United Nations Genocide Convention
Brent and Southwark councils are considering divesting pension funds from companies linked to alleged genocide.
In September 2026, Brent Council was urged by a deputation representing the Brent and Harrow Palestine Solidarity Campaign to divest its pension funds from companies accused of complicity in alleged Israeli actions, citing "genocide, apartheid, and human rights abuses against Palestinians". A petition with 2,000 signatures was presented to the council.
Southwark Council is set to divest its pension fund from investments linked to conflict and genocide, following a motion discussed at a Council Assembly meeting in November 2025. The motion, proposed by Councillor Margy Newens and seconded by Councillor Reginald Popoola, aims to align the Southwark Pension Fund with community values.
The discussions at both councils relate to the United Nations Genocide Convention, an international treaty adopted in 1948 that criminalizes genocide and obligates signatory nations to prevent and punish it, responding to concerns raised by residents and international organisations.
Key facts
- A deputation representing the Brent and Harrow Palestine Solidarity Campaign presented a petition with 2,000 signatures to Brent Council in September 2026. Source
- Brent Council was urged in September 2026 to divest its pension funds from companies accused of complicity in alleged Israeli actions. Source
- Southwark Council discussed a motion in November 2025 to divest its pension fund from investments linked to conflict and genocide. Source
- Councillor Margy Newens proposed the motion at Southwark Council, seconded by Councillor Reginald Popoola. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 1 October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.