Scouts to Undergo Sex Education: Condoms in Camps

According to the updated guidelines of the Scouts Association, scout heads can distribute condoms amongst teenagers under them, “if they believe the young person is very likely to begin or continue having intercourse with or without contraception”. Apart from that, nearly 35,000 scouts will undergo sex education in which they will be able to “feel what a condom is like” and will be taught about relationships, sexually transmitted diseases and language. It is all being undertaken to “promote good sexual health within Scouting”.

Condoms for early teens: Isn’t it too early?

The average age at which children are becoming sexually active has rapidly gone down. Most teens are sexually active by the time they are 15-16 years old. In such a scenario, providing them valid information becomes vital. Sex education is most important for teens to be aware and confident about what they are doing. While there are parents and scout leaders who believe teaching early teens about sex is similar to promoting it, sex education is important, especially to curb the number of sexually transmitted diseases and unwanted pregnancies.

Taking on a real threat: But what are the Social and Religious Implications?

While statistics are there to prove that sex education is extremely important amongst teens, condoms for scouts have brought in a whole new debate. Take for instance Stephen Green, the national director of the Christian Voice campaign group, who was quoted, “They should be encouraging young people in their care to have respect for girls and live a life of chastity and fidelity.” Other family values campaigners are also actively protesting the move saying that bringing about changes like these to the century old scout movement can only lead to unwanted pregnancies.

What’s the Government Saying?

The government backs the plan and believes that it is an important step forward to building a more educated and aware next generation. It also understands that that guidance will help spread right information to the youth, which is important to maintain good health in the society in general as well. The Scout Association guidelines cover scouts aged from six to 18. For those between the ages of 14 and 18, the rules become more controversial.

Considering the number of cases for sexually transmitted diseases has been on the rise along with teenage pregnancy cases, there are moves the government itself is taking to ensure that the youth is aware of sexual practices and protection.

History of Condoms and Scouts

There has been a lot of controversy related to condoms, sex and the scout movement. For instance, in 2002, the Thai Public Health Ministry had planned to give out condoms to 30,000 participants at a Thai beach event. It was met with outrage when the director of World Scout Jamboree, Yuwarat Kamolvej openly criticized the move. “They must know that the international scout movement has regulations against condom use and sexual activity. I am the only person who can say yes or no to this and I won't allow them to pass out the condoms at the World Scout Jamboree,” he had said.