Who gains from globalisation: IELTS essay ideas

Some people believe that globalisation has benefited all countries, while others argue that it has mainly helped wealthy nations and large companies. In my opinion, the second view is closer to the truth, although globalisation has produced real gains for some developing economies.

Supporters of globalisation point out that open trade has lifted many people out of poverty. Countries such as Vietnam and Bangladesh have built successful export industries, providing jobs for millions and bringing in foreign currency. Consumers everywhere benefit from cheaper goods and a wider choice, and the spread of technology and ideas has improved education and healthcare in many places. International investment can also transfer skills to local workers.

However, the benefits have been distributed unevenly. Large multinational companies are able to move production to wherever wages are lowest and to pay little tax, while small local businesses cannot compete with their prices. Wealthy nations often protect their own farmers through subsidies, which makes it difficult for poorer countries to sell agricultural products, one of the few things they can export. Many developing economies depend on a few raw materials, and when global prices fall they suffer severely. Workers in some factories face low pay and unsafe conditions, as the collapse of the Rana Plaza building in Bangladesh tragically showed. Globalisation has also made countries more vulnerable to economic crises that begin elsewhere.

For globalisation to be fair, trade rules must be reformed so that poorer countries have a real voice, and multinational firms should be required to pay fair wages and taxes.

In conclusion, although some countries have gained significantly, globalisation has mostly strengthened powerful nations and corporations, and its benefits need to be shared more evenly.