HM The King's speech at World Scout Foundation's gala dinner

It has been a pleasure for Her Majesty the Queen and me to welcome you to Sweden for the 78th BP Fellowship event, culminating in this special Gala dinner.

I am deeply touched that so many of you travelled from near and far to be here - a true expression of Scout friendship and solidarity.

To those of you who are new to our global community of Scouts and BP Fellows, or returning to Scouting here tonight - you are on the right track!

Events like these rely on careful planning and dedication behind the scenes. I would like to express my sincere thanks to all the Scouts - volunteers and staff – whose hard work has made this gathering possible.

Ladies and gentlemen,

This evening is very special to me as it is my last BP Fellowship event as Honorary Chairman. Reflecting on nearly fifty years engaged in the World Scout Foundation, I feel deeply grateful.

The original letter, inviting me to support the World Scout Foundation was…let’s say charmingly vague. No details about contract length, no clear description of the role. Just an invitation to commit, finalised with the encouraging line: “the more active you can be, the better it will be for Scouting interests”.

Well, as we say, “Once a Scout, always a Scout.” What started as a love for Scouting when I was a young boy, did not fade – it escalated. Somewhere along the way it turned into a life-long commitment to helping young people develop confidence, leadership and essential life skills.

Over the years, I have greatly enjoyed the friendship I have experienced with all of you. From BP Fellowship events to Scout Jamborees and activities. From meetings of the Foundation Board to Chapter engagements. All reminding me how Scouting brings people together.

We share the same Scout Promise. And the same openness to learn from one another. And perhaps most importantly, we share a deep commitment to serving others. I have been proud to witness Scouts stepping up in moments of crisis or conflict: helping families and young children forced to leave their homes. And I have met Scouts who ensure clean water and improved sanitation in their communities, working for access to education and better food security.

The world needs more of this — and more Scouts. And this is what has kept me active in Scouting for so long.

I therefore encourage you all to continue your support for World Scouting. Every young person we reach and every Scout-led programme we support, helps build bridges and contributes to a more peaceful future.

Dear BP Fellows, Scouts, supporters and distinguished guests,

It has been my honour to serve as Honorary Chairman of the World Scout Foundation. I am proud to hand over this “active” role to HRH Grand Duke Guillaume of Luxembourg.

Please extend to Him your generous support and Scout friendship, just as you did for me. And do not be too surprised if you find yourselves committed to decades of support to world scouting. Because once a Scout, always a Scout!

Let us continue to enjoy this wonderful evening. Thank you.