The topic of government involvement in global health issues is increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on recent trends and the growing importance of international health cooperation, we can expect this theme to appear more frequently in future exams. Let’s explore a relevant question that has been featured in past IELTS tests and is likely to resurface in various forms.
Government addressing global health challenges
Analyzing the Question
Let’s examine a typical IELTS Writing Task 2 question on this topic:
Some people believe that governments should be responsible for solving global health issues, while others think it should be left to international organizations. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question asks you to:
- Discuss the view that governments should be responsible for solving global health issues
- Discuss the view that international organizations should be responsible
- Provide and justify your own opinion
Remember, a well-structured essay will address all parts of the question, provide relevant examples, and clearly state your position.
Sample Essays
Band 8-9 Essay
In today’s interconnected world, global health challenges have become increasingly complex, requiring coordinated efforts to address them effectively. While some argue that governments should take the lead in tackling these issues, others believe international organizations are better equipped to handle such responsibilities. In my opinion, a collaborative approach involving both governments and international bodies is the most effective strategy.
Those who advocate for government leadership in solving global health problems often point to the unique position of national authorities. Governments have direct access to their populations, control over healthcare systems, and the ability to implement policies swiftly. For instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, many countries successfully implemented nationwide vaccination programs and lockdown measures, demonstrating the crucial role of governmental action in health crises.
On the other hand, proponents of international organization leadership argue that global health issues transcend national borders and require a coordinated, worldwide response. Organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) possess extensive expertise, global reach, and the ability to mobilize resources across countries. The WHO’s role in eradicating smallpox and its ongoing efforts to combat diseases like polio illustrate the effectiveness of international cooperation in addressing health challenges.
In my view, the most effective approach is a synergistic collaboration between governments and international organizations. Governments can provide local implementation and resources, while international bodies can offer guidance, coordination, and support on a global scale. This partnership can leverage the strengths of both entities to create comprehensive and adaptable strategies for tackling health issues.
For example, the global response to HIV/AIDS has demonstrated the power of this collaborative approach. National governments implemented tailored prevention and treatment programs, while international organizations like UNAIDS provided crucial funding, research, and global coordination. This combined effort has led to significant progress in managing the epidemic worldwide.
In conclusion, while both governments and international organizations have essential roles to play in addressing global health challenges, the most effective solution lies in their cooperation. By working together, they can create a more robust and flexible system capable of responding to the complex and ever-evolving landscape of global health.
(Word count: 329)
Band 6-7 Essay
Global health issues are becoming more important nowadays, and there is a debate about who should be responsible for solving them. Some people think governments should take care of these problems, while others believe international organizations should handle them. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.
Those who support government responsibility argue that governments have more power and resources to deal with health issues in their countries. They can make laws, allocate money, and implement policies quickly. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, many governments organized vaccination programs and lockdowns to protect their citizens.
On the other hand, people who think international organizations should be in charge say that health problems often affect many countries at once. Organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) have experts from different countries and can coordinate efforts globally. They have experience in dealing with diseases like smallpox and polio, which shows they can be effective in solving health problems.
In my opinion, both governments and international organizations should work together to address global health challenges. Governments know their countries best and can implement specific measures, while international organizations can provide guidance and support on a larger scale. This cooperation can lead to better results in solving health issues.
For instance, when dealing with diseases like malaria or HIV/AIDS, governments can run local prevention and treatment programs, while organizations like the WHO can offer funding, research, and coordination between different countries. This combined approach has shown success in many cases.
In conclusion, I believe that the best way to solve global health problems is through collaboration between governments and international organizations. By working together, they can use their strengths to create more effective solutions for complex health issues that affect people around the world.
(Word count: 295)
Key Points to Remember When Writing
Structure: Ensure your essay has a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Each body paragraph should focus on a specific point.
Balanced argument: For band 8-9, present a nuanced view of both sides before giving your opinion. For band 6-7, a simpler presentation of both views is acceptable.
Cohesion and coherence: Use linking words and phrases to connect ideas smoothly. Higher band scores require more sophisticated connectors.
Vocabulary: For band 8-9, use a wide range of vocabulary with precision. For band 6-7, use some less common words correctly.
Grammar: Higher band scores require a mix of simple and complex sentences with few errors. Band 6-7 can have some errors but should still maintain clarity.
Examples: Provide relevant, specific examples to support your points. Higher band scores should have more developed examples.
Essential Vocabulary
Here are some key terms related to the topic of government roles in global health:
- Pandemic (noun) /pænˈdemɪk/ – a disease that spreads over a whole country or the world
- Eradicate (verb) /ɪˈrædɪkeɪt/ – to completely get rid of something
- Collaboration (noun) /kəˌlæbəˈreɪʃn/ – the act of working together to produce something
- Implement (verb) /ˈɪmplɪment/ – to put a plan or system into action
- Allocate (verb) /ˈæləkeɪt/ – to give something to someone as their share
- Mobilize (verb) /ˈməʊbəlaɪz/ – to organize people or resources to be used in a particular way
- Synergistic (adjective) /ˌsɪnəˈdʒɪstɪk/ – working together to produce a result greater than the sum of their individual effects
- Transcend (verb) /trænˈsend/ – to go beyond the usual limits of something
Conclusion
The role of governments in addressing global health challenges is a crucial topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. As we’ve seen, it requires a nuanced understanding of the interplay between national and international efforts. To prepare for similar questions, consider practicing with related topics such as:
- The responsibility of governments in environmental protection
- The role of international cooperation in solving global issues
- The balance between national interests and global responsibilities
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is practice. Try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This active practice will help you refine your skills and prepare you for success in your IELTS exam.
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