Statement from Oxfam Canada’s Executive Director, Robert Fox

Oxfam does not support a boycott of trade with Israel nor do we support the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement or promote its objectives.  

Oxfam does oppose trade with Israeli settlements in the West Bank because, as recognized by the governments of Canada, the United States and Europe, these settlements are illegal under international law.  

Oxfam works with Israeli and Palestinian civil society organizations that support families who have been displaced from their homes and cut off from their lands because of the growth of these settlements. We believe these settlements exacerbate the injustice and poverty that Oxfam addresses in its ongoing programs.  

We also support the right of consumers to know the origin of the products they purchase. Oxfam therefore urges the Israeli government to ensure distinct labeling of Israeli products and settlement products so that consumers may clearly differentiate between the two. 

Oxfam hopes to see a just and lasting agreement between Israelis and Palestinians and calls for a comprehensive negotiated solution based on international law. We support the two-state solution and condemn violence against civilians on both sides. 

Respect for human rights is fundamental to ending poverty and injustice. For that reason, we work in defense of rights in the Middle East as we do in Canada and other countries and regions in which we work.

– 30 –

More information:

Melanie Gallant
Media Relations Officer
Oxfam Canada