Financial crises and their impact on international relations have become increasingly relevant topics in IELTS Writing Task 2. This subject has appeared in various forms over the past few years, reflecting its growing importance in global affairs. As economies become more interconnected, the ripple effects of financial instability are felt across borders, making it a pertinent issue for IELTS candidates to explore.
Based on recent trends and the frequency of related questions, we can expect to see more prompts addressing the intersection of economic challenges and diplomatic ties. Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams:
Some people believe that financial crises have a negative impact on international relations, while others think they can lead to increased cooperation between countries. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss the negative impacts of financial crises on international relations
- Explore how financial crises can lead to increased cooperation
- Provide a personal opinion on the overall effect
The topic combines elements of economics, politics, and international relations, making it challenging but also allowing for diverse perspectives.
Sample Essays
Band 8-9 Essay
Financial turbulence has long been a catalyst for change in the global arena, influencing how nations interact and cooperate. While some argue that economic downturns invariably strain international relations, others contend that such crises can foster greater collaboration among countries. In my view, financial crises have the potential to do both, depending on how nations choose to respond.
On one hand, financial crises can indeed have detrimental effects on international relations. Economic hardship often leads to protectionist policies, with countries prioritizing domestic interests over global cooperation. For instance, during the 2008 global financial crisis, many nations implemented tariffs and trade barriers to protect local industries, straining diplomatic ties and economic partnerships. Moreover, financial instability can exacerbate existing tensions between countries, as seen in the Eurozone crisis, where debates over fiscal responsibility and bailout terms created rifts between European Union members.
Conversely, financial crises can also serve as a unifying force, compelling nations to work together to mitigate global economic risks. The establishment of the G20 as a premier forum for international economic cooperation is a prime example of how financial turmoil can lead to enhanced collaboration. In times of crisis, countries often recognize the need for coordinated action, leading to the development of new international financial institutions and agreements. The creation of the European Stability Mechanism in response to the Eurozone crisis demonstrates how economic challenges can foster regional integration and solidarity.
In my opinion, while financial crises initially tend to strain international relations, they ultimately have the potential to strengthen global cooperation in the long term. The immediate response to economic turmoil may involve nationalistic tendencies, but the interconnected nature of the global economy necessitates collaborative solutions. The rise of mutual dependence in globalized economies means that countries must work together to ensure stability and growth.
In conclusion, financial crises present both challenges and opportunities for international relations. While they can initially create tensions, they also provide a platform for countries to come together and develop more robust systems of global economic governance. The key lies in how nations choose to respond to these crises, with cooperation and mutual understanding being crucial for turning economic challenges into catalysts for positive change in international relations.
(Word count: 377)
Financial crisis leading to international cooperation
Band 6-7 Essay
Financial crises have a significant impact on how countries interact with each other. Some people think these crises make international relations worse, while others believe they can actually improve cooperation between nations. I will discuss both views and share my opinion.
On the negative side, financial crises can cause problems between countries. When a country is struggling economically, it might focus more on protecting its own interests. This can lead to trade disputes and less willingness to help other nations. For example, during the 2008 financial crisis, some countries put up trade barriers to protect their own industries, which made other countries upset.
However, financial crises can also bring countries closer together. When there’s a big economic problem, countries often realize they need to work together to solve it. The G20, a group of major economies, became more important after the 2008 crisis because countries saw the need to coordinate their actions. This shows how a crisis can lead to better international cooperation.
In my opinion, financial crises have both positive and negative effects on international relations, but in the long run, they tend to improve cooperation. While there might be some conflicts at first, countries usually understand that working together is necessary to fix big economic problems. The impact of global trade agreements on financial markets shows how interconnected economies are, making cooperation essential.
To conclude, although financial crises can initially cause tensions between countries, they often result in stronger international relationships and better systems for dealing with global economic issues. The key is for countries to focus on working together rather than just looking out for themselves.
