Honorary Founder

His Majesty Carl XVI Gustaf (Carl Gustaf Folke Hubertus), The King of Sweden, was the first Honorary Chairman of the World Scout Foundation (1977-2026). His Majesty became a Scout in 1955 and has remained actively involved throughout his life.

I have been keenly aware of the moral and educational values of this volunteer movement. It has been with conviction and pride that I have accepted the invitation of the World Scout Foundation to help foster the expansion of Scouting around the globe. Each of us bears a personal responsibility for tomorrow. Scouting is a fine way of preparing for the challenge of the future, and I shall be grateful to all who are prepared to join me in contributing to the promotion of World Scouting.”

King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden, speaking at the 1st Baden-Powell Fellowship Event in 1977.

As Honorary Chairman, His Majesty attended 81 (of 81!) Board meetings of the World Scout Foundation, actively participating and regularly reminding the Board:

“Thank you for all you are doing for Scouting worldwide, however much more needs to be done to allow more young people to become Scouts — we cannot sit back!”

As our Honorary Chairman, His Majesty dedicated 50 years of active service to the World Scout Foundation in support of World Scouting, attending Baden-Powell Fellowship Events, Regal Circle Dinners, field trips, gatherings, Jamborees and Scout activities. Beyond the formalities, His Majesty became known worldwide as “The Scout King” or “Our Scout King” — an unwavering Scout champion of values-based leadership.

At the 78th Baden-Powell Fellowship Event, after 50 years of service as Honorary Chairman and on the occasion of His 80th birthday, His Majesty stepped down from this role. In recognition of His exceptional and sustained service and His lifelong dedication to Scouting, the Board of the Foundation conferred the title of Honorary Founder of the Foundation to His Majesty. Once a Scout, Always a Scout!