Few know of BDS movement, few agree with its aims

FEW KNOW OF BDS MOVEMENT, FEW AGREE WITH ITS AIMS

TORONTO, JULY 13, 2017 – In the sixth wave of the Campaign Research Poll, a national online public opinion omnibus survey conducted among a sample of 1,540 Canadian consumers, just one tenth (10%) of participants were familiar with the Boycott, Divest and Sanctions (BDS) movement directed at the State of Israel. Awareness of this movement is highest in Alberta (13%), Toronto (13%), the Atlantic provinces (13%), BC (14%), high income earners ($80,000 to $100,000 - 13%; $100K to $250K - 14%), younger consumers (25 to 34 - 15%) and males (12%).

FEW AGREE WITH BDS

During our study, participants were told that the objective of the BDS movement is to encourage a boycott, divestment of assets and economic sanctions against the State of Israel. They were asked whether they agree or disagree with this position. One fifth agreed (19%), whereas slightly less than one third disagreed (31%). However, half of the participants did not have an opinion on the subject (49%). This could be ascribed to the low awareness of the BDS movement. Agreement with BDS was highest amongst younger consumers (18 to 24 years of age - 32%), males (22%), more than females (16%), Quebec (26%) and BC (22%). There was also greater agreement with the BDS movement amongst Francophones (28%) over English speakers (17%), Bloc and Green supporters (35% each) as well as the wealthiest ($100K to $250K - 23%).

Among those who were aware of the BDS movement, the plurality agreed with its objective (43%), while a slightly smaller proportion did not (40%). One fifth did not have an opinion on this issue (17%).

“Very few Canadians are aware the BDS movement exists. However, its familiarity and approval amongst millennials may be due to its academic value in universities as a prominent foreign policy issue.” said Eli Yufest, CEO of Campaign Research. Eli may be reached at eyufest@campaignresearch.ca or at (647) 931 4025, ext 109

METHODOLOGY

This online poll was conducted between July 7 and July 10, 2017 among a panel of 1,540 Canadian consumers. A probability sample of this size would have a margin of error of plus or minus 2%, 19 out of 20 times.