The effectiveness of sanctions in international diplomacy is a recurring topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on analysis of past exams and current geopolitical trends, this theme is likely to appear frequently in future tests. Let’s explore a relevant question that has been featured in recent IELTS exams:
Some people think that imposing economic sanctions is the most effective way to resolve international disputes. Others, however, believe that diplomatic negotiations are better. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss the effectiveness of economic sanctions in resolving international disputes
- Explore the benefits of diplomatic negotiations as an alternative approach
- Provide a personal opinion on which method is more effective
Let’s examine three sample essays addressing this topic, each targeting a different band score.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
International conflicts often necessitate intervention from the global community, and two primary methods of resolution are economic sanctions and diplomatic negotiations. While both approaches have their merits, I believe that a combination of the two is most effective in addressing complex international disputes.
Proponents of economic sanctions argue that they can exert significant pressure on nations to change their behavior without resorting to military action. By restricting trade, freezing assets, or limiting financial transactions, sanctions can cripple a country’s economy, forcing its leadership to reconsider contentious policies or actions. For instance, sanctions imposed on Iran played a crucial role in bringing the nation to the negotiating table regarding its nuclear program. Moreover, sanctions can serve as a deterrent to other countries contemplating similar actions, thereby promoting global stability.
On the other hand, advocates of diplomatic negotiations emphasize the importance of dialogue and mutual understanding in resolving conflicts. Through face-to-face discussions, nations can address underlying issues, clarify misunderstandings, and work towards mutually beneficial solutions. Diplomatic efforts have historically been successful in defusing tensions and averting potential crises, as exemplified by the Camp David Accords between Israel and Egypt. Furthermore, negotiations can help maintain long-term relationships between countries, fostering cooperation on various global issues.
In my opinion, the most effective approach to resolving international disputes involves a strategic combination of economic sanctions and diplomatic negotiations. Sanctions can create the necessary leverage to bring reluctant parties to the negotiating table, while diplomatic efforts can address the root causes of conflicts and forge lasting agreements. This dual approach allows for a balanced strategy that applies pressure when needed but also leaves room for dialogue and compromise.
In conclusion, while economic sanctions and diplomatic negotiations each have their strengths, a nuanced approach that utilizes both methods is likely to yield the best results in addressing complex international disputes. By employing a combination of economic pressure and diplomatic finesse, the international community can more effectively navigate the intricacies of global conflicts and work towards sustainable resolutions.
(Word count: 329)
Economic sanctions and diplomatic negotiations in resolving international disputes
Explanation of Band 8-9 Score
This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a high-scoring IELTS Writing Task 2 response:
- Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and providing a clear personal opinion.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout the essay. Paragraphs are well-linked, and cohesive devices are used effectively.
- Lexical Resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features. Key terms related to the topic are used accurately.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A wide range of grammatical structures is used with flexibility and accuracy. Complex sentences are handled with confidence, and there are no noticeable errors.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
In today’s world, countries often face disputes that need to be resolved. Some people think that economic sanctions are the best way to do this, while others believe diplomatic talks are better. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.
Economic sanctions can be a powerful tool to make countries change their behavior. When a country is cut off from trade or its money is frozen, it can suffer a lot. This can force leaders to think again about what they are doing. For example, sanctions on North Korea have made it harder for them to develop nuclear weapons. Sanctions also show other countries that bad actions have consequences.
On the other hand, diplomatic negotiations have many benefits. When countries talk to each other, they can understand each other better and find solutions that work for everyone. Diplomacy has helped solve many problems in history. For instance, talks between the USA and Soviet Union during the Cold War stopped things from getting worse. Negotiations also help countries stay friends in the long run.
In my opinion, both methods have their place, but I think diplomatic negotiations are usually better. Sanctions can hurt ordinary people who have done nothing wrong, while talks can solve problems without causing harm. However, sometimes sanctions might be needed to get countries to come to the negotiating table.
