What is the Occupied Territories Bill?
The Control of Economic Activity (Occupied Territories) Bill 2018 (commonly known as the Occupied Territories Bill) is a proposed Irish law that would ban and criminalise "trade with and economic support for illegal settlements in territories deemed occupied under international law". Violators would face fines of up to €250,000 and up to five years in prison.
What is happening at the moment?
In July 2025, the Oireachtas Committee responsible for pre-legislative scrutiny on the bill published a report that recommended the inclusion of goods and services in the bill. However, in October, An Taoiseach Michael Martin indicated that no decision had been made on the inclusion of services in the bill.
The omission of services significantly undermines the legislation’s intended impact and risks allowing Ireland to continue trading with an illegal occupation.
Why should you sign the petition?
Your signature shows your support for this version of the bill and increases pressure on government to pass a better version of the bill. It will support a powerful mandate that reflects widespread public sentiment as well as a strong demand for legislation that truly aligns Ireland’s trade policies with international legal obligations and moral responsibility.
It is crucial that Ireland upholds its international responsibilities by ensuring that our country is not complicit in human rights violations through any form of trade with illegal settlements.