# Why Boycott? How BDS Works

Updated October 10, 2026

A plain-language guide to the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement: what it asks for, why it targets specific companies, and whether boycotts work.

## What is BDS?

BDS is a Palestinian-led nonviolent movement launched in 2005 by over 170 Palestinian civil society organizations. It calls for boycotts of complicit companies, divestment by institutions, and sanctions by governments until Israel complies with international law: ending the occupation, recognizing equal rights for Palestinian citizens, and respecting refugees' right of return.

## Why targeted boycotts, not boycotting everything?

BDS deliberately focuses on a small number of strategic companies where campaigns have a real chance of winning. The movement explicitly warns against boycotting every complicit company at once, because scattered boycotts dilute impact and burn people out. That is why the official priority list is short.

## Do boycotts work?

Yes, with a track record. BDS campaigns pushed Veolia, G4S and Orange out of Israeli contracts, ended Puma's sponsorship of the Israel Football Association in December 2024, and pressured Barclays to sell its Elbit Systems shares. The South African anti-apartheid boycott movement, BDS's stated model, is widely credited with helping end apartheid.

## How do I start?

- Check the brands you buy with the brand checker on this site.

- Switch the easy ones first: soda, fast food, streaming, search engines.

- For banks, pensions and universities, join or start a divestment campaign.

- Tell companies why you switched; consumer pressure works best when it is visible.

## Common questions

## Frequently asked questions

### Is BDS antisemitic?

BDS states it opposes all racism including antisemitism, and targets companies and institutions for complicity in specific policies, not people for their identity. Many Jewish groups and individuals support BDS. Critics disagree; supporters point to the movement's explicit anti-racism principles.

### Does boycotting hurt ordinary workers?

BDS argues the goal is to change company and government policy, and that targeted boycotts aim pressure at decision-makers. The movement also notes Palestinian workers and unions are among its core supporters.

### Is boycotting legal where I live?

Boycotts are protected speech in most countries, but some jurisdictions, including several US states and other countries, have anti-boycott laws or rules. This page is informational; check your local law if you are unsure.

### What is the difference between the BDS lists?

Priority targets are the official consumer boycott list. Organic targets are grassroots boycotts BDS supports. Pressure targets face campaigns combining boycott and institutional pressure. Divestment targets are for investors and institutions to exclude.

### Where can I read the official BDS positions?

The BDS movement's official site is bdsmovement.net, which publishes the boycott guide, pressure targets and divestment targets. Every brand on this site links its source so you can verify claims directly.