From Fundraisers to Advocates: Norwegian Guides and Scouts Transform Lives of Young Refugees

When the camera starts filming, young Guides and Scouts (hence Scouts) welcome Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette-Marit to a campfire at Øvresetertjern in Nordmarka (Norway). They are celebrating 20 years of Speideraksjonen, a fundraising campaign that Norges speiderforbund (Norwegian Guide and Scout Organisation) has implemented in collaboration with the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) to support young refugees and raise awareness about their experiences.

• Would you like some waffles? - says one of the girls.

Since 2003, Speideraksjonen has allowed Scouts to become advocates for refugee rights and has enabled them to contribute significantly to the NRC's humanitarian work. Through their annual fundraising campaign, Scouts engage thousands of members who learn about young refugees' challenges and organise creative initiatives to collect funds.

Each year, the Scouts dedicate several meetings in April to their fundraising campaign, Speideraksjonen. During these gatherings, Scouts learn about the reality of being a young refugee through various activities and educational materials provided by the NRC. They also focus on a specific refugee situation, often tied to a particular country or project. With newfound knowledge, Scouts plan and implement creative fundraisers to collect as much money as possible. In recognition of their efforts, each participating Scout receives a badge that can be proudly displayed on their scarf.

In addition to raising funds and acquiring a badge, the initiative has a far-reaching impact. As early as eight, Scouts learn to communicate their concerns and collect money to support refugees through fundraising activities. They engage with their local communities, answering questions and raising awareness about the refugee crisis. Many groups leverage local media and combine their fundraisers with community activities to reach a wider audience. By actively caring for others, Scouts also reshape their worldview, fostering understanding and compassion. This initiative contributes to the welfare of refugees and raises the visibility of the Scout organisation within local communities.

"The slogan 'Young people for young people' captures the essence of the initiative. By engaging Scouts in learning about refugees' experiences and inspiring empathy, the collaboration fosters a sense of support for those in need, " Stine Schultz Heireng, Secretary-General for Norges speiderforbund.

"Refugees worldwide greatly appreciate knowing that young people in other places are paying attention, learning about their situation, and caring enough to provide support". Scouts even visit refugee camps alongside the NRC, deepening their understanding of the plight of refugees and creating campaigns to engage their fellow Scouts.

During the pandemic the Scouts did their best to raise funds through creative activities, even online shows. With the return to their pre-pandemic activities, the enthusiasm for the programme has grown and with it, the number of Scouts participating. Last year, almost 5,000 members participated in the campaign, raising about $80,000. This year, the participation increased to over 6,000 Scouts, with fundraising results yet to be finalised but expected to surpass the previous year's total. Since the collaboration's inception, Scouts have collected over NOK 15 million (approximately $1.5 million) for the NRC's refugee support work.

Over the years, the funds raised by the Scouts have supported different projects to improve young refugees' lives. These initiatives include establishing safe activity centres, providing education programs, and ensuring access to education and work training. The projects have benefited young people in Uganda, Sri Lanka, East Timor, Liberia, Myanmar, Lebanon, and Tanzania.

The collaboration between Norges speiderforbund and the Norwegian Refugee Council has proven to be a powerful force for youth solidarity. Through their annual Speideraksjonen fundraiser, Scouts have raised significant funds and fostered empathy, understanding, and support for young refugees. Their efforts have made a tangible impact on the lives of thousands of children and youth, offering them hope, education, and essential resources. This remarkable initiative exemplifies the potential for young people to create positive change and create a better world.