Model United Nations

TSSMUN 2022

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 TSS Model United Nations

Preparation Handbook

Contents

Collecting Country Information 2

Researching Your Country 5

Researching Conference Issues 5

Position Papers 6

Flow of Debate 7

Public Speaking 9

Rules of Procedure 10

Specific Procedures for TSSMUN 13

Resolutions 14

Dressing for Success 19

Glossary of MUN Terms 20

** Just a little note. We adapted our preparation booklet from the booklet that TAISM put
together. Hence there are many similarities. We thank them for allowing us to use their hard
work as our starting point.

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1. COLLECTING COUNTRY INFORMATION

First, you need to research your country, in order to represent your country accurately, you need
to know about it.

Once you get your country, look at the following questions and try to answer them with as much
detail as possible.

Country Profile Worksheet

OVERVIEW
1. What is the full name of your country?

2. Where is your country located? (Include the continent, bordering countries and bodies of
water)

3. How does its geography affect its political relationships?

4. What is the capital city of your country?

PEOPLE
1. What is your country’s population and growth rate?

2. Which ethnicities can be found in your country? (Include percentages)

3. Which languages are spoken in your country? (Include percentages)

4. Which religions are practiced in your country? (Include percentages)

GOVERNMENT
1. What sort of government does your country have?

2. Who is the head of state? How is s/he elected or appointed? What is their title?
What is the name of the legislative body?

3. What types of ideologies (political, religious or other) influence your country’s government?

4. Which domestic issues might influence your country’s foreign policy?

5. Does your country belong to any intergovernmental organizations outside the G20 system,
such as the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) or the Organization of the Petroleum
Exporting Countries (OPEC)? Please describe.

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HISTORY
1. What are some major events in your country’s history? Why are they important?

2. Did your country colonize any other country(ies)? If so, which one(s)? or Was your country
ever colonized? If so, by which country(ies)?

3. Does your country belong to any trade organizations or agreements such as the North
American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) or the Organization for Economic Cooperation and
Development (OECD)? Please describe.

ECONOMY
1. Who is the Finance Minister?

2. What is your country’s GDP ($USD)?

3. How does it compare to other countries worldwide?

4. What is the real GDP growth rate?

5. What is the GDP per capita?

6. What is the public debt of your nation? (% of GDP) ________%

7. What is the size of the labor force?

8. By occupation: Agriculture ________% Industry ________% Services ________%

9. What is the unemployment rate? ________%

10. What percentage of the population lives below the poverty line? ________%

11. What is the inflation rate? ________%

12. What are your country’s major exports?

13. What are your country’s major imports? Who are your major trading partners?

14. Identify the general characteristics of your country’s economy.

HEALTH
1. What is the life expectancy at birth for men and women?

2. What are the birth and fertility rates?

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3. What is the maternal mortality rate?

4. What is the infant mortality rate?

5. What are the major infectious diseases?

6. What is the HIV/AIDS infection rate?

7. What are the major general health concerns for your country?

EDUCATION
1. What is the literacy rate?

2. Is education free and/or mandatory in your country?

3. How many years, on average, do children attend school?

4. At what age do children begin school?

5. How many colleges or universities does your country have? What are the admission/attrition
rates?

DEVELOPMENT AND FOREIGN AID

1. Is your country considered part of the “developed” or “developing” world?
What is its Human Development Index (HDI) ranking? (The HDI is an index combining
normalized measures of human development—health (life expectancy at birth), knowledge
(adult literacy rate and combined primary, secondary and tertiary gross enrollment ratio) and
the standard of living (GDP per capita)).

2. Does your country receive significant external assistance from other countries or
organizations? If so, what type of assistance does it receive? Food, medicine, etc?

ENVIRONMENT
1. Describe your country’s climate.

2. What environmental problems does your country face? What solution has your country
implemented or proposed to address environmental issues?

3. What are its most important natural resources?

4. What are its main energy sources?

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5. Has your country signed any deals or agreements in terms of climate change?

MILITARY
1. What percentage of GDP is spent on defense? ________%

2. Does your country have missile/nuclear capabilities? Please describe.

3. How does your country’s military acquire members? Is there a draft? Voluntary
sign-up?

4. Are children involved in your country’s military? If so, at what level?

CONFLICTS/ISSUES
1. What are two major problems affecting your country?

