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Attendee information AGM 2022

Attendee information for AGM 2022


Agenda overview

You can download the detailed agenda here.

Session One: 9.45am – 10.50am

  • Chair’s intro and welcome
  • Preparatory business
  • Annual Report – Ben Soffa, Secretary; and Financial Report – John Ellis, Treasurer
  • Guest Speaker: Sahar Francis, Director of Addameer

Session Two: 11.00am – 1.00pm

  • Annual Plan – Ben Jamal, Director
  • Motion 1: To amend PSC’s constitution
  • Objective 1: To build solidarity, including Motions 5 and 6

Lunch and culture rooms: 1.00pm – 1.50pm

  • Cook-along with Maha Salah
  • Oud performance by Saied Silbak
  • Palestinian Film: Maradona’s Legs

Session Three: 1.50pm – 3.40pm

  • Guest speaker: Tareq Baconi, President of Al Shabaka – The Palestinian Policy Network
  • Objective 2: To strengthen our campaigning, including Motions 2, 3, 4 and 7
  • Hands Up Project, Gaza
  • Panel discussion

Session Four: 3.50pm – 5.05pm

  • Objective 3: To build political alliances
  • Objective 4: Organising for growth, including Motion 8
  • Continuation of remaining motions
  • Vote on Annual Plan
  • Closing speaker: Zarah Sultana, Member of Parliament
  • Chair’s concluding remarks
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Motions and amendments

  • Motion 1: Motion to amend PSC’s constitution
  • Motion 2: Administrative detention
  • Motion 3: Oppose UK–Israel collusion – direct action
  • Motion 4: Palestine Action
  • Motion 5: Palestine Authority
  • Motion 6: Two state solution is an apartheid solution
  • Motion 7: Helping more people to boycott 
  • Motion 8: Helping branches grow and new members learn

    Emergency Motions

    Motion 1: Motion to amend PSC’s constitution

    Proposed by: The Executive Committee

    This AGM resolves to amend the Constitution and Articles of Association of Palestine Solidarity Campaign by adopting the following text. This shall constitute a Special Resolution under the Companies Act. The Companies Acts 1984 and 2006 A Company Limited by Guarantee and not having a Share Capital Articles of Association, and Constitution of Palestine Solidarity Campaign Ltd.

    PART I: PRELIMINARY

    1. Name of organisation
    1.1. The name of the organisation is Palestine Solidarity Campaign Ltd, abbreviated to PSC.

    2. Registered location
    2.1. The organisation is registered in England.

    PART II: AIM, OBJECTIVES and VALUES

    3. Aim
    3.1. The Aim of the Palestine Solidarity Campaign is to support the Palestinian people’s struggle for freedom justice and equality. We campaign in support of:

    3.1.1. the right of self-determination for the Palestinian people;
    3.1.2. the right of return of the Palestinian people;
    3.1.3. the Palestinian struggle to end the systems of settler colonialism, apartheid, and military occupations, motivated by Zionism, which deny the realisation of those rights.

    4. Objectives
    4.1. To build a mass campaign in support of the rights of the Palestinian people.
    4.2. To expose and campaign against all actions by the Israeli state and those complicit in suppressing the rights of the Palestinian people.
    4.3. To foster political, cultural and social links with Palestinian organisations seeking to achieve self-determination for the Palestinian people.
    4.4. To expose, challenge and end the complicity of UK government public bodies, companies and corporations, and any other international entities complicit in supporting Israel’s suppression of the rights of the Palestinian people.
    4.5. To build the maximum unity in action possible in support of these objectives.

    5. Values
    5.1. The values that inform the PSC’s work and activities include:

    5.1.1. the promotion of positive cooperation and respect between all those seeking to campaign in support of the rights of the Palestinian people and who share the Aims, Objectives and Values of the PSC;
    5.1.2. a commitment to equality and seeking to ensure that discriminatory acts are not committed against anyone by the PSC, its members or its staff as outlined within the Code of Conduct;
    5.1.3. the opposition to all forms of racism, including Islamophobia and antisemitism;
    5.1.4. the promotion of the voices of Palestinian civil society, ensuring that this is inclusive of those who may face additional barriers in having their voices heard relating to aspects of their identity; and
    5.1.5. independence from any political party or government.

    PART III: MEMBERSHIP

    6. Membership
    6.1. Membership of the PSC is open to all those who agree with its Aims and Objectives and who uphold the Values of the campaign.
    6.2. The Executive Committee is responsible for determining admission to, and where necessary termination of, membership.

    7. Rights of members
    7.1. Members are entitled to participate in national Annual General Meetings (AGMs) and Extraordinary General Meetings (EGMs) and, once they have three months’ membership, are entitled to vote at such meetings.
    7.2. Members’ contact details will be made available to branch officers for the purposes of PSC business only.
    7.3. Members are entitled to participate in Branch Forum meetings on behalf of their branch.

    8. Liability of members
    8.1. The liability of the members of the Company is limited.
    8.2. Each member promises that if the Company is wound up while they are a member (or within one year after they cease to be a member), they will contribute a sum not exceeding £1 to the assets of the Company, to be applied towards:

    8.2.1. payment of the Company’s debts and liabilities contracted before they cease to be a member;
    8.2.2. payment of the costs, charges and expenses of winding up; and
    8.2.3. adjustment of the rights of the contributories among themselves.

    9. Responsibilities of members
    9.1. Members must support and promote the Aims, Objectives and Values of the PSC as set out in this Constitution.
    9.2. Members must abide by the Code of Conduct and Constitution.
    9.3. Members must pay the required membership subscription.

    10. Resignation and termination of membership
    10.1. A member may resign from the PSC in writing by letter or e-mail sent to the PSC office.
    10.2. Where an annual subscription remains unpaid six months after the renewal date, that membership ceases.
    10.3. The Executive Committee may, by a two-thirds majority, reject, terminate or suspend the membership of an individual member found to have breached the Constitution or Code of Conduct.
    10.4. A suspension or termination may be appealed against in line with the Appeal Process referred to in the relevant Regulation.

    PART IV STRUCTURE

    11. Amendments to the Constitution
    11.1. Any proposal to amend the Constitution:

    11.1.1. must be submitted as a motion in accordance with the rules governing motion submissions to an AGM or EGM (collectively a General Meeting) as referred to in section 15 of this Constitution; and
    11.1.2. requires at least 75% of votes cast at the relevant quorate General Meeting in order to be passed.

    12. Interpretation
    12.1. Where a dispute arises about the meaning of any part of this Constitution, the matter will be referred to the Executive Committee for decision.
    12.2. Such decisions may be challenged at the following General Meeting.

