Sameera Casmod | sameerac@radioislam.co.za
06 November 2023 | 22:19 CAT
2-min read

Picture: Al Jazeera

As the Israeli bombardment of Gaza persists, the discourse surrounding effective boycott strategies has gained momentum. Addressing the complexities of implementing boycotts and their impact, Moulana Sulaimaan Ravat interviewed Dr Faisal Suliman and Ahmed Jazbhay on Radio Islam International. The interview underscored the importance of strategic decision-making and highlighted the need for widespread education and awareness. Amidst growing concerns about the efficacy and sustainability of boycotts, the interview elucidated the necessity of offering viable alternatives and fostering collective action within the community.

Q: There is consensus on the need for a boycott. The question is, do we boycott in principle, or do we boycott strategically?

A: It has got to be a combination of both. What is not feasible, sustainable or effective is having a list of 500 products that you ask the public to boycott and think that that’s going to make a difference. It is necessary to make an example that is both effective and sustainable. And to choose the right products or services to boycott.

While some companies like Clover and Cape Union Mart have clear Israeli ownership, the status of others with multiple stakeholders remains ambiguous. There are challenges in sustaining a comprehensive boycott of these complexly owned companies. A sustained and impactful boycott hinges on targeted action, focusing on two or three companies or products to make a substantial example that lasts beyond the immediate genocide.

Q: A question that is often raised in conversations surrounding boycotts is that of consistency: why not boycott that if you are boycotting this?

A: The key to boycotting Israeli products is to slowly switch to alternative products and services. In this regard, raising awareness about alternatives is important. There are other brands besides Clover and K-Way, for example.

Q: How do we unify the boycott?

A: All solidarity organisations need to create a comprehensive list that has been researched thoroughly. Awareness can be raised in schools, madrassahs and masaajid. Ultimately, boycotts will only work if there is collective agreement.

Q: There are calls to boycott non-Muslim products in the absence of Muslim alternatives in the market. What can we do about this?

A: Entrepreneurship must be promoted within the Muslim community. There are opportunities for businesses to expand their reach and cater to a broader market. The production of high-quality alternatives to non-Muslim brands is a niche that can be filled by Muslims around the world. Producing high-quality everyday essentials like toothpaste and deodorant is an opportunity for Muslim entrepreneurs.

There are opportunities in the local production of goods, which could create employment opportunities and improve the economy.

The emphasis in the interview is on strategic decision-making and long-term sustainability. Advocates and stakeholders need to explore ways to develop comprehensive and effective strategies that can bring about meaningful change.

Listen to the full interview on Sabaahul Muslim with Moulana Sulaimaan Ravat.