STANAG 6001 Level 3 – Writing Task (Letter): Ethnic Minority Riots – Request for Support
Examination task
Write a minimum of 120 words on the topic below.
You are a commanding officer of a platoon on an international peacekeeping mission abroad. There have recently been some ethnic minority riots in your area of responsibility. In a letter to allied troops’ commander:
- describe how the situation has developed so far and how your soldiers have responded to it,
- explain why you suspect the riots are likely to escalate and specify what threat the rioters may pose,
- request assistance in putting down the riots, saying how to prepare for the operation together.
Sample Answer
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to inform you about the recent ethnic minority riots in our area of responsibility and to request your support in addressing the situation. Over the past week, several demonstrations have taken place in the northern sector, initially peaceful but gradually turning violent. Groups of rioters have set up roadblocks, damaged public property, and confronted local security forces. My soldiers have responded by increasing patrols, securing key infrastructure, and establishing checkpoints to prevent further unrest. So far, we have managed to contain the disturbances without the use of excessive force.
Despite these measures, I believe the situation is likely to escalate. Intelligence reports indicate that external agitators may be encouraging further violence, and social media messages are calling for larger gatherings. Should the riots intensify, the rioters may pose a serious threat to civilian safety, humanitarian convoys, and military personnel operating in the area.
In view of the above, I kindly request additional support from your unit. Specifically, we would appreciate reinforcement with military police units trained in crowd management, armoured vehicles for rapid deployment, and unmanned aerial systems for reconnaissance and real-time situational awareness. Moreover, I suggest that our staffs conduct a joint planning meeting at the earliest opportunity in order to coordinate rules of engagement, communication procedures, and contingency plans.
I trust we can rely on your cooperation and look forward to your prompt response.
Yours faithfully,
XYZ
Photo: Families seeking refuge near the MONUSCO base © United Nations Mission in the DR Congo, MONUSCO