Writing Workshop

Task (Cambridge C1 Advanced, Part 2 style)

Question: Your lecturer has asked you to write a proposal regarding the role of international organisations in modern conflicts.

In light of recent global instability, you are required to suggest how international bodies can better enforce International Humanitarian Law to protect civilians. You should consider the effectiveness of current sanctions and suggest new methods for ensuring accountability in war zones.

Write your proposal. You are required to write between 220-260 words.

Tips (en español)

• Structure: Para un proposal, utiliza subtítulos claros (e.g., Introduction, Current Challenges, Recommendations, Conclusion). Esto ayuda al examinador a navegar por tu texto.
• Register: Mantén un tono formal y objetivo. Evita contracciones (use do not instead of don't) y evita el lenguaje coloquial.
• Linking: Usa conectores de transición sofisticados para guiar al lector a través de tus argumentos (e.g., Furthermore, Notwithstanding, In light of the above).
• Hedging: En temas de política y derecho, no uses afirmaciones absolutas. Usa el "hedging" (lenguaje cauteloso) para sonar más académico (e.g., It could be argued that... o This may lead to...).
• Evaluación de ideas: No te limites a listar problemas; propón soluciones viables. Un proposal debe ser propositivo, no solo descriptivo.
• Time management: Dedica 5 minutos a planificar la estructura y 5 minutos al final para revisar la gramática y la ortografía. No te extiendas más de las 260 palabras.

Useful language

Model answer

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Proposal for Enhancing the Enforcement of International Humanitarian Law

Introduction The purpose of this proposal is to outline strategies for improving the enforcement of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) in response to increasing global instability. It aims to address the limitations of current sanctions and suggest more effective methods for civilian protection.

Current Challenges It is widely recognised that current international sanctions often prove insufficient in deterring state actors from violating humanitarian norms. Furthermore, the lack of a centralised enforcement mechanism often results in impunity for war crimes. While existing frameworks provide a legal basis, they frequently lack the political weight required to protect vulnerable populations in active conflict zones.

Recommendations To address these shortcomings, it is highly recommended that international bodies establish a more robust, independent monitoring task force. Such a body would be responsible for real-time documentation of violations. Additionally, a possible course of action would be the implementation of targeted economic measures that specifically affect the leadership of violating parties, rather than the general population. Should these measures be implemented, they could serve as a more effective deterrent.

Conclusion In conclusion, while the current legal framework provides a foundation, it requires significant reinforcement to remain relevant. By strengthening independent monitoring and refining the application of sanctions, international organisations can better uphold the principles of IHL. It is vital that these steps are taken to ensure accountability and protect human life in future conflicts.

Marking checklist

• Content: Does the writing address all parts of the task (current sanctions, new methods, and civilian protection)? Is the length appropriate?
• Communicative Achievement: Is the tone consistently formal and professional? Does the proposal use the correct format (subheadings) to convey information effectively?
• Organisation: Are the ideas logically sequenced? Are advanced cohesive devices (linking words) used to connect paragraphs and sentences?
• Language: Does the writer use a wide range of advanced vocabulary and complex grammatical structures (e.g., conditionals, passive voice)? Are there errors that impede communication?