Madness is something rare in individuals but in groups, parties, peoples and ages, it is the rule.

-Friedrich Nietzche

 Boycotting Israeli Products is a new delusion to stop Israel from its atrocities. One can only wonder, what good it will do to the war victims living thousands of kilometers away. It is almost two years since Israel and Hamas shook the world with their unprecedented attacks, killing thousands of civilians and innocent children and yet, there seems to be no stop to this unending cataclysm. Since then, many resolutions were passed to put end to it and many agreements were signed but Israel seems to be a mad horse. While the boycott of international products like KFC, McDonalds, Coca Cola, Pepsi and other consumer goods is largely going on in Muslim countries, particularly in Pakistan, but the question that rears its head is that is there any impact of such actions? This question needs to be answered practically.

The boycott of KFC and other international products across Pakistan, is a mere delusion, if it is being done to stop Israeli Apartheid

The boycott of KFC and other international products across Pakistan, is a mere delusion, if it is being done to stop Israeli Apartheid. However, these companies are not owned by Israel at all and neither does it gives money to the State of Israel or Israeli Military. Soon after the end of Second World War, the great powers bind themselves in the international agreements, the famous of which is Kantian perpetual peace model under which all the international economies that controls the major decisions of the world were interlinked in a way that the downfall of economy in one country will have a domino effect on the rest. The same idea prevailed with advance globalization and soon the world followed its crucial rise. Now all the multinational companies that enjoy the fruits of this new world system are also entailed with a critical downfall linked with the public sentiments and a concern going across the globe.

In today’s world, such multinational companies are not owned by just one country, party or group

In today’s world, such multinational companies are not owned by just one country, party or group. They are share based, having equal stakes in the franchise owned by their own people and run by their local employees. Such is the case of Pakistan that has employed thousands of Pakistanis, and has uplifted the country’s annual GDP through its due share but unfortunately, the mob rage that took its spark from the atrocities happening thousand of miles away sees no bounds and obligations towards their own people whose households are maintained by these companies through employment.

The government needs to restructure its economic protection institutions to safeguard its economic prosperity, rather than be shattered by anti state actors.

The real question still remains unanswered. In the case of recent events in Pakistan, where a mob attacked a few branches of KFC in various cities was completely unaware of the fact that the same franchise has around 128 outlets across Pakistan that generates 411 million dollars in the annual revenue, in which only 19 million dollar is paid to KFC USA, from whom the franchises were bought and the rest, which is around 392 million dollars, boosts Pakistan’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Therefore, the government needs to restructure its economic protection institutions to safeguard its economic prosperity, rather than be shattered by anti state actors.

American journalist, Moore Terence, once said that people often choose products based on what they represent, not just what they are

American journalist, Moore Terence, once said that people often choose products based on what they represent, not just what they are. This phenomenon is particularly pronounced among younger generation who are concerned about matters such as climate change, gender equality, and social justice. Consequently, numerous brands are now positioning themselves as environmentally conscious, inclusive, or ethical.

Recently, however,  for many, opting not to purchase from specific brands serves as a means of protest or a way to advocate for the Palestinian cause. It’s a significant symbolic gesture, but is it truly sufficient? The reality is that simply boycotting brands won’t halt the conflict or alleviate the suffering.

The crisis in Gaza is entrenched in political strife, global diplomacy, and inherent injustices

The crisis in Gaza is entrenched in political strife, global diplomacy, and inherent injustices. A handful of brands losing business won’t compel governments or military forces to alter their strategies. What is truly necessary is ongoing political pressure, specifically on governments, international bodies, and organizations that influence global decision-making. Demonstrations, petitions, legal initiatives, and media attention can contribute to promoting genuine accountability and peace. While boycotts may enhance awareness, they need to be part of a broader movement if they are to create any meaningful change. In conclusion, where we choose to spend our money is important, but transforming the world requires more.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author. They do not represent the views, beliefs, or policies of the Stratheia.