2. Have any ethnic, cultural or political issues led to violence? Please describe.

3. Provide details of the most recent conflict, either domestic or international, if one exists.

NATIONAL POLICY GOALS

Please describe your nation’s major policy goals with respect to:
Economy
Energy
Environment

2. RESEARCHING YOUR COUNTRY

1. Find your country’s voting records and read speeches on the United Nations
Bibliographic Information System website.
2. Look at the CIA World Factbook for a general overview on your country, and for figures
and statistics as well. Would your country’s government agree with the way your country
is characterized in the World Factbook?
3. Examine news and media sources for recent developments in your country DAILY.
4. Read the US State Department report on your country.
5. Basic information is available on Wikipedia but you need to look further than that. As
many countries have two very different policies (internal and external).

3. RESEARCHING CONFERENCE TOPICS/ISSUES

Once you understand and know your country you need to look at the particular issues or topics
being debated. The best way to search this is from Google type:
* country topic
* country topic ministry of foreign affairs

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 * site: un.org country topic

Typically, you need to answer the following:

1. Who does the issue affect? Does it affect your country? As a whole or a minority?
2. What is past UN action on the problem? Has there been any NGO involvement?
3. What has your country done about the problem?
4. What is your country doing about it now?
5. Are there any current solutions in the works? Can your country support these? Why or why
not?

4. RESEARCHING THE UN SYSTEM

Understanding the UN system will help you play your role realistically at a Model UN
conference. It is important to understand which bodies and actors make up the UN system, what
the UN can and cannot do, and how international issues are addressed by the UN. Here are some
questions that will help get you started:

● What are the important elements of the UN Charter?

● What are the main bodies of the UN?
● How are the UN’s bodies and agencies organized?
● Which countries serve on the body or agency you are simulating?
● How does the body or agency you are simulating operate?
● What are the most recent UN actions on your issue?
● Why did past UN actions succeed or fail?
● What conferences and meetings have been held with regard to your issue?
● What have UN officials said about your issue?

5. RESEARCH SITES

For background websites you can try various MUN websites:

Best Delegate

THIMUN

Cyber school bus

For previous resolutions, working papers, speeches and voting records: unbisnet.un.org,
www.un.org/news, www.un.org/issues, www.un.org/Depts/dhl/resguide/press1.htm.

6. POSITION PAPERS

A position paper—a brief essay detailing your country’s policies on the topics being discussed in
your committee.

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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. If you conduct extensive research, a position paper
should be easy to write.

Even if not required, these help you organize your research and prepare for the possibility that
you will be asked to deliver an opening speech. Most delegates use their position papers as their
opening speeches. This is the case with TSSMUN.

How to Write a Position Paper

Position papers use the information that you collected for the country and topic background and
put together in a cohesive manner. Additional information would deal with stats and figures
regarding the addressed problem alongside calls to action.

A good position paper will include:

● A brief introduction to your country and its history concerning the topic and committee;
● How the issue affects your country;
● Your country’s policies with respect to the issue and your country’s justification for these
policies;
● Quotes from your country’s leaders about the issue;
● Statistics to back up your country’s position on the issue;
● Actions taken by your government with regard to the issue;
● Conventions and resolutions that your country has signed or ratified;
● UN actions that your country supported or opposed;
● What your country believes should be done to address the issue;
● What your country would like to accomplish in the committee’s resolution; and
● How the positions of other countries affect your country’s position.
(Notice this is all the information you have already researched)

This is laid out over 1 to 1 1/2 pages in paragraph form. At TSS you will be using your position
paper as a guide, not as an official document. To look for samples, Best Delegate has a wealth of
sample position papers on various topics.

7. FLOW OF DEBATE

Roll Call

The Chairperson will announce each country’s name. After delegates hear their country, they
should answer "present" or "present and voting" (this means you cannot abstain).

Setting the Agenda

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When Model UN committees have more than one topic available, the body must set the agenda
to begin working on one of these issues. At this time a delegate typically makes a motion, stating
"The country of [name] moves to place [topic A] first on the agenda, followed by [topic B] and
then [topic C]." Setting the agenda requires a simple majority vote.

At TSS, this is when all delegates are required to speak (about 45 seconds). They are called up to
explain which topic they feel is most important - their agenda preference. No questions are
allowed at this point.

Debate

Formal Debate: Formal debate revolves around Informal Debate: Informal debate involves
a speakers list. The Chair begins by asking all discussion outside of the speakers list.
delegates interested in addressing the other During moderated caucuses, the Chair calls
members to raise their placards. The Chair then on delegates one-by-one so that each can
chooses delegates to be placed on the speakers address the committee in short speeches.
list. A country may only be on the speakers list During unmoderated caucuses, the
once, but delegates may add their country to the committee breaks for a temporary recess so
end of the list after their speech. that delegates may meet with each other and
discuss ideas.

