Table of Contents 1. Introduction……………………………………………………………………….2

What is MUN?.......................................................................................................2 WarMUN…………………………………………………………………………………3

2. United Nations Committees…………………………………………………4 The General Assembly……………………………………………………………...4 United Nations Security Council………………………………………………..5 The Economic and Social Council………………………………………………6 The International Court of Justice……………………………………………...6 External Committees………………………………………………………………...7

3. Chairs, Delegates and the Secretariat……………………………………8

4. Country Research and Position Papers…………………………………9 How to approach Country Research…………………………………………..9 How to find UN resolutions………………………………………………………11 How to find country speeches…………………………………………………..11 Position Papers………………………………………………………………………..12

5. Rules of Procedure and MUN Jargon………………………………..…..13

6. Caucusing………………..............................................................................17

7. Conference Procedures and Flow of Debate…………………………19

8. Working Papers, Draft Resolutions and Amendments………….21

9. Resolution Writing……………………………………………………..............23 Structure of a Resolution………………………………………………………………23 General Tips…………………………………………………………………………………25 Sample Resolution………………………………………………………………………..26

10. Public Speaking and Debating………………………………………………29

What to Include in an opening speech……………………………………………………29 What to include in a speech during debate……………………………………………..30

11. Dress Code and Awards……………………………………………………….31

12. Surviving Your First MUN……………………………………………………32

13. References and Resources……………………………………………………33

14. Acknowledgments………………………………………………………………..34

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1. Introduction

What is Model United Nations?

Model United Nations (MUN) is an academic simulation of the United Nations that aims to educate

participants about current affairs, pertinent topics in international relations, diplomacy and the

agenda of the United Nations and its member countries. For any particular MUN conference, a

participant is assigned a country and allocated a UN committee. Each committee usually has two

topics on its agenda for any conference and the participant acts as a delegate of his/her allotted

country and tries to forward its economic, political and social agenda and views on those issues.

This is done through debate and discussion with other delegates. It may sound easy, but it requires a

skillful application of diplomacy, tact, political force and charm to achieve a solution that is favoured

by all countries. The solutions take the form of resolutions drafted in accordance with the UN

format. At the end of a conference, each committee aims to pass at least two resolutions (one from

each topic). Although MUN may just appear to be recreational, it teaches participants the

importance of cooperation and compromise and renders them with crucial negotiation skills, which

are transferrable to real life. But remember, MUN isn’t just serious and academic.

Most university level conferences are known for their after parties and socials

and are a great opportunity to make new friends from all over the world!

How MUN Works at Warwick: Usually there are one

or two head delegates from the exec who apply for a

delegation place in a particular conference. They also

request certain committees or countries they would

like to represent. Once the Secretariat in-charge

organizing a particular conference gives them the

delegation size and country + committee allocations,

the conference is opened up to the whole society on a

first come first serve basis i.e. members can chose the

conference, committee and country they would like depending on availability. However, it is

ensured that every member gets the chance to participate in at least one conference every year.

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WarMUN

WarMUN is the Warwick MUN Society’s

flagship conference that takes place annually,

around the first weekend of March. This year,

WarMUN will take place from 2nd-4th March

2012. The conference is different from others

around the UK because it is a Crisis MUN. Firstly, instead of having traditional UN committees with

different topics, WarMUN revolves around a single area of conflict between two or more countries

and consists of cabinets of countries and committees relevant to that issue. The cabinet for each

country is comprised of prominent political entities of that country. For example, last year’s

conference focused on the border dispute between Venezuela and Colombia and involved the

cabinets of these two countries and other stakeholders such as Brazil, Argentina, the South

American Defence Council, USA and the Security Council. In a Crisis MUN, delegates are faced with

rapid real life developments that revolve around the issue at hand. These developments are created

by the Crisis Room (a group of selected Warwick MUN Society members responsible for regulating

the crisis and giving it direction, with the aim of keeping delegates in their feet) and communicated

to the various cabinets and committees through a live blog and through Warwick TV news bulletins.

Confused by all the information and the process of how a Crisis MUN works? Don’t worry! WarMUN

will be discussed at length during our weekly meetings closer to the date and we will let you know

how you can contribute towards this conference. Just remember that the whole society will get a

chance to participate in WarMUN and contribute towards the conference by either being a

part of the Crisis team, the logistics team or Warwick TV.

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2. United Nations Committees

The United Nations has a number of functioning committees with diverse roles and responsibilities.

In this guidebook, we will discuss the nature and role of the key UN committees delegates are likely

to encounter in MUN conferences at university level. Most conferences also include a few external

non-UN committees like ASEAN, IMF etc. If you would like to gain additional information on the

United Nations and its committees, please refer to the reading material and websites suggested at

the end of this guidebook.

The General Assembly: The General Assembly

(GA) is the main deliberative organ of the United

Nations composed of all UN member states, with

one vote each. Decisions on questions regarding

peace and security, admission of new members

and budgetary matters require a two third

majority while all other decisions require a simple majority. The exact functions of the General

Assembly are outlined in the UN Charter, however, the important thing for delegates to remember is

that the GA can only make ‘recommendations’ and none of its resolutions are binding or enforceable.

In other words, it does not have the power to take actions against States who do not comply with its

resolutions. An exception to this rule exists in a scenario where the Security Council fails to act due

to lack of unanimity where there appears to be a serious threat to international peace, breach of the

peace or act of aggression. The GA is also responsible for appointing the non-permanent members of

the Security Council, the members of the Economic and Social Council, to jointly elect with the

Security Council the judges of the International Court of Justice and on recommendation of the

Security Council, to appoint the Secretary General.

