World Scout Interreligious Symposium

World Scout Interreligious Symposium 

 

The World Scout Interreligious Symposium (WSIS) is a gathering of representatives from NSOs and religious networks, some of which have consultative status with the World Scout Committee.

The symposium reinforces the value of Scouting as an institution that promotes interreligious dialogue, tolerance, solidarity, and peace, and that furthers cooperation and understanding of interreligious issues throughout the Scout Movement.

The WSIS takes place every three years and is coordinated by the World Scout Interreligious Forum, a network of religious organisations in Scouting.

6th World Scout Interreligious Symposium

The 6th World Scout Interreligious Symposium will be held from 27 October to 1 November 2026 at Centre Le Mistral in Marseille, France. Scroll down to find out more! 💜 ⚜️

About the Symposium

The 6th World Scout Interreligious Symposium (WSIS) will bring together faith representatives, religious educators, and Scout leaders from around the world to explore how Scouting supports the spiritual development of young people. 

Organised by Scouts et Guides de France, in collaboration with the Interreligious Forum of World Scouting, the 2026 event will help deepen interfaith dialogue, strengthen the spiritual dimension of Scouting, and contribute to building a more peaceful future for young people and their communities.

Themes and objectives

This year's symposium theme, “Education for Peace through Interreligious Dialogue”, emphasises how dialogue and mutual understanding can help young people become bridge‑builders in their communities. Participants will explore practical tools, methods, and approaches to strengthen spiritual development and interfaith cooperation within NSOs.

By joining the symposium, participants will learn about and develop skills related to:

  • Tools and frameworks for promoting interreligious understanding
  • Stronger intercultural and spiritual competencies
  • Insights linked to Scouting’s Strategy for a peaceful and inclusive world
  • Opportunities to build international networks across faiths and regions
  • The ability to return as resource persons supporting national programme development

Practical information

🗓️ Dates and Location:

  • 27 October – 1 November 2026
  • Centre Le Mistral, Marseille, France

🌍 Visa Support

  • Available for participants requiring a Schengen visa. Processing may take up to two months.

Participants should be comfortable engaging in English. French interpretation will be available.

Registration coming soon!

 

Registration fees: EUR 300 (includes accommodation, meals, programme activities, and materials)

Get involved!

Participants can include:

🌟 Faith representatives (chaplains, spiritual advisors, religious educators

🌟 Scout leaders responsible for youth programme development and spiritual support

🌟 Individuals interested in interreligious dialogue or the spiritual dimension of Scouting

Join us in Marseille! 

Marseille is a historic meeting point of Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, known for its strong interfaith cooperation among Christian, Muslim, Jewish, and secular communities. 

The symposium will take place at Centre Le Mistral, a venue with dedicated meeting rooms and nearby accommodation. The programme also includes opportunities to reflect on the surrounding natural landscapes and to explore the spiritual dimensions of caring for people and the planet.

Programme highlights

While WSIS focuses on leaders and educators, young people at the Bivouac will participate in a parallel programme of intercultural and interreligious learning.

Participants can look forward to:

  • Local partner visits exploring interfaith initiatives in Marseille
  • Dialogue training delivered by KAICIID
  • A joint public celebration at MUCEM
  • Opportunities for WSIS participants to witness dialogue in action

Mediterranean Bivouac partnership

The symposium is held alongside the Mediterranean Bivouac, which brings together 600 young Scouts and Guides aged 18 to 25 from across the region. 

Want to know more?

For support or questions about the Symposium, please contact: Steve Kent, member of the World Scout Committee, by emailing: [email protected]

Past symposiums

Find out more about past events:

For archived resource materials, please send an email to [email protected]