    13. Branches
    13.1. The Executive Committee may approve the formation of local branches.
    13.2. New branches or branches wishing to rename shall incorporate Palestine Solidarity Campaign within their name.
    13.3. Existing branches which for historical reasons do not include Palestine Solidarity Campaign within their name may keep that name, but shall reference the Palestine Solidarity Campaign within their constitution.
    13.4. All branch names shall be approved by the Executive Committee.
    13.5. All branches shall adopt the PSC Code of Conduct and have a responsibility for upholding it in relation to activity associated with the branch.
    13.6. All branches shall have a constitution, approved by the Executive Committee.
    13.7. The branch constitution shall state:

    13.7.1. that the branch executive, elected officers and other individuals acting prominently on behalf of the branch shall be national members of the PSC;
    13.7.2. that all branch members shall abide by the PSC’s Aims, Objectives, Values and Code of Conduct;
    13.7.3. the procedure for electing the branch executive and elected officers;
    13.7.4. that it shall put in place an appropriate accounting and auditing framework;
    13.7.5. that the branch must hold AGMs no more than 15 months apart; and
    13.7.6. that members are entitled to participate in local branch meetings and are entitled to vote at such meetings.

    14. Affiliates
    14.1. An organisation that supports the Aims and Objectives of the PSC may apply to, or be invited by, the Executive Committee to become an affiliate of the PSC.
    14.2. All affiliations must be approved by the Executive Committee.
    14.3. Affiliates must pay an annual fee determined from time to time by the Executive Committee.
    14.4. Affiliates may send an observer to Branch Forum meetings.
    14.5. Affiliates of the PSC remain independent of the PSC and remain solely responsible for their conduct and the conduct of their members.
    14.6. The Executive Committee has the power to suspend or revoke the affiliation of any organisation that acts contrary to the Aims, Objectives, Values or Code of Conduct of the PSC.
    14.7. A suspension or revocation of affiliation may be appealed against in line with the appeal process referred to in the relevant Regulation.

    PART V: GOVERNANCE

    15. Annual General Meetings and Elections
    15.1. The Annual General Meeting shall be the policy making body of the PSC.
    15.2. The PSC shall hold an AGM once in each calendar year. Not more than 15 months shall elapse between the date of one AGM and the next. The AGM may be held in-person, online or a combination thereof at the discretion of the Executive Committee.
    15.3. The Agenda of the AGM shall include:

    15.3.1. the presentation for approval of an Annual Plan for the coming year;
    15.3.2. the Annual Report of the work of the PSC since the last AGM;
    15.3.3. the presentation of accounts;
    15.3.4. membership and affiliation report;
    15.3.5. motions submitted by members, branches, affiliates, the Executive Committee and any duly constituted committees of the PSC as approved by the AGM;
    15.3.6. the election of the Executive Committee and any other posts contained within the Constitution or Regulations of the PSC, or which are approved by the AGM;
    15.3.7. speakers who may be invited to attend and address the AGM by the Executive Committee on behalf of the membership.

    15.4. The Executive Committee shall begin preparing for the AGM at least three months in advance of the scheduled date, publicising the date of the meeting, opening registration and inviting motions and nominations from members, branches and affiliates.
    15.5. Motions and nominations for the AGM must be submitted in writing or online to the PSC office at least eight weeks before the scheduled AGM.  Amendments to the motions must be received in the PSC office at least fourteen days before the AGM. The Annual Report and accounts, the Annual Plan, motions and nominations shall be circulated to members, branches and affiliated organisations at least six weeks before the scheduled date of the AGM.  Amendments to motions shall be circulated to members, branches and affiliated organisations at least seven days before the scheduled date of the AGM.
    15.6. Motions and amendments shall be for the purpose of establishing the political positions and campaigning priorities of the PSC or for considering matters of internal organisation. Motions must not contain language contrary to the PSC’s Code of Conduct or place the PSC in legal jeopardy. If a motion or amendment is ruled out of order by two thirds of the votes cast in a quorate Executive Committee meeting, the proposers will be informed before the AGM.
    15.7. Except for amendments to this Constitution, motions shall be no longer than 500 words and amendments no longer than 250 words.
    15.8. Motions on an emergency subject may be submitted in writing or online, together with a proposer and seconder, until 5pm on the day preceding the AGM. Emergency subjects shall be items that could not reasonably have been submitted in line with the ordinary motion or amendment deadlines and where a failure to consider the item would substantially impair the work of the PSC. The eligibility of a motion submitted under this procedure shall be determined by the Chair, who shall inform the AGM of the decision. Motions deemed ineligible shall be remitted for discussion at the following meeting of the Executive Committee.
    15.9. Any member who has been a member for at least six months before nominations open is eligible to submit a nomination or stand for election to elected posts.
    15.10. Motions and amendments must have the name of the proposer and seconder, who shall be either individual members, branches, affiliates, the Executive Committee or a duly constituted committee of the PSC. Nominations must have the name of the proposer and seconder who shall be individual members.
    15.11. The format for submission of statements to support nominations shall be determined by the Executive Committee and contained in the Election Regulations.
    15.12. The Election Regulations shall be made by the Executive Committee and shall include advertisement of elections, receipt of nominations, confirmation of eligibility of candidature, candidature publicity, the election and counting of votes;
    procedure in the event of a disputed election; and procedure for electing candidates to posts for which no nominations have been received.
    15.13. Executive Committee members shall serve until the end of the AGM following their election. Retiring Executive Committee members are eligible for re-election.

    16. Extraordinary General Meetings
    16.1. An Extraordinary General Meeting may be authorised by the Executive Committee or an Annual General Meeting, whenever either body considers sufficient reason exists. Notice of why such a meeting is deemed necessary together with any relevant motions to be considered must be given. Such meetings require that at least 21 days’ notice be given to all members, branches and affiliates.
    16.2. The Executive Committee will also convene an EGM relating to a specific area of PSC policy or activity if it receives a request to that effect supported by at least 5% of the individual membership having the right to attend and vote at General Meetings.
    16.3. Notice shall be inclusive of the day on which it is served and the day of the meeting.
    16.4. A notice in writing may be made by email or post.

    17. Proceedings at Annual General Meetings and Extraordinary General Meetings
    17.1. The Chairperson, or if required one of the Vice Chairs, shall preside at every General Meeting. If no Chair or Vice Chair is present within 15 minutes of the time appointed, or if either Chair or Vice Chair is present but unwilling to do so, then the members present shall elect a member of the Executive Committee to preside. If no member of the Executive Committee is present or willing to do so, then the members present shall elect one of their number to preside.
    17.2. No business shall be transacted at any General Meeting unless a quorum of members is present. A quorum shall consist of 100 members or 10% of the membership having a right to attend and vote at that meeting, whichever is the lowest.
    17.3. If a quorum is not present within 30 minutes of the time appointed for holding the General Meeting, the Executive Committee shall determine whether it be dissolved or adjourned to such a day, time and place as it thinks fit, with notice of at least 21 days being provided to eligible attendees.
    17.4. The proceedings at General Meetings will be conducted as laid down in the General Meeting Standing Orders.
    17.5. Each fully paid up member who has been a member of the national PSC for three months before a General Meeting shall have one vote.
    17.6. All persons voting must be individual members of the national PSC or representing a nationally affiliated organisation.
    17.7. Delegates from national organisations affiliated to the PSC will have three votes if they have a minimum of 100,000 members or one vote if fewer.
    17.8. PSC branches and nationally affiliated organisations will have one vote.
    17.9. All delegates, whether individual members or those duly nominated by their branch or nationally affiliated organisation, must be registered with the PSC national office at least two clear days before the meeting.
    17.10. Unless otherwise specified in the Constitution or Standing Orders, all votes will be determined on the basis of a simple majority, with the Chair holding a casting vote in the case of a tie.

