The US military is facing an unprecedented crisis as its personnel are torn between their duty to follow orders and their moral obligation to disobey illegal ones. The situation has sparked a heated debate on social media, with President Donald Trump labeling the lawmakers’ action “seditious behavior, punishable by death.” However, many service members understand that they have the right to refuse orders that violate international law or the US Constitution.
A recent survey conducted by scholars of international relations and international law found that most active-duty troops know how to distinguish between lawful and unlawful orders. When asked about their willingness to disobey orders that were “obviously wrong,” 25% of respondents wrote that they would refuse them, citing moral or constitutional grounds.
The survey also revealed that many service members struggle with trusting US law as a standard for illegality. Instead, international law is seen as a more reliable guide. The respondents emphasized the importance of standing up against oppression and protecting civilians, even if it means disobeying orders.
This crisis highlights the need for clear guidance on how to navigate complex moral dilemmas in the military. As one respondent noted, “We are not required to obey such laws.” The survey’s findings suggest that many service members are willing to take a stand against unjust orders, but they need reassurance from their leaders and the government.
Ultimately, the US military must find a way to balance its duty to follow orders with its moral obligation to disobey illegal ones. This requires a deeper understanding of international law and its application in real-world scenarios. As one scholar noted, “Even thinking about law and morality can make a difference in opposition to certain war crimes.”
Source: https://theconversation.com