What is more, Israelis living on illegal settlements in the West Bank now produce goods which are sold in supermarkets in the UK, usually without clear indication that they are from settlements. By buying these goods, we are actively supporting the illegal takeover of Palestinian land and the dire economic circumstances many Palestinian farmers now find themselves in. On the other hand, by boycotting settlement produce we are supporting Palestinian people living in the West Bank through an act of non-violent resistance. This is why it is so important to always check the label.

Why bother to boycott?

The situation in Palestine/Israel seems pretty dire: negotiations have broken down, Israel refuses to comply with UN resolutions and international law and rockets continue to be fired into Israel from militants in Gaza. It seems that these attempts at changing the status quo: peace talks, the law and violence, aren’t working. A Just Peace for Palestine believes that non-violent resistance is key to changing the current situation in Palestine/Israel and pushing for a just, sustainable peace. This resistance can take the form of political lobbying, solidarity protests, and, of course, boycott. Boycott played an important role in ending the Apartheid regime in South Africa. It is a powerful tool and we, along with many other organisations campaigning for freedom for Palestine, believe it will play a part in changing the current situation in Palestine/Israel. 

Which products are from settlements?

It’s not easy to tell which brands of dates and olive oil, as well as other products that we find on our supermarket shelves, are from illegal settlements as this is not declared on the pack. Don’t buy any dates labelled as being produced in the West Bank, Jordan Valley or Israel to avoid supporting the occupation. Friends of Al-Aqsa, an organisation campaigning for justice in Palestine, have produced lots of useful resources showing which boxes of dates are settlement produce and giving other information about boycotting illegal settlement produce.

Where can I buy Palestinian products?

Some major supermarkets stock Palestinian produce but this is not always guaranteed. To be certain that you are buying fair trade Palestinian goods it’s best to buy from a speciality stockist. In doing this you are not only practising non-violent resistance but you are actively supporting justice for Palestinian farmers and are helping them directly.

To buy Palestinian products online or find your nearest supplier, check out the Zaytoun, Yaffa and Olive Co-operative sites.