The Green Party of England and Wales is preparing for a contentious debate at its October conference in Brighton regarding a motion that characterizes Zionism as racism. The proposal, which was selected for the agenda after receiving the most votes in a member-led process, has created internal pressure for party leadership to clarify their position. Zack Polanski, the party’s deputy leader, has remained silent on the issue thus far, despite concerns from some members that the motion could alienate Jewish supporters and damage the party’s reputation.

Under the Green Party’s internal structure, policies are determined through direct votes by members at party conferences. Because this specific motion secured the top spot in the member voting process, it is effectively guaranteed to be debated on the floor. The core of the controversy lies in the definition of Zionism; proponents of the motion argue it is a necessary political stance, while critics within and outside the party warn that equating the movement for a Jewish state with racism is inflammatory and potentially discriminatory. The situation highlights a broader tension within the party regarding how to navigate complex geopolitical issues while maintaining internal cohesion. As the conference approaches, the focus remains on whether Polanski or other senior figures will intervene or attempt to steer the debate, or if they will allow the membership to decide the policy outcome without leadership interference.