Green Party of England and Wales faces international backlash over ‘Zionism is racism’ policy vote

The Green Party of England and Wales (GPEW) has sparked international controversy by adopting a policy that frames Zionism as a form of racism. The motion, passed at the party’s conference in Brighton, calls for Zionism to be treated “as any other form of racism” and advocates for a single democratic Palestinian state across historic Palestine with “equal rights for all.” This stance has drawn sharp criticism from the European Green Party, which represents 47 member parties across Europe, including GPEW.

The European Green Party expressed dismay, stating that the motion contradicts its long-standing support for a two-state solution and the right of Israel to exist. In a statement, the alliance called for clarity from GPEW leadership on its official policy and how it positions itself regarding the self-determination of Israelis and Jews, as well as the protection of Jewish members within the party. The European Green Party emphasized the importance of upholding the rights of all communities, including Jewish people, in its platform.

German Green co-leader Felix Banaszak condemned the motion as “intolerable and unacceptable,” asserting that it runs counter to the values of both the German Greens and the broader European Green Party. He reiterated that the party believes in the right of Israel to exist and that this right must not be undermined. Banaszak indicated that his party would seek to address the issue with European partners, highlighting the potential for strained relations within the alliance.

Four of GPEW’s five MPs opposed the motion, signaling internal division within the party. The policy has also led to significant backlash from within the party itself. Sandy Ruthven, chair of Amnesty International UK’s charitable trust and a long-time Green member, resigned over the motion, accusing the party of failing to address antisemitism. Her departure underscores the deepening rift over how the party should engage with Israel and Palestine.

The vote has intensified debates within the Green Party and beyond about the balance between advocating for Palestinian rights and condemning antisemitism. Critics argue that equating Zionism with racism risks undermining the legitimacy of Israel and the Jewish community, while supporters maintain that the motion is necessary to address systemic injustice and promote a just peace. The situation reflects broader tensions in global politics over how to navigate the complex and often contentious issues of Israel and Palestine.

The controversy highlights the challenges of maintaining a unified stance on such a polarizing issue. As the Green Party grapples with its position, the incident serves as a reminder of the need for careful dialogue, mutual respect, and a commitment to justice for all. Micah 6:8 calls for people to “act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God,” a principle that remains relevant in navigating these difficult conversations.

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