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At the beginning of the first GA session each year (Tuesday, 3rd week of September), a debate is held

where Heads of State deliberate which international issues to include in its agenda. These are then

divided amongst its six committees for discussion:

Disarmament and International Security (First Committee)

Economic and Financial (Second Committee)

Social, Humanitarian and Cultural (Third Committee)

Special Political and Decolonization (Fourth Committee)

Administrative and Budgetary (Fifth Committee)

Legal (Sixth Committee)

The Security Council: The United Nations Security

Council (UNSC) has the primary responsibility of

maintaining international peace and security. It is

important to remember that the UNSC is the only UN

committee with the power to enforce its decision upon

Member States. While all other committees can only

make recommendations, the UNSC has the ability to undertake enforcement measures, including

economic sanctions, arms embargoes, financial sanctions, travel bans or collective military action.

The Council has fifteen members: five permanent-China, France, the Russian Federation, the United

Kingdom and the United States of America-and ten non permanent members elected by the GA for a

period of two years. Decisions on procedural matters (structure of meeting, order of debate etc.) are

made by an affirmative vote of 9 out of 15 whereas decisions on substantive matters are made by an

affirmative vote of 9 out of 15, without any negative vote of any of the five permanent members (P5).

Each of the P5 possesses a Veto power, which means that if either of them votes against a resolution,

it cannot be passed. However, if any member of the P5 abstains from voting and the resolution gains

the required majority, it can be put in force.

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Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC): ECOSOC is the principle organ that coordinates the

economic, social and related work of the United Nations and its specialized agencies and institutions.

Through its discussion of international economic and social issues, ECOSOC plays a key role in

fostering international cooperation for development and in setting the priorities for action. The

council has a number of subsidiary bodies including: 8 functional commissions who make

recommendations regarding issues in their field of expertise (Statistical, Population and

Development, Social Development, Status of Women, Narcotic Drugs, Crime Prevention and Criminal

Justice, Science and Technology for Development and Sustainable Development) and5 regional

committees (Africa, Asia and the Pacific, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean, Western Asia).

Voting procedures follow a simple majority and resolutions have the authority to make

recommendations only.

International Court of Justice (ICJ): The ICJ is the principal judicial organ of the United Nations

and is located at The Hague, in the Netherlands. Its function is to settle legal dispute between states

and it also gives advisory opinion on legal matters to United Nations and its specialized agencies.

Only states may be parties in contentious cases before the Court and submit disputes to it. The GA

and the UNSC can ask the court for advisory opinion regarding any legal questions. Other UN organs

may do the same if permitted by the GA, within the scope and jurisdiction of their activities. The

Court is composed of 15 judges elected by the GA and the UNSC, voting independently. They are

chosen on the basis of their qualifications and care is taken to ensure that the principal legal systems

of the world are represented in the Court. Each judge serves a nine-year term and may be re-elected.

Furthermore, no two judges may be from the same country.

In MUN conferences, ICJ is considered to be a specialized committee, which entails that it is not

suitable for first time participants. In order to participate in the ICJ sessions, it is important that

delegates are familiar with its procedures, rulings, history and have knowledge about international

laws, treaties etc.

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External Committees: External Committees are international organizations and coalitions, which

delegates may encounter in an MUN conference. Some of these bodies are affiliated with the United

Nations while others are regional military or economic coalitions. Given below is a list of external

committees that may be encountered during a conference. For more information on each committee,

please refer to the reading material. But if you want a brief general overview, Wikipedia does the

trick.

ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Nations)

The Arab League

The European Union

NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization)

IMF (The International Monetary Fund)

WTO (World Trade Organization)

UNDP (United Nations Development Programme)

UNHRC (United Nations Human Rights Comission)

UNEP (United Nations Environmental Programme)

WHO (World Health Organization)

Historical Security Council (This committee simulates historical decisions and conferences

conducted by the UNSC, especially those that occurred during WWII. Strong historical background

knowledge required).

At times, conference organizers get innovative and create new committees. For example, Cambridge

MUN CUIMUN 2011 has a Facebook Executive committees where delegates will simulate the

facebook board of directors (Mark Zucherberg et al) and address issues regarding online security,

business threat from google + and so on.

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3. Chairs, Delegates and the Secretariat

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Secretariat

The Secretariat is the highest level of UN staff and is its administrative branch. It consists of the Secretary General, Under Secretary General, Chief of Staff etc. In an MUN conference, the Secretariat is responsible for organizing all the logistical, technical and thematic aspects of the conference, including the committees that will be involved, number of delegates per committee, the overall theme of the conference etc.

Chairs

and Co-

Chairs

The chair is the person who presides over a committee and executes debate according to the rules and regulations of that specific committee as well as the MUN conference the committee is a part of. Usually, there is a chair and a co-chair in every committee. The co-chair is like an assistant to the chair and lower in hierarchy. There may be more than one co-chair. Chairs usually set the agenda for their committees and are in charge of writing study guides to help delegates. Chairs and Co-Chairs are in charge of resolvingpersonal issues and those regarding rules as well. They also decide the delegate awards.

Presiden

ts and Director

s

Certain conferences have Presidents or Directors in their committees instead of chairs, although they have the same responsibilities. However, in a committee with two or more presidents or directors, they are referred to as co-presidents or co-directors. Unlike co-chairs however, they all belong to the same hierarchy. So essentially, its like having more than one chair.

Delegate

A delegate represents a particular country in a committee.

4. Country Research and Position Papers

Country Research

One of the most important aspects of a Model United Nations conference is country research. The

socializing aspect of MUN will come to most of us naturally (everyone knows how to party) but in

order to have a fruitful committee session, its important to have adequate background information

on the country you will represent, the issues you will discuss and the administrative powers and

jurisdiction of the committee you have been assigned to.

