IELTS Writing Task 2: The Role of International Organizations in Addressing Global Poverty – Sample Essays and Analysis

International organizations play a crucial role in addressing global poverty, making this topic a frequent subject in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on recent trends and historical data from official IELTS exams, questions related to this theme are likely to appear in future tests. Let’s examine a relevant question and provide sample essays to help you prepare effectively.

Some people believe that international organizations should focus on solving basic problems like food and health in poor countries, while others think they should tackle larger issues such as global warming and nuclear weapons. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Analysis of the Question

This question addresses the role of international organizations in tackling global issues, specifically comparing the importance of addressing basic needs versus larger-scale problems. It requires you to:

1. Discuss the view that international organizations should focus on basic problems in poor countries.
2. Discuss the opposing view that they should address larger global issues.
3. Provide your own opinion on the matter.

Sample Essay (Band 8-9)

International organizations face a dilemma in allocating their resources between addressing immediate basic needs in impoverished nations and tackling broader global challenges. While both approaches have merit, I believe a balanced strategy that prioritizes basic human needs while simultaneously working on long-term global issues is most effective.

Proponents of focusing on basic problems argue that alleviating immediate suffering should be the primary concern of international bodies. By concentrating on food security and healthcare in poor countries, these organizations can make a tangible difference in people’s lives. For instance, the World Food Programme’s efforts to provide emergency food aid have saved countless lives in famine-stricken regions. Moreover, initiatives like the World Health Organization’s vaccination campaigns have significantly reduced child mortality rates in developing nations.

On the other hand, those who advocate for addressing larger issues contend that global challenges like climate change and nuclear proliferation pose existential threats to humanity as a whole. They argue that without tackling these overarching problems, efforts to solve basic issues will be futile in the long run. For example, if climate change continues unabated, it could lead to widespread food shortages and health crises, undoing progress made in these areas. Similarly, the threat of nuclear conflict could negate all humanitarian efforts in an instant.

In my opinion, international organizations should adopt a two-pronged approach. Prioritizing basic needs is crucial for immediate humanitarian reasons and to build a foundation for further development. However, this should not come at the expense of addressing larger global issues. A balanced strategy could involve allocating a majority of resources to immediate problems while dedicating a significant portion to research and initiatives targeting long-term challenges. This approach ensures that current suffering is alleviated while also safeguarding the future of humanity.

In conclusion, while the debate between focusing on basic needs versus global issues is complex, a nuanced approach that addresses both is likely to yield the best results. International organizations must strive to find this balance to effectively combat poverty and ensure a sustainable future for all.

(Word count: 329)

Sample Essay (Band 6-7)

International organizations have a big job in helping solve world problems. Some people think they should focus on basic issues in poor countries, while others believe they should deal with bigger global problems. I think both views have good points, but focusing on basic needs is more important.

Those who support helping with basic problems in poor countries have a strong argument. Food and health are essential for survival, and many people in poor countries lack these basics. For example, organizations like UNICEF provide food and medicine to children in countries where many are starving or sick. This direct help can save lives immediately and improve people’s quality of life.

On the other hand, people who think international organizations should focus on bigger issues like global warming and nuclear weapons also make a good point. These problems affect the whole world and could cause huge disasters if not addressed. For instance, if global warming continues, it could lead to more natural disasters and food shortages worldwide. Nuclear weapons are also a big threat that could harm millions of people if used.

In my opinion, while both views are important, I believe focusing on basic problems like food and health in poor countries should be the priority. The reason is that these problems are immediate and affect people’s lives right now. If people don’t have enough food or basic healthcare, they can’t survive to worry about bigger issues. Also, by helping poor countries with their basic needs, we can create a more stable world where it’s easier to address larger problems together.

To conclude, although big global issues are important, I think international organizations should focus more on solving basic problems in poor countries. This approach can save lives now and create a better foundation for solving bigger problems in the future.

(Word count: 298)

Key Points to Remember When Writing

1. Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing each view, the writer’s opinion, and a conclusion. This organization is crucial for achieving a high band score.

2. Vocabulary: The band 8-9 essay uses more sophisticated vocabulary and phrases, such as “alleviating immediate suffering,” “tangible difference,” and “existential threats.” The band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still effectively communicates the ideas.

3. Grammar: The higher band essay demonstrates a wider range of complex structures, including conditional sentences and passive voice. The band 6-7 essay uses mostly simple and compound sentences but still maintains clarity.

4. Coherence and Cohesion: Both essays use linking words and phrases to connect ideas, but the band 8-9 essay does so more smoothly and with greater variety.

5. Task Response: Both essays address all parts of the question, but the band 8-9 essay provides more detailed examples and a more nuanced opinion.

International organizations addressing global poverty

Important Vocabulary to Remember

1. Alleviate (verb) /əˈliːvieɪt/ – to make something less severe
2. Impoverished (adjective) /ɪmˈpɒvərɪʃt/ – very poor
3. Humanitarian (adjective) /hjuːˌmænɪˈteəriən/ – concerned with reducing suffering and improving people’s lives
4. Existential (adjective) /ˌeɡzɪˈstenʃl/ – relating to existence, especially human existence
5. Prioritize (verb) /praɪˈɒrətaɪz/ – to decide which of a group of things are the most important
6. Allocation (noun) /ˌæləˈkeɪʃn/ – the act of distributing something for a particular purpose
7. Tangible (adjective) /ˈtændʒəbl/ – clear and definite; real
8. Nuanced (adjective) /ˈnjuːɑːnst/ – characterized by subtle shades of meaning or expression
9. Safeguard (verb) /ˈseɪfɡɑːd/ – to protect something from harm or damage
10. Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – able to continue over a period of time

In conclusion, The Role Of International Organizations In Addressing Global Poverty is a complex and multifaceted topic that requires careful consideration. While the sample essays provided focus on one specific question, you may encounter variations on this theme in your IELTS Writing Task 2. Some potential future questions could include:

• Evaluate the effectiveness of international aid programs in reducing global poverty.
• Discuss the responsibilities of developed nations in supporting international organizations that address poverty.
• Consider the long-term impact of international organizations’ efforts on poverty reduction versus short-term relief.

To further improve your writing skills, we encourage you to practice writing your own essay on the topic discussed in this article. Share your essay in the comments section below for feedback and discussion with fellow IELTS aspirants. This active practice will help you refine your skills and gain confidence in tackling similar questions in the actual test.

For more insights on related topics, you might find these articles helpful:

• The Role of Technology in Reducing Poverty
• How to Address the Challenges of Food Insecurity
• The Role of Education in Combating Global Challenges

Remember, consistent practice and exposure to a variety of topics will significantly enhance your performance in the IELTS Writing Task 2.