UN Secretary General Ban Ki Moon inspired by Scouts of Lesbos

Philoxenia – Friendship towards strangers

Taking the time to help another human being is a part of a Scouts DNA. It’s what we do. Taking the time over three years to rescue people from boats, administer first aid and offer food, water and dignity is incredible, what’s more it’s also what we do!

UN Secretary General, Ban Ki Moon celebrated and recognised Scouts for their tireless service on the Island of Lesbos, a main entry point for refugees coming in to Europe.

His visit to Lesbos yesterday, and his request to thank Scouts and volunteers following their dedication of their skills, time and energies over the last three years, highlights the Scouts’ promise to create a better world through service and peace in local communities across the world.

He spent time listening to the Scouts and hearing about their actions. These actions have inspired thousands of other Scouts across Europe in countries such as Sweden, Germany, Turkey and Denmark to shape their community action so that it matches the needs of new comers. 

Such inspiration, to volunteer time and compassion to help complete strangers, is a prime example of the peace Scouts are bringing action by action, around the world. When you combine each of the 675 million hours of community service Scouts have delivered, the impact is unchallengeable. And these are not professional agencies, they are young people, they are Messengers of Peace, they are Scouts.

When former Scout Ban Ki Moon met the Scouts on Lesbos yesterday, he was not just recognising the Scouts there, but also the Scouts around the world working on 6 million projects bringing peace. A Scout will not stand and watch, he or she will act and do, and in Europe this leadership is making a difference to thousands of lives!

Watch his visit here.