    18. Executive Committee
    18.1. The Executive Committee shall be accountable to the membership for:

    18.1.1. the implementation of the PSC’s Annual Plan;
    18.1.2. the proper management of the affairs of the PSC including financial affairs; and
    18.1.3. decisions made between AGMs.

    18.2. The Executive Committee shall consist of:

    18.2.1. the Chair;
    18.2.2. two Vice-Chairs, at least one of whom shall be a woman;
    18.2.3. the Secretary;
    18.2.4. the Treasurer;
    18.2.5. the Trade Union Liaison Officer;
    18.2.6. two representatives of the Trade Union Advisory Committee, at least one of whom shall be a woman;
    18.2.7. one representative of the Student and Youth Committee; and
    18.2.8. eight other elected members, at least four of whom shall be women.

    18.3. The Executive Committee shall have the power to co-opt a further three persons without voting rights onto the Executive Committee if this is felt necessary to aid its work and deliberations.
    18.4. The Executive Committee, except for co-opted members, shall constitute Palestine Solidarity Campaign Limited’s Board of Directors.
    18.5. The Executive Committee shall meet not less than six times per year and will endeavour to hold meetings by video or remotely unless the Officers Group decides that a physical Executive Committee meeting is preferable.
    18.6. The Executive Committee shall make the minutes of its meetings available on request to all duly constituted PSC branches subject to any confidentiality requirements and/or matters which would materially and adversely impact the PSC
    if made public.
    18.7. Every duly constituted branch of the PSC has the right to place an item on the Executive Committee agenda and to send a representative to participate in the relevant portion of the Executive Committee meeting at which it is discussed.
    18.8. Members attending Executive Committee meetings shall withdraw from any agenda item which causes or may cause a conflict of interest.
    18.9. The Officers Group shall be a sub-committee of the Executive Committee.

    18.9.1. The Officers Group shall consist of the Chair, Vice-Chairs, Secretary, Treasurer, and up to two others to be elected by the Executive Committee. The Director will be invited to attend all Officer Group meetings.
    18.9.2. The Officers Group shall be responsible for ensuring the implementation of policy and for decision-making between Executive meetings.
    18.9.3. The Officers Group shall create and maintain a register of major risks to the PSC and propose recommendations to the Executive Committee for risk mitigation.
    18.9.4. The Officers Group shall be accountable to the Executive Committee.
    18.9.5. The Officers Group must report its decisions to the Executive Committee at every Executive Committee meeting.

    18.10. The Staffing and Management Committee (SMC) shall be a subcommittee of the Executive Committee.

    18.10.1. The SMC shall consist of the Chair, Vice-Chairs, Secretary and Treasurer.
    18.10.2. The SMC shall oversee staffing matters.
    18.10.3. The Director shall report to the SMC, with the Chair holding formal management responsibility for the Director.
    18.10.4. The SMC shall monitor the PSC’s finances and budget plans.
    18.10.5. The SMC shall review the accounts and finances of the PSC and make recommendations to the Executive Committee.

    19. Branch Forum
    19.1. The PSC Branch Forum shall be a meeting for members and branch representatives primarily for the interchange of information, discussion, and training.
    19.2. The PSC Branch Forum shall meet physically or virtually at a frequency agreed by the Executive Committee in consultation with the Branch Forum.
    19.3. The PSC Branch Forum may make recommendations to the Executive Committee, which must be considered and given due weight.

    20. Patrons
    20.1. The Executive Committee may invite prominent supporters of the Aims of the PSC to become Patrons of the organisation. The position of Patron is purely honorary and confers no executive authority or democratic rights in the organisation.

    21. Regulations
    21.1. The Executive Committee shall make provision for regulations governing the PSC’s activities, including the following:

    21.1.1. Terms of Reference for the Executive Committee and other committees that the Executive Committee may from time to time deem necessary;
    21.1.2. definition of roles and responsibilities of elected post holders;
    21.1.3. definition of the role of staff, including the Director, within the organisation;
    21.1.4. Complaints Procedure;
    21.1.5. Appeals Procedure;
    21.1.6. Code of Conduct;
    21.1.7. openness and accountability of the Executive Committee;
    21.1.8. Standing Orders for meetings.

    21.2. Nothing in the Regulations shall be contradictory to the provisions of this Constitution.
    21.3. The Regulations may be amended by the Executive Committee with a majority voting in favour.

    PART VI: FINANCE

    22. Finance
    22.1. Subject at all times to the relevant Companies Act, statutory and regulatory requirements:

    22.1.1. The PSC is responsible for ensuring that funds provided to it are used only for those activities which are in accordance with its Aims and Objectives.
    22.1.2. The Executive Committee is required to:

    22.1.2.1. ensure that accounts and accounting records are kept in accordance with the relevant regulations and laws, and that accounting information is prepared and presented in accordance with normal accounting principles;
    22.1.2.2. ensure the preparation of annual accounts and their availability to Members at the AGM;
    22.1.2.3. ensure that an appropriate system of internal financial management and control is maintained; and
    22.1.2.4. take responsibility for the determination of the pay, terms and conditions of service of any staff employed by the PSC.

    22.1.3. Independent examiners or auditors shall be appointed by the AGM.

    PART VII: WINDING UP

    23. Winding up
    23.1. A motion to wind up and dissolve the PSC requires at least 75% of votes cast at the relevant quorate General Meeting in order to be passed.
    23.2. The net assets of the PSC following dissolution shall go to one or more organisations having similar aims as decided by the General Meeting and in accordance with the provisions of the relevant sections of the Articles of Association relating to the winding up and dissolution of the PSC.

    Amendments to Motion 1: 

    Amendment A
    Proposed : Jacob Ecclestone
    Seconded: Cambridge PSC

    Delete all after “This AGM resolves …….(line 1) and insert the following:

    “….. that it is in the interests of PSC, its members and affiliates that the adoption of a new constitution is debated with care and transparency.

    Conference does not believe that is possible within the time constraints of an annual meeting.

    Under Clause 8.2 (a) of the present constitution, therefore, conference resolves to instruct the National Executive of PSC to convene an extraordinary general meeting of members and affiliates to be held not later than the end of May 2022, to consider the adoption of a new Constitution and Articles of Association.

    Amendment B
    Proposed: Tony Greenstein
    Seconded: Roland Rance

    This AGM notes:

    1. That the proposal to substitute a new constitution for the current PSC constitution is being treated as an amendment to the existing constitution rather than as a replacement for that constitution.
    2. That no pressing reason or explanation has been given as to why PSC needs a completely new constitution.
    3. Documents referenced in the proposed New Constitution e.g The Code of Conduct have not been made available to members.

    This AGM believes:

    4. That this proposed new constitution will introduce changes to PSC and its structures which merit considered discussion which will not be possible in the time available.
    5. It is unsatisfactory that a completely new constitution is being taken as one of eight motions to the AGM.
    6. That the proposed new constitution will introduce changes to PSC and its structures which merit considered discussion which will not be possible in the time available.
    7. That there has been no document provided to members attending the AGM which explains the reasons for the proposed changes.
    8. That it is unsatisfactory that a new constitution is being tabled on a take it or leave it basis without prior full discussion with the membership at an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) which is able to discuss specific amendments to the existing constitution.

