EHRC writes to Green Party over controversial Zionism motion
The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has written to the Green Party requesting information after members passed a motion describing Zionism as racism.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
- EHRC writes to the Green Party requesting details on its Zionism motion
- Motion defines Zionism as supporting an ethnonationalist Jewish state
- Labour and Lib Dem MPs raise serious concerns over potential discrimination
- Green leader Zack Polanski admits the motion is imperfect and needs amendment
The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has contacted the Green Party to request further information regarding a controversial "Zionism is racism" motion that was successfully passed by its members. The motion characterized Zionism as an ideology backing an ethnonationalist Jewish state in historic Palestine while excluding or dominating the non-Jewish population.
In response to the regulatory inquiry, the Green Party stated that it will not discriminate against or exclude individuals for holding Zionist views, emphasizing its ongoing commitment to tackling antisemitism within its ranks.
Dozens of Labour and Liberal Democrat MPs, alongside Jewish campaigners, previously wrote to the regulator to raise alarms about rising antisemitism concerns following the adoption of the motion during a party conference vote on October 5.
The motion has triggered a major political fallout in the UK, placing significant pressure on Green leader Zack Polanski in the wake of a recent by-election defeat. Polanski publicly admitted that the motion was imperfect and stated his desire to see it amended. Meanwhile, the Labour Party announced it would sever local council power-sharing agreements with the Greens unless local councillors formally disown the motion, highlighting how localized political alliances are increasingly strained by national ideological controversies.
On Thursday, the EHRC confirmed that it had formally written to the Greens following multiple complaints received from concerned parties. The equality watchdog stated it had received allegations of potential unlawful activity under the Equality Act 2010, focusing on fears that Jewish people could face discrimination due to their beliefs following the adoption of the motion.
The regulator added that it would take appropriate enforcement action after assessing the additional information provided, noting that compliance with the Equality Act is likely to hinge on the practical effects of the motion on the ground.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
Earlier this month, a group of MPs raised concerns not only over the primary motion itself but also pointed out that proposed amendments designed to protect Jewish Green members attending Zionist synagogues were voted down by the membership.
Their joint letter emphasized that these cumulative developments raise serious questions regarding whether Jewish members can participate freely and equally within the party, and whether their religious and communal ties could expose them to internal complaints or disciplinary measures.
"We remain committed to tackling antisemitism and ensuring Jewish members feel welcome and respected."
Green Party Spokesperson
In a separate action, the Campaign Against Antisemitism also wrote to the EHRC alleging that the party had breached the Equality Act through direct discrimination against Jewish individuals. Although the motion has been formally adopted as party policy after being backed by members, it remains uncertain whether it will be included in the party manifesto for the next general election.
Source: BBC Politics
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