How to approach country research: It is important that you approach country research in an

organized and systematic manner to ensure that you have covered all aspects. The following

template may prove helpful:

1. Country -Begin by reading up general facts about your country on the CIA World Factbook

website ( https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/ ). Make sure you

are aware of the political and governance structure of your country, key political leaders,

military powers etc. Next, briefly read up about any major conflicts or international issues

that your country has been involved in. Check out news media sources for any recent

developments. Thirdly, interpret what the major strengths of your country are, i.e. what

power do you have over other nations (example: OPEC countries control a majority of the

world’s oil supply, USA/India/China/France/UK/Israel etc. are nuclear powers and so on).

Also ensure that you know any significant weaknesses (for example, energy dependency on a

single country or a small group of countries). Lastly, make a list of all your countries allies.

This will be extremely helpful when you are trying to find sponsors and signatories for your

resolution.

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2. Topic - After you have completed background research on your country, move on to

researching the topic/s you will be discussing in a particular conference. While researching,

keep in mind the following questions: What is the issue and how does it affect your country?

What has your country done to combat the problem? What are the various “sides” of the

debate and who are the key players? If your country is not directly involved, how can it

shape the debate at the conference and be involved? What arguments will other countries

make and how can your country support or counter those arguments? In order to gain in

depth knowledge, don’t just rely on Wikepedia. Visit the websites of the UN, Governmental

Organizations and NGOs involved with the topics and try and access reports that they may

have published. Try and memorize some key statistics relevant to the topic, you will sound

all the more impressive and knowledgeable. You can also access previous UN resolutions on

the issues and speeches that delegates of your country may have made on the topic.

3. The UN System and your Committee: Make sure you have adequate knowledge about how

the UN works and the particular powers and jurisdiction of the committee you are more

involved with. Nothing will be more embarrassing than say producing an ECOSOC resolution

that calls for sanctions on a country for neglecting its cultural heritage. In short, KNOW

YOUR POWERS AND POSITION.

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How to access UN Resolutions: Go to UNBISnet at unbisnet.un.org. Under the heading "Bibliographic

Records," click on "New Keyword Search." You are presented with four optional search fields:

Enter a topic or keyword next to "Subject (All)."

If you want to refine your search to one specific body, such as the Security Council, select

"UN Doc. Symbol / Sales No." in the second drop-down menu, and enter the appropriate

resolution code. (For instance, all Security Council resolutions begin with S/RES; all General

Assembly resolutions begin with A/RES; all ECOSOC resolutions begin with E/Year where

year is the year in which the resolution passed. Or leave it blank to search all committees on

the topic).

To limit the search results by date, scroll down to the "User Defined Limits" and select "Year

of Publication," the appropriate delimiter, and enter the year of the resolution.

All the resolutions passed by the UN on that subject will appear in a list.

How to find speeches: Go to UNBISnet at unbisnet.un.org. Under the heading "Index to Speeches,"

click on "New Keyword Search." You are presented with four optional search fields:

Enter the country's name next to the drop-down reading "Country/Organization." If you

would like to limit the topic, enter a keyword next to the drop-down reading "Topic."

To limit the UN body in which the speech was given, enter the appropriate code next to the

drop-down reading "Meeting Record Symbol." Enter A for the General Assembly, S for the

Security Council, E for ECOSOC or T for the Trusteeship Council.

All speeches given by your country on this topic will be listed. Click on the link to display the

full text of the speech if it is available.

Other useful information, links and research suggestions can be found on the United Nations

Association of the United States of America website (http://www.unausa.org/munpreparation ).

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Position Papers:

A Position Paper is a short essay

(one to one-and-half pages long)

detailing your country’s policies on

the topics being discussed in your

committee. Writing a position paper

will help you organize your ideas so

that you can share your country’s

position with the rest of the

committee. Some conferences may

require you to write a position paper

but even if it isn’t a requirement, you

should consider writing one since a strong position paper will help you focus your arguments and

also make a good opening speech as well as a working paper (see section 8).

Your position paper should include a brief introduction followed by a comprehensive breakdown of

your country's position on the topics that are being discussed by the committee. A good position

paper will not only provide facts but also make proposals for resolutions. To communicate strongly

and effectively, avoid flowery wording and stick to uncomplicated language and sentence structure.

Give each separate idea or proposal its own paragraph. Make sure each paragraph starts with a topic

sentence. Try not to let your proposals become lost in a sea of information. For speechmaking,

create a bulleted list of your proposals along with your most important facts and statistics so that

they’re accessible during debate. Certain MUN conferences like LIMUN require that you submit

a position paper. Chairs will then take your position paper into consideration (and often

grade them), along with your performance at the conference to decide awards.

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5. Rules of Procedure and MUN Jargon

The rules of procedure may vary across MUN conferences; however, there are a few universal and

common points and motions that a delegate must be familiar with.

Motions: Think of motions as an action word. A motion is usually raised to take some kind of

action and in order to decide whether that action will be taken or not, the motion is put to vote.

There are different types of motions, but the basic ones are referred to and explained in the table

below. Remember, all motions must be seconded by another delegate to be passed. Voting only takes

place when a delegate raises an objection. However, in certain conferences geared towards fresher’s

voting takes place for every motion to familiarize new delegates with voting procedures.

MOTION VOTING PROCEDURE

Motion to Open Debate Simple Majority

Motion to move into Moderated Caucus: This is a way of

focusing the debate to specific issues regarding the topic

at hand (explained in detail in the section ‘Caucusing’).

Simple Majority

Motion to move into Un-moderated Caucus: This is a

chance to communicate your ideas and consolidate your

views with other delegates in a more informal manner

(explained in detail in the section ‘Caucusing’).

Un-Moderated Caucuses can only be

introduced after the first 30 minutes

of debate. Simple Majority, although

chair can deny this motion at his/her

discretion.

Motion to Extend Debate/Caucus: This motion can be

used to either extend debate on a particular topic OR to

extend the time for a moderated/un-moderated caucus.

The motion can only be used once per topic/caucus.

Simple Majority. Although it can be

denied at the chairs discretion

(especially in un-moderated caucus).

