Moral courage, injury, and leadership in military contexts : lessons from a thematic analysis of conversations among international experts and students

Introduction

Recent global events have underscored the importance of moral leadership and courage. A series of moderated conversations about moral leadership and dilemmas during times of conflict and crisis were facilitated in 2021 with Lieutenant-General (ret’d) The Honourable Romeo Dallaire, military and global affairs experts and international scholars from North America, Europe, Australia and the global south, together with students from the Netherlands and Canada.

Objective

To explore topics of moral leadership, courage and dilemmas during adversity.

Methods

A total of 94 participants engaged in a series of online conversations (n = 8) and focus groups (n = 3). Sessions were recorded, transcribed and thematically analysed.

Results

Thematic analysis revealed three critical themes: (1) enhancing awareness of moral leadership, (2) moving towards a new vision of moral leadership, and (3) developing training in moral leadership.

Conclusion

These results highlight key insights that may guide current and future leaders. In response to societal diversity and global complexities, traditional leadership and organizational practices may need to be reconsidered. In addition to essential leadership skills, emerging leaders need to be supported to be competent, engaged moral leaders. They may also benefit from positive role-modelling and moral leadership training during basic through advanced leadership and pre-deployment training.