Langstroth

I went as IST to the WSJ, having organised an activity to run at the event. Just got back. Yes, theyre not cheap, but have to say it was one of the best experiences I've had. It's not a traditional scout activity camp but, well a jamboree, chance to meet other Scouts and scout leaders from all over the world. I had well over 47 different countries come through the activity I was running.

All very interesting.

 

Yes, in the UK the world badge is part of joining the troop as an invested scout - 'you are joining the world wide family of Scouts as well as this troop'. I rather like the emphasis on worldwide family.

 

The UK / union flag is only worn if you are, or have been overseas with scouting.

....and the

The necker is the ONLY commonality among all Scouts, worldwide...

Agreed, particularly in the eyes of the public. However if wearing uniform the other world wide commonality should be the purple 'world membership' fleur de lis and reef knot badge.

 

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_Scout_Emblem

I couldn't help but smile reading this thread. It's no consolation, but it's just the same this side of the pond. Sometimes you just feel sorry for the yp, and despite the annoyance it creates, in many ways they are the yp who will benefit most from scouting - if only their parents would let them.