Arab Parajamboree sets the bar for hosting inclusive Scout events

Imagine a place where diversity is celebrated, inclusion is the norm, and barriers are broken down. This is exactly what the second Arab Scout Inclusive Camp (Parajamboree) was all about. From 29 April to 5 May 2023, Scouts from Arab countries came together in Morocco for an event that showcased the power of Scouting to create a more inclusive and welcoming world.

Organized by the Moroccan Scout Federation, in partnership with the Arab Region Support Center and the Arab Scout Organization, this accessible and inclusive event was designed to be a safe space where everyone was respected and included. Scouts learned valuable life skills while exploring the beauty of nature and forging lifelong connections with fellow Scouts from diverse cultures.

One of the unique features of this edition of the Parajamboree was the participation of a group of UNICEF-affiliated unaccompanied migrants residing in Morocco. This added a whole new dimension to the event, highlighting the importance of creating a welcoming and supportive environment which welcomes young people affected by conflict, poverty and other factors leading to migration.

For Amine (pictured above), a 19-year-old Scout and brilliant student at the Administration University in Morocco, the Parajamboree was a dream come true. Amine, who lives with a physical disability, is an impressive Scout of eight years already. He speaks four languages and dreams of one day being the boss of his own company. He says:

At the Parajamboree, Amine and his fellow Scouts participated in various activities, including hiking, team-building exercises, and cultural exchanges. Despite their different abilities and backgrounds, the Scouts worked together as a team, learning from each other and accepting their differences.

Shayma (pictured above), an Arab Youth Advisor and one of the management team members of the Parajamboree, was thrilled to have the opportunity to work with the youth participants and learn from their differences and commonalities. She appreciated the way the Parajamboree provided a safe and inclusive space where everyone was respected and valued.

As the event came to a close, the Scouts said their goodbyes, but the memories they made will last a lifetime. They have learned valuable life skills, made new friends, and learned the importance of acceptance and teamwork. The second Inclusive Parajamboree was a celebration of diversity and inclusion, and it showed how Scouting can break down barriers and build bridges between young people from different backgrounds and cultures.