Leaders Unite to Chart Path Forward for Scouting Across the Region

Kaohsiung Hosts Week-Long Conference for Asia-Pacific Scouts

Published by: Mr. Dibakar Mandal
Date & Time: 26 October 2025, 18:30 IST (UTC+5:30)

Introduction

Nearly 400 Scouts and leaders from across the Asia-Pacific Region gathered in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, on 12 October 2025 for the opening of the 28th Asia-Pacific Scout Conference. The week-long event celebrates the achievements of Scouting over the past triennium and sets a clear roadmap for the coming years.

Hosted by the General Association of the Scouts of China, this marks the third time Kaohsiung has welcomed the Regional Conference, following successful editions in 1966 and 1989. The conference theme, “Scouting: Integrated Versatility”, reflects the Region’s commitment to fostering unity, collaboration, and innovation among its 33 National Scout Organizations (NSOs).

With the Asia-Pacific home to 37.2 million Scouts—more than half of the world’s total Scout population—decisions made here have a significant impact on Scouting’s global direction, from Kiribati’s islands to the Russian Federation’s vast plains.

Conference Highlights

The 28th Asia-Pacific Scout Conference runs from 12–17 October 2025, featuring:

• Plenary sessions and workshops to strengthen organizational capacity and inspire collaboration.
• Voting on key resolutions, including governance, safeguarding, and youth participation.
• Election of Regional Scout Committee members for the 2025–2031 term.
• Selection of hosts for upcoming events, including the 29th Asia-Pacific Scout Conference in Hong Kong (2028) and the 34th APR Scout Jamboree in Thailand (2029).
• Cultural events and Scout Exhibitions showcasing regional achievements.
• Educational tours and networking opportunities for participants.

Caption: “Nearly 400 Scouts gathered at the opening of the 28th Asia-Pacific Scout Conference in Kaohsiung.”

Asia-Pacific Youth Forum

The Conference runs alongside the 11th Asia-Pacific Youth Forum, providing a platform for young Scouts to:

• Enhance leadership and decision-making skills
• Engage in interactive workshops and team-building activities
• Exchange ideas on youth participation and global citizenship
• Connect with mentors and senior leaders to shape future Scouting policies

This intergenerational focus ensures that youth voices are central to the decision-making process, fostering inclusive and forward-looking governance across the Region.

Strategic Importance of the Conference

The Asia-Pacific Scout Conference serves as the governing body for one of the largest and most diverse regions in the World Organization of the Scout Movement (WOSM). Key purposes include:

• Setting regional priorities for Scouting programs and initiatives.
• Reviewing policies and governance standards to ensure compliance with WOSM guidelines.
• Supporting National Scout Organizations (NSOs) in program delivery, youth engagement, and community service.
• Fostering cultural exchange, inclusivity, and collaboration among member countries.

With the election of new Committee members, adoption of resolutions, and selection of future hosts, the 28th Conference charts a bold path forward, emphasizing youth empowerment, innovation, and sustainable growth.

Looking Forward

Key upcoming events highlighted during the Conference include:

1. 29th Asia-Pacific Scout Conference (Hong Kong, 2028) – Theme: “One Region, One Spirit: Harmony in Diversity and Ready for Life”
2. 34th APR Scout Jamboree (Thailand, 2029) – Theme: “Building Bridges, Creating a Sustainable Future”

These events promise to continue strengthening regional unity, youth leadership, and global citizenship, creating transformative experiences for Scouts across the Asia-Pacific.

Conclusion

The opening of the 28th Asia-Pacific Scout Conference in Kaohsiung represents a pivotal moment for the region’s 37 million Scouts. Through collaborative decision-making, strategic planning, and active youth participation, the Conference lays the foundation for a more united, innovative, and impactful Scouting future.

As the week unfolds, delegates will shape the policies, programs, and leadership that will guide the Region for years to come, demonstrating the Asia-Pacific Scouts’ commitment to integrated versatility, service, and global citizenship.

FAQ

1. How often is the Asia-Pacific Scout Conference held?
It is held every three years, bringing together leaders from National Scout Organizations across the Region.

2. Where was the 28th Asia-Pacific Scout Conference held?
The event took place in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, hosted by the General Association of the Scouts of China.

3. How many Scouts participate in the Asia-Pacific Scout Conference?
This edition brought together nearly 400 delegates representing 33 National Scout Organizations.

4. What is the theme of the 2025 Conference?
The theme is “Scouting: Integrated Versatility”, emphasizing collaboration, adaptability, and youth leadership.

5. Which events were selected for future hosting?
Hong Kong will host the 29th Conference in 2028, and Thailand will host the 34th APR Scout Jamboree in 2029.

External Link Suggestions

1. World Organization of the Scout Movement (WOSM)
2. Asia-Pacific Scout Region
3. Scouts of China
4. Scouts of Hong Kong
5. Thailand Scouts