The Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement is a Palestinian-led global campaign founded in 2005 by over 170 Palestinian civil society organizations, including unions, women's groups, and refugee networks. It aims to pressure Israel to comply with international law by ending its occupation and alleged apartheid policies against Palestinians. BDS calls for targeted boycotts, divestment from companies complicit in Israeli policies, and sanctions similar to those applied to South Africa during apartheid[2][3][4]. Historically, BDS is rooted in a longer tradition of Arab League boycotts against Israel, dating back to 1945, intended to isolate the Jewish state economically and politically. The modern movement gained momentum following the 2001 UN World Conference Against Racism in Durban, where Palestinian advocates found international support for their cause despite controversy and accusations of antisemitism[1][2]. BDS's tactics include urging institutions such as universities, churches, and governments to divest from companies involved in Israeli settlement building, military supply, or other forms of support for Israel’s policies. It also promotes consumer boycotts of specific brands and campaigns against corporations like Siemens for their role in projects linked to Israeli settlements[3][6]. The movement’s approach is nonviolent and inspired by the South African anti-apartheid struggle, emphasizing grassroots activism and international solidarity[3][4]. Despite its growth into a vibrant global movement with significant impact on international discourse about Israel and Palestine, BDS remains highly controversial. Critics accuse it of seeking to delegitimize Israel and fueling antisemitism, while supporters argue it is a legitimate human rights campaign advocating equality and justice for Palestinians[1][2]. Currently, BDS continues to influence political debates and business practices worldwide, especially in sectors like academia, technology, and finance, by challenging complicity in the Israeli occupation and settler-colonialism[3][7]. It remains a focal point for discussions on ethics in business
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A powerful display of unity as top names from the entertainment industry stand in solidarity with Israeli filmmakers and their right to artistic expression.