GS4 · Topic
Ethics in International Relations
Ethical issues in international relations and in funding, aid and conditionality, and obligation beyond the border.
91 UPSC Mains GS4 questions on Ethics in International Relations that toppers answered in test series, CSE 2014–2025, most answered first. Open one to see how toppers opened, built and closed it.
What is meant by 'international ethics'? Why is it important to study? Discuss any one international issue from the viewpoint of international ethics.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2018
Ethics in International Relations
"Ethics is a luxury for which states and their leaders have no time." Discuss. What is the relevance of ethics in International affairs in the present times?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2023
Ethics in International Relations
The notion of an ethical foreign policy downplays the realities of international politics. Critically discuss.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2020
Ethics in International RelationsEthical Dilemmas in Government
You are a Foreign Service official working in an embassy overseas. One of your duties was to liaise with the local Indian community, one of the country's largest immigrant groups. A group of wealthy Indian immigrants wanted to build a place of worship and a school to promote their language and culture. The school was intended to act as a center for promoting and preserving Indian culture among the immigrants. The Indian community leaders went through all the legal procedures to acquire the land, got the building plans approved by the city council, and with all the approvals in place, the construction work began. A few months into the construction, the locals started complaining about noise, and slowly a campaign began against the construction of a religious structure. The local city councilors joined in and raised the issue of how Indian immigrants having their own cultural space will lead to a similar demand from other immigrant communities. And this may escalate intolerance among different ethnic groups. The local politicians filed a public lawsuit to halt the construction and demolish whatever was built. Indian community responded with their lawsuit and approached the embassy for help. They wanted the Ambassador to take up the issue with the government. Meanwhile, the Ambassador deputed you to meet the Indian community leaders to understand the issue and prepare a report. You met with the community leaders and found that the reason for local antipathy towards the Indian community was just an expression of latent racism and intolerance. You presented your observations to the Ambassador and requested him to do something as the Indians were on the right and were being victims of racist behavior. The Ambassador, in turn, replied that he would not like to get involved in local politics. The Indians were citizens of that country; they had nothing to do with India besides ethnicity. Further, a crucial Economic agreement was about to be signed between the two countries in the coming weeks, and he did not want to jeopardize the growing relations between the two countries over some local politics. You were shocked to see economics getting priority over the diaspora. (a) What are the issues involved in the above case? (b) Do you agree with the Ambassador's position of prioritizing economics over helping the diaspora? Why/why not? (c) Among Care, Consequentialism, and Duty, what do you think is the appropriate perspective to guide Indian Foreign policy? Justify.
20 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2023
Ethics in International RelationsEthical Dilemmas in Government
Most of the time, the bilateral conflicts become difficult to resolve due to mutual suspicion. How does the 'Panch Sheel' help in promoting ethical relations between countries?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Ethics in International Relations
All nations give first priority to their citizens for example they are given some constitutional rights which are not enjoyed by people of other countries. Doesn't it show giving preference to citizen over human? Is it ethically justifiable to divide people on the basis of citizenship, that is, territorial sovereignty? Illustrate and explain.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2016
Ethics in International RelationsDimensions of Ethics
In the wake of climate change and severe air pollution in India, there is huge public awareness and demand to stop felling of trees for industry requirements. Laws in India are also very strict against felling of trees; therefore India has been importing huge quantities of cheap wood/timber from south-east Asian countries like Indonesia. India's demand of timber has resulted into large scale destruction of tropical forests and associated biodiversity in these countries, along with the displacement of many locals. (a) Bring out the ethical dilemmas in this case (b) Do you think the same environmental ethics followed in home country should guide our international dealings or international relations should be based on pure economic terms?
20 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2018
Ethics in International RelationsEnvironmental Ethics
You are representing India in an international bidding for oil exploration in a country. Other, richer countries are also bidding for the project. You are sure that your bid of exploration is better as well as cheaper than that of others, and that you will definitely win the bid. A day before the auction, you come to know that other countries are employing every means, including bribing the authorities for being successful. Some of the officials of the home country have also contacted you and made some demands in exchange for assurance of India winning the bid. You are aware of the criticality of this bid in terms of domestic economic and strategic implications. Based on above information, answer the following questions. (a) Specify the ethical dilemma(s) that you face in this situation. (b) Do ethical concerns really matter in international transactions or are they secondary to domestic interests? (c) What will be the course of action in the above situation? Justify with merits and demerits.
