Issues are topics, themes or arguments that are central to your research. They help your reader understand and appreciate what you’re writing about. They can be broad or narrow, encompassing everything from political campaigns to the latest episode of your favorite TV show.
The word “issue” comes from the fact that something is put out for public consumption: A celebrity issues a statement, the post office issues new stamps. In politics, we use the term to refer to a topic that is in the news and worthy of discussion: “He’s got some real issues.”
An article on your research topic is essentially an argument, and it’s the job of your article’s title and subtitle to explain why you think your argument is valid. Your title and subtitle also need to communicate to your reader how you plan to organize and present your argument in the article itself.
As you research your topic, it’s important to keep in mind where you’ll be submitting the article. For example, if you’re submitting it to a major newspaper or magazine, the editors will expect to see an outline of your argument in your introduction.
The United Nations has many issues that need to be addressed — from conflict resolution and peacekeeping to the advancement of women and peaceful uses of atomic energy. The UN and its specialized agencies are working to solve these issues, but they need your help.