Booking.com Accused of Facilitating Crimes Against Palestinians through Illegal Settlements

Amsterdam-based Human Rights Organizations File Criminal Complaint against Booking.com

A coalition of human rights organizations has filed a criminal complaint against Booking.com, accusing the online travel agency of facilitating crimes against Palestinians by promoting and enabling rentals in illegal Israeli settlements. The complaint, filed with the Dutch Public Prosecutor on November 1st, alleges that Booking.com’s business activities in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (OPT) contribute to and profit from human rights violations and war crimes.

Extensive Research Reveals Booking.com’s Involvement

The complaint is based on extensive research by European Legal Support Center (ELSC), Al-Haq, The Rights Forum (TRF) and SOMO, which have documented Booking.com’s involvement in promoting and enabling rentals in illegal settlements. Despite repeated calls for action from Palestinian and international civil society groups, the company has continued to disregard its legal obligations.

“Money Laundering” through Illegal Settlements

The complaint alleges that Booking.com’s listings in illegal settlements, including Neve Daniel and others, are a blatant example of money laundering, with proceeds entering the Dutch financial system. The company’s business activities in the OPT are said to be a clear violation of international law.

Booking.com Responds to Allegations

Booking.com has responded to the allegations, stating that it disagrees with the claims and will continue to list properties in Israeli settlements unless legally prohibited from doing so.

Corporate Accountability Crucial

The case highlights the need for corporate accountability in situations where companies are complicit in human rights violations. The outcome of the case will be closely watched, as it may set a precedent for holding companies accountable for their activities in situations where they are complicit in human rights violations.

Timeline:

November 1st, 2023: Complaint filed with the Dutch Public Prosecutor
May 15th, 2024: Booking.com responds to allegations

Illegal Israeli Settlements:

Israeli settlements in the OPT are widely recognized as a violation of international law and are associated with multiple war crimes.
The International Court of Justice has underlined the illegality of settlements, and the Dutch government has recognized their illegality.

Booking.com’s Previous Controversies:

In 2021, Booking.com was accused of promoting rentals in East Jerusalem, which is considered occupied territory by the international community.