UK Muslim Scouts Association investigated over art challenge featuring controversial slogans

The United Kingdom's Scouts Association has launched an investigation into its UK Muslim Scout Fellowship (MSF) following allegations of antisemitic conduct. The probe was initiated after the Henry Jackson Society (HJS) think-tank complained that children participating in an art challenge were encouraged to "paint for Gaza." The resulting artwork reportedly included the phrase "From the river to the sea" and depictions of Israel's map replaced with the Palestinian flag.

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We wrote to the Scout Association raising concerns. It has now confirmed it has opened an investigation.

The HJS stated it raised concerns with the Scouts Association, which confirmed an investigation is underway. The Scouts Association told The Jerusalem Post that it takes the allegations seriously and has a "robust process" for thorough, impartial, and fair investigations. However, the organization noted that the complaint is in its early stages, and it is still gathering facts. A response will be provided to the complainant after a review in line with policies.

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We take the concerns raised very seriously. We have a robust process in place to ensure that matters of this nature are investigated thoroughly, impartially and fairly.

The "Paint for Gaza challenge" was advertised as being "dedicated to showing love and kindness toward children in Palestine." While most submissions featured variations of the al-Aqsa mosque and the Palestinian flag, several included the slogan "From the river to the sea," which is widely interpreted as a call for the elimination of the State of Israel. The HJS highlighted that this slogan has been criminalized in Germany and expressed deep concern over its circulation by a Scout-affiliated organization.

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We will provide a response to the complainant once we have reviewed the matter in line with our policies.

The Scouts Association's code of conduct opposes all forms of prejudice and discrimination, and the organization is committed to political neutrality. Notably, the art challenge was organized in collaboration with Islamic Relief, an organization banned in Israel due to alleged ties to Hamas. Islamic Relief Worldwide has faced accusations of terrorist financing, connections to the Muslim Brotherhood, and antisemitism.

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Given the slogan’s highly inflammatory nature, we are deeply concerned that children’s artwork bearing it has been circulated by a Scout-affiliated organization.