“Justice for Palestine” EU Initiative Surpasses 1 Million Signatures, Pushes Toward 1.5 Million Goal

The “Justice for Palestine” European Citizens’ Initiative has surpassed 1 million signatures, marking a major milestone just three months after its launch on 13 January 2026. The campaign is now setting its next target at 1.5 million signatures to strengthen pressure on EU institutions.

The initiative, backed by the European Left Alliance (ELA) along with multiple civil society groups and Palestinian-led movements, is calling for the European Union to suspend the EU–Israel Association Agreement, citing alleged violations of international law and human rights.

Organisers say the campaign has become the fastest European Citizens’ Initiative to reach 1 million signatures, also exceeding required national thresholds in 10 EU member states—surpassing the minimum requirement of seven.

Under EU regulations, at least 1 million valid signatures are required for the European Commission to formally consider legislative or policy action. Campaigners argue that increasing the total number of signatures is essential to ensure validation and stronger political impact.

The initiative claims there is a widening gap between EU citizens’ demands and the bloc’s current policy toward the Middle East conflict. It also highlights EU–Israel trade relations, stating that bilateral goods trade reached €42.6 billion in 2024.

Supporters of the campaign argue that continued trade ties contradict ongoing humanitarian concerns in conflict-affected regions and call for immediate policy changes.

Catarina Martins, co-chair of the European Left Alliance, stated that maintaining trade privileges while alleged violations continue raises serious ethical and political concerns, urging the EU to reconsider its stance.

The campaign continues to gather support across Europe as organisers aim to reach the 1.5 million signature target in the coming weeks.