Green Party leader vows inclusion after Zionism motion sparks controversy
Green Party leader Zack Polanski said the party will not exclude members based on religion or community after a conference motion labeling Zionism as racism drew criticism and referrals to the Equality Commission and police.
The Green Party of England and Wales adopted a motion at its Brighton conference that defines Zionism as an ideology supporting an ethnonationalist Jewish state and calls for a single democratic Palestinian state in historic Palestine. The motion passed with 1,022 votes to 813, prompting a backlash from Labour MPs and Jewish groups.
Leader Zack Polanski, who did not vote on the motion, issued a statement affirming that no one will be made unwelcome because of their background, faith or place of worship. He said the party remains committed to its code of conduct and the Equality Act, and that antisemitism and criticism of the Israeli government must be kept separate.
More than a dozen Labour MPs reported the Green Party to the Equality and Human Rights Commission, and nine MPs referred possible antisemitic offences to Sussex Police. The European Green Party said it distances itself from the motion and will seek clarification on how the party will protect Jewish members.
A Green Party spokesperson reiterated the party’s duty to provide a safe environment for all members. Green MP Ellie Chowns expressed sadness that the motion became policy but argued it reflected principled opposition to Israeli government actions rather than antisemitism, and called for a review of the party’s policymaking process.