Model Answer

Just War Theory provides moral principles for determining when war is justified and how it should be conducted. It balances legitimate defence with respect for human dignity.

Ethical Principles of Just War

1. Just cause permits force for legitimate defence. e.g: Self-defence against armed aggression.
2. Last resort requires exhausting peaceful alternatives before war.
3. Proportionality demands that expected benefits outweigh foreseeable harm.

Major Ethical Dilemmas

1. National security vs human rights creates tension between military objectives and civilian protection.
2. Military necessity vs proportionality raises questions about excessive force. e.g: Civilian casualties during urban warfare.
3. Duty vs conscience challenges soldiers facing unlawful orders. e.g: Nuremberg Principles.
4. Sovereignty vs humanitarian intervention creates conflict between non-interference and preventing atrocities.

Way Forward

1. Diplomatic solutions must prioritise peaceful conflict resolution.
2. Humanitarian law must protect civilians and prohibit indiscriminate attacks. e.g: Geneva Conventions.
3. Accountability mechanisms must investigate violations and ensure justice.

A just cause cannot justify unjust means. Ethical warfare requires restraint, civilian protection and accountability.