Climate change and national security have become increasingly intertwined topics in recent IELTS examinations. Analysis of past papers shows this theme appearing regularly since 2019, particularly in Task 2 questions focusing on environmental challenges and their broader societal impacts. Similar to the effects of globalization on food security, this topic requires candidates to demonstrate comprehensive understanding of complex global issues.
Task Analysis
Some people believe that climate change poses a serious threat to national security. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view? Give reasons for your answer and include relevant examples from your knowledge or experience.
This question requires candidates to:
- Take a clear position on the relationship between climate change and national security
- Support arguments with specific examples
- Consider multiple aspects of national security
- Demonstrate understanding of climate change impacts
Band 9 Sample Essay
Climate change undoubtedly represents one of the most significant threats to national security in the modern era, and I strongly agree with this assessment. The far-reaching consequences of climate change create multiple vulnerabilities that directly impact a nation’s stability and security infrastructure.
Firstly, climate change acts as a threat multiplier by exacerbating existing security challenges. For instance, in regions like South Asia, where The effects of political instability on global security are already evident, rising sea levels and extreme weather events can trigger mass displacement, leading to increased regional tensions and potential conflicts over resources. Bangladesh, in particular, faces the prospect of millions of climate refugees, which could destabilize neighboring countries and strain international relations.
Furthermore, climate change directly threatens military readiness and infrastructure. Naval bases worldwide face risks from rising sea levels, while extreme weather conditions can impair military operations and training exercises. For example, in 2018, Hurricane Michael caused approximately $5 billion in damage to Tyndall Air Force Base in Florida, demonstrating how climate-related disasters can compromise military capabilities.
How does climate change affect agricultural productivity? is another crucial consideration, as food security becomes increasingly precarious due to changing weather patterns. This instability can lead to social unrest and political upheaval, particularly in developing nations where agricultural systems are more vulnerable to climate fluctuations.
In conclusion, the evidence overwhelmingly supports the view that climate change poses a serious threat to national security, requiring immediate and coordinated responses from governments worldwide. The interconnected nature of these challenges demands both national and international solutions to ensure long-term security and stability.
Band 9 Analysis
- Clear position with sophisticated development of arguments
- Excellent use of specific examples and data
- Complex sentence structures with accurate grammar
- Advanced vocabulary and proper linking devices
- Coherent paragraphing with clear progression of ideas
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
I agree that climate change is becoming a big problem for national security. There are several reasons why this is true and I will explain them in this essay.
The first reason is that climate change makes natural disasters happen more often. When these disasters happen, they can damage important buildings and roads that countries need to stay safe. For example, when there are floods, bridges can break and armies cannot move their equipment easily.
Another problem is that the effects of mass migration on host countries can be very serious. When people must leave their homes because of climate problems like drought, they move to other places. This can make both countries have problems with security.
Also, when there isn’t enough food and water because of climate change, people might fight over these things. This makes countries less safe and can cause conflicts between different groups of people.
In conclusion, I think climate change is really dangerous for national security because it causes many problems like natural disasters, people moving away from their homes, and fights over food and water. Countries need to work together to solve these problems.
Band 6.5 Analysis
- Clear but simple position
- Basic examples without detailed development
- Limited range of vocabulary and structures
- Some grammar errors but meaning remains clear
- Basic cohesion and coherence
Key Vocabulary
- threat multiplier (n.) /θret ˈmʌltɪplaɪə/ – something that intensifies existing problems
- exacerbate (v.) /ɪɡˈzæsəbeɪt/ – to make worse
- vulnerability (n.) /ˌvʌlnərəˈbɪləti/ – state of being exposed to harm
- infrastructure (n.) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə/ – basic physical structures needed for society
- precarious (adj.) /prɪˈkeəriəs/ – unstable, dangerous
- displacement (n.) /dɪsˈpleɪsmənt/ – forced movement of people
- destabilize (v.) /diːˈsteɪbəlaɪz/ – make unstable
- cohesion (n.) /kəʊˈhiːʒən/ – unity, working together effectively
For additional practice, try writing your own essay on how importance of universal healthcare for global health security relates to climate change impacts. Share your essays in the comments for feedback and discussion.