    This AGM resolves:

    9. That Motion 1 shall not be put to a vote at this AGM.
    10. To call an Extraordinary General Meeting which will be devoted solely to the proposed new constitution and documents referenced therein. That the format of any such proposals should be as amendments to specific parts of the old constitution in order that such proposals can be discussed in their own right.
    11. That PSC provides an explanatory document for the AGM which outlines the philosophy and reasoning behind the proposed new constitution as well as explanations of the reasons for the individual changes being proposed.

    Amendments C, D, E and F all
    Proposed: Dave Chappell
    Seconded: Amal Ghusain

    Amendment C
    Insert the words “and attempted erasure” in point 4.2 of the draft constitution, to read, when amended, as follows:
    “4.2. To expose and campaign against all actions by the Israeli state and those complicit in suppressing the rights, and attempted erasure of the Palestinian people.”

    Amendment D
    Replace the wording in point 5.1.3 of the draft constitution, i.e.
    “the opposition to all forms of racism, including Islamophobia and antisemitism;” with the following:
    “opposition to racism, including anti-Jewish prejudice, islamophobia and the apartheid and Zionist nature of the Israeli state;”

    Amendment E
    Replace the figure “75%” in point 11.1.2 of the draft constitution, referring to the majority needed at an AGM/ EGM to amend the constitution, with the figure “2/3”, i.e. “requires at least 2/3 of votes cast at the relevant quorate General Meeting in order to be passed.”

    Amendment F
    In point 21.3 of the draft constitution, after the words ‘Executive Committee’ insert the following wording:
    “, or at an AGM /EGM should members raise these issues in proposals,” Amended point to read as follows:
    21.3. The Regulations may be amended by the Executive Committee, or at an AGM /EGM should members raise these issues in proposals, with a majority voting in favour”

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    Motion 2: Administrative detention

    Proposed by Carol Stavris
    Seconded by Pam Parsons

    The Palestine Solidarity Campaign strenuously opposes Israel’s widespread use of administrative detention to hold Palestinians for long periods of time without charge, trial or conviction.

    Administrative detention by an occupying power is only allowed in rare, exceptional circumstances under International Law yet Israel continually uses this method with impunity, especially against political activists. Thousands of Palestinians have been held in this way, sometimes for years. Those under 18 years old and even young children are not exempted. Those detained have no real opportunity to mount a defence as judges routinely accept prosecution demands to keep evidence secret on the grounds of national security.

    The British mandate of 1945 Defence (Emergency) Regulations, amended 1979, is the legal basis which allowed Israel to form its Law on Authority in States of Emergency, including administrative detention, so Britain bears a responsibility to call Israel to account for its misuse. Israeli military forces use weapons and equipment sold by Britain when carrying out house arrests.

    PSC therefore resolves to spotlight Israel’s use of administrative detention by:

    • Launching a Campaign, targeting the British government’s toleration of this method of imprisonment which is contrary to International Law.
    • Providing up to date material on the issue for use by local groups with information on how to get active in the Campaign.
    • Highlighting the sales of British armaments and equipment used in the arrest methods of Israeli security forces.
    • Having at least one public event during the year specifically on administrative detention.
    • Continuing to give support and publicity to the struggle for freedom of all those who are held without trial in Israeli prisons.

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    Motion 3: Oppose UK–Israel collusion – direct action

    Proposed by Dave Chappell
    Seconded by Amal Ghusain

    1. PSC AGM notes:
    A. The November 2021 UK–Israel memorandum of understanding that “will enable closer working in diplomacy, defence and security, cyber, science, technology, and many other areas. Through the Roadmap, we will elevate the UK–Israel relationship to a strategic partnership.” (With no reference whatsoever to human rights being considered or respected in this ‘partnership’.) https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-israel-strategic-partnershipmemorandum-of-understanding-202134

    B. The UK Government awarding an increasing number of contracts to Israeli arms company Elbit Systems UK, including £102 million (February 2021) to produce ‘Dismounted Joint Fire Integrator’ (automated shooting systems) for the British Army. https://www.gov.uk/government/news/102-million-investment-in-detect-anddestroy-system-for-british-army

    2. PSC AGM believes:
    A. Israel seeks to profit from selling technologies ‘battle tested’ on the Palestinians, with Israeli politicians themselves at times involved in the process.
    B. Israel uses military technologies to perpetrate war crimes against Palestinians.
    C. Under international law and universal jurisdiction, people and nations have a duty to stop / prevent such crimes.
    D. Acts to prevent greater crimes can be a vital and legitimate legal defence for civilians undertaking direct action.

    3. PSC AGM condemns the UK Government’s ever-more shameless ignoring, or condoning of Israel flouting international law, and the Labour Party for failing to challenge these developments (noting that Richard Burgon’s private members’ Israel Arms Trade (Prohibition) Bill, while worthy, has only a small number of Labour MPs amongst its 54 cross-party supporters).

    4. PSC AGM resolves:
    A. To publicise and campaign against the UK Government’s increasing collusion with Israel.
    B. To recognise, publicise, and where possible support the efforts of activists who, in response to Israeli breaches of international law, and the UK political establishment’s collusion, take direct action to try and stop or prevent these crimes.

    Amendments to Motion 3: 

    Amendment A:
    Proposed: Dave Chappell
    Seconded: Amal Ghusain

    In section 2/C replace the words “people and nations have a duty to stop/ prevent” with the words “states have a duty to help prevent such crimes”. Amended section to read:
    “Under international law and universal jurisdiction, states have a duty to help prevent such crimes”

    Replace section 4B wording:
    “To recognise, publicise, and where possible support the efforts of activists who, in response to Israeli breaches of international law, and the UK political establishment’s collusion, take direct action to try and stop or prevent these crimes.”

    With the following:
    “Where possible, to recognise, publicise, and support the efforts of activists who, in response to Israeli breaches of international law, and the UK political establishment’s collusion, take direct action to try and stop or prevent these crimes.”

    Motion 3 as amended would read:

    1. PSC AGM notes:
    A. The November 2021 UK–Israel memorandum of understanding that “”… will enable closer working in diplomacy, defence and security, cyber, science, technology, and many other areas. Through the Roadmap, we will elevate the UK–Israel relationship to a strategic partnership.””
    (With no reference whatsoever to human rights being considered or respected in this ‘partnership’)
    https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-israel-strategic-partnership-memorandum-of-understanding-2021
    B. The UK Government awarding an increasing number of contracts to Israeli arms company Elbit Systems UK, including £102 million (February 2021) to produce ‘Dismounted Joint Fire Integrator’ (automated shooting systems) for the British Army. https://www.gov.uk/government/news/102-million-investment-in-detect-and-destroy-system-for-british-army

    2. PSC AGM believes:
    A. Israel seeks to profit from selling technologies ‘battle tested’ on the Palestinians, with Israeli politicians themselves at times involved in the process.
    B. Israel uses military technologies to perpetrate war crimes against Palestinians.
    C. Under international law and universal jurisdiction, states have a duty to help prevent such crimes
    D. Acts to prevent greater crimes can be a vital and legitimate legal defence for civilians undertaking direct action.