Extension time cannot be longer than

original caucus time.

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Motion to Introduce Resolution: Once a resolution has been

finalized in an un-moderated caucus, it must be given to the

chair for approval. Once approved, delegates must bring up

a motion to introduce the resolution. Usually, the chair will

indicate the order in which resolutions will be debated and

inform delegates, so that they can motion for their

resolution accordingly. NOTE: You cannot discuss a

resolution or its contents until it has been formally

introduced as a draft resolution.

Simple Majority

Motion to Introduce Amendments: Resolutions are open to

amendments while being debate. If a delegate has an

amendment, he/she must submit it in written form to the

chair. Once submitted, the delegate may raise a motion to

introduce that amendment.

Two-Thirds Majority. Two speakers

speak for and two speak against the

amendment before it is put to vote.

Motion to Adjourn the debate: In the UN, adjourning the

debate ends the committee session until the following year.

In conferences, this is simply a break for lunch/coffee. You

won’t usually need to use this motion unless you want to be

let off earlier than scheduled. Chairs usually adjourn the

debate for pre-allocated lunch and coffee breaks.

Simple Majority

Motion to Close debate and move into Voting Procedures:

Caucusing and note passing is not allowed once this motion

has been passed.

To end debate on a topic and vote on

related resolutions. Simple Majority.

Motion to table the debate: A way of ending debate on a

particular topic without passing a resolution and moving on

to the next one, usually when the debate is getting

redundant. Try and refrain from using this motion unless

absolutely necessary.

Two-thirds Majority. Two speakers

speak for and two speak against the

motion before voting takes place.

How to Introduce a Motion: After every speaker is done speaking, the chair will ask if there are any points

or motions on the floor, before resuming with the speakers’ list. At this point, say “The delegate of (country

name)/(country name) would like to raise a motion to…(state your motion).”

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Advanced Motions Used During Voting Procedures:

Divide the Question- This motion calls for certain operative clauses to be voted on separately from

the resolution. The delegate proposing this motion must name the clause to be questioned. The chair

calls speakers (2For, 2Against). The body then votes whether the clause should be divided (Voting-

Simple Majority). If this passes, then the body votes whether this clause should be included in the

final resolution (Voting-Simple Majority). Thus, 2 votes actually take place: the first is procedural,

the second is substantive.

Roll Call Vote- Each country is called out loud. Delegate answers yes, no, or abstain. Roll call vote is

granted at the discretion of the chair (Voting-none).

Right to Explain Vote- Delegate can explain vote on a specific resolution–used to clarify a vote

against normal policy. You can either request to explain an unusual affirmative vote (yes with rights)

or against vote (no with rights). Requests must be submitted in writing to the chair prior to voting

procedures. Accepted at the discretion of the chair.

Question the Competence-This motion is used when resolutions are not within the scope of the

committee or authorizes things the committee cannot authorize (Voting-Simple Majority).

Points: Think of points as questions addressed either to the chair or to another delegate. Points

aren’t usually put to vote and are accepted at the chair’s discretion.

Point of Information: This is basically a question addressed to a delegate. After a delegate

has finished his/her speeches and has time remaining, he/she may yield to ‘points of

information’, allowing other delegates to ask questions. Once the floor is open to points of

information, the chair asks delegates to raise their placards if they have a question and picks

a few at his/her own discretion. If a delegate wishes to only answer questions regarding

his/her speech, he/she must yield the floor to ‘points of information pertaining to the

speech’. Certain conferences don’t entertain points of information. Please check appropriate

rules. Each delegate has a maximum speaking time per speech and points of information are

only allowed if the speech is shorter than the allocated time frame. Remember, there are no

points of information during a moderated caucus.

Point of Personal Privilege: This can be raised if for instance a delegate cannot hear what

another delegate is saying, the room is too hot etc. It is okay to interrupt another delegate’s

speech if there are audibility issues. However, for personal enquiries like whether you may

use the toilet or the room is too hot, it is better to pass a note to the chair.

Point of Parliamentary Enquiry: This is to ask the chair to explain a procedure if you are

ever confused.

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Point of Order: This point is raised if the chair appears to have made a procedural error or if

a delegate said something that is offensive towards your country. This point is not allowed to

interrupt speeches. Additionally, delegates should avoid correcting the chair unless the chair

has made a significant error, which could affect the final outcome of the debate. If you do

think the chair has made a mistake, you may want to make a Point of Parliamentary Inquiry

and phrase your doubts or obligations in the form of a question. In this case, the chair will

correct you and say that you should’ve used a Point of Order, but at least you will be less

offensive and not challenge the chair’s authority in an outright manner.

Right to Reply: Special request when a country’s sovereignty has been slandered–not for by

another delegate. To obtain permission, a note should be sent to the chair. You may also

request a formal apology from that delegate.

How to Introduce a Point: After every speaker is done speaking, the chair will ask if there are any

points or motions on the floor, before resuming with the speakers’ list. At this point, say “The

delegate of (country name)/(country name) would like to raise a point…(state your point).”

Other things to consider:

Third Person: Remember, when speaking in an MUN conference, you cannot refer to yourself

as ‘I’. You are representing a country so always say ‘The Delegate of (Country Name)’. You

may also refer to yourself as the country.

Note Passing: During a conference, you will be given notepaper. Use this to pass notes to

other delegates to garner support for your ideas etc.

Never direct address a delegate during debate. Address him/her through the chair.

Yielding: After you have finished a speech as part of the speaker’s list or as part of

introducing a resolution, you may do one of three things:

a) Yield the floor to the chair (so that the chair can continue with speakers’ list/debate)

b) Yield the floor to another delegate (usually an ally or co-submitter of a resolution to

consolidate the points your speech has made)

c) Yield the floor to Points of Information.