20 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2017
Ethical Dilemmas in GovernmentEthics in International Relations
"Ethical principles are intrinsic in India's Foreign Policy". Discuss.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2021
Ethics in International Relations
Nisrael, a country in West Asia, recently faced an unprecedented attack on its soil, in which more than 1500 people were brutally massacred. Thousands were injured, and around 200 people were taken hostage. The coordinated attack from land, air, and sea was carried out by an organization named Tamas, which many countries, including Nisrael have designated as a terrorist organization. On the other hand, Tamas argues that it represents the cause of the people of Salestine, whose land is under the illegal occupation of Nisrael. Tamas justified its actions as armed resistance against Nisrael for freedom and self-determination. The attack has sent shockwaves across Nisrael and around the world. Serious questions are being raised by citizens over the intelligence failure of Nisrael's Kossad, one of the most renowned intelligence agencies in the world. However, for the time being, Nisraelis have rallied behind their government and want a befitting response to such an audacious attack. Consequently, the PM of Nisrael has declared war on the Tamas and vowed to eliminate every member of the Tamas. Nisrael has responded by conducting aerial bombings of the Daza strip, which is governed by Tamas. The Daza Strip is a densely populated region, and aerial strikes by Nisrael have led to the killing of many innocent civilians. It is reported that more than 10,000 people have lost their lives in Daza, including some of the hostages as well. There is an acute shortage of food, fuel, and essential items in Daza. The United Nations has warned that the situation in Daza may turn into a grave humanitarian crisis. Meanwhile, the international community seems to be divided over the issue. While some countries are defending Nisrael's actions as an act of self-defense, others are blaming Nisrael's illegal occupation of Salestinian territory as the root cause of the conflict and supporting the Tamas. Some nations are pursuing a diplomatic tightrope walk by condemning the ghastly attack on Nisrael and raising concerns over the humanitarian crisis in the Daza strip. Experts fear that if a ceasefire is not declared immediately between the warring parties, the conflict may spiral to other countries in the restive West Asia and may assume catastrophic consequences. Dharmat, a country in Asia, has good relations with both Nisrael and Salestine. While it has historic ties with Salestine, its relations with Nisrael have grown by leaps and bounds in recent times. Dharmat and Nisrael are strategic partners and are actively cooperating in different sectors like agriculture, wastewater management, counter-terrorism, etc. Also, Nisrael is one of the largest suppliers of cutting-edge defense equipment to Dharmat. Both Nisrael and Salestine have reached out to Dharmat to garner support for their respective positions. In Dharmat, there have been rallies and marches in support of both Nisrael and Salestine by different groups. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of Dharmat of Dharmat is drafting an official response to the whole situation. You are the secretary in MEA, tasked with drafting a response regarding the same. a) What are the various ethical issues involved in the case study? b) List various factors that you would consider while drafting the response.
20 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper
Ethics in International RelationsEthical Dilemmas in Government
Around the world, more than 125 million people need humanitarian aid. With special reference to financial assistance, discuss the various ethical issues involved in addressing the needs of those in dire circumstances. What measures can be undertaken to ensure that donations and aids for such purposes are thoroughly channelled to meet their targets.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2017
Ethics in International RelationsUtilisation of Public Funds
"Laws are silent in times of war." - Cicero
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper
Law and MoralityEthics in International Relations
It is said that in International relations, pursuit of one's own interest should be the only objective. Do you agree?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper
Ethics in International RelationsDimensions of Ethics
Space exploration has the potential to benefit all of humanity, yet it is currently dominated by a few powerful nations and private corporations. In this context, discuss the ethical issues arising from this imbalance in control and access to space resources.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper
Ethics in International RelationsTechnology and Ethics
Current & time countries are facing brunt of climate change through rising sea level, extreme weather events. In this context Developed countries setting climate targets without devolving any substantial funds raises ethical questions.
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2025
Ethics in International RelationsEnvironmental Ethics
Foreign aid, although championed as a vital tool for socio-economic development, often runs into stiff opposition from the intended beneficiaries. Elaborate on the various ethical concerns associated with foreign aid. Suggest measures to address the challenges related to foreign aid.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper
Ethics in International RelationsAccountability and Ethical Governance
Analyse the ethical dimensions of using nuclear deterrence as a self defence strategy.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2018
Ethics in International RelationsDimensions of Ethics
The effects of climate change will be felt most keenly by developing nations eg submergence of small island nations states like Maldives due to sea level rise. small nations are virtually powerless to arrest climate change. thus developed nations must behave responsibly and accept their differentiated responsibilities regarding climate change.
Answered by 1 topper
Ethics in International RelationsEnvironmental Ethics
Respect for HRs & humanitarian principles is a responsibility for all members of the international community. Discuss in context of roles & responsibilities of States for protection of refugees.
