Universal basic income (UBI) has become an increasingly popular topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations. Based on analysis of past exam questions, this theme appears in approximately 15-20% of essays related to government welfare and economic policies. As universal basic income reduces poverty, it’s crucial for IELTS candidates to understand how to approach this topic effectively.
Universal Basic Income as a solution for reducing poverty and inequality
Analyzing the Task 2 Question
Some people believe that governments should provide a universal basic income to all citizens as a solution to poverty. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?
This question requires candidates to:
- Express their opinion on UBI as a poverty reduction measure
- Support their position with relevant examples and explanations
- Consider potential counterarguments
- Provide a clear conclusion
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
The implementation of universal basic income as a poverty reduction tool has gained significant traction globally. While some critics argue against this approach, I strongly believe that UBI represents an effective solution to combat poverty.
Firstly, UBI provides a crucial safety net that prevents people from falling into extreme poverty. When citizens receive a guaranteed income, they can meet their basic needs such as food, housing, and healthcare, regardless of their employment status. For instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, countries that provided universal payments to citizens demonstrated greater resilience in protecting vulnerable populations from economic hardship.
Moreover, universal basic income can break the cycle of poverty by enabling individuals to invest in their future. With a stable income base, people can pursue education, start small businesses, or acquire new skills without the constant pressure of immediate survival needs. This creates a positive ripple effect throughout the economy, as more citizens become productive contributors to society.
However, implementing UBI requires careful consideration of tax policies to reduce income inequality. Governments must ensure sustainable funding mechanisms while maintaining economic stability. Additionally, the amount provided should be sufficient to meet basic needs without discouraging workforce participation.
In conclusion, while challenges exist in implementation, universal basic income represents a powerful tool for poverty reduction. Its ability to provide security, enable personal development, and stimulate economic growth makes it a worthy consideration for modern governments.
Key factors contributing to successful Universal Basic Income programs
Sample Essay 2 (Band 7.5)
The question of whether should governments provide universal basic income has become increasingly relevant in today’s economic discussions. I partially agree that UBI could help reduce poverty, though it requires careful implementation.
UBI can effectively address poverty by ensuring everyone has access to basic necessities. When people receive regular payments, they can better manage their expenses and avoid debt. This financial security often leads to improved mental health and better decision-making capabilities.
Furthermore, basic income support allows individuals to seek better employment opportunities or start their own businesses. Rather than being trapped in low-paying jobs, people can invest time in education or entrepreneurship, potentially leading to long-term economic benefits for society.
However, there are significant challenges to consider. The cost of implementing UBI could strain government budgets, potentially leading to higher taxes or reduced spending in other important areas. Additionally, there’s a risk that some individuals might become overly dependent on these payments.
In conclusion, while UBI shows promise as a poverty reduction tool, its implementation requires careful planning and consideration of both benefits and potential drawbacks.
Key Vocabulary
- Universal Basic Income (n.) /ˌjuːnɪˈvɜːsl ˈbeɪsɪk ˈɪnkʌm/ – Regular payments provided to all citizens
- Implementation (n.) /ˌɪmplɪmenˈteɪʃn/ – The process of putting a plan into action
- Economic hardship (n.) /ˌekəˈnɒmɪk ˈhɑːdʃɪp/ – Financial difficulty
- Resilience (n.) /rɪˈzɪliəns/ – Ability to recover from difficulties
- Sustainable (adj.) /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – Able to be maintained long-term
Looking ahead, IELTS candidates should prepare for related topics such as:
- Economic inequality and government solutions
- Welfare system reforms
- Social security measures
- Income distribution policies
Practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments for feedback and discussion.
