Summary
The United Nations added 68 companies to a list of firms allegedly involved in human rights violations related to Israeli settlements in the West Bank. These companies, from 11 countries including Israel, are accused of having business activities that support settlements considered illegal under international law. The list's main goal is to publicly name businesses with ties to these settlements, though it lacks the legal power to enforce changes.
Key Facts
- The UN added 68 companies to a blacklist for alleged involvement in human rights issues in Israeli settlements.
- The companies come from 11 countries, including Israel, the USA, Canada, and several European nations.
- The blacklist aims to publicly identify businesses with ties to settlements deemed illegal by many under international law.
- The list was created by the UN's Human Rights Council, which does not have legal enforcement power.
- German company Heidelberg Materials and its subsidiary are among the new additions.
- Companies like Expedia Group, Booking Holdings Inc., and Airbnb remain on the list.
- Some companies argue their activities in the region are neutral or not related to human rights violations.
- Seven companies were removed from the list in this update.
