Just War Tradition

The principal criteria of just war tradition evolved over many centuries, beginning in the fourth and fifth centuries, and elaborated by Saint Thomas Aquinas and other moral philosophers in the medieval and modern periods. A distinction is made between principles concerning the just resort to war (jus ad bellum) and those concerning just conduct in war (jus in bello).

The five most common jus ad bellum principles are:

1. Just cause. A decision for war must vindicate justice itself in response to some serious evil, such as an aggressive attack.

2. Just intent. The ends sought in a decision for war must include the restoration of peace with justice and must not seek self-aggrandizement or the total devastation of another nation.

3. Last resort. This tradition shares with pacifism a moral presumption against going to war - but is prepared to make exceptions. Every possibility of peaceful settlement of a conflict must be tried before war is begun.

4. Legitimate authority. A decision for war may be made and declared only by properly constituted governmental authority.

5. Reasonable hope of success. A decision for war must be based on a prudent expectation that the ends sought can be achieved. It is hardly an act of justice to plunge one's people into the suffering and sacrifice of a suicidal conflict.
   

The two main jus in bello principles are:

1. Discrimination. Justice in the actual conduct of war requires respect for the rights of enemy peoples, especially for the immunity of noncombatants from direct attack. Such respect also rules out atrocities, reprisals, looting, and wanton violence.

2. Proportionality. The amount of damage inflicted must be strictly proportionate to the ends sought. Injuries should not be avenged by massive suffering, death, and devastation. The war's harm must not exceed the war's good.

I. Increase Education and Awareness
II. Communicate with Elected Officials
III. Engage the Media
IV. Build Partnerships and Coalitions
V. Engage in Direct Action
VI. Develop Inner Strength

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