What Is a Secondary Boycott?

A secondary boycott is a form of economic coercion whereby a primary target is requested or compelled by a third party to cease doing business with a particular organization or individual. The boycott aims to alter the economic viability of the primary target without the direct involvement of the boycott initiator. This type of pressure can be extremely effective, as it encourages the primary target to distance themselves from the business or individual against whom they may have already been in negotiations.

Secondary boycotts are distinct from a primary boycott, which directly targets an organization or individual with the aim of economic or social pressure. An example of this is when consumers opt not to purchase products or services from a particular company as part of an organized boycott effort.

Famous Examples of Secondary Boycotts

Secondary boycotts have been widely used throughout history as a means of achieving political power. One of the most famous examples of a secondary boycott is the Montgomery Bus Boycott, which began in 1955 when black citizens of Montgomery, Alabama refused to ride the public bus system. This boycott gained international attention, in part because it was led by civil rights leader, Martin Luther King Jr.

Another example of a secondary boycott can be found following the 2017 U.S. Presidential election when some entrepreneurs and business owners chose to boycott Donald Trump’s business interests. This aimed to reduce the amount of money the President-elect received from the business dealings, and indirectly induced other companies and entities to avoid doing business with Trump.

Legal Implications of Secondary Boycotts

In some cases, secondary boycotts can be legally sanctioned if they are used to present a minority view or to effect political change. However, the law is very complex when it comes to secondary boycotts and all secondary actions should be assessed by legal professionals. Unlawful secondary boycotts can see heavy fines and other punishments handed down by the court.

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Additionally, many companies will have policies and procedures in place to govern how they respond to secondary boycotts. Businesses should take these into consideration when determining the best course of action.

Related Legal Concepts

Understanding secondary boycott tactics often intersects with broader concepts of economic pressure and market influence. While a traditional boycott directly targets a specific entity, secondary boycotts create indirect pressure through third-party relationships. These strategies can involve complex legal considerations around secondary meaning in trademark contexts, where the reputation and associations of businesses become central to the boycott’s effectiveness.

The Bottom Line

Secondary boycotts represent a powerful form of indirect economic pressure that can significantly impact businesses and organizations through third-party relationships rather than direct action. These tactics raise important legal questions about permissible forms of economic coercion and can carry serious legal consequences if conducted improperly. For guidance specific to your situation, always consult a qualified, licensed attorney.