Boycott refers to the deliberate abstention from buying, using, or dealing with a person, organisation, or country as a form of protest or coercion. It is typically employed to express disapproval or bring about social, political, or economic change by exerting pressure on the target. Boycotts can take various forms, including consumer boycotts, where individuals refrain from purchasing products or services, or economic boycotts, where businesses refuse to engage in commercial activities with a particular entity. Boycotts are often organised by groups or movements advocating for specific causes or addressing perceived injustices.
n. organised refusal to purchase products or patronise a store to damage the producer or merchant monetarily, to influence its policy, and/or to attract attention to a social cause. Labour unions and their sympathisers have boycotted lettuce and grapes not picked by union farm workers, and civil rights activists have boycotted stores and restaurants that had “white only” hiring policies. The term is named for Captain Charles C. Boycott, a notorious land agent whose neighbours ostracised him during Ireland’s Land League rent wars in the 1880’s. Boycotts are not illegal in themselves, unless there are threats of violence involved. A “secondary” boycott, which boycotts those who do business with the primary target of the boycotters, is an unfair labour practice under federal and state laws.
A boycott is a form of protest where individuals or groups refuse to engage in business or other activities with a particular person, company, or organization in order to express disapproval or bring about change. While boycotts are generally legal, they may be subject to certain restrictions depending on the circumstances, such as if they involve illegal activities or violate anti-discrimination laws. Additionally, businesses may have legal recourse if they can prove that a boycott has caused them financial harm.
A boycott is a voluntary refusal to engage in commercial or social relations with a person, group, or organization as a form of protest or to achieve a specific goal.
Yes, boycotting is legal as long as it is peaceful and does not violate any laws or infringe on the rights of others.
Yes, a business can be sued for boycotting another business if it is found to be engaging in anti-competitive behaviour or violating antitrust laws.
No, an individual cannot be sued for participating in a boycott as long as it is peaceful and does not violate any laws.
No, a government agency or public entity cannot participate in a boycott as it would be considered a violation of their duty to provide equal access to all businesses and individuals.
Yes, a boycott can be considered a form of free speech as it is a peaceful expression of dissent or protest.
Yes, a boycott can be considered a form of discrimination if it is based on a protected characteristic such as race, gender, or religion.
No, a boycott cannot be considered a form of economic terrorism as it is a peaceful and legal form of protest.
No, a business cannot be held liable for losses incurred due to a boycott as long as it is a peaceful and legal form of protest.
Yes, a boycott can be effective in achieving its goals if it is well-organised, sustained, and supported by a significant number of people or organizations.
This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
This glossary post was last updated: 29th March, 2024.
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