Inside the Chaos of the 25th World Scout Jamboree: A Scout Leader's Diary Reveals the Struggles

The World Scout Jamboree in South Korea faced extreme weather and organizational challenges, leaving scouts in distress.

As the 25th World Scout Jamboree in South Korea descended into chaos amid scorching heat, heavy downpours, and poor organization – before finally the site was evacuated – Moa Mannerström, a 23-year-old Swedish scout unit leader, was trying to keep up her scouts' spirits. In a detailed diary, she narrates the challenges faced by her and her scouts during the event.*

Wednesday 3 August: 'It was a tense start'

The anticipated World Scout Jamboree faced a tense start as torrential rains and unprepared campgrounds led to confusion among arriving scout units. Moa Mannerström and her group were initially assigned to a red zone, fearing flooding, but were later relocated to an orange zone. The chaotic opening ceremony added to the frustration as inadequate crowd control and limited seating caused discomfort for scouts with special needs.

Thursday: 'My scouts started getting heatstroke'

The extreme weather conditions took a toll as scouts battled heatstroke and dehydration. The stifling tents and lack of suitable hydration options worsened the situation. The lack of appropriate meals for dietary requirements added to the challenges faced by scout units.

Friday: 'Worry began spreading in the camp'

With most activities canceled due to the heat, scouts' health deteriorated further. Sanitation issues in the restroom facilities and news of major contingents like the UK and US pulling out spread anxiety among the camp attendees. The vital role of International Service Team volunteers in maintaining order was evident, but concerns about the event's continuation grew.

Saturday: 'They cleaned up a lot of the mess'

Efforts to salvage the situation were initiated as the government and the World Organization of the Scout Movement (WOSM) stepped in to improve conditions. Sanitation facilities were addressed, shade tents were erected, and water distribution improved. Although some activities resumed, many scouts remained fatigued from the prior challenges.

Sunday to Monday: 'There's a typhoon coming'

Exhaustion among scouts and leaders escalated, and medical services faced shortages. Rumors of an approaching typhoon further heightened the turmoil. Communication gaps and uncertainty led to increased frustration among participants.

Tuesday to Friday: 'I'm happy my scouts are doing better'

Evacuation became a reality as the campsite was deemed unsafe due to the approaching typhoon. Scouts and leaders were relocated to university accommodations with impressive efficiency. The closing ceremony offered a moment of unity amidst the hardships, as scouts from around the world enjoyed a K-pop performance.

Reflecting on the event, Moa Mannerström expressed relief that her scouts were faring better and that they had survived the challenging ordeal. The 25th World Scout Jamboree will be remembered not only for its international camaraderie but also for the resilience displayed in the face of unprecedented challenges.