1a. When the session begins, speeches focus on 1b. After several countries state their
stating country positions and offering positions, the committee breaks for
recommendations for action caucuses (often in blocs) to develop
regional positions.

2a. After blocs have met, speeches focus on 2b. Writing begins as countries work
describing bloc positions to the entire body. together to compose draft resolutions.

3a. Delegates now make statements describing 3b. Countries and groups meet to gather
their draft resolutions to the committee. support for specific draft resolutions.

4a. Delegates try to garner more support 4b. Delegates finalize draft resolutions.
through formal speeches and invite others to
offer their ideas.(This will happen after each
topic)

5a. Delegates make statements supporting or 5b. Draft-resolution sponsors build greater
disagreeing with specific draft resolutions. support for their resolution and look to
incorporate others’ ideas through friendly
amendments.

6a. Delegates present any amendments they

have created.
Close of Debate

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Once the speakers list is exhausted, the committee automatically moves to voting. Also, once a
delegate feels that his or her country’s position is clear to others and that there are enough draft
resolutions on the floor, he or she may make a motion to proceed into voting procedure by
moving for the closure of debate.

Voting Procedures

Once a motion to close debate has been approved, the committee moves into voting procedure.
Amendments are voted on first, then resolutions. At TSS, first and friendly amendments are
entertained. There are no amendments to amendments. Once all of the resolutions are voted on,
the committee moves to the next topic on the agenda.

8. PUBLIC SPEAKING

Public speaking is one of the most important skills you will use as a Model UN delegate. You
will have numerous opportunities to speak in your committee during a Model UN simulation.
The Chair will maintain a speakers list of delegates who would like to make formal speeches.
During caucusing you will have an opportunity to speak informally to delegates in your
committee, but it is still important to keep the principles of effective public speaking in mind.

Although speaking is an important part of any Model UN simulation, many delegates fear
speaking in front of a large group. The best way to cope with these fears is to be well-prepared.
You should research as much as possible about your country and the issue the committee will be
debating. You should be comfortable explaining your country's position and have ideas on what
you would like to include in the committee’s resolution. If you come to the conference prepared,
you will be eager to speak in committee and project confidence.

How to make an opening speech

● First, you should thank the presiding official by saying "Thank you Mr./ Madame/
Honorable Chair/ President…"
● Then the best thing to do is simplify your position paper into 45 seconds, offer a stark
quote or analogy and state your position
● Indicate to the committee members whether your country is willing to negotiate.

Public Speaking Tips

● Prepare: Decide how you feel most comfortable delivering your speech. You may choose
to use your position paper text as your opening speech or you may write out some key
points. In time, you may feel comfortable speaking without any written notes at all. If you
plan to use a word or phrase that is unfamiliar to you, make sure you learn its meaning
and how to pronounce it properly.
● Practice: Rehearsing your speech is the best way to perfect your public speaking skills.
Try practicing in front of a teacher, a parent, or fellow Model UNers from your class or
club. When you listen to a speech, provide constructive feedback rather than criticism.

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 When someone critiques your speech, accept the feedback graciously and use it as a tool
to strengthen your public speaking.
● Consider your audience: Make your speech appropriate to the age and experience-level
of the other delegates at the conference. Remember that the beginning of the speech
should captivate your audience and make them to want to hear more.
● Eliminate unnecessary “filler” words: Fillers are words and phrases such as "umm,"
"well," "sort of,” and “like". These words take away from the message you are trying to
convey. Some additional fillers to avoid are “so,” "you know," "I think," "just," and "uh."
● Use meaningful pauses: Leaving a moment of silence between sentences can be a
powerful public speaking tool. Pausing after an important point or before answering a
question will help to hold the audience’s attention. A pause can also give you time to
formulate your next statement.
● Breathe: Try to breathe from your diaphragm – the organ below your lungs that controls
your respiration. You are breathing properly if you can see your abdomen rising and
falling with each breath. Try to inhale and exhale completely.
● Pace yourself: Don’t talk too fast or too slow. Remember that most speakers have a
tendency to talk too quickly.
● Choose a powerful posture: Be aware of your posture when you speak. Slouching, tilting
your head and crossing your arms or legs will take away from your message. Stand up
straight, relax your shoulders, plant your feet firmly and keep your knees unlocked to
help you communicate confidence.
● Project your presence: Speaking in a low to medium volume can help to project
authority, but make sure that you are speaking loud enough to be easily heard. Focus on
speaking with enthusiasm and energy.
● Gesture: It is worthwhile to use your face, hands, arms and body to help you
communicate as long as your motions do not distract the audience from your speech.
● Connect with your audience: Glance at your notes rather than reading them so that you
can make eye contact with the other delegates. It is often helpful to speak directly to
individual members of the audience.
● Get to the point: Speak concisely so that your audience does not lose your main
arguments among less-important details. Try not to speak in circles. Instead, go straight to
your most important point.
● Be positive: Rather than criticizing another point of view, critique it in a constructive
way. Always provide alternatives and be sure to back up your arguments.

