The Chairman of Bharat Missiles Ltd (BML) was watching a program on TV wherein the Prime Minister was addressing the nation on the necessity of developing a self-reliant India. He subconsciously nodded in agreement and smiled to himself as he mentally reviewed BML’s journey in the past two decades. BML had admirably progressed from producing first generation anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs) to designing and producing state of the art ATGM weapon systems that would be the envy of any army. He sighed in reconciliation with his assumptions that the government would probably not alter the status quo of a ban on export of military weaponry. To his surprise, the very next day he got a telephone call from the Director General, Ministry of Defence, asking him to discuss the modalities of increasing BML production of ATGMs as there is a possibility of exporting the same to a friendly foreign country. The Director General wanted the Chairman to discuss the details with his staff at Delhi next week. Two days later, at a press conference, the Defence Minister stated that he aims to double the current weapons export levels within five years. This would give an impetus to financing the development and manufacture of indigenous weapons in the country. He also stated that all indigenous arms manufacturing nations have a very good record of international arms trade. As Chairman of BML, what are your views on the following points?
a. As an arms exporter of a responsible nation like India, what are the ethical issues involved in arms trade?
b. List five ethical factors that would influence the decision to sell arms to foreign governments. (250 words) [UPSC 2020]
a. Ethical Issues in Arms Trade for a Responsible Nation
As an arms exporter from a responsible nation like India, several ethical issues need to be considered:
Recent Example: India’s export of the BrahMos missile to the Philippines highlights the need for careful consideration of the recipient country’s use of the weapon and its potential impact on regional security.
b. Ethical Factors Influencing the Decision to Sell Arms to Foreign Governments
Recent Example: The sale of the Akash missile system to Myanmar was controversial due to concerns over its potential use in internal conflicts. This highlights the need for careful consideration of ethical factors in arms trade decisions.
Model Answer
Introduction
Bharat Missiles Ltd (BML) has seen significant growth in missile production and is now presented with the opportunity to export Anti-Tank Guided Missiles (ATGMs) following the Indian government’s push for self-reliance in defense. The Chairman’s reflections highlight the ethical complexities of entering the arms trade as a responsible nation. The decision to engage in this market requires careful consideration of various ethical factors.
(a) Views of the Chairman of BML
The Chairman of BML likely holds mixed feelings about the prospect of arms exports:
(b) Ethical Issues in Arms Trade
1. Human Rights Considerations
Selling arms to nations with poor human rights records raises concerns about potential misuse against civilians (Amnesty International, 2020).
2. Destabilization of Regions
Arms exports to conflict-prone areas can exacerbate violence and humanitarian crises, destabilizing regions further (United Nations, 2021).
3. Supporting Oppressive Regimes
Selling arms to authoritarian governments may be perceived as endorsing oppressive practices, thus compromising ethical standards (Human Rights Watch, 2020).
4. Non-Proliferation of Weapons
Exporting weapons to countries that may enhance their military capabilities poses ethical dilemmas related to non-proliferation and arms races (International Atomic Energy Agency, 2020).
5. Transparency and Accountability
Ensuring transparency in the arms trade is crucial to prevent corruption and guarantee responsible end-use of weapons, thereby minimizing risks of diversion to unauthorized entities (Transparency International, 2020).
Conclusion
As the Chairman of BML contemplates entering the arms export market, it is essential to assess the risks and benefits, consult experts, adhere to international norms, ensure transparency, and promote responsible use of arms. These ethical considerations will guide BML in making informed decisions that align with both national interests and global responsibilities.