    3. PSC AGM condemns the UK Government’s ever-more shameless ignoring, or condoning of Israel flouting international law, and the Labour Party for failing to challenge these developments (noting that Richard Burgon’s private members’ Israel Arms Trade (Prohibition) Bill, while worthy, has only a small number of Labour MPs amongst its 54 cross-party supporters).

    4. PSC AGM resolves:
    A. To publicise and campaign against the UK Government’s increasing collusion with Israel.
    B. Where possible, to recognise, publicise, and support the efforts of activists who, in response to Israeli breaches of international law, and the UK political establishment’s collusion, take direct action to try and stop or prevent these crimes.

    Amendment B:
    Proposed: Rob Ferguson
    Seconded: Tom Hickey

    Under PSC AGM notes:
    Add new points C & D:

    C. The role of mass mobilisations such as the May 2021 London demonstrations and nationwide protests, trade union solidarity and campaigns by PSC nationally and locally, in mainstreaming BDS in the wider movement.
    D. The direct action by Palestine Action against Elbit and its role in the welcome closure of the Oldham plant, alongside local campaigns by Oldham Peace and Justice, PSC and others.

    Under PSC AGM believes:
    In point “C”: delete “peoples and nations” and insert “states”

    Insert new point “E”:
    E. Direct action and civil disobedience have an important place in the building of a broad mass movement.

    Under PSC AGM resolves:
    Replace “B” with:
    B. To support the efforts of activists who, in response to Israeli breaches of international law, and the UK political establishment’s collusion, take appropriate direct action to try and stop or prevent these crimes, including support for individuals facing charges for taking such action

    And add new “C”:
    C. To support local PSC, trade union and community campaigns against Elbit

    Motion 3 as amended would read:

    1. PSC AGM notes:
    A. The November 2021 UK–Israel memorandum of understanding that “will enable closer working in diplomacy, defence and security, cyber, science, technology, and many other areas. Through the Roadmap, we will elevate the UK–Israel relationship to a strategic partnership.”
    (With no reference whatsoever to human rights being considered or respected in this ‘partnership’.)
    https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-israel-strategic-partnership- memorandum-of-understanding-2021
    B. The UK Government awarding an increasing number of contracts to Israeli arms company Elbit Systems UK, including £102 million (February 2021) to produce ‘Dismounted Joint Fire Integrator’ (automated shooting systems) for the British Army. https://www.gov.uk/government/news/102-million-investment-in-detect-and- destroy-system-for-british-army
    C. The role of mass mobilisations such as the May 2021 London demonstrations and nationwide protests, trade union solidarity and campaigns by PSC nationally and locally, in mainstreaming BDS in the wider movement.
    D. The direct action by Palestine Action against Elbit and its role in the welcome closure of the Oldham plant, alongside local campaigns by Oldham Peace and Justice, PSC and others.

    2. PSC AGM believes:
    A. Israel seeks to profit from selling technologies ‘battle tested’ on the Palestinians, with Israeli politicians themselves at times involved in the process.
    B. Israel uses military technologies to perpetrate war crimes against Palestinians.
    C. Under international law and universal jurisdiction, states have a duty to stop / prevent such crimes.
    D. Acts to prevent greater crimes can be a vital and legitimate legal defence for civilians undertaking direct action.
    E. Direct action and civil disobedience, have an important place in the building of a broad mass movement.

    3. PSC AGM condemns the UK Government’s ever-more shameless ignoring, or condoning of Israel flouting international law, and the Labour Party for failing to challenge these developments (noting that Richard Burgon’s private members’ Israel Arms Trade (Prohibition) Bill, while worthy, has only a small number of Labour MPs amongst its 54 cross-party supporters).

    4. PSC AGM resolves:
    A. To publicise and campaign against the UK Government’s increasing collusion with Israel.
    B. To support the efforts of activists who, in response to Israeli breaches of international law, and the UK political establishment’s collusion, take appropriate direct action to try and stop or prevent these crimes, including support for individuals facing charges for taking such action
    C. To support local PSC, trade union and community campaigns against Elbit

     

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    Motion 4: Palestine Action

    Proposed by Tony Greenstein
    Seconded by Iola Davies

    This AGM welcomes:
    1. The closure of the Elbit Ferranti factory in Oldham
    2. The recent acquittal of 3 activists in Newcastle-under-Lyme

    This AGM notes:
    1. That this victory would not have been achieved if not for the sacrifices made by the activists of Palestine Action, 36 of whom are currently facing charges in different courts.
    2. That since its inception PSC had consistently criticised Palestine Action for its tactics and approach e.g. in distributing legal advice warning against giving any support to Palestine Action.
    3. In its statement welcoming the closure of the Oldham factory PSC failed even to mention Palestine Action.
    4. That many PSC members and branches have, notwithstanding the advice of PSC, given support for Palestine Action.

    This AGM resolves:
    1. To donate £1,000 to Palestine Action for support to the defendants who are awaiting trial.
    2. To cease all criticism of Palestine Action and instead to publicise their activities and offer them solidarity.
    3. To invite them to address the next branch forum.

    Amendments to Motion 4: 

    Amendment A:
    Proposed by: PSC Executive Committee

    Replace ‘Notes 1’ with:

    That this victory was achieved by sustained activism, by groups including Palestine Action, and local PSC branches.

    Delete ‘Notes 2, 3 and 4′.

    Add Believes:
    • Direct action of various forms has a role to play as part of a broader strategy geared towards building a mass movement in solidarity with Palestine’.
    • Those who have been arrested for their participation in protests at Elbit should be defended, as part of a broader defence of the right to protest’

    Delete ‘Resolves 1, 2 and 3’.

    Add
    Resolves: To mandate the EC to continue to seek engagement with Palestine Action to resolve issues of concern held by PSC and others and to explore avenues of cooperation

    Motion 4 as amended would read:

    This AGM welcomes:
    1. The closure of the Elbit Ferranti factory in Oldham
    2. The recent acquittal of 3 activists in Newcastle-under-Lyme

    This AGM notes:
    • That this victory was achieved by sustained activism, by groups including Palestine Action, and local PSC branches

    This AGM believes:
    • Direct action of various forms has a role to play as part of a broader strategy geared towards building a mass movement in solidarity with Palestine’.
    • Those who have been arrested for their participation in protests at Elbit should be defended, as part of a broader defence of the right to protest’

    This AGM resolves:
    To mandate the EC to continue to seek engagement with Palestine Action to resolve issues of concern held by PSC and others and to explore avenues of cooperation

    Amendment B:
    Proposed: by Sal Habboub
    Seconded: Jacob Ecclestone

    Delete all after numbered paragraph 4 (ending “:……given support for Palestine Action’) and insert the following:

    “This AGM instructs the Executive Committee to seek ways of improving relations with Palestine Action.”

