It was introduced in 2005 to give "young people more opportunities to face the challenges of the future", as identified by the United Nations Millennium Declaration in 2000 which identified eight Millennium Development Goals, and helps participants work towards those goals.

[citation needed] The award is implemented through WOSM member organizations to improve their senior programs.

Young people aged 15 to 26 years, including non-Scouts, can earn the award.

WOSM claims an award available to non-Scouts "provides NSOs [National Scout Organizations] with a great opportunity to increase their membership at the local and national levels, resulting from the possibility to invite non-Scout persons (in the age covered by the Rover section, 18-22) to participate in the Rover Programme, and to encourage them, after completing the Scouts of the World Award, to be part of the Rover section.

WOSM member organizations who have adopted the award include (as of 2007):