"To help all, especially the young, gain a greater understanding of peoples, places and cultures through hostelling."  

We promote Peace and Understanding

Intolerance, ignorance and misunderstanding are the root causes of many of the conflicts and tragedies afflicting humanity across the world, from far-off lands to right next door. The youth hostelling movement has a role to play in making things right.

"We strive to bring together peoples of the world, so that sharing a meal, or wandering along a trail, they may learn to appreciate each other's viewpoint and outlook, and realize that we are a world brotherhood. "Our task is in short to promote world peace, not by treaty or statesmanship, but by creating in the hearts of the people of all lands a deep mutual understanding." (Jack Catchpool, former IYHF president)

Along with the stated purpose of hostelling, HI-Canada (as a member of the IYHF) also strives towards these goals on international, national and regional levels through UN initiatives and the sponsorship of world youth conferences, Peace and Understanding-themed travel talks, and like-minded art exhibits.