    Motion 4 as amended would read:
    This AGM welcomes:
    1. The closure of the Elbit Ferranti factory in Oldham
    2. The recent acquittal of 3 activists in Newcastle-under-Lyme

    This AGM notes:
    1. That this victory would not have been achieved if not for the sacrifices made by the activists of Palestine Action, 36 of whom are currently facing charges in different courts.
    2. That since its inception PSC had consistently criticised Palestine Action for its tactics and approach e.g. in distributing legal advice warning against giving any support to Palestine Action.
    3. In its statement welcoming the closure of the Oldham factory PSC failed even to mention Palestine Action.
    4. That many PSC members and branches have, notwithstanding the advice of PSC, given support for Palestine Action
    This AGM instructs the Executive Committee to seek ways of improving relations with Palestine Action.

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    Motion 5: Palestine Authority

    Proposed by Tony Greenstein
    Seconded by Iola Davies

    This AGM notes:
    1. The murder by the Palestine Authority (PA) security forces of Nizar Banat in June 2021.
    2. That the PA security forces attacked peaceful demonstrations protesting Banat’s murder e.g. Nizar Banat killing: Witnesses recount Palestinian Authority’s violent crackdown on protests, Middle East Eye 29.6.21.
    3. That the PA has little support amongst Palestinians. Its primary support comes from the Israeli state and western donors.
    4. When Trump cut off aid to the Palestinians the one exception was US funding for the PA.
    5. That Trump said: “I… applaud the Palestinian Authority’s continued security coordination with Israel. They get along unbelievably well. I had meetings, and at these meetings I was actually very impressed and somewhat surprised at how well they get along. They work together beautifully.” – Donald Trump, 2017
    6. That Abbas has described the PA’s collaboration with Israel’s security forces as ‘sacred’.
    7. That the PA’s security forces are not there to protect Palestinians but to protect Israel.
    8. That the PA’s budget for its security forces is around 30%, the highest in the world. The security sector consumes more of the PA’s budget than education, health, and agriculture combined.

    This AGM resolves:
    1. To condemn the PA for the murder of Nizar Banat, its use of torture and its violent attacks on Palestinian demonstrations and its collaboration with Israel’s security forces.
    2. To give no support whatsoever to the PA which is a subcontractor to the Israeli military and to make our criticisms explicit.
    3. That Abbas’s regime is an enemy of the Palestinians and no different from the regimes that the South African state installed in the Bantustans.
    4. To call for fresh elections, which the PA cancelled at Israel’s behest.

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    Motion 6: Two-state solution is an apartheid solution

    Proposed by Tony Greenstein
    Seconded by Iola Davies

    This AGM notes:
    1. That it is the Zionists not the Palestinians who today support the two-state solution.
    2. They do this because they know it cannot happen and that the two-state solution acts as a smokescreen for the continuing expansion of Israeli settlements.
    3. That no section of the Palestinian population now supports this discredited apartheid solution which accepts the continued existence of an apartheid Israeli state.
    4. That the two-state solution had at its heart the continued existence of an Israeli settler-colonial state.

    This AGM resolves:
    1. To support a unitary state solution in what was Mandate Palestine between the Jordan River and the Mediterranean Sea.
    2. To support a State based on equal rights for all regardless of religion or ethnicity.

    Amendment to Motion 6: 

    Proposed: Helen Dickson
    Seconded: Colin Mckean

    25 years of failed peace talks have led to one apartheid state throughout all of historic Palestine.

    PSC recognises that:
    • Decisions on the strategy for Palestinian liberation will be taken by Palestinians
    • Our solidarity movement needs to be well informed on the developing debate
    • It is unacceptable for the British government, political parties or civil society to dictate to Palestinians the form of a political solution.

    We move to amend Motion 6 by replacing resolves 1 and 2 with:
    To support and facilitate discussion, and to campaign throughout our movement, on justice and equal human rights for all, regardless of religion, heritage, or ethnicity, in all of historic Palestine.

    Motion as amended would read:

    This AGM notes:
    1. That it is the Zionists not the Palestinians who today support the two state solution.
    2. They do this because they know it cannot happen and that the two state solution acts as a smokescreen for the continuing expansion of Israeli settlements.
    3. That no section of the Palestinian population now supports this discredited apartheid solution which accepts the continued existence of an apartheid Israeli state
    4. That the two-state solution had at its heart the continued existence of an Israeli settler colonial state.

    This AGM resolves:
    1. To support and facilitate discussion, and to campaign throughout our movement, on justice and equal human rights for all, regardless of religion, heritage, or ethnicity, in all of historic Palestine.

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    Motion 7: Helping more people to boycott

    Proposed by: Stephen Watters
    Seconded by: Rada Daniell

    In addition to the PUMA campaign and the JCB campaign currently being figured out, in addition to responding to requests from the Boycott National Committee (BNC), PACBI and appropriate others for support on initiatives that develop through the year, it is proposed to enhance BDS, the boycott element, by listing other existing boycott campaigns or new campaigns that PSC members can choose to support. As examples, past or present: AirBNB, Booking.com, Axa, Teva, but it can be random luck if people find out about them. That needn’t be PSC staff identifying; it could be by a PSC branch, select branches, or any individual notifying PSC. PSC can check it’s validity and keep on a list in the resources section of the website. It is not for PSC to take on as an additional core campaign, just check and list it, should anyone wish to pursue as a boycott. This way, widen the BDS net, capture people who use these companies but know nothing about Palestine, a way to introduce more people to the Palestine cause, and further the Palestinian call for BDS.

    Amendment to Motion 7: 

    Proposed by: Stephen Watters
    Seconded by: Rada Daniell

    Delete all words from “In addition” in the first sentence to “…call for BDS” in the last sentence and replace with
    “This AGM notes that:
    BDS is the cornerstone of our campaigning and crucial given Israeli, and UK efforts, to delegitimise BDS.

    Recognises:
    • the importance of working closely with the BNC alongside key partners to identify targets for strategic BDS campaigns.
    • the importance of focusing on a few campaigns to maximise our impact.
    • emerging campaigns endorsed by BNC may be supported.

    Resolves:
    • To ensure updated information is provided about such campaigns, to maximise engagement.
    • To also list other targets advised by members, not for PSC campaigning, but so anyone can additionally boycott. There are too few targets when people look to PSC for what to boycott.

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    Motion 8: Helping branches grow and new members learn

    Proposed by Stephen Watters
    Seconded by Rada Daniell

    To assist branches with growth, it could help if they set what they feel is an achievable target and timeframe for their size of branch, they figure a strategy, ideas for doing so, and they review their results and strategy at the end of that timeframe.
    Branches are encouraged to meet periodically to discuss what works well and what doesn’t. Branches can assist the learning of new members by sending them the short series of films that PSC is making explaining how Israel meets the definition of an apartheid state.

    Amendment to Motion 8: 

    Proposed by: Norwich PSC
    Seconded by: Stephen Watters

    Delete all and insert:

    “This AGM recognises the need for PSC to help branches grow and educate their members.

    To achieve this, branches should be supported to develop best practice in campaigning strategy, communication and outreach, and be provided with accurate and relevant information and tools for education and evaluation.

