Public safety and government responsibility has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in approximately 15% of recent tests. Based on analysis of past papers and current trends, this topic is likely to remain significant, particularly given its relevance to The importance of public health in preventing diseases.
Government officials discussing public safety measures implementation
Task Analysis
Some people believe that governments should be responsible for public safety, while others think citizens should take care of their own safety. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question requires:
- Discussion of two contrasting viewpoints
- Personal opinion with supporting arguments
- Examples and explanations
- Balanced analysis
Band 9 Sample Essay
Debates about responsibility for public safety often center on the roles of government versus individual citizens. While both parties have important contributions to make, I believe that governments should take primary responsibility while encouraging active citizen participation.
Government leadership in public safety is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, authorities have access to resources and expertise that individual citizens lack. They can implement comprehensive safety measures, from maintaining emergency services to enforcing building regulations. Additionally, governments can coordinate responses to large-scale threats, as demonstrated by their handling of effects of overcrowding on public services.
However, citizens also play a vital role in maintaining public safety. Individual awareness and responsible behavior contribute significantly to community security. For instance, neighborhood watch programs and community emergency response teams have proven effective in many countries. This aligns with research on How can people maintain a healthy lifestyle and what is government’s role.
In my view, the most effective approach combines strong government leadership with active citizen participation. Governments should establish frameworks and provide resources, while citizens contribute through compliance and community involvement. This partnership approach ensures comprehensive public safety coverage while fostering a sense of shared responsibility.
Band 7 Sample Essay
The question of who should be responsible for public safety has generated much debate. While some argue that governments should take full responsibility, others believe citizens should manage their own safety. I think both parties have important roles to play.
Governments have significant capabilities in ensuring public safety. They can create and enforce laws, maintain police forces, and provide emergency services. Moreover, they can implement large-scale safety measures through impact of the internet on public awareness campaigns.
On the other hand, citizens can contribute to public safety in various ways. They can follow safety guidelines, report suspicious activities, and participate in community safety programs. Many successful safety initiatives rely on citizen cooperation and involvement.
I believe the responsibility should be shared between governments and citizens. While governments should provide the framework and resources for public safety, citizens need to actively participate in maintaining it. This collaborative approach will likely yield the best results for everyone’s safety.
Key Vocabulary
- comprehensive (adj.) /kɒmprɪˈhensɪv/ – complete; including everything
- implementation (n.) /ɪmplɪmenˈteɪʃən/ – the process of putting a plan into action
- surveillance (n.) /səˈveɪləns/ – close observation of something
- infrastructure (n.) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə/ – basic systems and services
- collaboration (n.) /kəˌlæbəˈreɪʃən/ – working together
Modern public safety infrastructure and development
Looking Ahead
Future IELTS topics may explore specific aspects of public safety such as:
- Technological solutions in public safety
- Environmental safety measures
- Public safety in smart cities
- International cooperation in safety matters
Practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments for feedback!
