Describe the main tenets of ethics’ “virtue theory.” Which qualities do you believe are essential to having as an administrator in India?
Model Answer Introduction The statement that refugees should not be turned back to countries where they face persecution underscores an ethical obligation that democratic nations have in safeguarding fundamental human rights. When states repatriate refugees to places of danger, they violate core ethRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
The statement that refugees should not be turned back to countries where they face persecution underscores an ethical obligation that democratic nations have in safeguarding fundamental human rights. When states repatriate refugees to places of danger, they violate core ethical principles such as justice, compassion, and respect for human dignity.
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Violation of Non-refoulement Principle
One significant ethical breach is the violation of the non-refoulement principle, which mandates that refugees should not be returned to places where they face serious threats. For instance, Australia has been widely criticized for its Operation Sovereign Borders, initiated in 2013, which involved intercepting and returning boats carrying asylum seekers, including those fleeing persecution (Amnesty International, 2019). This policy starkly contradicts the ethical commitment to protect vulnerable populations.
Lack of Compassion and Solidarity
The lack of compassion is evident in Hungary’s response to the refugee crisis. In 2015, the country constructed fences along its borders to deter refugees, demonstrating a failure to show solidarity with those in need (Human Rights Watch, 2016). This act not only undermined human rights but also reflected a broader disregard for ethical considerations in the face of humanitarian crises.
Other Relevant Examples
The Rohingya crisis of 2017 illustrates another ethical failure. Over 700,000 Rohingyas fled violence in Myanmar to Bangladesh, which, despite its limited resources, struggled to accommodate them. Many were turned back, facing further persecution (UNHCR, 2018). Similarly, during the Syrian refugee crisis, millions fled conflict, but numerous nations, citing national security, refused to accept them, violating ethical obligations to assist those in dire need (European Council on Refugees and Exiles, 2020).
In the context of the US-Mexico border, policies have been implemented to turn back Central American migrants to Mexico, exposing them to violence and human rights abuses (American Civil Liberties Union, 2021). Each of these examples illustrates a profound ethical failure to protect refugees.
Conclusion
It is crucial for nations to uphold their ethical obligations to protect refugees’ rights, ensuring they receive support and assistance necessary for a life of dignity and security. Upholding these principles is fundamental to maintaining the integrity of democratic societies.
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Virtue ethics, or virtue theory, is an approach to ethics that emphasizes the development of moral character and virtues as the key to ethical decision-making rather than focusing on rules or consequences. Here are the main tenets of virtue theory: Focus on Virtue: Virtue ethics places primary imporRead more
Virtue ethics, or virtue theory, is an approach to ethics that emphasizes the development of moral character and virtues as the key to ethical decision-making rather than focusing on rules or consequences. Here are the main tenets of virtue theory:
In the context of administration in India, several virtues are particularly essential for administrators to effectively serve the public interest and uphold ethical standards:
- Integrity: Administrators should demonstrate honesty, transparency, and adherence to ethical principles in their decision-making and actions.
- Justice: Fairness and impartiality are crucial virtues for administrators to ensure equitable distribution of resources and opportunities among citizens.
- Courage: Administrators may face pressures or risks in making decisions that uphold the public good. Courage enables them to act ethically despite potential challenges.
- Prudence: Practical wisdom or prudence helps administrators navigate complex situations and make sound judgments that consider long-term consequences and the well-being of all stakeholders.
- Empathy and Compassion: Understanding the needs and perspectives of citizens and demonstrating empathy and compassion in policymaking and public service are vital for effective administration.
- Accountability: Taking responsibility for one’s decisions and actions, and being accountable to the public and institutions, is essential in fostering trust and legitimacy.
- Respect for Rule of Law: Upholding the rule of law and respecting legal norms and procedures ensure that administrators act within ethical and legal boundaries.
- Leadership: Inspiring trust, motivating others, and leading by example are qualities that enable administrators to foster a culture of ethical behavior and high standards of governance.
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