    The AGM resolves to:

    – Continue to offer branches remote training and resources e.g. videos and factsheets, supporting branch officers to pass on new skills and information to committee and ordinary members
    – Reinstate face-to-face AGMs and regional forums where and when it is safe to do so, in addition to online branch forums
    – Facilitate branch-to-branch communication, creating space for branch officer-led discussion of meeting topics e.g. by using breakout rooms at branch forums
    – Review the experience and process of joining PSC for new members and offer new members an option for their details to be shared with their local branch Secretary
    – Support effective and reflective branch development by creating an evaluation toolkit for officers”

    Emergency Motions

    Emergency Motion: End hypocritical attitudes to international law
    Proposed: Dave Chappell
    Seconded: Amal Ghusain

    PSC AGM believes:

    1/ The Russian invasion of Ukraine should rightly be condemned as a breach of international law . We send solidarity to Ukrainians under attack The response of ‘Western’ countries to the Russian military invasion of Ukraine, including rapid and widespread boycott, divestment and sanctions (BDS) measures, clearly demonstrates they have no objection in principle to taking concerted action if international law is breached, but apparently only in certain cases.

    2/ The extensive and concerted actions taken against Russia stand in total contrast to the shameful failure of the international community to hold Israel to account for its many, serial, and ongoing breaches of international law, which include illegal military attacks, invasions, occupation, annexation, and ethnic cleansing, going back multiple decades.

    3/ That as the Boycott National Committee has said, this hypocrisy “..sends a clearly racist message to Palestinians, Yemenis, Iraqis, Afghanis and many others, that our lives and rights as people of colour do not count”, but in addition “effectively demolish almost all the anti-BDS excuses propagated by Israel and its anti-Palestinian apologists in the West against us over 17 years to thwart our calls for accountability and justice.”
    https://bdsmovement.net/hypocrisy

    4/ That the lives and human rights of Palestinians are no less important than those of Ukrainians or any other peoples, and no state / ideology in the world should favour the human rights of some at the expense, or the ignoring, of others.

    5/ That adherence to robust international and humanitarian law is one of the world’s best protections, albeit imperfect, against the tyranny of ‘Might is Right’, and must surely apply to all, or else it applies to none.
    6) That BDS is an effective and legitimate tool to address breaches of international law and violations of human rights

    PSC AGM condemns:
    1/ The fact that many countries actively promoting BDS measures with regards to Russia, have in contrast totally opposed targeted BDS measures with regards to Israel, with Governmental attempts (often questionable in law and some successfully challenged) even being made to criminalise calls for such actions.

    2/ The hypocrisy and failure of the international community, in particular the USA as the most powerful country, and its ‘allies’ such as the UK, to adhere to international law themselves, and to fail to hold Israel to account for its crimes.

    PSC AGM demands:
    That the Palestinian call for BDS measures against Israel be supported and acted upon fully by the international community, without further delay.

     

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    Standing orders

    1) Motions and amendments

    a) Motions and amendments will only be accepted until the date determined by the Executive Committee and notified to members. No new amendments to ordinary motions may be proposed after this point.
    b) Motions or amendments may be withdrawn, composited or remitted to the Executive Committee by their proposers.
    c) Motions and amendments shall be for the purpose of establishing the political positions and campaigning priorities of the organisation or for considering matters of internal organisation. Motions must not contain language contrary to PSC’s Code of Conduct, bring the organisation into disrepute or place it in legal jeopardy.
    d) If a motion or amendment is ruled out of order, the proposers will be informed before the AGM.
    e) Except for constitutional amendments, motions shall be no longer than 500 words and amendments no longer than 100 words.

    2) Process of debate

    a) All motions and amendments must be proposed and seconded. If the proposer (or a delegate representing the proposing organisation) does not present the motion or amendment it will not be debated.
    b) The proposer of a motion shall have the right of reply before votes are taken on amendments and prior to the vote on the main motion (whether amended or not).
    c) No member shall speak more than once on the same motion or amendment except in the exercise of the right to reply. This includes situations where a technical issue prevented their speech being heard in full.
    d) A speaker may not be interrupted except to raise a point of order. A speaker may, at their discretion, give way to a point of information.
    e) The Chairperson shall have discretion as to the number of speakers called in any debate and which individuals are called, but shall attempt to provide a balanced debate.
    f) Every motion shall be put to the vote, unless a procedural motion to the contrary has been carried.
    g) At ten minutes before the close of the final motions session, any business that has yet to be reached shall be remitted to the Executive Committee.
    h) The PSC constitution determines voting entitlement: individual members, branches and affiliated organisations hold one vote each, except for national organisations with over 100,000 members who shall hold three votes.

    3) Emergency motions

    a) Motions on an emergency subject may be submitted in writing, together with a proposer and seconder, until 5pm on the day preceding the AGM.
    b) Emergency subjects shall be items that could not reasonably have been submitted in line with the ordinary motion or amendment deadlines and where a failure to consider the item would substantially impair the work of PSC.
    c) If the Chairperson considers the item to be an emergency, the motion shall be added to the agenda.
    d) If the Chairperson deems the motion not to be an emergency, the motion shall be remitted to the Executive Committee.
    e) When an emergency motion is selected for debate, all amendments shall be submitted to the Chairperson in writing with the names of the proposer and seconder before the debate on the motion takes place.

    4) Timing of speeches

    a) The proposer of a motion or amendment shall speak for up to 3 minutes.
    b) The seconder and all other speakers on a motion or amendment shall speak for up to 2 minutes.
    c) The movers of the Annual Report and the Annual Plan shall speak for up to 10 minutes. The mover of the Financial Report shall speak for up to 5 minutes.
    d) Those asking a question or raising points of information or order shall speak for up to 1 minute and, other than at the discretion of the Chairperson, are not entitled to a further speech on the same point.

    5) Chairing of meetings

    a) If the Chairperson wishes to speak to a motion they must vacate the chair before any discussion of that motion begins.
    b) When the Chairperson speaks, members must respect the Chair.
    c) Within the scope of the constitution and standing orders, the Chairperson may make any ruling they see fit.
    d) Members shall have the right to challenge a ruling of the Chairperson. The ruling under challenge shall be upheld until the challenge is approved.
    e) The terms of a challenge shall be presented in 1 minute speech by a member. For the challenge to proceed it must gain the support of at least 20 registered delegates.
    f) The procedure shall be as follows:

    i) The Chairperson shall vacate the chair.
    ii) The challenger and then the Chairperson shall speak for a maximum of 3 minutes.
    iii) There shall be no further debate. The challenge shall require a two-thirds majority to be passed.

    6) Procedural motions

    a) Any member may propose one of the following procedural motions:

    a. That the item be voted on immediately
    b. That the AGM moves to the next item without a vote
    c. That the item be remitted to the Executive Committee

    b) If they receive a seconder the procedural motion shall be put to the meeting, needing a simple majority to be carried.
    c) A motion to suspend Standing Orders for the purposes of altering the order of business may be moved from the floor of the AGM. Providing its stated purpose receives a seconder and the support of at least two-thirds of those members present and voting the Standing Orders will be suspended for the duration of dealing with the stated purpose.

    7) Elections

    a) The independent returning officer appointed by the Executive Committee shall oversee all elections. Their rulings shall be final.
    b) Elections shall be conducted by secret ballot. The candidate(s) gaining the most votes shall be elected. Dead heats will be determined by a coin toss.

