Professor wins UK anti-Zionism appeal, but court rejects blanket protection

A UK Employment Appeal Tribunal upheld that former Bristol professor David Miller's anti-Zionist beliefs, as defined in his case, are protected under the Equality Act 2010. The ruling found his dismissal discriminatory and disproportionate, but rejected blanket protection for all anti-Zionist beliefs. Miller's compensation was reduced by 50% for contributory fault.

A UK Employment Appeal Tribunal (EAT) upheld a ruling that former University of Bristol professor Dr. David Miller's anti-Zionist beliefs, as defined in his case, qualify as protected philosophical beliefs under the Equality Act 2010. Miller, a professor of political sociology from September 2018 to October 2021, was dismissed for gross misconduct over comments made in February 2021, including saying 'Zionism is racism' and that 'Jewish student groups [that support Israel] are a threat to the safety of Arab and Muslim students.' The EAT found his beliefs met the five criteria for protection, including being 'worthy of respect in a democratic society,' and accepted that he did not support violence. However, the EAT did not rule that all anti-Zionist beliefs are protected, only that this particular belief qualifies. The EAT also upheld that his dismissal was discriminatory and disproportionate, but reduced his compensation by 50% for contributory fault. Miller posted on X that 'Anti-Zionism is now a protected philosophical belief,' but Jonathan Turner of UK Lawyers for Israel clarified that the ruling applies only to Miller's specific description of anti-Zionism, not all forms.