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2020
Ethics in International Relations
Given is a case with three subsequent situational-modifications, after reading all the three situations answer the given questions; Imagine you are a homeowner in a quiet suburban neighborhood, living with your family in a nice, large house. You make plenty of money, have plenty of food, and have extra bed-rooms; you never really have to worry about anyone being uncomfortable in the house. (i) One night, while working late at night you hear the sound of your doorbell and open the door - standing there is a homeless man. This man does not hold out a tin can or ask you for a donation. Instead, he asks you to let him into your home, feed him, and provide him with a bed in one of your many empty bedrooms. Now, this is not particularly a problem for you, as you have plenty of food and even have an empty bedroom for this man to sleep in. (ii) Imagine, instead of the homeless man asking to stay in your house, you find there is a regular looking man, seeking shelter from a murderer who is down the street trying to kill him. From your window, you can see the murderer at the end of the street, waving his gun around. Now, knowing that if you leave this man outside he will probably be killed. (iii) Imagine, that there are whole rows of houses on your block that have their lights on and the man has option to go to some other house as well. (a) Among all the above given situations, when do you think that you are morally obligated to let the man in your house? Give reasons. (b) Using the above situations as an analogy to the geopolitical situation of the refugee crisis, Discuss the moral responsibilities of developed and capable countries toward more than 60 million displaced people in the world today? Should they let refugees in to their borders? Justify.
20 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2018
Ethics in International RelationsEmpathy and Compassion
Climate change not only threatens our ecosystems but also undermines the foundation of our fundamental rights, deepens inequalities and creates new forms of injustice. Adapting to climate change and trying to mitigate its impacts are not just a matter of scientific knowledge and political will but also demand a broader view of a complex, inter-related situation. Human induced climate change has brought in several ethical dimensions not just in causing climate change but also in the role and responsibility in mitigating it. (a) Highlight the ethical issues arising out of human-induced climate change. (b) What ethical principles should form the basis of global action on climate change?
20 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2025
Environmental EthicsEthics in International Relations
What do you understand by environmental ethics? Examine the ethical concerns in 'phase-down versus phase out debate' in the use of coal by developing countries.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper
Environmental EthicsEthics in International Relations
Respect for human rights and humanitarian principles is a responsibillty for all members of the international community. Discuss in the context of roles and responsibilities of States for protection of refugees.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2020
Ethics in International RelationsEmpathy and Compassion
Do you think a corporate social responsibility extends beyond one's immediate community to the international community? Why / Why not?
20 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2021
Corporate GovernanceEthics in International Relations
As the interaction and collaboration among the nations is continuously increasing, so is the number of ethical issues between them on the global arena? Justify with examples.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2014
Ethics in International Relations
"Starvation must not be used as a weapon of war." Yet, parties involved in conflicts often resort to the blockade of essential supplies to conflict zones, deepening the humanitarian crisis. Powerful nations, despite their capacity to intervene, tend to prioritise strategic interests over humanitarian concerns. What ethical considerations should guide powerful nations in preventing such actions and ensuring unimpeded humanitarian access?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2017
Ethics in International RelationsEmpathy and Compassion
The role of politics and power overshadows the importance of 'ethics' in international relations. Examine this statement in the context of the present international scenario.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Ethics in International Relations
The challenge of climate change presents the world with several fundamental ethical dilemmas. From a global perspective, it presents the world with a collective action problem: all countries have a collective interest in controlling global carbon emissions. But each individual country also has incentives to over-consume in response to societal demands for economic growth and prosperity. Developing nations faced with these costs may encounter further challenges as the impact of climate change will most likely fall disproportionately on the poor, thus also raising issues of fairness and inequality. As an intergenerational problem, the consequences of actions taken by the current generation will have the greatest impact on future generations. While it is intuitive that the current generation has some ethical responsibility to leave an inhabitable world to future generations, the extent of this obligation is less clear. Answer the following questions in this regard: (a) To what extent do humans have a moral responsibility to future generations that are yet to be born? (b) Do developed countries have a greater responsibility to take action and bear more costs of controlling climate change than developing countries?
20 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper
Environmental EthicsEthics in International Relations
"To delight in war is a merit in the soldier, a dangerous quality in the captain, and a positive crime in the statesman." - George Santayana. Can war be ethically justified? Discuss the moral Principles related to war.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2022
Ethics in International RelationsEthical Theories
Examine the issue of foreign aid in global politics from an ethical perspective.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2022
Ethics in International Relations