The Badge Archive

Scouting America has implemented significant changes to both the merit badge library and the requirements for the rank of Eagle Scout in the beginning of 2026. These updates occur in two phases: the broad modernization updates from January 1, 2026, and the immediate discontinuance of the Citizenship in Society merit badge as of February 27, 2026.

The January 1st Updates

Effective January 1, 2026, over 80 merit badges received requirement updates. The focus of these changes was three-fold:

• Modernization: Updates to technical badges to reflect 2026 technology (e.g., Radio now includes Wi-Fi and Bluetooth; Digital Technology includes QR codes).
• Career Exploration: Many badges now require Scouts to research modern career paths, educational requirements, and salary outlooks related to the badge topic.
• Sustainability: Expanded requirements regarding Leave No Trace and the Outdoor Code were integrated across various outdoor-themed badges.

Discontinuance of Citizenship in Society

Effective February 27, 2026, the Citizenship in Society merit badge has been discontinued.

• Scouts may no longer start this merit badge as of February 27.
• Scouts who have already begun the badge and have a signed blue card (or digital record) have until December 31, 2026, to complete it if they wish to use it toward the Eagle rank.
• Eagle Scout Requirement Shift: The number of required merit badges for Eagle has returned to 13 (down from 14). The total number of badges required for Eagle remains 21, meaning the elective requirement has increased from 7 to 8.

Historical and Academic Context

The removal of the badge marks a return to the traditional “Three Citizenships” framework (Community, Nation, and World) that defined the path to Eagle Scout for decades prior to 2021. Historically, the Eagle rank required 13 specific badges. The introduction of Citizenship in Society in 2021 (becoming required in July 2022) moved that number to 14. This was the first time in decades the core required list had expanded in that manner.

Since its introduction in November 2021, Citizenship in Society was unique among merit badges because it lacked a standardized pamphlet and was designed as a “facilitated discussion” rather than a taught curriculum. Educational critics and advancement experts frequently debated the efficacy of this model, noting that without a standardized text, the quality of the Scout’s experience varied wildly depending on the counselor’s individual interpretation. Furthermore, the badge was often cited for its content overlap with existing Eagle-required badges like Citizenship in the Community and elective badges like American Cultures and American Heritage.

Introduction of the Military Service Badge

Scouting America has announced the upcoming launch of a Military Service merit badge. While details on requirements are pending, this badge is intended to focus on the history of the U.S. Armed Forces, the role of veterans in society, and the connection between Scouting and military service.

–

For More Fun Ideas and Plans

Join the Girl Scout Daisy, Brownie, and Junior Leader Help Facebook Group
_{(Not an official GSUSA Group)}

Join the Girl Scout Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador Leader Help Facebook Group
_{(Not an official GSUSA Group)}

See other Recommended Facebook Groups for some Scouting Organizations
_{(No official Groups)}

–

–

• Find out how you can support The Badge Archive!