Key facts
- The Green Party in England and Wales is debating a motion that equates Zionism with racism.
- The motion calls for a single Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital.
- If passed, the motion would mean the party treats Zionism as a form of racism.
- Party leader Zack Polanski has not publicly stated his position on the motion.
- Some members fear the motion could alienate Jewish supporters and create internal divisions.
- Two amendments to soften the motion have been tabled.
The Green Party in England and Wales is facing internal pressure to take a definitive stance on a controversial policy motion that equates Zionism with racism. The motion, which is expected to be debated at the party's upcoming conference in Brighton, has topped a members' vote for policy discussions. If passed, it would equate Zionism, the movement for a Jewish state, with racism and call for a single Palestinian state. This could lead to disciplinary action against members who support Zionism.
Party leader Zack Polanski has reportedly expressed reservations about the motion, particularly its potential to make Jewish members feel unwelcome and to hinder peace processes. However, he has not yet publicly declared his position, with some within the party suggesting he is hesitant to alienate left-leaning members who have joined under his leadership and hold strong views on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
A similar motion was submitted to the Greens’ spring conference but was not debated due to time constraints. It is understood that party MPs and Polanski would have opposed that motion. The current proposal calls for "a single democratic Palestinian state in all of historic Palestine with Jerusalem as its capital, equal rights for all, and the right of return for Palestinians and their descendants," and asserts the Palestinian people's right to "resistance and liberation from Israeli occupation, domination and subjugation" within international law.
Two amendments aimed at toning down the motion have been submitted. Some party officials are concerned that if the motion passes in its current form, it could alienate the UK's Jewish community, many of whom are critical of the current Israeli government. There are also worries about internal party splits, with some activists reportedly expressing concerns about "Zionist indoctrination" among members.