What, How To, Tips & Tricks Model United Nations What, How To, Tips & Tricks

What Is Model UN? Students from around the world that participate in the simulation of general assemblies and other multilateral bodies UNSC DISEC UNHRC Your committee will discuss relative and current events that are happening around the world Syria LGBT laws in Russia

How Does it Work? Every conference is unique, new committee and country selection Each committee will have a different set of topics Position papers are necessary for every conference which demonstrates prior research of your country’s position on the topics (500 words approx.) Committees will gather and discuss their topics and attempt to pass a resolution Awards will be given at the end of each conference

Terminology Delegate: A student who is participating and acting on behalf of their assigned country. Caucus: A debate in which delegates can informally and formally discuss the topics. (unmoderated and moderated respectively) Motion: A request made by a delegate for the committee to do something. Chair: The moderator of the debates in your committee Placard: A country’s ‘nametag’ used to signal the chair Speakers List: The order in which delegates will speak in a moderated caucus. Preambulatory: Clauses that describe the issue. Operative: Clauses that describe the steps that will be taken to create the solution.

Tips & Tricks

Research & Position Papers Be sure to fully understand your country’s position on the topics and the relationship with other countries Have an in-depth knowledge of the debate topic Know the abilities of your UN section (UNSC vs. GA) Paper will reflect your research, how it affects your country and your country’s position Statistics can be very helpful Potential resolutions to the topic Ensure your position paper is concise and direct

Debate Preliminary speakers list, very general statement loosely addressing the issues, important for a first impression Secondary speakers list, more specific to the chosen topic, state your country’s position Take notes! Useful when getting together to create a resolution, find those with similar opinions You may not be called, if you feel like you are never getting picked it’s okay to page the chair Paging other members during committee can be useful to further your knowledge on their positions but do not miss out on debate or disrupt it Raise your placard as much as you can

Resolution Writing Follow the example format Include details, don’t make it vague or overly generalized Ensure to use the preambulatory and operative clause words Have an appropriate number of sponsors (2-4 depending on size of committee) Keep in mind your country’s position and relationship with others; ie. USA would be pro-drones and has a good relationship with the UK

UN Resolution Example

General Dress for success, business attire necessary No t-shirts, jeans, sweats, shorts, sneakers, sandals or excessive skin exposure You don’t need to ask to leave to committee room, do not ask. Be sure to understand the flow of debate before entering committee, feel free to ask fellow delegates or anyone else if you are unsure Background guides will be given prior to committee