When solidarity becomes selective: How the trade union movement is undermining its own values on Israel

The trade union movement has long stood as a beacon of solidarity, justice, and the defense of human rights. Rooted in the struggles of workers across borders, its moral authority has historically come from its unwavering commitment to universal values. Yet today, that very foundation is being shaken—not by external forces, but by the movement’s own selective application of its principles, particularly in its stance on Israel.

In February 2025, over 160 NGOs and trade unions signed a letter urging the European Union to ban trade with Israeli settlements in the West Bank. While the call was framed as a defense of international law and human rights, it reflects a troubling trend: the singling out of Israel for condemnation while ignoring or downplaying far more egregious abuses elsewhere. This is not principled activism, it is political posturing that risks turning the trade union movement into a partisan actor, rather than a defender of universal justice.

The irony is stark. Trade unions, which once championed the rights of Jewish workers and stood shoulder to shoulder against antisemitism, now find themselves aligned with campaigns that often blur the line between legitimate criticism of Israeli policy and delegitimization of the Jewish state itself. The movement’s embrace of slogans and actions that echo the rhetoric of extremist groups undermines its credibility and alienates Jewish members and allies who see their concerns dismissed or ignored.

This is not to say that Israel is beyond reproach. Like any democracy, it must be held accountable for its actions. But accountability must be fair, consistent, and rooted in a genuine desire for peace and justice, not in ideological litmus tests or one-sided narratives. When trade unions ignore the complexities of the Israeli – Palestinian conflict, or worse, adopt maximalist positions that deny Israel’s right to exist or defend itself, they betray the very values they claim to uphold.

Moreover, this shift has real consequences. It fractures solidarity among workers, fuels division within diverse communities, and distracts from the core mission of trade unions: improving the lives of working people. In countries like Australia and the UK, union positions on Israel have sparked internal dissent and public backlash, raising concerns about social cohesion and the politicization of labor movements.

If the trade union movement is to remain a force for good, it must return to its roots. That means standing up for all workers, Israeli and Palestinian alike, without prejudice or political bias. It means engaging in honest dialogue, rejecting extremism, and promoting coexistence over confrontation.

Solidarity is not a slogan. It is a responsibility. And it must be extended to all, or it means nothing at all.