Former Green Party Leader Warns Against Divisive Direction Following Zionism Vote
The Green Party of England and Wales is facing a significant turning point, according to former co-leader Adrian Ramsay. His comments follow a controversial policy motion passed by party members last month that formally classified Zionism as a form of racism.
The adopted policy characterizes Zionism as an ideology centered on an ethnonationalist Jewish state that has resulted in the destruction and disenfranchisement of the Palestinian population. The motion further advocates for a singular, democratic Palestinian state encompassing all of historic Palestine, including the territory currently occupied by Israel.
In response to the vote, Ramsay expressed deep discomfort with the stance and argued that the party must prioritize its fundamental environmental goals. He cautioned against adopting internal, divisive political strategies that appear influenced by fringe groups on the far left. Instead, he urged the leadership to foster consensus and build broad public support, which he believes is essential for achieving necessary environmental reforms. Ramsay, who served as co-leader until 2025, noted that he disagrees with the characterization of Zionism as racist, even while agreeing that the current situation in Gaza is horrific. He confirmed his belief in Israel’s right to exist, a position current leader Zack Polanski has declined to endorse.
The party’s decision has triggered widespread criticism, including from Jewish organizations and numerous members of the Labour and Liberal Democrat parties. Consequently, the Equality and Human Rights Commission has requested additional details regarding the motion. Meanwhile, Labour has indicated it may terminate local council power-sharing agreements unless Green councillors formally distance themselves from the policy. The situation is further complicated by the Israeli foreign ministry’s decision to ban Polanski, who is Jewish, from entering the country.
Polanski, who did not participate in the vote, has previously described the motion as “imperfect” and suggested it could be amended in the future. However, he maintains that the underlying assertion that the displacement of Palestinians is driven by a racist ideology remains a critical issue.
Ramsay suggested that the party faces a vital choice ahead of its spring conference: either continue on its current trajectory or realign with its core values to better engage the electorate. He emphasized that the party’s future depends on how current leadership navigates this internal crisis and whether it chooses to prioritize the broad, external communication required to influence national policy.
Sources: BBC News
Aggregated summary. Original: BBC News