Position papers

What are position papers? Position Papers are 1-2 page reports which outline your country’s background, viewpoints on the presented issues, and suggested courses of action Many delegates use their Position Papers as opening statements Serve as good organizers of research and speech giving

Components of position papers Position Papers usually include: Your country’s history and background regarding your topic Your country’s policies, and justification for those policies Previous resolutions your country has signed Actions your country has taken to combat this issue What your country thinks should be done about this issue

Topic background While discussing topic background in your position paper, focus more on the future as opposed to the past In other words, aim to identify trends and obstacles which lead to your problem Strategies: Name 3 regions around the world where this issue is most prevalent Name 2-3 similarities these nations share which might be the source to this issue List possibilities as to why the UN has not solved this problem yet Country’s exclusiveness? Lack of political stability?

Past international action As opposed to focusing directly on UN resolutions, it’s also important to explore organizations which are separate from the government, and their resolutions on certain issues Instead of listing multiple resolutions, focus on a few and dig deeper: analyze the reasons leading to their successes/failures Strategies: Focus on two plans developed by either a UN body, or a non UN body Ask: What elements may have contributed to the plan’s success/failure? What were the goals of the plan, and were they accomplished?

National policy Take time to learn about what your country has done domestically, as opposed to internationally, about your issue Often times, actions implemented within your nation will be more strong and action oriented Strategies: Two domestic policies your country has executed with in regards to the issue Two policies (passed by international bodies) your country has supported/opposed Identifying patterns in your country’s support/opposition Based on all this, conclude on what your country’s goals are (national sovereignty, humanitarian issues, national agenda)

Proposed solutions Based on the information previously drawn, it is now time for you to determine the best resolution in response to your issue This, along with a works cited page, will be incorporated as the final elements of your position paper

Mock committee Economic and Social Council Topics: Humanitarian Assistance: Refugee Crisis, Reduced Inequalities, Quality Education Countries: France, Russia, China, Brazil, United Kingdom Information about the committee can be found on the William and Mary High School MUN Conference, under Committees, General Assembly