Background

Global citizenship is an essential feature of a just and caring society. It requires that young people are helped to think critically and make informed choices. It demands that they are aware of their responsibilities to contribute to the future wellbeing and health of their local, national and global communities. It is about equipping them with the knowledge, skills and confidence to challenge injustice and take positive action.

Young people across Scotland, and beyond, have shown that they can meet this challenge. SCIAF wants to recognise and celebrate the wonderful activities already taking place in schools and youth groups across the country. SCIAF also hopes that the award will support the work being done in schools and encourage more young people to become involved in the creation of a more just world.

“I wish to appeal to everyone to implement - by the way they live, by their civic activity, by contributing to economic and political decisions - the measures inspired by solidarity and love of preference for the poor.” Pope John Paul II, 1987

“Young people should be regarded as the citizens of today rather than citizens in waiting.” Education for Citizenship in Scotland, Learning and Teaching Scotland, 2000.