LO Expands Boycott of Israel: Foreign Minister Praises Decision Against Unilateral Action

The Norwegian Confederation of Trade Unions (LO) has approved an expanded boycott of Israel, which calls for the withdrawal of the Government Pension Fund Global, as well as Norwegian companies and financial institutions, from firms that are involved in the Israeli occupation. Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide expressed his approval that LO did not endorse a unilateral boycott of Israel. He stated, "I have warned against a unilateral Norwegian economic boycott of Israel. Norway does not have a tradition of acting alone in such matters, and a one-sided boycott could do more harm than good. Therefore, I believe it was wise for LO not to adopt a unilateral boycott today," Eide remarked in a statement to NRK.

He further noted that LO's decision reflects a desire to initiate international sanctions, which may involve efforts within the United Nations and the European Union. Eide emphasized that the government respects the autonomy of academic, sports, and cultural institutions in making their own political decisions.