BDS Switzlerland: Migros decision to label settlement products welcome but insufficient
On Friday 25 May 2012, a delegation from Switzerland BDS was received by the
national leadership of Migros. On this occasion, more than 12,000 signatures were presented calling on consumers and consumers of the two leading Swiss supermarkets, Migros and COOP, to stop the marketing of products from Israel
as long as this country does not respect international law Iand does not recognize the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people as recognized by the United Nations.
BDS Switzerland welcomes listening to the Migros leadership at the interview. The delegation emphasized the recurrent violations of international humanitarian law and human rights perpetrated by the state of Israel. Through the examples of SodaStream products, new potatoes and dates of MAJOUL Hadiklaim, the delegation denounced the apartheid policy that benefits Israeli companies. Indeed, the latter benefit from Israeli state policy based on the exploitation of Palestinian labor, the occupation of lands confiscated and discriminatory access to water.
Migros has expressed an openness on the issue of lack of transparency of the labeling of products from the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPT), currently sold as "Made in Israel". Although BDS Switzerland welcomes this position, which prevents confusion intentionally maintained by the state of Israel, this is unfortunately not enough. The suspension of all trade with Israeli companies established in the OPT, like the recent decision by the British company COOP distribution, shows the ability of large retailers to remain consistent with the ethical codes they have adopted . The international boycott against South Africa of apartheid has demonstrated the impact that civil actions and citizens, including the involvement of big companies, can have on a state that violates human rights. Given the ethical principles defended by Migros and the aura it enjoys in our country, BDS Switzerland, and the 12,000 signatories expect from it a copy and clear positioning for human rights.
BDS Switzerland regrets the refusal of the Coop to meet the delegation. Coop expressed twice, despite our insistence, its disdain of 12,000 consumers who signed the appeal. BDS Switzerland will continue its campaign to pressure the Swiss public.
Boycott Israeli goods until Israel respects international law and recognizes the legitimate rights of Palestinian women and men.
BDS Switzerland
May 29, 2012
Translated to English by the Alternative Information Center (AIC)
