Carl von Clausewitz once said, “War is a diplomacy by other means.” Critically analyse the above statement in the present context of contemporary geo-political conflict. (2025, 10 Marks)

Paper	GS Paper 4
Word Limit	150 words
Syllabus Topic	Ethical Issues in International Relations

Model Answer

Clausewitz, in his book On War, saw war as a continuation of policy by other means. It means war is a tool to achieve political goals when talks fail.

Relevance Today

• Russia–Ukraine war (2022–) is linked to political aims such as security and NATO expansion.
• Israel–Hamas conflict (2023–) shows force used for political goals.
• Sanctions and trade wars act as diplomacy through pressure.

Ethical Critique

• War is a failure of diplomacy, not its tool. Civilians, refugees and children pay the price.
• Just War Theory allows war only as a last resort and with proportionality.
• Nuclear weapons make war irrational and catastrophic.
• Gandhian non-violence and Kant’s Perpetual Peace show other paths.
• India’s stand: “This is not an era of war” (2022), stressing dialogue and diplomacy.

Conclusion

The statement explains why wars happen, but cannot justify them. Ethics demands dialogue, compassion and peaceful dispute resolution.

Related PYQs

• “It is not enough to talk about peace, one must believe in it; and it is not enough to believe in it, one must act upon it.” In the present context, the major weapon industries of the developed nations are adversely influencing continuation of number of wars for their own self-interest, all around the world. What are the ethical considerations of the powerful nations in today’s international arena to stop continuation of ongoing conflicts? (2024)
• ‘International aid’s is an accepted form of helping ‘resource challenged’ nations. Comment on ethics in contemporary international aid. Support your answer with suitable examples. (2023)

Also read: UN reform and East-West confrontation (GS2 2025)