Writing Task 2: Essay 1

To what extent do you think governments should be held responsible when problems of homelessness and unemployment arise?

The role that a government plays in the social status and the financial strength of its citizens is a topic which is often debated. It is felt that although a country’s government does impact the level of unemployment and homelessness, these problems are most heavily influenced by external factors. This will be shown by looking at the influence international economic conditions and personal family relations have on countries and their people.

For one, certain international economic developments, outside the government’s sphere of influence can cause horrific problems for a nation’s rate of unemployment and homelessness. For example, during the global economic crisis of 2008, disposable income dropped worldwide leading to a reduced demand of many products manufactured in South East Asia. The negative ramifications this had on the jobs in many of these South East Asian countries occurred independent of decisions made by their respective governments. Thus, it is clear that a nation’s level of unemployment and homelessness can be affected regardless of its political policies.

Secondly, unhealthy social relationships are responsible for the increased instances of illegal and anti-social behaviours among youngsters, keeping them deprived of proper education and social status which contributes to the growing unemployment and homelessness. For example, in the last decade, Western countries have witnessed more social unrest among the young generation than ever before. The people responsible for these conditions give more priority to alcohol, drugs and gangs instead of family and education and hence a higher percentage of people are now unemployed and homeless. As this shows, the number of people without jobs or homes can be affected by developments outside of a government’s control.

Following this look, it seems difficult to support the idea that governments should be held completely responsible for the job loss and homelessness of their citizens. However, it is hoped political authorities everywhere take measures to support their people in curbing such complications.