The Equality and Human Rights Commission has formally contacted the Green Party of England and Wales to request further details regarding a controversial conference resolution that characterized Zionism as a form of racism.
The intervention follows formal complaints submitted to the regulator by Jewish advocacy organizations alongside numerous lawmakers from both the Labour and Liberal Democrat parties. Critics argued that the policy creates a hostile environment for Jewish members and raises questions about compliance with equality legislation.
During the party convention earlier in the month, delegates approved the measure, which defines Zionism as an ideology backing an exclusively Jewish state in historic Palestine that subordinates non-Jewish inhabitants. The decision immediately sparked internal friction, drawing public condemnation from four out of five Green MPs as well as two former party leaders, who labeled the stance divisive and hazardous.
The controversy has also complicated the political standing of Green leader Zack Polanski, particularly coming on the heels of a recent by-election loss. Polanski acknowledged that the text of the measure was flawed and expressed a desire to see it revised, though he initially defended its underlying theme.
External pressure has mounted as other political entities respond to the fallout. The Labour Party indicated it would terminate local council power-sharing arrangements with the Greens unless local Green representatives formally distance themselves from the policy.
In its statement, the equality watchdog confirmed it is evaluating the practical consequences of the policy following allegations of potential breaches of the Equality Act 2010. The agency noted that legal compliance will largely depend on how the resolution is enforced and whether it leads to the mistreatment of Jewish members because of their beliefs.
Complainants highlighted that delegates also rejected proposed safeguards designed to protect Green members who participate in Zionist religious congregations. Parliamentarians warned that these combined actions threaten the ability of Jewish individuals to take part in party activities without fear of facing disciplinary measures due to their heritage and communal ties.
Additionally, the Campaign Against Antisemitism formally petitioned the regulator, asserting that the resolution amounts to unlawful discrimination by classifying any backing for a Jewish homeland as inherently racist.
In reply to the inquiries from the equality commission, a party representative emphasized that the organization maintains strict anti-discrimination safeguards. The party asserted that the resolution represents a political viewpoint rather than a rule governing membership eligibility or internal disciplinary actions.
Representatives added that existing protocols regarding the eradication of antisemitism remain fully active, and the party remains dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment where Jewish members feel valued and secure. While the resolution now forms part of official party doctrine following the membership vote, leadership noted that it will not necessarily be incorporated into future general election manifestos.
Reporting based on coverage first published by BBC News. Read the original report at BBC News.
