Russia and Ukraine war has been going on for the last seven months. Different countries have taken independent stands and actions keeping in view their own national interests. We are all aware that war has its own impact on the different aspects of society, including human tragedy. What are those ethical issues that are crucial to be considered while launching the war and its continuation so far? Illustrate with justification the ethical issues involved in the given state of affairs.
1. Just war theory evaluates conflicts through
Just war theory evaluates conflicts through jus ad bellum, the right to start war, and jus in bello, right conduct within it.
2. Jus ad bellum requires just cause
Jus ad bellum requires just cause, legitimate authority, right intention, last resort, and reasonable prospects of success.
3. Proportionality demands that the anticipated good
Proportionality demands that the anticipated good of war outweigh its foreseeable human, economic, and environmental costs.
4. Jus in bello requires discrimination: civilians
Jus in bello requires discrimination: civilians must never be targeted and attacks must distinguish combatants from non-combatants.
5. The principle of distinction is violated
The principle of distinction is violated when civilian infrastructure such as hospitals, schools, and power grids is attacked.
6. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine raises questions
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine raises questions of aggression versus self-defence, sovereignty, and the legitimacy of unilateral action.
7. War’s continuation demands ethical scrutiny of
War’s continuation demands ethical scrutiny of civilian casualties, displacement, refugee crises, food security, and global fallout.
8. Jus post bellum covers post-war justice:
Jus post bellum covers post-war justice: reconstruction, accountability for war crimes, and a just and durable peace.
9. Neutrality raises moral dilemmas: supplying arms
Neutrality raises moral dilemmas: supplying arms or imposing sanctions makes third countries ethically complicit in the war’s outcomes.
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