We take a look at some of the issues. Introduction A boycott is normally called by an organisation or group of individuals, asking consumers not to buy a specific product, or the products of a specific company, in order to exert commercial pressure. This is usually done to get the company to change its behaviour - to cease an activity or to adopt a more ethical practice.
Companies are sensitive to boycotts because they can have serious financial implications.
Boycotts may also affect a company's image. EC has published some in-depth analyses of the success of UK boycotts in previous issues. French wine producers were targeted in this way by groups opposing the French government's nuclear tests in the Pacific. A responsible company should be able to achieve this by being aware of the consequences of its decisions, not just financially, but for people, the environment and animals. Related issues Boycott calls are at times controversial because they may be called by groups from the political right as well as the left - or for activities with which you don't specifically disagree.