These questions have some “correct answers,” but they also have scope for creativity and argumentation. In all of these cases you are expected to use analytical skills; you should not perform a super in-depth research of the issue (imagine you have a really poor Internet connection).
1) Imagine you are applying for a job with international, non-profit, advocacy organization called “Humans without Borders” that lobbies governments to adopt humanitarian based policies on international issues. As part of the hiring process you are asked to write no more than two pages arguing for the repeal of laws leading to an illicit, international market (so this can be an illegal market or simply a black market). You choose the product to discuss. You know that one of the people reading your essay is a professional economist, so you want to impress her by incorporating economic principles.
2) Imagine you work for an international law enforcement agency called “Globalpol,” that is tasked by member countries with disrupting smuggling networks between member countries. As part of a team building weekend retreat at a ski lodge you’ve been asked to write a “thought experiment” of no more than two pages where you describe a smuggling technique and how Globalpol can increase the costs smugglers incur when they use that smuggling technique. You also need to recognize the costs incurred by Globalpol and any potential negative spillover effects for the rest of society.
3) Imagine you work for a newly appointed Foreign Secretary for some wealthy country. Your new boss has been told she gets a massive increase in spending to combat one important global issue, but all the money must go to that effort. Your boss wants your opinion on which of the following issues she should target: money laundering, illegal migration, legal migration or refugees. In no more than two pages make the case for your choice including a brief comparison with your rejected options.