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6. Caucusing

Caucusing, or informal debate, is an integral part of MUN conferences as it gives delegates the

opportunity to collaborate, negotiate and formulate draft resolutions. There are two types of

caucuses, Moderated Caucus and Un-moderated Caucus.

Moderated Caucus: Moderated Caucus is when delegates

discuss a specific issue regarding the topic being

discussed for a fixed amount of time. The procedure to

move into moderated caucus is as follows:

Raise your placard and once you have been recognized

by the chair, say: “The delegate of (name) would like to propose a moderated caucus of ‘x’

minutes, speaker time ‘y’ minutes/seconds on the issue of ‘xyz’.”

Example: If the topic for your committee is human trafficking, one of the moderated caucuses

that you could propose could be “the security issues concerning cross border human trafficking”.

It is best to keep the moderated caucus time between 10-15 minutes. Speaker time usually

ranges from 30 seconds to 1.5 minutes.

Once you propose the moderated caucus, someone has to second it. If there are no objections,

then the moderated caucus will be in order. If there is an objection, the chair will ask one person

(usually the person who suggested it) to speak for the motion and one person to speak against

the motion. Then the motion will be put to vote.

If the motion to move into moderated caucus passes, then the person who suggested it speaks

first. The other speakers are picked by raising placards.

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Un-moderated Caucus: This is the time when you can talk to your fellow delegates more

informally, get to know them better and start forming alliances and draft resolutions. A lot of

committee time is spent in un-moderated caucus. The best time to introduce this motion would be

when the speakers’ list and the debate is getting repetitive and unconstructive. The procedure to

introduce an un-moderated caucus is the same as moderated caucus except the total time is usually

longer, there is no speakers time and the issue is usually to start working on draft resolutions (once

the debate has gone on for at least an hour or so) OR to discuss any issue that a moderated caucus

would address in a more informal manner, so as to form alliances.

Most delegates prefer to speak during caucuses. It is also a good idea to try and move into a

moderated caucus if your country is far down on the speakers list and you wish to speak sooner. For

new delegates, it is less daunting to speak during a moderated caucus because its for a shorter time

and its not necessary to go on a podium to speak, you can say what you want from where you are

sitting (although you do have to stand up), without being watched by the entire committee.

As for the un-moderated caucus, think of it as a party where you don’t know anybody and need to

make new friends. Just like in a party you would look for a friendly face, in an un-moderated caucus

look for countries that are known to be your allies. Make an effort to talk to delegates about your

views on the topic and your key ideas for the resolution. It is also important to listen to what others

have to say. A good delegate will be able to assert himself/herself without neglecting the ideas of

others and would be able to create a holistic resolution that incorporates diverse perspectives (of

course that does not mean that if you are the USA and writing a resolution on Disarmament, you

incorporate North Korea’s ideas, no matter how hot the delegate of North Korea might be).

Remember, it is important to be flexible without compromising your country’s views on the

topic.

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7. Conference Procedures and Flow of Debate

The order is which events proceed during an MUN conference is known as ‘flow of debate’. The chart

below shows the various stages of a MUN conference, outlining and explaining the key procedures.

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1. Roll Call: Chairs call out

countries in alphabetical

order

Either: "Present and Voting" (no

abstentions allowed)

Or: "Present" (your country may abstain

from voting for or against a resolution)

3. Debate: The style of

debate alternates

between formal and informal.

Formal Debate:a. The chair opens the speakers list and asks delegates who would like to address the committee to raise their placards. The chair then choses delegates to be on the list and begins the session with the first speaker. The opening speeches of delegates are a chance to state country positions and recommend action.b. During the speakers list, delegates may call for moderated or unmoderated caucus to discuss bloc positions, form alliances and create draft resolutions.c. Delegates may then continue with the speakers list OR present their draft resolutions.d. Delegates garner more support for their resolutions through formal speeches.e. Other delegates may make statements for or against a resolution.f. Throughout this process, delegates send formal amendment sheets to the chairs. They may then raise their placard and request to present their amendments to the house.

Informal Debate:a. Informal debate consists of discussions outside the speakers list in the form of moderated or unmoderated caucus.During moderated caucus, the chair may call delegates one by one to address the house in short speeches on the topic of the caucus.Sfter several countires have stated their views, delgates may call for an unmoderated caucus to form alliances and resolutions.At this stage, delegates hsould try and incorporate friendly amendments into their resolutions and try and get as many signatories as possible.

2.Setting the Agenda: usually a committee has two or more topics to discuss. After role call, a delegate must make a motion setting the agenda-essentially deciding the order in which topics will be discussed. Then according to the chairs discretion, some delegates speak for the proposal and some against before voting on it.

4. Close of Debate: There are two ways to close the debate and move

towards voting.

Speakers' List: Once the speakers' list is exhausted, the committee will automatically move towards voting procedures.

Motion: If a delegate feels that there are enough resoultions on the floor and adequate debate has ensued, he/she may call for a motion to move to voting procedures. There must be a second to this motion. If there is an objection, the chair will call for a vote to detrmine whether the motion passes or not.

5. Voting Procedures: Delegates vote for or against a particular resolution according to voting

procedures of their committee. Then the committee moves on to the next

topic.

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8. Working Papers, Draft Resolutions and

Amendments

Working Papers: A working paper is essentially a list of the key ideas and solutions presented

by one or more delegates, regarding an issue, in the format of Operative Clauses (explained in the

next section). Remember, it is usually possible to transform position papers into working papers

and hence it is advisable to write position papers before attending a conference. The author(s) of a

working paper must obtain a required 10% of signatures within a specific committee (the chair will

notify delegates of the exact number) before sending it in for approval. Once this has been achieved,

the delegates must submit the working papers to the chairs/directors/presidents for their

respective committees for approval. Approval is usually based on a) correct format, b) correct

number of signatures and c) subject matter that proposes actions within the scope of the committee.

