An issue is a point of dispute, controversy or concern. It can be a question of principle or fact and may or may not be resolved by legislation or arbitration. In the context of public opinion, a matter of interest, such as a political scandal or a celebrity death, is often called an issue. An issue can also refer to a specific volume of a periodical, such as a new issue of the magazine or a bond issue.
The word is derived from the Latin verb, “to put forth.” Issues are not limited to matters of politics or the economy, but include human rights, religion, science and technology, culture and sport. The sex of an individual is also a matter of issue, as are their sexual orientation and gender identity.
When writing an article about an issue, it is important to start with a strong introduction to hook the reader and provide them with a clear understanding of what your article is about. This will help keep them interested throughout the rest of your article.
Once you’ve determined what your issue will be, begin to track current events and jump at any opportunity to link your issue to something happening in the news. This will grab attention and create a sense of urgency for your readers as well as enable you to catch the eye of op-ed editors.
For example, the pandemic of COVID-19 has highlighted global disparities in access to essential services. Sub-Saharan Africa, for instance, has the world’s highest rates of HIV infection, child mortality, extreme poverty and malnutrition as well as the lowest numeracy and literacy levels. It is also one of the fastest-growing regions, making its challenges even more complex to address.
