Greens Leader Faces Hurdles Changing Controversial Policy
Zack Polanski's attempts to alter the party's 'Zionism is Racism' stance may be delayed by internal rules, as his personal popularity wanes.
The Green Party may be unable to revise its controversial 'Zionism is Racism' policy for up to two years, despite leader Zack Polanski's stated desire to do so. The policy, approved at the party's recent conference in Brighton, has drawn significant criticism.
Polanski, who is Jewish, has stated he wishes to change the position, which critics have condemned as antisemitic and implying the destruction of the Israeli state, at the "earliest opportunity." However, doubts have arisen regarding the speed at which party rules would permit such a revision. According to The Telegraph, the party's Standing Orders Committee would review any new motion for the spring conference. The committee's rules reportedly suggest that bids significantly amending policies passed less than one year and nine months prior could be rejected. This timeline could push any potential change to the Autumn conference in 2028.
Party sources have indicated that numerous "variables" make it impossible to definitively state when the policy could be altered. A Green spokesman confirmed that the party is democratic and any member can submit a motion to change policy, with the Standing Orders Committee determining its admissibility based on the constitution.
Polanski's efforts to address the controversy come as he faces challenges to his leadership. He recently lost the Holborn & St Pancras by-election to Labour, and new polling indicates a slump in his personal popularity. A recent Opinium poll showed his net approval rating falling by seven points to minus 29 over the past week, making him the least popular main party leader.
Speaking after the by-election, Polanski reiterated his intention to remain as leader and defended his decision to leave the conference and abstain on the Zionism motion. He stated that he was focused on a crucial election and that people wanted him on the ground. When pressed on his support for the motion, Polanski told Sky News he would have supported it "as amended," but it was not. He added that he agreed with the "substance" of the motion but disagreed with the idea of the Green Party dictating the region's future.
On BBC Radio 4's Today programme, Polanski avoided directly stating whether he believed the state of Israel should exist, instead emphasizing his desire for a "safe space for Israelis and Palestinians." He reiterated his wish for a party motion to reconsider the policy at the earliest opportunity, emphasizing that the decision rests with the party's members.