Approved working papers are copied and distributed to the entire committee. Once approved,

delegates may refer to working papers and the ideas they contain during their speeches.

Draft Resolutions: Usually, during un-moderated caucus, two or more working papers are

combined and re-written in the UN resolution format, including both perambulatory and operative

clauses (explained in the next section). Once the working papers have been combined and re-typed

in the correct format, signatures representing 20% of the committee need to be obtained, after

which the document can be send to chairs/directors/presidents for approval. The approval

requirements are similar to that of a working paper and once approved, the document is referred to

as a Draft Resolution. These are then copied, assigned a priority number (which determines the

order of debate) and circulated to the committee. Delegates may only refer to draft resolutions in

their speeches once they have been approved.

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Amendments: The amendment process is used to strengthen consensus on a draft

resolution by allowing delegates to change certain sections of the draft resolution, as its

debated. There are two types of amendments: friendly and unfriendly.

Friendly amendment. A friendly amendment is a change to the resolution that all sponsors feel is appropriate.

The amendment must be signed by all of the sponsors, and approved by the Director. After this, the

amendment is automatically incorporated into the resolution. Friendly amendments can also be made

informally amongst delegates during un-moderated caucus, before submission of the draft resolution for

approval.

Unfriendly amendment. An unfriendly amendment is an amendment that the sponsors of the resolution do

not support. In this case, the author/s of the proposed amendment must obtain the same number of

signatures, as they would need for a working paper. After the appropriate number of signatures has been

obtained, the Director must approve the amendment. Unfriendly amendments are voted on in order of

severity (established at the discretion of the Chair).

Once the debate is closed and the body moves into formal voting procedure for a draft resolution, the draft

resolution(s) and unfriendly amendments, if any, are voted upon in the order determined by the Chair.

Note: Amendment sheets will usually be provided to delegates to formally request

amendments.

Once all amendments have been incorporated and the draft resolution passes, it is then

referred to as a resolution.

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9. Resolution Writing

The final result of discussions, debates and caucuses during an MUN conference is a resolution.

During un-moderated caucus, delegates should gather their allies and begin work on a draft

resolution (refers to a resolution that hasn’t yet been debated). A draft resolution must have a

certain number of sponsors (the delegates who directly contribute towards its creation and agree

with its content) and a certain number of signatories (delegates who don’t necessarily agree with all

of its content but would like to see it debated to propose amendments). The required number of

sponsors and signatories varies from conference to conference. There are three parts to any

resolution: the heading, the preamble and the operative section. Each draft resolution is one long

sentence with sections separated by commas and semicolons. The subject of the sentence is the

body making the statement (e.g., the General Assembly, Economic and Social Council, or Security

Council). The preamble and operative sections then describe the current situation and actions that

the committee will take.

Structure

Heading: The heading shows the committee and topic along with the resolution number. It also lists

the draft resolution’s sponsors (main submitter, co submitter) and signatories.

Preambulatory Clauses: The preamble of a draft resolution states the reasons for which the

committee is addressing the topic and highlights past international action on the issue. Each clause

begins with a present participle (called a preambulatory phrase) and ends with a comma.

Preambulatory clauses can include:

References to the UN Charter; Citations of past UN resolutions or treaties on the topic under discussion; Mentions of statements made by the Secretary-General or a relevant UN body or agency; Recognition of the efforts of regional or nongovernmental organizations General statements on the topic, its significance and its impact.

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List of Preambulatory Phrases:

AffirmingAlarmed byApprovingAware ofBearing in mindBelievingConfidentContemplatingConvincedDeclaringDeeply concernedDeeply consciousDeeply convincedDeeply disturbedDeeply regrettingDesiringEmphasizing

ExpectingExpressing its appreciationExpressing its satisfactionFulfillingFully alarmedFully awareFully believingFurther deploringFurther recallingGuided byHaving adoptedHaving consideredHaving considered furtherHaving devoted attentionHaving examinedHaving heardHaving received

Having studiedKeeping in mindNoting with regretNoting with deep concernNoting with satisfactionNoting furtherNoting with approvalObservingReaffirmingRealizingRecallingRecognizingReferringSeekingTaking into accountTaking into considerationTaking noteViewing with appreciationWelcoming

Operative Clauses: Operative clauses identify the actions or recommendations made in a

resolution. Each operative clause begins with a verb (called an operative phrase) and ends with a

semicolon. Operative clauses should be organized in a logical progression, with each containing a

single idea or proposal, and are always numbered. If a clause requires further explanation, bulleted

lists set off by letters or roman numerals can also be used. After the last operative clause, the

resolution ends in a period.

AcceptsAffirmsApprovesAuthorizesCallsCalls uponCondemnsConfirmsCongratulatesConsidersDeclares accordinglyDeplores

EncouragesEndorsesExpresses its appreciationExpresses its hopeFurther invitesDesignatesDraws the attentionEmphasizesEncouragesEndorsesEmphasizesStrongly Condemns

Further recommendsFurther requestsFurther resolvesHas resolvedNotesProclaimsReaffirmsRecommendsRegretsRemindsRequestsSolemnly affirms

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General Tips for Resolution Writing:

Create a detailed resolution. For example, if you are creating a new programme or governing body,

think of how it will be funded, what its objectives will be, which UN body will it work under/with,

where will its jurisdiction extend till etc.

Try to cite facts as much as possible. But remember to include new ideas.

Make sure the action suggested by your resolution falls within the jurisdiction of your committee.

Use appropriate Operative Clauses. For instance, the GA can endorse, request or urge etc., but only

the Security Council can condemn or state clauses that imply binding action.

Try to find multiple sponsors. A resolution is more likely to pass if many delegates have contributed

towards it.

During un-moderated caucus, try and incorporate friendly amendments so that there are minimal

objections to your resolution.

