A recent United Nations document titled “Economy of Occupation to Economy of Genocide,” which targets Israel and businesses operating there, has stirred controversy. Composed by Francesca Albanese, the U.N. Special Rapporteur on the Occupied Palestinian Territories, the report faces criticism from several countries for alleged antisemitic content. It advocates for sanctions against “entities and individuals partaking in activities posing risks to Palestinians.” Anne Herzberg, Legal Advisor to NGO Monitor, mentioned that while harsh reports from Albanese on Israel are expected, this document stands out.
Herzberg remarked, “This report overtly supports the BDS movement—boycott, divestment, and sanctions against Israel.” Despite Albanese’s independent status, Herzberg suggests the report may imply U.N. endorsement of BDS. Responding to inquiries, the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights’ office clarified that “special procedures experts” like Albanese volunteer their services, do not receive pay, and are unaligned with the U.N. “The specialists operate independently from governments and organizations, including OHCHR and the U.N.,” noted their media team. The views presented are the author’s own and not those of the U.N.
Anne Herzberg additionally asserted that both Albanese and the U.N. Human Rights Council (HRC) surpassed their mandates, as the HRC lacks authority to recommend sanctions, a suggestion of the report. “The U.N. Human Rights Council, where the report was submitted and under which Albanese operates, cannot enforce sanctions per the U.N. charter,” Herzberg stated. She highlighted “threatening” communications Albanese sent to firms and NGOs, warning of inclusion on a boycott list and accusations of complicity in international crimes.
The U.N. Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights is a non-compulsory commitment for companies to responsibly manage their operations and customer relations. Herzberg contended Albanese misuses this framework, transforming it from voluntary to punitive. “She distorts international law and the UNGP framework, and if others emulate her, she risks undermining the field of business and human rights,” Herzberg warned. Albanese delivered her findings to the UNHRC shortly after the U.S. advocated for her ousting due to “longstanding antisemitic and anti-Israel rhetoric.” The report asserts that companies have supported Israel’s “genocidal efforts in Gaza,” repeated by Albanese during her address to the UNHRC, where she accused Israel of waging a genocide.
She also alleged Israel uses Gaza as a testing site for new weaponry “to obliterate a population with no restraint.” Israeli Ambassador to the U.N. in Geneva, Daniel Meron, commented that Albanese’s work supports “terrorism propaganda worldwide” and described the report as “inflamed and without legal foundation.” Albanese portrayed Israel negatively, Meron said, evidencing her bias. Albanese did not respond to questions or comments before publication.
