1. Position papers

2. 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

3. 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

4. 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?

5. 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?

6. 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)

7. 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

8. 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