UK Greens Adopt ‘Zionism Is Racism’ Policy at Conference
UK Green Party votes to declare Zionism as racism, sparking debate over anti-Israel stance.
2 min read
Members of Britain’s Green Party have voted to declare that ‘Zionism is racism’ at their annual conference, marking a significant shift in the party’s stance toward Israel and the Middle East. The motion, proposed by the Greens for Palestine group, was passed by a margin of 1,022 to 813, making it an official party policy.
Shifting Focus to Islamic Interests
The decision reflects the party’s growing alignment with Islamic interests, particularly following the Gaza war, which caused disaffection among Muslim voters traditionally supporting the Labour Party. The motion argues that Zionism is ‘based upon European settler-colonial systems of domination and oppression,’ and that it has created ‘racial hierarchies between Jews of different ethnicities in Palestine.’
Rejecting Amendments to Soften Stance
Green Party members rejected amendments that would have allowed Jewish members who attend synagogues or institutions that espouse Zionism to be exempt from the motion. They also voted against an amendment calling for the removal of the line advocating a ‘single Palestinian state.’
Leadership and Party Dynamics
Green Party leader Zach Polanski, who is of Eastern European Jewish descent, supported the motion but did not attend the vote, choosing instead to campaign in the Holborn & St Pancras by-election. Polanski has previously described himself as an ‘anti-Zionist’ and has called for actions such as stopping arms sales to Israel and implementing boycotts, divestments, and sanctions.
Concerns Over Anti-Semitism
The motion has drawn criticism from anti-Semitism watchdogs and prominent party members. The Campaign Against Antisemitism warned that the motion could impose a ‘litmus test’ on Jewish people, many of whom identify as Zionist. Former party leader Caroline Lucas expressed concern that the motion could alienate Jewish members and create division within the party.
Party Stance and Commitment
A Green Party spokesperson defended the motion, stating that the party remains committed to ‘equality, justice, and human rights for all’ and opposes ‘racism in all its forms.’ The party has consistently opposed the illegal occupation of Palestinian and Syrian land and called for an end to arms sales to Israel.
Source: Breitbart
