Boy Scouts of the United Nations

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The Boy Scouts of the United Nations existed from 1945 through perhaps the early 1980s as the Scouting association serving the families of diplomats and staff of the United Nations, active in both Geneva and at Parkway Village in New York.

History

Punch cartoon, 1929: Patrols of Peace

However, the concept of and aspirations for Scouting in such a fashion predates the formation of the United Nations itself.

In a full-page cartoon from the July 1929 Punch magazine, entitled Patrols of Peace, the League of Nations, represented as a goddess, looks out at the 3rd World Scout Jamboree, held in Birkenhead, United Kingdom, saying, "They say I've got no army; but why should I want one with these allies?" (Beneath is stated With Mr. Punch's congratulations to the Chief Scout on the coming-of-age of the movement-now international-which he inspired.)

An early 1945 issue of the Cass City Chronicle newspaper stated:

"The Boy Scouts of the United Nations are planning to resume their world-wide friendships, through correspondence, exchange of equipment and by meeting in person at the great World Scout Jamborees when the war is won. The Boy Scouts of America, celebrating its 35th anniversary from February 8th to 14th, with its theme "Scouts of the World-Brothers Together" is encouraging its members to establish contacts with other Scout Troops in war-torn lands, and if possible, help them restore Scouting."[1]

Today

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Scouting and Guiding maintain close relations with the United Nations today, as with the work of World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.

References

  1. Fritz, Jerry (1945-02-09). "World-Wide Friendships" (in English). (image caption above article News Items About Boy Scouts) (Cass City Chronicle): pp. 3. http://newspapers.rawson.lib.mi.us/chronicle/CCC_1945%20(E)/issues/02-09-1945.pdf. Retrieved 2006-08-26.