Messengers of Peace is a recognition program for Scouts and Scouters who engage in service projects in
approved categories that make “a positive change in your community”. Recognition is a ring-shaped
patch that is worn around the purple World Crest emblem on the Scout uniform. It has been around for
about a decade, and is now available in several levels: Award (the basic level, that was previously
available), Champion, Ambassador, and Unit Service Award. There is also an application for a
Distinguished Project Award that is selected by the BSA International Committee and recognized with a
special ring-shaped patch and a medal.
Purposes of the Messengers of Peace Program
From the Messengers of Peace Program Guide:
Messengers of Peace aims to promote a culture of peace and dialogue for mutual understanding,
promote service initiatives led by Scouts, support the development of young people affected by conflict
situations, provide further connection to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals and connect Scouts
around the world in a global network of 20 million Messengers of Peace.
WOSM [the World Organization of Scouting Movement] has defined Three Dimensions within which
we can build a culture of peace and create positive change in our world today:
- Personal – it starts with a personal commitment. When Scouts understand their role as
individuals, and the impact of their individual actions to develop a Culture of Peace in their
community; then Scouts will seek to develop skills, to acquire useful knowledge, and to become
role models for others. - Community Based – it starts in your local community. Scouts assume an active role and engage
in identifying community issues, taking the first step to present ideas and solutions to improve
the situation in the local environment. - Collective Result – it happens when people collaborate. Scouts promote a global sense of
friendship, international cooperation and understanding, to foster the discovery of new
perspectives, exchange of ideas to address local community issues, and to invite others to work
together unifying resources to pursue a common goal.
More Information
More information about the Messengers of Peace program is available at:
https://www.scouting.org/international/messengers-of-peace/
The Messengers of Peace Program Guide provides detailed information about the program, including worksheets for each of the recognition levels. There is also a short guidebook for councils that provides an overview of how the program is implemented at the council level. Relatively little overhead is needed, although the applications are signed by the council’s International Representative and the Scout Executive.
