Green Party of England and Wales Votes to Define Zionism as Racism, Calls for Single Palestinian State

The Green Party of England and Wales has taken a significant and controversial stance by voting to define Zionism as a form of racism. During its annual conference in Brighton, party members approved a resolution by a margin of 1022 votes to 813. The proposal, submitted by the “Green for Palestine” group, calls for the establishment of a single Palestinian state with equal rights for all, replacing Israel. This decision has sparked division within the party and raised concerns about potential legal challenges.

The resolution, titled “racist Zionism,” defines Zionism as an ideology that favors an ethnic group at the expense of others. It emphasizes that the focus is on political ideology and Zionist practice rather than the religious or ethnic identity of those who identify as Zionists. The policy will be implemented through the party’s Action Team on Anti-Racial Policy, signaling a formal commitment to this stance.

The proposal has drawn strong opposition from several high-profile members of the party. Adrian Ramsay, a parliamentary deputy and former co-chair, expressed disappointment, arguing that the call for a single Palestinian state conflicts with the Green Party’s commitment to self-determination. Carla Denier, Vice-President of Bristol Central and former co-president, and Caroline Lucas, the first vice-president, were among the most vocal opponents during the debate.

Zach Bolansky, the leader of the Green Party of England and Wales, supported the definition of Zionism as racism. Although he did not vote due to his campaign commitments, he affirmed the party’s stance in statements to the BBC. Bolansky described Zionism as involving the displacement and genocide of the Palestinian people, which he equates to clear racism.

The resolution has also raised concerns about legal repercussions, particularly because Zionism is closely tied to the identity and beliefs of many British Jews. Legal experts, including Counsel Adam Wagner, who previously challenged the Labour Party over anti-Semitism cases, have warned that the policy could face legal scrutiny. This highlights the complex and sensitive nature of the issue within both the party and broader society.

The decision reflects a growing debate within political and religious circles about the definition of Zionism and its implications. As the Green Party moves forward with this policy, the broader implications for interfaith dialogue and political discourse will be closely watched. The resolution underscores the need for careful consideration of the moral and ethical dimensions of such policies, as emphasized in Micah 6:8, which calls for acting justly, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Arabic)