The topic of government spending priorities between international aid and domestic issues is a common theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on analysis of past exam papers and the role of international aid in disaster recovery, this question appears frequently in various forms, making it essential for test-takers to be well-prepared.
Government spending priorities between international aid and domestic issues
Task Analysis
Some people believe that governments should spend money on international aid, while others think that this money should be spent on domestic issues. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question requires:
- Discussion of both perspectives
- Clear personal stance
- Balanced analysis
- Relevant examples
Band 9 Sample Essay
In the ongoing debate about government expenditure, while some advocate for international aid allocation, others prioritize addressing domestic concerns. In my view, while both areas deserve attention, governments should primarily focus on domestic issues while maintaining a reasonable level of international assistance.
Those who support international aid argue that importance of global health initiatives and humanitarian assistance demonstrate global responsibility. For instance, when natural disasters strike developing nations, immediate foreign aid can save countless lives and prevent humanitarian crises. Moreover, international aid fosters diplomatic relationships and can enhance a nation’s global standing.
However, proponents of domestic spending emphasize that governments’ primary responsibility is to their citizens. They contend that issues like healthcare, education, and infrastructure should take precedence. For example, many developed nations still struggle with homelessness and inadequate public services, suggesting that domestic needs require substantial investment. This perspective aligns with the role of public policy in addressing global inequality.
In my opinion, governments should adopt a balanced approach, with a stronger emphasis on domestic issues. While international aid is crucial for global stability and humanitarian reasons, governments must first ensure their citizens’ basic needs are met. This could involve allocating approximately 70-80% of resources to domestic programs while maintaining international aid at a level that reflects global responsibility and national capacity.
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
Some people think governments should give money to help other countries, but others believe this money should be used to solve problems at home. I think both ideas have good points, but domestic issues are more important.
People who support giving aid to other countries say it helps poor nations develop. When poor countries get help, they can build schools and hospitals. This makes the world better for everyone. Also, helping other countries can make good relationships between nations.
On the other side, many people think governments should focus on their own country’s problems first. They say there are many problems like poor schools, bad roads, and homeless people that need money to fix. These problems affect citizens every day and should be fixed first.
I believe governments should mostly spend money on domestic issues. While helping other countries is good, taking care of your own citizens should come first. For example, if a country has many poor people, the government should help them before sending money to other countries.
Impact of international aid on developing nations
Vocabulary Analysis
- allocation (n) /ˌæləˈkeɪʃən/ – the act of distributing something for a particular purpose
- diplomatic (adj) /ˌdɪpləˈmætɪk/ – relating to managing relationships between nations
- precedence (n) /ˈpresɪdəns/ – the condition of being more important
- humanitarian (adj) /hjuːˌmænɪˈteəriən/ – concerned with reducing suffering
- infrastructure (n) /ˈɪnfrəˌstrʌktʃər/ – basic physical systems of a country
Essay Analysis Explanation
Band 9 Essay Features:
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear, coherent arguments
- Balanced discussion with specific examples
- Smooth paragraph transitions
- Precise language use
Band 6.5 Essay Features:
- Basic but clear arguments
- Simple but accurate grammar
- Limited range of vocabulary
- Some repetition
- Basic examples
Consider practicing with this similar topic: “Should wealthy nations be required to share their wealth among poorer nations?” Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion.