At the end of the day, remember that although you want to have a holistic resolution, it is not

possible to please everyone. Don’t lose your stance in an effort to placate everyone. A resolution

with concrete suggestions, which may create dissent amongst the committee, is better than a meek

resolution with flimsy suggestions, even if it garners support.

On the next page, you will be able to find a sample resolution. Additional resources have also been

suggested at the end of the handbook.

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Sample Resolution

Main Submitter: BoliviaCo-Submitter: AfghanistanSignatories: Brazil, India, South Africa, Germany, JapanCommission: General Assembly 5Agenda: The question of equitable representation on and increase in the membership of the United Nations Security Council

Acknowledging the importance of fair and equitable representation of UN member states in the UNSC in

promoting responsible decision making within the council,

Aware of the widespread global impact resolutions adopted by the United Nations Security Council are

capable of having,

Promoting the analysis of UNSC resolutions through a multi dimensional perspective before they are

adopted,

Denouncing the prevalence of the hegemony established in the post World War II era in a democratic

organization like the UN in modern times,

Approving of the efforts made by the Open Ended Working Group to create consensus amongst member

states in response to solutions for this issue since 1993,

Bearing in mind that the lack of equitable representation and power imbalance within the council has led

to distress amongst a majority of the UN member states,

Emphasizing the need for compromise and unwavering commitment from all member states in order to

achieve the goal of restructuring the Security Council,

Fully Aware that the current permanent members of the Security Council who also possess veto power

include the United States of America, the United Kingdom Great Britain and Northern Ireland, the

Republic of France, the People’s Republic of China and the Russian Federation,

Noting with approval certain propositions made by the G4 nations, the African Union and the former UN

Secretary General Kofi Anan in response to the call for the restructuring of the Security Council;

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Proposes the expansion of the permanent membership of the Security Council from five member states to

ten member states in order to promote the goal of equitable representation in the following manner:

a) Inviting the G4 countries that include India, Germany, Japan and Brazil, to form a part of the

permanent membership of the council since they have displayed increasing initiative in addressing

issues of global conflict and have contributed greatly towards UN peacekeeping,

b) Adding one state from the Africa Union as a permanent member, determined by a election held under

the supervision of the Office of the United Nations Secretary General, in a regional delegation vote,

c) Altering the Geopolitical and regional distribution of the UNSC membership as follows:

i) 3 permanent members from Asia (India, China and Japan) instead of 1,

ii) 1 new regionally elected permanent member from the AU,

iii) 1 new permanent member (Brazil) from the GRULAC,

iv) 4 permanent members (USA, UK, France and Germany)

v) The continuation of the Russian Federation as the sole permanent representative of

Eastern Europe;

2. Calls for an increase of the non-permanent membership of the UNSC from ten member states to include

fifteen member states, wherein membership is determined by a two third majority win in a geopolitical

regional vote supervised by the Office of the UN Secretary General, to increase the geopolitical

representation by 1 in each of the five regions, changing the original distribution in the following manner:

a) 3 representatives from Asia instead of 2,

b) 4 representatives from Africa instead of 3,

c) 3 representatives from GRULAC instead of 2,

d) 3 representatives from WEOG,

e) 2 representatives from Eastern Europe instead of 1;

3. Suggests the regulation of the existing veto power possessed by the P5 through the following

approaches:

a) Making it compulsory for two negative votes by all veto powers in order to fail a resolution instead of

one, which may reduce a countries ability to fail a resolution entirely on the basis of the vested

interests of that country in doing so and obliging P5 representatives to take in to consideration the

greater good,

b) In the case of a single veto, the resolution in question must be re-debated and reconsidered by the

UNSC, after the country which vetoes the resolution presents an official statement elaborating upon

their reasons for doing so;

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4. Recommends the creation of a Collective Veto for the new permanent members proposed in clause 1,

which would entail the following:

a) The ability to collectively veto a resolution if a four fifth majority of the permanent members of the

UNSC, other than the original P5, deem it favourable to vote against a particular issue,

b) The promotion of healthy dialogue, cooperation and cohesiveness within the council since new

members will need to work collaboratively in order to access its veto power,

c) The validity of individual votes of all permanent members when voting in favour of a resolution;

5. Further recommends that the duration of the non permanent membership of the UNSC be increased

from a two year rotational term to a three year rotational term to promote stability within the UNSC,

wherefore each member state has the right to get re-elected after the end of a four year term provided that

they are supported by a two third geopolitical majority within their respective regions;

6. Urges for the implementation of the above mentioned measures within the next five years, so as to

achieve efficient and evenhanded working conditions within the UNSC as soon as possible, under the

supervision of a Legal Committee for the Restructuring of the Security Council (LCRSC) set up by the

General Assembly, with the approval of the current P5 members of the UNSC, which would consist of two

legal representative from the UN to provide guidance regarding UN conventions and laws while

restructuring the council, along with one representative each from the P5, G4 and prospective AU

countries, so as to ensure a smooth transition;

7. Endorses the creation of a document elucidating upon the formal guidelines and qualifications for the

induction of elected non permanent members of the UNSC, by the LCRSC, which would include in depth

explanations about matters such as but not limited to:

a) The contributions of member states towards global peacekeeping and conflict management which

would make them favourable candidates for intake into the UNSC,

b) The human rights records of member states over the past five years, as reported by the UN Human

Rights Commission, which would impact their chances of entry into the UNSC,

c) Involvement in and management of recent or ongoing conflict by a member state as a criterion for

admission as a non permanent member of the UNSC,

8) Strongly hopes that the above mentioned clauses, in lieu with the will of all member states, will be able

to emphasize the significance of collaboration, compromise and cooperation within the United Nations

Security Council, restructuring it in a manner with reflects fair, equal and sensible representation and

decision making.

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10. Public Speaking and Debating

What to Include in an Opening Speech:

First, you should thank the presiding official by saying "Thank you Mr./ Madame/ Honorable

Chair/ President…"

Then begin by providing a brief history on the issue as it relates to your country.

