Expecting nations to hold same values unrealistic: New Zealand journalist

WELLINGTON - It is unrealistic to expect nations to behave in line with one set of values, a New Zealand journalist and consultant has written.

"Those who believe that nations should conduct themselves in the world in line with their ethical and moral values have a hard time when confronted with the reality that many other nations do not share those values, or prefer their own norms," John Bishop observed in an opinion article published on Stuff, a New Zealand news website, earlier this month.

He cited the failure of the League of Nations as a startling example of basing foreign policy and international order on values that not everyone shares.

He also cautioned against sinking into abject cynicism.