The 2nd Head of Contingents Meeting has officially concluded in Gdańsk, bringing together 160 representatives from 56 National Scout Organisations. Over three days, participants exchanged knowledge, discussed key preparations, and strengthened the international spirit that will shape the 26th World Scout Jamboree in 2027.
The meeting began with a warm welcome and words of encouragement from Martyna Kowacka, Chief Commissioner of ZHP. Reflecting on her own experience as Head of the Polish Contingent at the Jamboree in Korea, she reminded participants of the challenges and excitement ahead:
“Just three years ago, I was sitting where you are now. I remember the excitement, but also the many questions we had. We wanted to leave with as much knowledge as possible. We are now less than two years away from the Jamboree. We already know a lot, but there is still much ahead of us.”
The first day was dedicated to sharing progress across crucial areas, including programme development, Safe From Harm initiatives, communications, contingent preparations, and health and medical services. It marked the beginning of a collective effort to ensure every delegation is fully prepared for this extraordinary event.
Day two carried a special significance as participants visited Sobieszewo Island – the future site of the Jamboree. Standing on the open field that will soon transform into a vibrant Scout city, delegates could vividly imagine the moment when 50,000 Scouts from around the world will gather to live, learn and grow together.
Alongside this moving visit, delegates engaged in briefings on transport, safety and security, subcamps, and food services – essential pillars of a safe, inclusive, and unforgettable Jamboree experience. They also had the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the Polish coastline, a setting that will play host to countless stories and friendships in just two years’ time.
The success of the meeting was also marked by the support of distinguished guests who joined us in Gdańsk. Their presence reflected the broad partnership that underpins preparations for the Jamboree: Martyna Kowacka, Chief Commissioner of ZHP, Piotr Kryszewski, Managing Director for Green Gdańsk, Patryk Gabriel, Member of Parliament & Vice-Chair of the Parliamentary Team of Friends of Scouting, Michał Braun, Director of the National Freedom Institute (NIW), Rafał Żaguń, Plenipotentiary of the Pomeranian Voivode for the Jamboree and Jerzy Petryczko, Chairman of the Sobieszewo Island District Council.
Their engagement and support reaffirm the collective commitment of local, national, and international partners to create an event of the highest standard.
The meeting concluded with final briefings and forward-looking discussions that underlined a shared commitment: to deliver a Jamboree that is safe, adventurous, and transformative. The atmosphere throughout the gathering reflected the essence of Scouting – openness, dialogue, solidarity, and a readiness to work together in service of young people.
As the delegates departed, they carried with them not only new knowledge but also renewed energy and determination. Together, step by step, the Scouting world is moving towards the grand finale: the 26th World Scout Jamboree on Sobieszewo Island in 2027.
