have family or other links to the region. We understand the hurt and distress caused by increasing intolerance in local communities, and the fear this creates. Scouts stands against Islamophobia and Antisemitism in all its forms. 

Led by our values  

It’s at times like these that we all need to role model our values of Integrity, Respect, Care, Belief and Cooperation. They guide our thoughts, words and actions, helping us support and show solidarity with affected communities. At this time, we need to be especially sensitive to the feelings of others, who may be affected directly or indirectly.  

Standing for peace  

Scouts stand for peace, and we’re proud to be building a generation of peacemakers, working towards a kinder, respectful, and more peaceful world.

However, we know the situation is complex. We know there are differing views about how peace can be achieved or what should happen next. But, let’s remember first and foremost, that we’re a global movement of over 60 million Scouts who believe in the power of humanity and the safety and protection of all. We stand in solidarity with all Scouts affected by the conflict. 

Open to all

In Scouts, we’re proud to be open to all. Our priority is to make sure that everyone - young people and volunteers - feel welcome and comfortable taking part. That’s why it’s vital we create safe spaces for all our members, use inclusive language and maintain our zero-tolerance approach to discrimination. We will continue to encourage more people from diverse backgrounds to join and thrive in Scouts. Read more about our vision for equity, diversity and inclusion.

Impact of Middle East conflict on Visits Abroad

Event leaders in Scouts must follow FCDO (Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office) travel advice and adjust, change, or cancel plans where required. Travel routes that include or transit through the Middle East should be avoided, and alternative options sought as standard practice.

Event leaders should also initiate discussions with:

• Insurers as many travel insurance policies do not cover the effect of conflicts or wars
• Travel agents and airlines on alternative flight routes, if transiting.

If you require any further advice, please contact the Scouts Support Centre.

Support and guidance for volunteers  

We have support and guidance for volunteers wishing to support young people in their groups. We also have a range of programme ideas to promote empathy and increase understanding. These include:   

• What would you take?
• Kind news
• Forced to flee solidarity walk
• Activities for understanding crises
• Using Scout Values to discuss global issues and conflict