An issue is a topic that needs attention and discussion. Politicians often say that they want to talk about the issues and not their personal lives. People also use the word issue to refer to a statement or publication that is put out for the public to read. For example, a magazine might publish an issue of its newsletter.
The United Nations and its specialized agencies work on many issues, from disaster relief to economic development to education for all, the advancement of women, peacekeeping and conflict resolution, to peaceful uses of atomic energy. When writing an article on any of these issues, your article should include a paragraph on the background or context of the problem you are discussing. This paragraph, sometimes called a theoretical framework, gives your reader a sense of what others have said about the subject and helps you establish your own perspective on the issue.
As you think about what to write about in your article, be sure that the issue is one that interests and concerns your audience. For example, a newspaper might be interested in an article about an environmental issue that affects the health of people living in the area. It would not be as interested in an article about canned lion hunting or the latest scandal in sports. If you are concerned about the environment, consider writing an article about a local nature reserve or conservation project that is making a difference.
