Some people think that charity organizations should only offer help to people of their own country. But others believe that these organizations should give aid to people in great need wherever they live.Â
Discuss both views and give your opinion.
📌 Note: This question appeared in the IELTS Writing exam on 21 August, 2025.
2025 IELTS Writing Task 2 Questions – Click to View All
Band 9 Sample Answer:
Some people argue that charitable organizations should concentrate their efforts solely on helping people within their own borders, while others believe that such groups should provide assistance wherever the need is greatest. I side with the latter view.
On the one hand, there are valid reasons why some people believe charities should focus only on their own citizens. The most obvious one is that resources are usually limited, and prioritizing local people ensures that the immediate needs of the community are met first. For example, in times of natural disasters such as floods or earthquakes, domestic aid groups may be better equipped to provide rapid and culturally appropriate assistance. Furthermore, some taxpayers and donors feel more comfortable knowing that their contributions are used to benefit people closer to home, which may encourage greater financial support for charitable activities overall.
On the other hand, I believe it is more important for charities to extend their help wherever people are suffering, regardless of national boundaries. Humanitarian values are universal, and compassion should not be restricted by geography. For instance, during global crises such as famine in Africa or refugee displacement in the Middle East, international aid can save millions of lives. In today’s interconnected world, supporting vulnerable populations abroad can also promote global stability, which ultimately benefits every nation. Moreover, offering help internationally allows wealthier countries to demonstrate solidarity and moral leadership, reinforcing the idea that humanity shares a collective responsibility for the welfare of all people.
In conclusion, although some argue that charities should prioritize the needs of their own citizens, I believe their role should be to alleviate suffering wherever it occurs. By doing so, they not only save lives but also foster international cooperation and shared humanity.
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Band 9 Insights Based on IELTS Writing Band Descriptors:
Task Response (Band 9):
The essay fully addresses the prompt by discussing both perspectives and presenting a clear, consistent opinion. Ideas are developed with explanations and relevant examples (e.g., natural disasters, famine, refugee crises).
Coherence and Cohesion (Band 9):
The structure is logical and mirrors the model: introduction, one paragraph per view, conclusion. Cohesive devices (“on the one hand,” “on the other hand,” “in conclusion”) are used naturally. Sentences flow smoothly, and referencing avoids repetition.
Lexical Resource (Band 9):
Wide and precise vocabulary: “culturally appropriate assistance”, “universal humanitarian values”, “moral leadership”, “collective responsibility”. Collocations are accurate and enhance the essay. Word choice is consistently natural and topic-specific.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy (Band 9):
Varied complex sentences: relative clauses (“which ultimately benefits every nation”), conditionals (“if resources are limited…”), and passive forms (“assistance can be provided”). Grammar and punctuation are error-free.
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