World Thinking Day (WTD) is celebrated annually on 22nd February by Girl Scouts and Girl Guides in 153 countries worldwide. The day is dedicated to fostering international friendship and sisterhood, while also empowering girls and women around the globe.
- The day also serves as an opportunity to learn about and take action on global issues impacting young women and girls all over the world and raise funds to help over 10.8 million Girl Guides and Girl Scouts around the world.
- It is annually observed and organized by the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS)
Theme :
The theme for WTD 2025 is “Our Story”.
- The theme highlights the chance to reflect on the movement’s past, present, and future, as Girl Guides and Girl Scouts continue to inspire and uplift communities around the world.
WTD Theme from 2025 to 2028:
As we move towards the centenary of WTD in 2026 and the centenary of WAGGGS in 2028, the next four years of WTD will focus on celebrating the following themes.
- 2025 – Our Story
- 2026 – Our Friendship
- 2027 – Our People
- 2028 – Our Future
Background:
i.In 1926, delegates from Girl Guide and Girl Scout organisations across the world gathered in the United States of America (USA) for the 4th WAGGGS World Conference, where they decided to establish Thinking Day, a special day for Girl Guides and Girl Scouts.
ii.In 1999, at the 30th World Conference in Dublin (Ireland), the name of the day was changed to “World Thinking Day” to better highlight the global scope of the celebration.
Why February 22?
February 22 marks the birthday of Lord Robert Baden-Powell, Founder of the Boy Scout Movement, and the 1st Chief Scout of the World; as well as his wife Olave Baden-Powell, the World Chief Guide.
WTD Fund:
i.The WTD Fund was established in 1932 at the 7th WAGGGS World Conference in Poland to provide girls and young women worldwide with the opportunity to participate in Girl Guiding and Girl Scouting through donations to the WTD fund.
- The fund will be used to assist and support those in need around the world.
ii.The fund offers girls and member organizations life-changing opportunities to make a positive impact on their communities and the world.
iii.In the past six years, 550,000 British Pounds has been raised for the World Thinking Day Fund.
About World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS):
In 1928, WAGGGS was established at the 5th International Conference in Poland. It operates five World Centers in Adelboden (Switzerland), London (England), Cuernavaca (Mexico), Maharashtra (India), and Africa.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) – Anna Segall
Headquarters – London (The United Kingdom, UK)
Founded – 1928
