Political instability and its impact on global security has become an increasingly common topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, particularly appearing in questions about international relations, peace, and development. Based on analysis of past exams and how climate change affects global economic stability, this theme has appeared approximately 3-4 times annually since 2019.
Analysis of Recent Question Types
Let’s examine one of the most representative questions that has appeared in recent IELTS tests:
Some people believe that political instability in certain regions poses the greatest threat to global security. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
Question Analysis
- Topic: Political instability and global security
- Task: Opinion essay (agree/disagree)
- Key areas to address:
- Connection between regional politics and global security
- Examples of how instability affects security
- Alternative threats to global security
- Potential solutions
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
Similar to The impact of political instability on economic growth, the relationship between political instability and global security is complex and multifaceted. While I largely agree that political instability represents a significant threat to global security, it is not necessarily the greatest threat.
Political instability in certain regions undeniably poses substantial risks to global security through various mechanisms. Firstly, unstable political environments often become breeding grounds for terrorist organizations and criminal networks. For instance, the political vacuum in certain Middle Eastern countries has led to the emergence of extremist groups that threaten international peace. Secondly, political instability can trigger refugee crises, as seen in recent years, which can strain international relations and create security challenges for neighboring countries.
However, other factors pose equally significant threats to global security. The proliferation of nuclear weapons, cyber warfare capabilities, and how climate change affects global food security represent critical challenges. These threats often transcend political boundaries and can have more far-reaching consequences than regional instability. For example, a single cybersecurity breach can simultaneously affect multiple nations’ critical infrastructure, regardless of their political stability.
Moreover, political instability itself is often a symptom rather than a root cause. Economic inequality, resource scarcity, and ideological conflicts frequently underlie political turmoil. Understanding these fundamental drivers is crucial for addressing global security challenges comprehensively.
In conclusion, while political instability significantly threatens global security, it operates within a broader context of interconnected challenges. A holistic approach to global security must address both political stability and other critical factors simultaneously.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
I agree that political instability in some regions is a big threat to global security. There are several reasons for this view.
Firstly, when countries have unstable politics, it causes many problems. For example, when governments change quickly or there is fighting between different groups, it can lead to violence. This violence can spread to other countries nearby. Also, as discussed in influence of politics on stock markets, this instability affects economic systems globally.
Secondly, unstable regions often become places where dangerous groups can operate. These groups might be terrorists or criminals. They use these unstable places to hide and plan attacks on other countries. This makes the whole world less safe.
However, there are other important threats to global security too. Climate change is a big problem that affects everyone. Also, diseases can spread around the world quickly, as we saw with COVID-19. These problems can be just as dangerous as political instability.
In my opinion, political instability is very dangerous, but it is just one of several big threats to global security. We need to work on solving all these problems together to make the world safer.
Key Vocabulary
- proliferation (n) /prəˌlɪf.əˈreɪ.ʃən/ – rapid increase in numbers
- turmoil (n) /ˈtɜː.mɔɪl/ – state of confusion or disorder
- multifaceted (adj) /ˌmʌl.tiˈfæs.ɪ.tɪd/ – having many different aspects
- transcend (v) /trænˈsend/ – go beyond normal limits
- holistic (adj) /həˈlɪs.tɪk/ – considering the whole rather than parts
Band Score Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay:
- Sophisticated development of ideas
- Wide range of vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear progression throughout
- Effective use of examples
- Coherent and cohesive
Band 6.5 Essay:
- Clear position with simple development
- Basic vocabulary with some inaccuracies
- Limited range of complex structures
- Basic organization present
- Some cohesive devices used
Practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments for feedback. Consider also exploring related topics such as regional conflicts, international cooperation, and peacekeeping efforts.