# BDS

CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/bds
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

Stands for Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions. A global movement that encourages people and companies to stop supporting Israel to pressure it into changing its policies toward Palestinians.

For teachers: Abbreviation for Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions. A Palestinian-led movement promoting various forms of boycott against Israel until it complies with what the campaign describes as its obligations under international law.

## Examples

- The student group voted to support the BDS movement.
- Several international artists cancelled their scheduled performances in Tel Aviv after being pressured by BDS activists.
- Debates surrounding BDS often center on whether the movement's tactics are a legitimate form of non-violent political protest or a strategy that unfairly targets a single nation-state.

## Usage notes

- Typically used with the definite article ('the BDS movement') or as a modifier for nouns like 'campaign' or 'activist'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.