A government banning trade with a country that uses child labor to produce goods would be done on the basis of _____ .

A government imposing a ban on trade with a country that uses child labor to produce goods is fundamentally concerned with human rights. Such a decision is rooted in ethical considerations and the belief that child labor violates basic human rights standards. The intention behind this action is to promote and protect the welfare of children and ensure that labor practices align with moral and ethical values recognized internationally.

Human rights advocacy often drives policies that address labor practices, especially when vulnerable populations such as children are involved. By banning trade, the government sends a clear message against the exploitation of children and supports the idea that ethical considerations should influence economic decisions. This aligns with numerous international agreements and conventions aimed at abolishing child labor and promoting human dignity.

The other choices focus on different motivations that do not address the moral imperatives involved in such a decision. Economic benefits and trade balances relate more to financial outcomes and advantages in commerce rather than ethical practices. National security typically pertains to protecting a nation from threats, which is not the main rationale in the context of child labor. Hence, the choice that emphasizes human rights best captures the essence of the government's potential action.