In recent IELTS examinations, questions about international organizations and their impact on global issues, particularly poverty reduction, have become increasingly common. Based on analysis of past papers and current trends, this topic appears in approximately 15-20% of Task 2 essays, especially in questions about global development and economic inequality.
Let’s examine one frequently appearing question type:
Some people believe that international organizations like the UN and World Bank should focus primarily on reducing poverty in developing nations. Others think these organizations should address various global issues equally. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
International organizations discussing poverty reduction strategies
Analysis of the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss two contrasting viewpoints about international organizations’ priorities
- Consider the balance between poverty reduction and other global issues
- Present and justify a personal opinion
- Provide relevant examples and supporting evidence
Sample Essays
Band 8.5 Essay
The debate over whether international bodies should prioritize poverty alleviation or maintain a balanced approach to global challenges is particularly relevant in today’s interconnected world. While both perspectives have merit, I believe these organizations should adopt a holistic approach that recognizes the interconnected nature of global issues.
Those who advocate for a poverty-first approach argue that extreme poverty remains humanity’s most pressing challenge. With millions still living below the poverty line, the role of international organizations in addressing global poverty cannot be understated. The World Bank’s targeted interventions in developing nations have demonstrated that focused poverty reduction programs can yield significant results. For instance, microfinance initiatives and educational support programs have helped lift communities out of poverty in countries like Bangladesh and Vietnam.
However, proponents of a balanced approach contend that global issues are inherently interconnected. impact of international sanctions on financial markets demonstrates how economic decisions affect multiple aspects of development. Climate change, public health crises, and political instability all contribute to and are exacerbated by poverty. Therefore, addressing these issues simultaneously may be more effective than focusing solely on poverty reduction.
In my opinion, while poverty reduction should remain a central focus, international organizations must maintain a comprehensive approach. how renewable energy can address global poverty shows how environmental initiatives can contribute to poverty reduction. The success of integrated development programs in countries like Rwanda and Costa Rica demonstrates that addressing multiple challenges simultaneously can create lasting positive change.
Looking ahead, international bodies should develop strategies that recognize the interconnected nature of global challenges while ensuring that poverty reduction remains a core component of their mission. This balanced approach will likely yield more sustainable and comprehensive solutions to global development challenges.
Band 6.5 Essay
International organizations have an important role in helping poor countries. Some people think they should only focus on reducing poverty, but others believe they should work on many different problems. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.
People who support focusing on poverty have good reasons. Many countries have very poor people who need help with basic needs like food and clean water. role of NGOs in community development is very important in these situations. For example, when the World Bank helps poor farmers with money to buy seeds and tools, it directly improves their lives.
However, other people think international organizations should work on many problems equally. They say that problems like pollution, diseases, and war are also very important. These problems can make poor people’s lives worse, so they need attention too. When organizations help with education and healthcare, they also help reduce poverty indirectly.
I think both views are partly right, but international organizations should try to work on all problems together. Many issues are connected to each other. For example, when organizations help poor countries use clean energy, they help both the environment and poor people at the same time.
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8.5 Essay Analysis
- Task Response (9): Comprehensively addresses all parts of the task with well-developed arguments
- Coherence and Cohesion (8): Clear progression throughout with effective use of cohesive devices
- Lexical Resource (8): Wide range of vocabulary used naturally and precisely
- Grammar (9): Wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy
Band 6.5 Essay Analysis
- Task Response (6): Addresses the task but some points are underdeveloped
- Coherence and Cohesion (7): Basic organization with some coherence
- Lexical Resource (6): Adequate vocabulary but limited range
- Grammar (7): Mix of simple and complex structures with some errors
Key Vocabulary
- poverty alleviation (n) /pɒvəti əˌliːviˈeɪʃən/ – the reduction or elimination of poverty
- holistic approach (n) /həˈlɪstɪk əˈprəʊtʃ/ – considering all aspects of a situation
- microfinance (n) /ˈmaɪkrəʊfaɪnæns/ – financial services for poor individuals
- interconnected (adj) /ˌɪntəkəˈnektɪd/ – having different parts or elements connected
- sustainable (adj) /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – able to be maintained at a certain level
Practice Suggestion
Try writing your own essay addressing this alternative question:
“To what extent can international organizations effectively address global poverty without addressing other related issues such as climate change and political stability?”
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion.
