Mastering IELTS Writing Task 2: The Effects of Economic Sanctions on Global Trade – Sample Essays and Expert Analysis

Economic sanctions and their impact on global trade have become increasingly relevant topics in recent years. As an IELTS expert, I’ve observed a growing trend of this subject appearing in Writing Task 2 questions. Given its significance in international relations and economics, it’s highly likely that you’ll encounter a question related to economic sanctions in your IELTS exam. Let’s explore this topic in depth, complete with sample essays and analysis to help you prepare effectively.

Analyzing the Task 2 Question

After reviewing recent IELTS exams and considering current global events, I’ve identified a question that closely resembles what you might encounter in your test:

Some people believe that economic sanctions are an effective way to pressure countries to change their policies. Others argue that sanctions mainly harm ordinary citizens and have little impact on government decisions. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

This question touches on the core debate surrounding economic sanctions and their effects on global trade. Let’s break it down:

1. Topic: Economic sanctions and their effectiveness
2. Task: Discuss both viewpoints and provide your opinion
3. Key points to address:
   • Effectiveness of sanctions in changing government policies
   • Impact on ordinary citizens
   • Overall effect on global trade

Economic Sanctions Impact

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

Economic sanctions have long been a tool in international diplomacy, aimed at pressuring countries to alter their policies. While some argue for their effectiveness, others contend that sanctions primarily harm innocent civilians without significantly impacting governmental decisions. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own view on this complex issue.

Proponents of economic sanctions argue that they can be a powerful means of influencing a country’s behavior without resorting to military action. By imposing trade restrictions, asset freezes, and other financial penalties, the international community can exert significant pressure on governments to comply with global norms or abandon harmful policies. For instance, sanctions against South Africa in the 1980s are often credited with contributing to the end of apartheid. Moreover, sanctions can disrupt a nation’s economy, potentially leading to internal pressure for policy changes from business elites and citizens alike.

On the other hand, critics argue that sanctions disproportionately affect ordinary citizens while leaving political elites relatively unscathed. The economic hardship resulting from sanctions often leads to increased poverty, reduced access to essential goods and services, and deteriorating living conditions for the general population. This was evident in Iraq during the 1990s, where sanctions led to severe humanitarian consequences. Furthermore, governments may use sanctions as a scapegoat for their own economic mismanagement, potentially strengthening their grip on power rather than weakening it.

In my opinion, while economic sanctions can be effective in certain circumstances, their impact on global trade and innocent civilians cannot be ignored. A more nuanced approach, combining targeted sanctions against specific individuals or sectors with diplomatic engagement and incentives for positive change, may yield better results. This balanced strategy could minimize collateral damage to ordinary citizens and global trade while still applying pressure on governments to modify their policies.

In conclusion, the effectiveness of economic sanctions in shaping international policy remains a subject of debate. While they can be a powerful tool for change, the potential for unintended consequences on civilians and global trade must be carefully considered. A more targeted and multifaceted approach to international diplomacy may offer a more sustainable path forward in addressing global challenges.

(Word count: 345)

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

Economic sanctions are a controversial topic in international relations. Some people think they are a good way to make countries change their policies, while others believe they mostly hurt ordinary people and don’t really affect government decisions. This essay will discuss both sides of this argument and give my opinion.

Those who support economic sanctions say they can be effective in changing a country’s behavior. By limiting trade and financial transactions, sanctions can put pressure on governments to follow international rules or stop harmful actions. For example, sanctions against Iran were seen as important in getting the country to negotiate about its nuclear program. Sanctions can also show that the international community is serious about an issue without using military force.

However, many people argue that sanctions mainly harm regular citizens. When a country faces sanctions, it often leads to shortages of food, medicine, and other important goods. This can cause a lot of suffering for people who have nothing to do with their government’s decisions. Critics also say that governments can often find ways around sanctions, so they don’t always work as intended.