Speak about how the issue is currently affecting your country.

Provide your country's position on the issue. Include an explanation for your country’s stance,

such as economic or security concerns or political or religious ideology.

You may choose to give an explanation of how your country's position relates to the positions of

other member states such as the major powers or countries in your regional bloc.

You should discuss some of the past actions taken by the UN, member states and NGOs to address

the issue.

Present ideas for a resolution, stressing your country’s objectives for the resolution.

Talk about the role that NGOs or regional organizations have to play in addressing the issue.

Indicate to the committee members whether your country is willing to negotiate.

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What to Include in a Speech During Debate:

Again, you should thank the presiding official by saying "Thank you Mr./ Madame/ Honorable

Chair/ President…"

Encourage collaboration among member states by proposing ways that your country would be

willing to work with other member states.

By referencing what other delegates have said, you can show support for your allies or indicate

which proposals your country does not favor.

Present ideas for draft resolutions.

Explain why your country does or does not support other draft resolutions.

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11. Dress Code and Awards

Dress Code: The dress code for all MUN conferences is formal office wear. For boys, it’s the standard

suit with a shirt. Although a tie is a good addition, it is not a must. There is a bit more flexibility for

girls: they have the option of either wearing a proper suit, a formal dress with a cardigan, a

shirt/blouse and skirt with a cardigan etc. Just ensure its nothing skimpy and something you would

be comfortable wearing for a job interview. Remember, flip-flops, sneakers and sandals are not

allowed. Boys must wear formal shoes while girls have the option of heels or ballet flats etc. But

remember, closed toed shoes are more advisable.

Awards: Each MUN conference usually presents its most promising delegates and chairs with

awards at the end of the conference. There are two types of awards: internal-informal awards and

external-formal awards.

Internal-Informal Awards: These are also known as ‘fun category’ awards which is decided by a

majority vote within a committee. Chairs of a committee will usually put up categories such as

‘hottest delegate male/female’, ‘most likely to be a dictator’, ‘best chair’ etc. and delegates within the

committee will nominate delegates/chairs who best fit the category through ballot form. These

awards are just for fun and are used as a way of ending the conference on a lighter note.

External-Formal Awards: These are the serious awards based on the performance of a delegate

within his/her committee. The secretariat of a conference will usually provide chairs with categories

like ‘Best Delegate’, ‘Special Commendation, ‘Honourable Mention etc. and chairs will then nominate

one person for each category from within their committees. These awards are then presented to

delegates during the formal closing ceremony of the entire conference, usually in the form of

certificates and public recognition.

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12. Surviving Your First MUN

If you are a first time MUN delegate, surviving a university level conference can appear to be a

daunting task. But life can be a bit easier for you if you keep in mind the following things:

1) Know your stuff. Without having had any MUN experience, this will be your biggest asset. Make

sure you research your topic well, not only from the perspective of your own country, but also

through the perspective of other key countries involved in the issue. You may find it helpful to

write a position paper to organize your thoughts, even though it may not be a requirement.

2) Try and start a Moderated Caucus. Before going for the conference, think of certain sub issues

related to the issue, which you are comfortable discussing. Then try and raise these sub issues as

a moderated caucus. It is much less daunting to speak during a moderated caucus than giving a

formal speech through the speakers’ list. At the same time, caucuses will give you an easier way

of getting noticed and putting across your views.

3) Speakers’ List. Of course, if you’re confident enough to go on the speakers’ list than that’s

brilliant! But remember to raise your placard early on when the speakers’ list opens. If your

country is far down on the list, it is unlikely you will get a chance to speak.

4) Be pro active during un-moderated caucuses. You don’t have to have an entire resolution

prepared, but make sure you do have a few detailed and concrete points to add to resolutions

which your allies might be working on. And make an effort to speak in support of resolutions you

are a co-submitter/signatory to, it will make the chairs notice you.

5) Involve everyone. If you are a delegate who does have a resolution prepared, be a bit flexible.

Incorporate the points of other delegates as well even if it isn’t exactly what you had in mind. A

one-man resolution NEVER passes.

6) Learn all your points. Even if you are unfamiliar with some of the motions, you will survive

because other delegates will raise motions. However, not knowing what points to raise could

hamper the quality of your debate.

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13. References and Resources

The United Nations Today, United Nations Department of Public Information,

New York, 2008: This book provides all the information you will ever need about

the UN, its committees, administrative process and procedures.

United Nations Association of the United States of America: This website provides

an extremely comprehensive and holistic view of MUN and you may refer to it if

you still require additional information after reading this handbook:

http://www.unausa.org/munpreparation

The United Nations Association of the United Kingdom: Similar to the UNUSA

website. Pay special notice to their rules of procedure document. The first link

below leads to the website whereas the second is a link to the rules of procedure

document:

http://www.una.org.uk

http://www.una.org.uk/mun/19.pdf

United Nations Website: For a general overview on the and more information, visit

the following link:

http://www.un.org/en/

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14. Acknowledgements

This MUN Delegate handbook was written and compiled by Athena Sharma (Vice President

Warwick MUN 2011-2012) with invaluable inputs and additions by Veronika Lipinska

(President Warwick MUN 2011-2012).

Note of thanks by the author: Without the corrections and suggestions made by Veronika,

which are backed by her years of MUN experience, it would not have been possible to make

this handbook as precise and informative as it is at present. Her constructive criticism and

encouragement really helped me along the way. Thanks, also to Vassia Poppova (Publicity

Officer), for designing the cover for this handbook.

Cover Page Photo: Soh Kuok Ming

We hope that delegates, both new and old, will find this handbook useful. If you have any

suggestions or find any information missing, do not hesitate to contact us because we are

always keen on improving the MUN experience for our society members.

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