Diplomacy and international cooperation have become increasingly popular topics in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in approximately 15% of recent exam questions. Based on analysis of past papers and current global trends, this theme is likely to continue featuring prominently in future tests, particularly given today’s interconnected world and growing emphasis on global collaboration.
Analysis of Recent IELTS Question Types
One of the most frequently appearing questions on this topic is:
Some people believe that countries should cooperate and work together to solve international problems, while others think each country should focus on its own problems. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Question Analysis
- Type: Discussion + Opinion
- Key aspects to address:
- International cooperation vs national focus
- Benefits and drawbacks of both approaches
- Personal stance with justification
International diplomats discussing global cooperation at conference table
Sample Essays with Band Score Analysis
Band 8.5 Sample Essay
In today’s interconnected world, there is ongoing debate about whether nations should prioritize international collaboration or focus solely on domestic issues. While both approaches have merit, I firmly believe that a balanced combination of global cooperation and national problem-solving is essential for addressing contemporary challenges.
Those who advocate for international cooperation argue that many modern problems transcend national boundaries. Climate change, terrorism, and pandemics, for instance, cannot be effectively tackled by individual countries working in isolation. The global response to COVID-19 demonstrated how international scientific collaboration and resource sharing were crucial in developing vaccines and managing the crisis. Moreover, economic interdependence means that countries must work together to maintain stable financial markets and trade relationships.
However, proponents of a national focus raise valid concerns about neglecting domestic issues. They argue that governments have a primary responsibility to address their citizens’ immediate needs, such as poverty, healthcare, and education. Furthermore, some countries may lack the resources to contribute meaningfully to international initiatives while their own population struggles with basic necessities.
In my view, the most effective approach is to maintain a strategic balance between international cooperation and domestic focus. Countries can participate in global initiatives while simultaneously addressing internal challenges. For example, investing in renewable energy technologies can both contribute to global climate action and create domestic job opportunities. Similarly, participating in international security cooperation can enhance a nation’s own defense capabilities.
The key lies in recognizing that domestic and international interests are often intertwined rather than mutually exclusive. By engaging in thoughtful international cooperation while maintaining strong domestic policies, nations can better serve their citizens while contributing to global progress.
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
Nowadays, there is a big discussion about whether countries should work together or focus on their own problems. Both ideas have good points and bad points, and I will discuss them here.
Some people think countries should work together. When countries help each other, they can solve big problems better. For example, when there is a natural disaster, many countries send help and money. Also, problems like pollution affect everyone, so countries need to work together to fix them. If countries don’t cooperate, these problems will get worse.
On the other hand, some people think countries should focus on their own problems first. They say that governments should help their own people before helping others. Many countries have problems like poverty and unemployment that need fixing. Also, some countries don’t have enough money to help other countries.
In my opinion, I think both working together and solving own problems are important. Countries can do both things at the same time. When countries help each other, they can also get help when they need it. But they should not forget about their own problems too.
For example, a country can work with others to stop pollution while also helping its own people get better jobs. This way, everyone can benefit and problems can be solved better.
Vocabulary Analysis
- transcend (verb) /trænˈsend/ – to go beyond normal limits
- interdependence (noun) /ˌɪntərdɪˈpendəns/ – mutual reliance between entities
- proponents (noun) /prəˈpəʊnənts/ – people who advocate for something
- initiatives (noun) /ɪˈnɪʃətɪvz/ – plans or programs to achieve something
- intertwined (adjective) /ˌɪntəˈtwaɪnd/ – closely connected or linked
Conclusion
The topic of international cooperation continues to be relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. Similar questions might focus on:
- Global environmental protection
- International trade agreements
- Cultural exchange programs
- Worldwide technological collaboration
Practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments for feedback and discussion.
