Hunger images in Gaza motivated a wave of criticism. Millions of people join protests to demand a worldwide conviction. In the Netherlands, the contestation came in the form of boycott of brands associated with Israeli actions in the Gaza Strip and in West Bank.
Airbnb, Booking.com and Coca-Cola have been the targets of citizens groups against Israel. Coca-Cola was removed from some bars and restaurants in the Netherlands, which began to serve alternatives such as Palestine Cola.
Ilco Van Der Linde owns a house to rent in Amsterdam, Casa Mandela. The inspiration for space goes far beyond the name. Nelson Mandela is the man who admires the most.
“I am not truly free until Palestinians are. How is a factory begins in busy territory and is Israel with it? The boycott is our form of resistance.”
Although the direct economic impact of boycott of these brands is limited, reputational effects on the Netherlands may be lasting.
“It may not affect the recipes too much, but it affects the brand image.”
The impact of the abuse of the Newlanders goes far beyond the boycott. Red Cross spokeswoman Daniëlle Brouwer revealed that donations for Gaza have tripled in recent weeks. And it ensures that, despite the difficulties in making help due to blockages, money is being channeled directly to the inhabitants of that territory.
Solidarity also assumes creative forms. Jack Schoneveld is walking from Tilburg to Rome to raise funds for doctors without borders.
