The topic of promoting peace and security in conflict zones is a crucial global issue that has appeared in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions multiple times. Based on past exam trends and the current geopolitical climate, it’s likely to remain a relevant topic for future IELTS tests. Let’s examine a sample question and provide model essays for different band scores.
Some people believe that the best way to promote peace and security in conflict zones is through diplomatic negotiations, while others argue that military intervention is necessary. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question presents two contrasting approaches to addressing conflicts:
- Diplomatic negotiations
- Military intervention
To answer this effectively, you should:
- Discuss the merits and drawbacks of both diplomatic and military approaches
- Provide examples to support your arguments
- Clearly state your own opinion
- Use appropriate vocabulary and sentence structures
Sample Essay for Band 8-9
Peace and security in conflict zones are critical issues that have long challenged the international community. While some advocate for diplomatic negotiations as the primary means of resolution, others argue for military intervention. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
Proponents of diplomatic negotiations argue that this approach can lead to long-lasting peace without the devastating consequences of warfare. Diplomacy allows for open dialogue, enabling parties to address underlying issues and find mutually beneficial solutions. For instance, the Good Friday Agreement in Northern Ireland demonstrates how negotiations can end decades of conflict. Moreover, diplomatic efforts often involve economic incentives and international pressure, which can be powerful motivators for warring factions to reach agreements.
On the other hand, supporters of military intervention contend that force is sometimes necessary to halt immediate violence and protect civilian populations. They argue that in cases of genocide or severe human rights abuses, diplomatic efforts may be too slow or ineffective. The NATO intervention in Kosovo in 1999 is often cited as an example where military action helped prevent further atrocities and ultimately led to a peace agreement.
In my opinion, a balanced approach combining both diplomatic and limited military options is most effective in promoting peace and security. Diplomacy should always be the first recourse, as it offers the potential for sustainable solutions without the human and economic costs of war. However, the international community should retain the option of carefully targeted military action as a last resort, particularly in cases of imminent humanitarian disasters.
This combined strategy allows for flexibility in addressing complex conflicts. For example, in Syria, while diplomatic efforts continue through platforms like the Geneva peace talks, limited military action against extremist groups has been necessary to protect civilians and create conditions for negotiations. The key is to ensure that any military intervention is proportionate, legally sanctioned, and aimed at supporting broader diplomatic goals rather than escalating the conflict.
In conclusion, while both diplomatic negotiations and military intervention have roles to play in conflict resolution, a nuanced approach that prioritizes diplomacy but retains military options as a last resort is likely to be most effective in promoting peace and security in conflict zones. The international community must work together to develop comprehensive strategies that address the root causes of conflicts while being prepared to act decisively when diplomatic efforts alone prove insufficient.
(Word count: 398)
Sample Essay for Band 6-7
Peace and security in conflict areas are important problems in the world today. Some people think that talking and negotiating is the best way to solve these problems, while others believe that using military force is necessary. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.
Diplomatic negotiations have many advantages. Firstly, they can help countries understand each other better and find solutions that both sides agree on. For example, the peace talks between North and South Korea have helped to reduce tension between the two countries. Also, negotiations don’t cause destruction or loss of life like war does. This means that after the conflict is resolved, it’s easier for people to rebuild their lives and countries.
However, some people argue that military intervention is sometimes needed. They say that in some cases, like when a government is killing its own people, talking is not enough and action is needed quickly. The intervention in Libya in 2011 is an example where military force was used to protect civilians. Military action can also force groups to come to the negotiating table when they don’t want to talk.
In my opinion, I think that both approaches can be useful, but diplomatic negotiations should always be tried first. Talking and negotiating can solve many problems without the need for violence. However, I also believe that in extreme cases, when many lives are in danger and talking has failed, limited military action might be necessary. But this should only be done with international agreement and as a last resort.
To conclude, while both diplomatic negotiations and military intervention have their place in solving conflicts, I believe that diplomacy should be the main approach. The international community should work together to find peaceful solutions, but also be ready to take stronger action if absolutely necessary to protect people’s lives.
(Word count: 309)
Key Considerations When Writing
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Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing each viewpoint, the writer’s opinion, and a conclusion. The Band 8-9 essay demonstrates more sophisticated paragraph development and cohesion.
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Vocabulary: The Band 8-9 essay uses more advanced vocabulary and phrases (e.g., “proponents,” “mutually beneficial,” “proportionate”). The Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still effectively conveys the main ideas.
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Grammar: The higher band essay shows a wider range of complex structures, while the Band 6-7 essay uses simpler constructions but maintains grammatical accuracy.
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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.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The Band 8-9 essay demonstrates smoother transitions between ideas and more sophisticated linking words.
Important Vocabulary to Remember
- Diplomatic negotiations (noun phrase) – /dɪpləˈmætɪk nɪˌɡoʊʃiˈeɪʃənz/ – Discussions between countries or groups to resolve conflicts
- Military intervention (noun phrase) – /ˈmɪlɪteri ˌɪntərˈvenʃən/ – The use of armed forces to interfere in a conflict
- Conflict resolution (noun phrase) – /ˈkɒnflɪkt ˌrezəˈluːʃən/ – The process of finding a peaceful end to a dispute
- Humanitarian crisis (noun phrase) – /hjuːˌmænɪˈteəriən ˈkraɪsɪs/ – A situation where many people’s lives and well-being are at risk
- Geopolitical (adjective) – /ˌdʒiːəʊpəˈlɪtɪkl/ – Relating to politics as influenced by geographical factors
- Atrocities (noun) – /əˈtrɒsətiz/ – Extremely cruel and violent actions
- Sanctions (noun) – /ˈsæŋkʃənz/ – Penalties imposed to force a country to obey international law
- Peacekeeping forces (noun phrase) – /ˈpiːskiːpɪŋ fɔːsɪz/ – Troops sent to maintain peace in a troubled area
- Ceasefire (noun) – /ˈsiːsfaɪə(r)/ – An agreement to stop fighting for a period of time
- Reconciliation (noun) – /ˌrekənsɪliˈeɪʃn/ – The restoration of friendly relations
Conclusion
Understanding how to write about promoting peace and security in conflict zones is crucial for IELTS candidates, as this topic frequently appears in Writing Task 2. The sample essays provided demonstrate how to approach this question at different band levels. Remember to always analyze the question carefully, plan your response, and use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures appropriate to your level.
For further practice, try writing your own essay on this topic or related ones such as:
- The role of international organizations in peacekeeping
- Economic sanctions as a tool for conflict resolution
- The impact of media coverage on international conflicts
Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help improve your writing skills and prepare you effectively for the IELTS exam.