Trades Union Congress endorses BDS movement in historic vote

The Trades Union Congress (TUC) has formally endorsed the Palestinian-led Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement following a vote at its annual congress. The motion, proposed by Artists’ Union England and seconded by UNISON, commits the organization to campaigning for an end to UK military cooperation and arms sales to Israel.

In addition to opposing arms sales, the TUC aims to expand economic, academic, cultural, and sporting BDS campaigns. The endorsement includes calls for divestment from companies deemed complicit in actions against Palestinians and cutting ties with Israeli unions and associations. Major UK unions, including Unite, the National Education Union, and the Communication Workers Union, supported the motion.

The Palestine Solidarity Campaign described the vote as an affirmation of criticism regarding the UK government’s position on the Israeli occupation and the conflict in Gaza. A national day of action involving union members is planned for November 26.