UK Greens prepare to debate motion calling Zionism racism
A motion proposed by Greens for Palestine has put the contested meaning of Zionism and competing claims about self-determination before the party conference.
The UK Green Party conference is preparing to debate a motion stating “Zionism is racism”. The Guardian reports that party leader Zack Polanski has described himself as anti-Zionist. The motion’s outcome has not been reported.
Modern Zionism emerged in the late 19th century through varied strands of thought about Jewish collective identity and self-determination. Political Zionism became associated with a movement for Jewish statehood amid rising European antisemitism. Its history also includes proposals such as Martin Buber’s idea of a binational Arab-Jewish state.
Critics describe Zionism as colonial or discriminatory, citing Palestinian displacement during Israel’s founding, unequal rights in the occupied territories and discrimination against Palestinians within Israel. Supporters point to Jewish historical ties to the land and the need for a refuge from persecution.
The phrase “Zionism is racism” gained prominence with a 1975 UN General Assembly resolution equating Zionism with racism; the resolution was revoked in 1991. Those who support the motion’s framing argue Zionism privileges Jewish rights over those of non-Jews. Opponents say it singles out Jews by denying their right to self-determination.
The war in Gaza has renewed arguments over the term. Zionism has varied and contested meanings, and the conference is due to consider the motion rather than having already adopted it.
