The ACT will be the first Australian jurisdiction to take steps towards ending investments in businesses that contribute to the illegal occupation of Palestine by the Israeli Government, following calls from the ACT Greens.
“Over 27,000 people have been killed, about 10,000 of those children. Those who have not been killed by bombs or bullets are now facing one of the biggest humanitarian crises of our time,” said Andrew Braddock ACT Greens spokesperson for anti-racism.
“Globally, nationally and locally – we have a responsibility to do what we can to end the violence.
“The Greens are really proud that today our calls for a ceasefire have been supported. This reflects the growing number of Canberrans – and indeed citizens across the world – demanding an end to the violence.
“After recently learning that the ACT Government has investments in companies directly linked to the construction, utilisation and maintenance of illegal Israeli settlements in occupied Palestine I also called on the Government to cease these investments.
“I’m really pleased that today they have agreed to take steps towards this important move. The ACT will be the first jurisdiction to take this significant and necessary move.
“Divestment from these companies sends a very clear signal that the ACT should not be connected to, or financially benefit from companies identified by the United Nations as complicit in human rights violations through these illegal settlements.
“It’s disappointing that the Labor party did not want to acknowledge the apartheid being inflicted on Palestinians, but we welcome them taking this important step towards supporting peace in the middle east,” said Mr Braddock.
ACT Greens Leader Shane Rattenbury said that the party stands in solidarity with our Palestinian and Israeli communities here in Canberra who are advocating for peace in the Middle East.
“People around the world are taking to the streets to call for a ceasefire and an end to the invasion and occupation. We need a lasting and just peace for all,” said Mr Rattenbury.
“The ACT Greens reject and condemn all forms of violence, especially against civilians. Peace and non-violence are core to our values.
“The State of Israel must stop its bombardment, stop its blockade, end its occupation of Palestine, and end its invasion of Gaza.
“As Leaders in our own community in this Parliament, it’s important that we use whatever levers we have to move towards peace in the Middle East. Today’s outcome is an important contribution we can make,” said Mr Rattenbury.
