Proxy War Ethics

Proxy War

In this article, Anthony Pfaff discusses what ethical norms should govern proxy war and the relationships that sustain them; the way the existence of a benefactor-proxy relationship complicates the application of traditional jus ad bellum criteria; and the additional moral problems caused by the way proxy wars shift risk away from benefactors. He concludes by suggesting a set of norms that should guide proxy relationships.

By C. Anthony Pfaff

C. Anthony Pfaff is a Research Professor, Military Profession and Ethics, Strategic Studies Institute, US Army War College. The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the US Army War College, the US Army, the Department of Defense, or the US Government.

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