Mastering IELTS Writing Task 2: The Impact of Economic Sanctions on Employment – Sample Essays and Expert Analysis

Economic sanctions and their effects on employment have become increasingly relevant topics in recent years. As an IELTS examiner, I’ve noticed a growing trend of questions related to this subject in Writing Task 2. Given its significance in global affairs, it’s crucial for IELTS candidates to be well-prepared to address this topic. In this article, we’ll explore a sample question, provide model essays for different band scores, and offer valuable insights to help you excel in your IELTS Writing Task 2.

Analyzing the Question

Let’s examine a typical IELTS Writing Task 2 question on this topic:

Some people believe that economic sanctions are an effective way to pressure countries to change their policies. Others argue that sanctions mainly hurt ordinary citizens. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

This question requires you to:

1. Discuss the effectiveness of economic sanctions in influencing policy changes
2. Explore the negative impact of sanctions on ordinary citizens
3. Present your own perspective on the issue

Sample Essay for Band 8-9

Here’s a high-quality essay that would likely score in the Band 8-9 range:

Economic sanctions have long been a contentious tool in international relations, with proponents arguing for their efficacy in promoting policy changes and critics highlighting their detrimental effects on civilian populations. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint on the matter.

Those who support economic sanctions often point to historical examples where such measures have led to significant policy shifts. For instance, the sanctions imposed on South Africa in the 1980s are widely credited with contributing to the end of apartheid. Advocates argue that by targeting a country’s economy, sanctions can create internal pressure on governments to reconsider their actions, potentially leading to diplomatic negotiations and policy reforms. Moreover, sanctions are often seen as a preferable alternative to military intervention, offering a non-violent means of exerting international influence.

On the other hand, critics of economic sanctions emphasize their often devastating impact on ordinary citizens. When a country faces trade restrictions and financial isolation, it is frequently the most vulnerable members of society who suffer the most. Unemployment rates can skyrocket as businesses struggle to operate under sanctions, leading to widespread poverty and limited access to essential goods and services. For example, the sanctions imposed on Iraq in the 1990s resulted in severe humanitarian consequences, with reports of increased child mortality and malnutrition. Critics argue that such outcomes are not only morally questionable but can also foster resentment towards the international community, potentially undermining the very goals the sanctions aim to achieve.

In my opinion, while economic sanctions can be effective in certain circumstances, their use should be carefully considered and implemented with precision. Targeted sanctions that focus on specific individuals or sectors responsible for objectionable policies may be more effective and less harmful to the general population. Additionally, sanctions should be accompanied by clear diplomatic channels and opportunities for negotiation, ensuring that the sanctioned country has a path towards resolution. It is crucial to regularly assess the impact of sanctions and be willing to adjust or lift them if they prove ineffective or cause disproportionate harm to civilians.

In conclusion, the debate surrounding economic sanctions highlights the complex nature of international relations and the challenges of promoting change on a global scale. While sanctions can be a powerful tool for influencing policy, their potential to harm innocent civilians cannot be ignored. A nuanced approach that balances effectiveness with humanitarian concerns is essential for the responsible use of economic sanctions in the future.

(Word count: 399)

Economic sanctions impact on employment

Sample Essay for Band 6-7

Now, let’s look at an essay that would likely score in the Band 6-7 range:

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. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.

On one hand, supporters of economic sanctions say they can be effective in changing a country’s behavior. When a country faces economic pressure, its government might decide to change its policies to avoid further damage to the economy. For example, sanctions against Iran led to negotiations about its nuclear program. Sanctions can also show that the international community disapproves of a country’s actions without using military force.

On the other hand, critics argue that sanctions often harm innocent civilians more than they affect governments. When a country is under sanctions, many people can lose their jobs because businesses struggle or close. This can lead to poverty and other social problems. For instance, sanctions on Iraq in the 1990s caused a lot of suffering for ordinary Iraqis, including food shortages and health issues. Some people say this is unfair because regular citizens don’t make government decisions.

In my opinion, economic sanctions can be useful in some situations, but they need to be used carefully. I think it’s important to try to target sanctions at specific people or parts of the government responsible for bad policies, rather than affecting the whole country. Also, there should always be ways for countries to talk and negotiate to end sanctions. This could help reduce the negative effects on ordinary people while still putting pressure on governments to change.

To conclude, economic sanctions are a complex issue with both potential benefits and drawbacks. While they can sometimes influence government policies, the risk of harming innocent people is a serious concern. I believe a balanced approach that considers both the goals of sanctions and their humanitarian impact is necessary.

(Word count: 309)

Key Points to Remember When Writing

1. Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing each viewpoint, and a conclusion. The Band 8-9 essay has more sophisticated paragraph transitions and a more nuanced argument.

2. Vocabulary: The Band 8-9 essay uses more advanced vocabulary and phrases, such as “contentious tool,” “exerting international influence,” and “foster resentment.” The Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still maintains clarity.

3. Grammar: The higher-band essay demonstrates a wider range of complex sentence structures, while the Band 6-7 essay uses simpler constructions but still maintains accuracy.

4. Task Response: Both essays address all parts of the question, but the Band 8-9 essay provides more detailed examples and a more developed personal opinion.

5. Coherence and Cohesion: The Band 8-9 essay shows more sophisticated use of linking words and phrases, creating a smoother flow between ideas.

Challenging Vocabulary to Remember

1. Sanctions (noun) /ˈsæŋkʃənz/ – penalties or measures taken against a country to force it to comply with international law
2. Contentious (adjective) /kənˈtenʃəs/ – causing or likely to cause disagreement or argument
3. Efficacy (noun) /ˈefɪkəsi/ – the ability to produce a desired or intended result
4. Detrimental (adjective) /ˌdetrɪˈmentl/ – tending to cause harm
5. Skyrocket (verb) /ˈskaɪrɒkɪt/ – to rise or increase very quickly
6. Humanitarian (adjective) /hjuːˌmænɪˈteəriən/ – concerned with or seeking to promote human welfare
7. Disproportionate (adjective) /ˌdɪsprəˈpɔːʃənət/ – too large or too small in comparison with something else
8. Nuanced (adjective) /ˈnjuːɑːnst/ – characterized by subtle shades of meaning or expression

Conclusion

The Impact Of Economic Sanctions On Employment is a complex and relevant topic for IELTS Writing Task 2. By understanding the key arguments and practicing with sample essays, you can improve your ability to address this and similar subjects effectively. Remember to analyze the question carefully, structure your essay logically, and use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures appropriate to your target band score.

For further practice, consider writing essays on related topics such as:

• The effectiveness of economic sanctions in resolving international conflicts
• Alternative methods to influence foreign policy without harming civilians
• The role of international organizations in imposing and monitoring sanctions

We encourage you to try writing your own essay based on the question provided in this article. Share your practice essay in the comments section below for feedback and discussion with other learners. This active engagement will help you refine your writing skills and prepare more effectively for your IELTS exam.