To conclude, while economic sanctions can be effective, I believe diplomatic negotiations are generally the better choice for resolving international disputes. They allow for more peaceful and long-lasting solutions.
(Word count: 268)
Diplomatic negotiations as a peaceful method for resolving conflicts
Explanation of Band 6-7 Score
This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a mid-range IELTS Writing Task 2 response:
- Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, presenting both views and offering a personal opinion. However, the ideas could be developed more fully.
- Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized with clear overall progression. Basic cohesive devices are used, but they could be more sophisticated.
- Lexical Resource: There is a sufficient range of vocabulary for the task. Some less common vocabulary is attempted, but there may be occasional inaccuracies in word choice or spelling.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence forms is used. There are some errors, but they do not impede communication.
Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)
Nowadays, countries have many problems with each other. Some people think economic sanctions are best to fix these problems. Other people think talking is better. I will talk about both ideas and give my opinion.
Economic sanctions means stopping trade with a country or taking their money. This can make the country very poor and the leaders might change what they do. For example, some countries put sanctions on Iran because of nuclear weapons. This made Iran agree to talk. Sanctions can be good because they don’t use violence.
Diplomatic negotiations means countries talking to each other to solve problems. When countries talk, they can understand each other better and maybe become friends. This has worked many times in history. Talking is good because it doesn’t hurt people and can make long-term peace.
I think both ways can be good, but talking is usually better. Sanctions can hurt normal people who didn’t do anything wrong. But sometimes countries won’t talk unless there are sanctions first. So maybe using both ways together is best.
In conclusion, I believe diplomatic negotiations are better for solving international problems, but sometimes economic sanctions might be needed too.
(Word count: 186)
The impact of economic sanctions on a country
Explanation of Band 5-6 Score
This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a lower mid-range IELTS Writing Task 2 response:
- Task Achievement: The essay addresses the task, presenting both views and offering a personal opinion. However, the ideas are not fully developed, and supporting examples are limited.
- Coherence and Cohesion: There is a clear overall structure, but paragraphing may be inadequate in places. Cohesive devices are used but may be repetitive or mechanical.
- Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is limited but generally adequate for the task. There may be noticeable errors in spelling and word formation, but meaning is not obscured.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A limited range of structures is used. While the meaning is generally clear, there are frequent grammatical errors.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
Economic sanctions (noun): Punitive economic measures imposed by one country on another
Pronunciation: /ˌekəˈnɒmɪk ˈsæŋkʃənz/Diplomatic negotiations (noun phrase): Discussions between representatives of different countries
Pronunciation: /ˌdɪpləˈmætɪk nɪˌɡəʊʃiˈeɪʃənz/International disputes (noun phrase): Disagreements or conflicts between nations
Pronunciation: /ˌɪntəˈnæʃənl dɪˈspjuːts/Deterrent (noun): Something that discourages or prevents an action
Pronunciation: /dɪˈterənt/Contentious (adjective): Causing or likely to cause disagreement
Pronunciation: /kənˈtenʃəs/Leverage (noun): The power to influence a person or situation
Pronunciation: /ˈliːvərɪdʒ/Cripple (verb): To severely damage or weaken
Pronunciation: /ˈkrɪpl/Defuse (verb): To make a situation less tense or dangerous
Pronunciation: /diːˈfjuːz/Nuanced (adjective): Characterized by subtle differences or distinctions
Pronunciation: /ˈnjuːɑːnst/Finesse (noun): Skillful handling of a delicate situation
Pronunciation: /fɪˈnes/
In conclusion, the topic of sanctions in international diplomacy is a complex and relevant issue for IELTS Writing Task 2. By studying these sample essays and understanding the scoring criteria, you can improve your ability to tackle similar questions. Remember to practice writing your own essays on this topic and related themes, such as global governance, international organizations, and the effects of economic measures on global trade. You’re encouraged to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and further discussion.