Philosophy essay

Written Assignment 1, Topic 4: United Nations Relief to East Ghouta, Syria (Cosmopolitanism and Sovereignty)

Deadline: Monday, January 21st, 10 PM (via Turnitin).

Length: I think it will take about 3 to 4 pages to make a complete, thorough, and convincing argument.

Works Cited: Please provide a Works Cited page (in addition to your essay of 3-4 pages)

Sources: Use at least three sources for the final draft of your response.

Short Prompt:

Since 2012, Syria was undergone a civil war between the government of Bashar al-Assad and the rebels who want to overthrow him. Six years later, the fighting continues, though it’s largely agreed that the Syrian government has the upper hand.

In March 2018, the United Nations organized a delivery of 46 truckloads of food and medical supplies to East Ghouta, a city held by the rebel forces. The supplies were for the many civilians injured by the most recent fighting. However, the government intercepted the trucks en route and took the supplies meant for the civilians in East Ghouta. The probable reason for stopping the trucks is that the Syrian government believed that the supplies would eventually go to the rebels themselves.

Research:

Do background research on the Syrian Civil War, and in particular, the United Nations effort to relieve the civilians of East Ghouta. Make sure to get a good sense of the case, its surrounding issues, and the international controversy that followed it. You will also need to learn about its aftermath. 

Writing Topic:

In an essay of about 3-4 pages in length, argue whether the Syrian government of Bashar al-Assad was justified in intercepting the supplies meant for East Ghouta. Just as important, discuss the incident in terms of the criteria of cosmopolitanism and sovereignty. Which of these two ideas has precedence? Why? Explain your answer in a convincing, detailed, and accurate essay.