    8) Membership appeals

    a) Membership appeals shall be heard during a closed session of the AGM during which only voting delegates, the appellant and those facilitating the meeting shall be entitled to be present. A statement by the appellant of up to 400 words shall be distributed, together with a statement of up to 400 words on behalf of the Executive Committee. No speeches shall be allowed other than the Chair advising on the process. A vote shall be taken by secret ballot.
    b) Appellants shall be entitled to attend the AGM only for the duration of this item. They shall not be required to register for the AGM.

    Code of conduct

    We believe that all members have a responsibility to enable everyone to participate in our events and activities and events and to enjoy them by treating others with dignity and respect and in particular by:

    • Avoiding personal remarks or behaviour that may cause offence or distress
    • Avoiding abusive or discriminatory language or behaviour, or harassing others on the grounds of age, gender, race, colour, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion or belief, or any other personal characteristic
    • Checking that the language we use is appropriate including the correct pronunciation of names
    • Encouraging others to participate, particularly new or less experienced people
    • Challenging inappropriate language or behaviour if you see or hear it

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    Hands Up Project

    ‘The Well’ is a short play about what Palestinians really want and need from the rest of the world. This play will be performed live by Hala Sarsour, Mais Qudaih and Layan Aljamal: three fourteen-year-old girls from Al Remal Prep Girls school B, in Gaza. It will be followed by a discussion with their teacher, Amal Mukhairez, a remote theatre specialist from Gaza.

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    Lunch breakout rooms

    Cook-along

    Join Palestinian chef Maha Salah for this quick and easy lunchtime cook-along. This is a chance to cook one of her family’s recipes, roz o bazella, a go-to in the Levant for a delicious and fast meal.

    Click here to join the Cook-along.

    Ingredients list:

    • 50g pine nuts
    • 50g blanched almonds
    • 2 tbsp oil
    • 400g minced beef or lamb (or veggie/vegan meat substitute, or mixed chopped veggies instead)
    • 1 onion, finely chopped
    • 4 garlic cloves, finely minced
    • Salt
    • Pepper
    • ¾ tbsp cinnamon
    • ½ tbsp cardamom
    • 1½ tbsp mixed spices
    • 300g frozen peas
    • 500g medium grain rice
    • Water

    Side Salad:

    • Tomato
    • Cucumber
    • Radish
    • Bell peppers
    • Red onion
    • Romaine lettuce

    Salad Dressing:

    • Lemon
    • Olive oil
    • Salt
    • Dried mint

    Oud performance

    Saied Silbak is a Palestinian oud player and composer born in Shafaa`mr, a city located in the lower Galilee of occupied Palestine. His music has been performed around the world at festivals and concert series in Palestine, the UK, Belgium, France, Morroco and Argentina. Silbak has received a Master`s Degree in music from the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London. He composes music for solo oud as well as traditional Arabic and various contemporary ensembles. In recent years he has worked with many artists on interdisciplinary projects and has been involved in educational and community works developing a politically and socially engaged practice. His music is known to bring together new musical colours by fusing elements from different musical styles combined with rhythms from distinct regions of the world, providing the listener an authentic world-crossing experience. Don’t miss a chance to experience this unique blend of elements at his 30 minute set, playing live on Zoom for us.

    Click here to join the oud performance.

    Palestinian film: Maradona’s Legs 

    Set during the 1990 World Cup, two young Palestinian boys are looking for “Maradona’s legs”; the last missing sticker that they need in order to complete their world cup album and win a free Atari. Enjoy this award-winning short film by Palestinian scriptwriter and director Firas Khoury.

    Click here to watch the movie.

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    ‘How to’ and help

    Advice for all attendees

    To take part in the AGM this year will involve the use of two platforms:

    • Zoom, for the webinar,
    • Democracy app for voting on motions and amendments,

    You will receive your links to access these via email closer to the time of AGM.

    Please note that you will need to have the Democracy app on a separate browser window from Zoom, or on a separate device, so that you can access both at the same time. The Democracy app work best on a computer or laptop. If you use a mobile, it should work, but this cannot be guaranteed.

    If you are having issues using the voting apps, please see FAQ below.

    Advice for speakers

    If you are speaking in a debate, you must ensure you are logged into Zoom with your full name so you can be located by the audio-visual team. They will promote you to make your camera and microphone live. Please wait for this to happen, it will take a few seconds and it may briefly appear as if you are being logged out.

    On the day, if you are having issues accessing the PSC AGM or voting systems, please consult our FAQ below. If your problem is still not resolved after doing this, please contact our admin team via email on info@palestinecampaign.org.

    Please note that we advise using a computer, laptop or tablet to participate in the AGM, not a phone. This is because you will need to be able to open up voting links in your browser in addition to running Zoom.

    FAQ and troubleshooting

    Zoom

    I don’t have Zoom.

    Zoom is a video-hosting software which you will need to access the PSC AGM. If you do not already have Zoom, you can download it here: https://zoom.us/download.

    We advise doing this ahead of the AGM.

    I don’t have the Zoom link.

    The Zoom link and passcode was sent to the email address you used to register for the AGM. Please check your emails, including your junk/spam folder. If you have a Gmail account, please check your ‘Promotions’ and ‘Social’ labels, as well as your spam folder.

    If you still cannot locate your link, email info@palestinecampaign.org.

    Why can’t I hear the Chair or speakers?

    1. Check the volume level on your device.

    2. Ensure that you connected to your computer audio at the start of the meeting. If you still don’t hear anything, leave the meeting and re-join.

    3. Upon re-joining ensure you click on ‘Test Speakers and Microphone’ and follow instructions on the screen.

     

    If you’re called to speak.

    You’ll need to raise your hand in Zoom a few minutes before you’re called, so we can find you. You should also ensure, when you log into Zoom, you use your name, not an alias such as ‘Steph’s Macbook’ or similar.

    If you need to change your name, you can do this in your Zoom app by clicking on ‘Settings’, then ‘Profile’ and tap on ‘Display Name’. If you can’t do it in the app, here’s what you need to do:

    • Log out of Zoom
    • Open Zoom app & click “Join Meeting”
    • Enter Meeting ID (this was sent to you via email)
    • It asks you for your name here – enter it
    • Enter Passcode (this was sent to you via email)
    • It also gives you another chance to check your details when it asks you to “Finish registration to join webinar”

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    Voting

    I don’t have my Democracy app link.

    Your personalised Democracy app (for voting on motions and amendments) link was sent to the email address you used to register for the AGM. Please check your emails, including your junk folder. If you still cannot locate your link, email info@palestinecampaign.org.

    The link can only be used once, so please do not share it.

    Please note: Only attendees who are eligible to vote will receive a voting link.  If you are a new member of PSC, or if your membership was lapsed for a significant period of time and you joined / renewed after the deadline of 17th December 2021, you will not be eligible to vote.

    I have received one link but entitled to 1+ vote(s). Do I get another link for the additional votes?

    Each link is unique to each delegate, it has been programmed with the number of votes you’re entitled to.

    To vote

    If you have any problems with opening the app, please close your browser completely and then click on your link to reopen.

    We have to lock delegates into the system before we can take votes. Each time we unlock, it places a strain on the technology, so we can only do it at the start of each motion. If you find you’re locked out, hold on and you’ll be let back in.

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    Links and resources to download:

     

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