Various forms of discrimination, including racism, sexism, and fatphobia, have been experienced or witnessed by many scouts, according to a survey released on Monday by Belgium’s Scouts Federation, which has established a task force to explore concrete action plans.
The study, conducted between December 2024 and February 2025, collected 256 responses. While the sample size is small compared to the federation’s 64,000 members, it highlights that the Scouting Movement also faces discrimination issues.
Of the 72 respondents under the age of 18 — predominantly white, heterosexual, able-bodied boys — 35 reported witnessing discrimination, and 37 said they were targets themselves.
Of the 184 respondents over the age of 18, most of them white, heterosexual, able-bodied women, 140 had witnessed discrimination. Forty-four (44) reported being targets of discrimination. These were, primarily white, heterosexual, able-bodied men.
The questionnaires were prepared with guidance from institutions specialising in discrimination issues, including Amnesty International Belgium, Be Pax, Crible, and UNIA.
Respondents highlighted five main forms of discrimination: racism, sexism, discrimination against LGBTQIA+ individuals, ableism, and fatphobia. These mainly took the form of mockery, insults, exclusion, and poorly organised activities.
Such behaviour occurred mostly among children and youths, but and could also involve volunteer leaders.
Some respondents also reported situations perceived as harmful or lacking in kindness, particularly during initiation rituals.
Participants in the survey strongly supported the availability of practical resources and specific training.