In my opinion, while economic sanctions can sometimes be useful, they need to be used carefully. I think it’s important to consider the impact on ordinary people and try to minimize harm to them. Perhaps focusing sanctions on specific individuals or companies involved in the problem, rather than the whole country, could be a better approach.

To conclude, economic sanctions are a complex issue with both potential benefits and drawbacks. While they can be a tool for encouraging policy changes, the negative effects on civilians and global trade must be taken into account. A more targeted approach might be more effective and less harmful in the long run.

(Word count: 293)

Key Writing Tips for This Topic

1. Vocabulary Usage:

   • For Band 8-9: Use sophisticated vocabulary related to economics and international relations. Examples:
     • “exert significant pressure” (v.) – to use influence forcefully
     • “disproportionately affect” (v.) – to have an unequal impact
     • “collateral damage” (n.) – unintended consequences
   • For Band 6-7: Use clear, straightforward language while incorporating some topic-specific terms:
     • “limiting trade” (v.) – restricting commercial activities
     • “negotiate” (v.) – to discuss with the aim of reaching an agreement
     • “shortages” (n.) – lack of necessary items

2. Grammar Structures:

   • For Band 8-9: Employ complex sentence structures and a variety of tenses:
     • Conditional sentences: “A more nuanced approach… may yield better results.”
     • Passive voice: “Sanctions are often credited with…”
   • For Band 6-7: Use a mix of simple and compound sentences with some complex structures:
     • “While they can be a tool for encouraging policy changes, the negative effects… must be taken into account.”

3. Essay Structure:

   • Clearly introduce the topic and outline your essay structure in the introduction.
   • Dedicate separate paragraphs to each viewpoint.
   • Use clear topic sentences to introduce each paragraph’s main idea.
   • Provide specific examples to support your points.
   • Conclude by summarizing your main arguments and stating your opinion.

4. Cohesion and Coherence:

   • Use linking words and phrases to connect ideas: “Moreover,” “On the other hand,” “Furthermore.”
   • Ensure a logical flow of ideas throughout the essay.

5. Task Response:

   • Address all parts of the question, discussing both viewpoints and giving your opinion.
   • Provide a balanced discussion of the issue.

Essential Vocabulary for This Topic

1. Sanctions (n.) /ˈsæŋkʃənz/ – punitive measures imposed on a country
2. Global trade (n.) /ˈɡləʊbəl treɪd/ – worldwide exchange of goods and services
3. Diplomatic (adj.) /dɪpləˈmætɪk/ – relating to managing international relations
4. Economic hardship (n.) /ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ˈhɑːdʃɪp/ – financial difficulty or suffering
5. Policy (n.) /ˈpɒləsi/ – a course or principle of action adopted by a government
6. Humanitarian (adj.) /hjuːˌmænɪˈteəriən/ – concerned with reducing suffering and improving welfare
7. Compliance (n.) /kəmˈplaɪəns/ – the action of following rules or requests
8. Embargo (n.) /ɪmˈbɑːɡəʊ/ – an official ban on trade or other commercial activity
9. Leverage (n.) /ˈliːvərɪdʒ/ – the power to influence a person or situation
10. Geopolitical (adj.) /ˌdʒiːəʊpəˈlɪtɪkəl/ – relating to politics on an international scale

In conclusion, understanding the effects of economic sanctions on global trade is crucial for addressing this topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. By familiarizing yourself with the key arguments, vocabulary, and essay structures presented here, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle similar questions in your exam. Remember to practice writing essays on this topic, considering different perspectives and using the language and structures appropriate for your target band score.

For further practice, consider writing an essay on the following related topics:

1. The long-term effects of trade embargoes on developing economies
2. The role of international organizations in implementing and monitoring economic sanctions
3. Alternatives to economic sanctions in international diplomacy

Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section below. This active engagement will help reinforce your understanding and improve your writing skills for the IELTS exam. Good luck with your preparation!