Full Breakdown
Greens Face Internal Test Over Proposed Zionism Policy
By Drooid · · How we work
Proposed Motion and Conference Context
The Green Party’s members have placed a motion titled “Zionism is racism” at the top of the policy agenda for the party conference in Brighton in early October. If adopted, the motion would equate Zionism—the movement for a Jewish state—with racism, call for a single democratic Palestinian state across historic Palestine with Jerusalem as its capital, and assert the right of return for Palestinians and their descendants. The party adopts policy through member votes at its conferences, making the motion almost certain to be debated.
Leadership Dilemma for Zack Polanski
Zack Polanski, leader of the Greens in England and Wales, has not publicly commented on the motion. Sources indicate he is aware of concerns that the proposal could make Jewish members feel unwelcome and may be hesitant to alienate the growing number of left-leaning supporters who hold strong views on Gaza and Israel. Observers describe the situation as a test of Polanski’s leadership and his willingness to challenge newer members, many of whom previously aligned with Jeremy Corbyn’s Labour.
Internal Reactions and Risks
A senior Green official warned that Polanski is trying to “be everything to everyone,” a strategy that may not work in politics. Another Green source highlighted the risk that passing the motion unchanged would alienate the UK Jewish community, many of whom are not supporters of the current Israeli government. Leaked WhatsApp chats among activists suggested internal splits, with some accusing Polanski of “struggling to overcome Zionist indoctrination” and noting a shift from historically “mature and sensible” policy debates.
Amendments and Strategic Considerations
Two amendments aimed at softening the motion’s language have been tabled, and a Green official reported that Polanski appeared to back one of them. The timing of the conference—just a week before the Holborn and St Pancras by-election, where Polanski hopes to contest Keir Starmer’s former seat—means many activists loyal to the party leadership may be absent, potentially giving opponents more influence over the vote.
Outlook and Potential Impact
If the motion passes in its original form, the party would treat Zionism as a form of racism, a stance that could strain relations with Jewish supporters and deepen internal divisions. The outcome will likely shape the Greens’ public image, its cohesion ahead of the upcoming by-election, and its broader positioning on the Israel-Palestine conflict.