PORTO, 3 AUGUST — Capping off ten days of adventure, learning, and friendship, the 16th World Scout Moot wrapped up in Porto, Portugal, with a spectacular closing ceremony on 3 August.
Thousands of Scouts and volunteers came together from every corner of the globe for the international gathering, joining in activities and experiences that celebrated diversity and shared values. Against the backdrop of growing fragmentation worldwide, the Moot served as a reminder that Scouting is about unity, not division.
Portugal’s president, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, addressed participants in a recorded message, praising Scouts for their role in shaping a fairer world.
“Being a Scout means building bridges in a world that doesn’t want to build bridges; building peace in the world where we have so many walls; trying to build justice and fairness in a world where fairness and justice are not obvious … That’s being a Scout,” he said.
Margarida Balseiro Lopes, Portugal’s Minister for Culture, Youth, and Sport, echoed this theme on stage, praising Scouts for their ability to unite around shared values and common goals.
“Differences in language, traditions, and religions did not set you apart. They brought you closer together. because what unites you is far greater than what separates you,” she said.
Felipe Paullier, United Nations (UN) Assistant Secretary-General for Youth Affairs, also praised Scouts for their unity, noting that in a time when societies feel increasingly polarised, Scouting was a reminder of what is possible when we work together. For this, he noted the importance of partnerships, taking time to reflect on the shared values of Scouting and the UN and the importance of youth-led, values-based leadership to both organisations.
Felipe went on to underscore that young people deserve more than token representation in decision-making. He urged them to claim their place as partners in shaping the future, noting that real civic engagement and democratic participation are fundamental rights, not privileges.
The previous day, Felipe had joined Scouts at the main campsite for panels and fireside discussions, hearing firsthand about the issues that matter most to them.
Also taking the stage at the closing ceremony, HH Princess Sama Bint Faisal Al Saud gave heartfelt thanks to the Federação Escotista de Portugal for being incredible hosts of this year’s event. She also expressed her gratitude to the roughly 1,500 International Service Team members whose efforts made the Moot possible. But she also reminded the crowd that many Scouts will return to communities still facing conflict and inequality.
“Too many young people, particularly young girls and women, still lack access to equal opportunities, education, health care, or jobs. The world is not always a fair or peaceful place. The challenges we face are real and they are many,” she said.
World Scouting’s Secretary General, David Berg, reflected on how vital the Movement has become in today’s world. He urged participants to take the memories, ideas, and friendships from the Moot and turn that energy into action.
“Make the difference and engage because our world needs more Scouts like you.”
While celebrations continued into the evening, this year’s Moot officially drew to a close when the World Scouting flag was handed over to the General Association of Scouts of China, the host of the 17th World Scout Moot in 2029.
Text by World Scouting
