26 Oct 2023: UNISON supports the call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and Israel to allow the delivery of vital humanitarian assistance.
The union condemns the rising death toll of Palestinian civilians – especially among children – caused by Israel’s bombardment of Gaza.
We express our concern at the collapse of vital public services – particularly healthcare – and reiterate our call for the release of all the hostages being held by Hamas.
UNISON encourages our members and branches to take action calling for a ceasefire, including joining peaceful protests and contacting their members of parliament. UNISON will be making donations to Medical Aid for Palestinians and the Red Cross and encourages branches to do the same.
UNISON is deeply concerned by the dramatic increase in antisemitic and Islamophobic incidents. Anti-racism and the right to treated with dignity and respect, irrespective of race or creed, are fundamental values of our union. All members should be able to feel safe in their places of work and the communities in which they live.
Finally, UNISON calls on the British government and the international community to support a ceasefire leading to renewed talks aimed at achieving a viable Palestinian state alongside a secure Israel, as the only way to secure long-term peace in the Middle East.
See this and previous statements on the UNISON UK website.
See also previous UNISON and STUC/TUC/ITUC statements on our website here.
Here is STUC Deputy General Secretary Dave Moxham’s speech calling for a ceasefire, speaking at last week’s Glasgow demonstration.