Q. The 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 affair. (150 words, 10 Marks)

July 6, 2023 14

GS Paper IV Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude

Answer:

Approach:

Introduction: Brief introduction in accordance to the context of the question.
Body:
1. Mention the ethical issue involved in the given state of affairs.
2. Add impacts for further substantiation.
Conclusion: Conclude by relevant statements or present context and implications.

Introduction:

The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has entered its seventh month, resulting in a devastating humanitarian crisis and raising numerous ethical concerns. As different countries have taken independent stands and actions based on their national interests, it becomes essential to explore the ethical issues associated with the launch and continuation of the war.

Body:

Ethical issues involved in Ukraine Russia War:-

One of the primary ethical issues is the principle of non-intervention, which prohibits states from using force or intervening in the affairs of other states. While some countries may argue that intervention is necessary to protect human rights and prevent further conflict, it can also be seen as a violation of sovereignty and the right to self-determination.
Another ethical issue is the principle of proportionality, which requires that the use of force be proportionate to the intended military objective and not cause excessive harm to civilians or non-combatants. In the case of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, there have been reports of civilian casualties and damage to infrastructure, raising concerns about whether the use of force has been proportional.
Additionally, the principle of discrimination, which requires that the use of force be directed only at legitimate military targets and not harm civilians, has been called into question. There have been allegations of indiscriminate attacks on civilian areas, such as residential neighborhoods and hospitals, leading to the loss of innocent lives and damage to essential infrastructure.
The impact of the conflict on human rights and the humanitarian situation is also a significant ethical issue. The conflict has led to the displacement of hundreds of thousands of people, including refugees and internally displaced persons, as well as reports of human rights abuses and violations, such as arbitrary detention, torture, and extrajudicial killings.
Moreover, the economic and environmental consequences of the conflict are also ethical concerns. The conflict has disrupted trade, damaged infrastructure, and caused environmental damage, such as oil spills, leading to long-term economic and environmental consequences for both countries.

Conclusion:

Russia-Ukraine conflict raises numerous ethical issues related to the use of force, human rights, and the humanitarian situation, as well as economic and environmental consequences. It is crucial for all parties involved to consider these ethical issues and work towards a peaceful resolution that respects human rights and protects civilians from harm.