BDS (Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions) is a political tool used to seek freedom, justice and equality for Palestinians. It was successfully used to end apartheid in South Africa.
Boycotting is the decision not to use or buy something for ethical reasons. It means withdrawing support from companies and organisations that support Israel.
Divestment is withdrawing investment from companies involved in Israel’s illegal occupation.
Sanctions call on governments to cut political and economic ties with Israel until it stops breaking international law.
A deeper dive.
BDS stands for Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions. This is a Palestinian-led movement calling on individuals, businesses and governments to take peaceful action against Israel until it stops breaking international law.
‘Boycotting’ is using your personal choice not to use or buy something from a company involved in Israel’s illegal occupation and apartheid in Palestine.
‘Divestment’ is withdrawing investment from companies involved in Israeli occupation and apartheid.
‘Sanctions’ call on governments to cut political and economic ties with Israel until it stops breaking international law.
BDS is a powerful and peaceful way to stand up for Palestinian rights.
What to Boycott?
Hewlett Packard (HP) provides servers for the Israeli Prison Service and the Israeli Police.
Coca-Cola operates in Atarot, an illegal Israeli settlement that violates international law.
PUMA sponsors the Israel Football Association, which has football clubs in illegal Israeli settlements.
Israeli produce is grown in illegal Israeli settlements so #CheckTheLabel to ensure the produce you buy isn’t from Israel!
The right to use BDS is under threat in the UK. Join FOA’s #RightToBoycott campaign to help protect it.
