The topic of minimum wage regulation has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing approximately 3-4 times annually in recent years. Given its socioeconomic significance, why governments should increase minimum wages continues to be a highly relevant topic for IELTS candidates.
Diverse groups discussing minimum wage policies at international conference
Analysis of Recent IELTS Minimum Wage Topics
Among the most frequently appearing questions, this particular prompt has shown significant consistency:
Some people believe that governments should increase the minimum wage annually. Others think that this decision should be left to companies. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Question Analysis
- Topic: Minimum wage regulation
- Task: Discussion + Opinion
- Key aspects to address:
- Government regulation vs. market forces
- Annual increases vs. flexible adjustments
- Economic implications
- Social impact
Similar to should workplace wellness programs be required, this topic requires careful consideration of both employer and employee perspectives.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
The debate over whether minimum wage increases should be mandated by governments or determined by businesses represents a critical economic policy issue. While both approaches have their merits, I believe that government oversight of minimum wage regulations is essential for maintaining social equity and economic stability.
Government-mandated minimum wage increases offer several advantages. Firstly, they ensure consistent living standards for workers across all sectors, preventing exploitation and reducing income inequality. Moreover, regular adjustments help workers keep pace with inflation and rising living costs. For instance, countries like Australia, which implements annual minimum wage reviews, have demonstrated that systematic increases can support both worker welfare and economic growth.
However, proponents of company-controlled wages argue that businesses should have autonomy in determining employee compensation. They contend that market forces naturally optimize wage levels and that companies understand their financial capabilities better than government regulators. Additionally, some economists suggest that mandated increases might lead to reduced employment opportunities or business closures, particularly affecting small enterprises.
Despite these concerns, I firmly support government regulation of minimum wage increases. The importance of enforcing minimum wage laws becomes evident when examining historical cases of worker exploitation in unregulated markets. Furthermore, government oversight ensures a level playing field for businesses while protecting vulnerable workers from economic hardship.
Essential workers from various sectors affected by minimum wage policies
Sample Essay 2 (Band 7.5)
The question of who should control minimum wage increases has become increasingly important in modern economies. This essay will examine both governmental and corporate approaches to wage regulation, ultimately supporting a balanced solution.
When governments manage minimum wage increases, they can ensure fair treatment of workers across all industries. Annual adjustments help employees maintain their purchasing power and prevent poverty among working populations. For example, many European countries successfully implement regular minimum wage reviews that consider both economic conditions and workers’ needs.
On the other hand, letting companies decide wage increases has certain advantages. Businesses can adjust salaries based on their financial performance and market conditions. This flexibility might help them remain competitive and maintain employment levels. Small businesses, in particular, may struggle with government-mandated increases that don’t consider their specific circumstances.
In my opinion, while companies should have some flexibility, should governments enforce a universal minimum wage remains a crucial question with a clear answer: yes. A hybrid system where governments set baseline increases while allowing companies some discretion in implementing additional raises could be most effective.
Sample Essay 3 (Band 6.5)
Nowadays, there is a big discussion about who should control minimum wage increases. Some people think governments should do it every year, but others believe companies should decide. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
When governments increase minimum wage every year, workers can get better pay regularly. This helps them buy things they need and have a good life. Also, when the government makes all companies follow the same rules, it is fair for everyone. Many countries do this and it works well.
However, some people think companies should choose when to increase wages. They say businesses know their money situation better than the government. Also, some small companies might have problems if they must pay higher wages every year. This could make them fire workers or close their business.
In my opinion, I think should there be a global minimum wage is important, and governments should control it. This way, all workers can get fair pay and companies cannot pay too little money. But maybe governments should also listen to what companies say about their situation.
Key Vocabulary
- mandate (v) /ˈmændeɪt/ – to officially require something
- exploitation (n) /ˌeksplɔɪˈteɪʃən/ – the action of treating someone unfairly for your own benefit
- autonomy (n) /ɔːˈtɒnəmi/ – freedom to make your own decisions
- purchasing power (n) /ˈpɜːtʃəsɪŋ ˈpaʊə/ – the ability to buy goods and services
- discretion (n) /dɪˈskreʃən/ – the freedom to decide what should be done in a particular situation
Practice Suggestion
Try writing your own essay about this topic or related ones like “Should there be a global minimum wage standard?” Share your essay in the comments for feedback and discussion.
