The annual Council of General Commissioners and Presidents took place in Krakow, Poland, on 18-19 April 2026, gathering members of the Federal Council from 18 national associations across Europe and beyond. Representatives from Albania, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, the Czech Republic, France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, Poland, Hungary, Slovakia, Romania, Spain, Switzerland, Ukraine, the United Kingdom, and the United States came together for a weekend marked by fraternity, reflection, and shared commitment to the future of the Scouts of Europe.
Throughout the meetings, participants discussed and made important decisions concerning several key topics for the movement, including the approval of a frame agreement for the Beavers section, international training camps, preparations for Eurojam 2027, the role of the president and the leaders’ Erasmus within the federation. The gathering also highlighted two major anniversaries currently being celebrated within the movement: the 60th anniversary of the Baussant and the 70th anniversary of UIGSE, founded in 1956.
The Polish association, which itself celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, warmly welcomed delegates and organised the weekend with remarkable hospitality. The celebrations even included a birthday cake shared among participants, adding a joyful touch to the occasion.
The event was held at the John Paul II Shrine in Krakow, a site of deep spiritual significance. Participants had the opportunity to attend the Eucharist celebrated at an altar containing a relic of the blood of Saint John Paul II. One of the most memorable moments of the weekend was the evening Via Lucis pilgrimage to the Shrine of Divine Mercy. There, participants were able to pray and entrust their intentions to Saint Faustina while gathered before her coffin.
Beyond the formal discussions, the weekend was characterized by lively exchanges, friendship, and a spirit of joy and service. Participants particularly appreciated the presence of Polish guides and scouts, as well as the many national religious advisers who contributed to the richness of the gathering.
The Federal Weekend concluded with gratitude toward all participants for their enthusiasm, dedication, and continued service to the 75,000 Scouts of Europe across the federation.
– Nathalie Flama, Federal Commissioner