(Word count: 283)
Band 5-6 Essay
Financial crises affect how countries work together. Some people think it makes countries fight more, but others say it helps them work together better. I will talk about both ideas and give my opinion.
When there is a financial crisis, countries can have problems with each other. They might try to protect their own money and businesses. This can make other countries angry. For example, in 2008, many countries had a big money problem. Some countries made it hard to buy things from other places. This made other countries unhappy.
But financial crises can also make countries help each other more. When there is a big problem with money, countries know they need to work together to fix it. After 2008, important countries started meeting more to talk about money problems. This helped them understand each other better.
I think financial crises can be both good and bad for how countries get along. At first, it might cause problems. But later, countries usually see that they need to work together. This is because money problems in one country can affect other countries too.
In the end, financial crises can make countries fight at first, but then they often work together better. It’s important for countries to try to help each other when there are big money problems.
(Word count: 213)
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates:
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures
- Clear organization with a logical flow of ideas
- In-depth analysis of both perspectives
- Relevant examples and specific details
- A nuanced personal opinion
- Excellent use of cohesive devices
Band 6-7 Essay
This essay shows:
- Good vocabulary with some attempts at more complex language
- Clear structure, though less sophisticated than the Band 8-9 essay
- Discussion of both views with some supporting examples
- A clear personal opinion
- Adequate use of cohesive devices
Band 5-6 Essay
This essay displays:
- Simple vocabulary and sentence structures
- Basic organization of ideas
- Limited development of arguments
- A personal opinion, though less developed
- Simple cohesive devices
The main differences lie in the depth of analysis, vocabulary range, and complexity of ideas presented. Higher band essays demonstrate more sophisticated language use and a more nuanced understanding of the topic.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Financial crisis (noun) /faɪˈnænʃəl ˈkraɪsɪs/ – A situation where financial assets suddenly lose value
- International relations (noun) /ˌɪntəˈnæʃənəl rɪˈleɪʃənz/ – The study of interactions between countries
- Protectionist (adjective) /prəˈtekʃənɪst/ – Favoring the protection of domestic industries
- Exacerbate (verb) /ɪɡˈzæsəbeɪt/ – To make a problem or situation worse
- Mitigate (verb) /ˈmɪtɪɡeɪt/ – To make less severe or serious
- Catalyst (noun) /ˈkætəlɪst/ – Something that causes activity between two or more persons or forces
- Interconnected (adjective) /ˌɪntəkəˈnektɪd/ – Having all parts or elements linked or connected
- Diplomatic ties (noun phrase) /ˌdɪpləˈmætɪk taɪz/ – Official relationships between countries
- Economic governance (noun phrase) /ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ˈɡʌvənəns/ – The system by which economies are directed and controlled
- Fiscal responsibility (noun phrase) /ˈfɪskəl rɪˌspɒnsəˈbɪləti/ – The obligation of governments to manage resources prudently
Conclusion
The topic of how financial crises affect international relations is complex and multifaceted, making it an excellent subject for IELTS Writing Task 2. As global economic challenges continue to evolve, we can expect to see variations of this theme in future exams. Possible related topics might include:
- The role of international organizations in preventing financial crises
- The impact of digital currencies on global financial stability
- How economic sanctions affect international relations
- The relationship between climate refugees and international response policies
To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on these topics, focusing on developing balanced arguments and using sophisticated vocabulary. Consider posting your practice essays in the comments section below for feedback and discussion with other learners. This active engagement will help you refine your writing skills and gain valuable insights into this crucial aspect of international relations and global economics.
Impact of global financial crisis on international relations
Remember, understanding the complexities of how financial crises affect international relations not only prepares you for the IELTS exam but also enhances your global awareness, a valuable skill in today’s interconnected world. As you continue to explore this topic, consider how factors such as stock market predictions for future and the importance of global health initiatives in combating diseases might intersect with financial crises and international relations, further broadening your perspective on these critical global issues.