9. Rules of Procedure

Like real UN bodies, Model UN committees have lengthy agendas and many delegates who want
to convey their country’s positions. Because each conference is independent – there is no
governing body for Model UN – rules of procedure vary.

At a Model UN conference, there is formal debate as well as informal debate, called caucusing.

Formal Debate: During formal debate, the staff maintains a speakers list and delegates speak in
the order they are listed. At this time, delegates have an opportunity to share their views with the
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entire committee. Delegates make speeches, answer questions, and introduce and debate
resolutions and amendments. Formal debate is important to the committee’s work. By not
knowing the rules of procedure, delegates slow down the debate and hold back their committee’s
progress.

Unmoderated Caucus: In an unmoderated caucus, delegates meet informally with one another
and the committee staff to discuss and negotiate draft resolutions, amendments and other issues.

What are the rules and procedures at a Model UN conference? View a chart of basic Model UN
points and motions.

Chart of Rules and Motions

Basic Model UN Rules of Procedure Required to Pass

A motion to set the speakers time sets or changes the amount of time
Simple majority vote
each delegate has to speak.

A motion to open the speakers list allows delegates to sign up to

speak. At some conferences a motion to close the speakers list closes
the list for the remainder of the session or topic. However, at most Simple majority vote
Model UN conferences the speakers list can be opened and closed
multiple times. This motion requires an immediate vote.

Delegates propose a motion to suspend debate for the purpose of

holding a caucus. If you move to suspend the meeting, be sure to Simple majority vote
specify the purpose and the amount of time.

A motion to adjourn meeting ends the committee session until the

next session, which might be the next year’s conference, or after lunch Simple majority vote
or dinner.

A motion to adjourn debate (also known as motion to table debate)

is not the same as a motion to adjourn the meeting. Rather, it is used to
Two-thirds majority
table, or put on hold, all of the work that the committee has completed
vote
on a particular topic. At some Model UN conferences you can return to
this topic later, while at others the topic cannot be discussed again.

A delegate makes a motion to close debate in order to move the Two-thirds majority
committee to a vote, usually when the delegate has made his or her vote

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country's position clear and there are enough draft resolutions on the
floor.

A point of order is used when a delegate believes the chair has made
an error in the running of the committee. The Delegate should only Decision of
specify the errors they believe were made in the formal committee Chairperson
procedure, and may not address the topic being discussed.

A point of inquiry (also known as a point of parliamentary

procedure) can be made when the floor is open (i.e. when no other
No vote
delegate is speaking) in order to ask the chairperson a question
regarding the rules of procedure.

A delegate may raise a point of personal privilege in order to inform

the chairperson of a physical discomfort he or she is experiencing, such No vote
as not being able to hear another delegate’s speech.

A delegate raises a point of information in order to pose a question to

a speaker during formal debate. The speaker chooses whether or not to Decision of speaker
yield his or her time to points of information.

A delegate makes an appeal to the chair’s decision when he or she

feels the chairperson has incorrectly decided a point or motion. At
Two-thirds majority
some conferences, this formal challenge must be made in writing. The
vote
appealing delegate speaks and the chairperson defends himself or
herself before the vote.

Caucusing

Caucusing, or informal debate, is an important part of the Model UN simulation because it

provides an opportunity for delegates to collaborate, negotiate and formulate draft resolutions.
During a Model UN conference, caucuses can be either moderated or unmoderated. At TSS we
are limited to unmoderated caucus.

During an unmoderated caucus, the committee breaks for a temporary recess from formal
proceedings so that delegates can work together in small groups. To hold a caucus, a delegate
must make a motion and the committee must pass the motion.

In most cases, more than half of committee time is used for unmoderated caucusing. Many
delegates feel this is the easiest way for them to collaborate and start to formulate draft
resolutions.

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Effective Caucusing

● Enter the caucus with a plan in mind: Formulate ideas on what your country would like to
see included in a resolution. Decide which clauses you are willing to negotiate on and
which you are not.
● Find delegates in your regional bloc: This is the easiest way to seek out allies. However, if
you find that the group you are working with is not meeting your needs, do not be afraid to
switch groups.
● Provide ideas: Tell others what your country is hoping to achieve. If you do not agree with
an idea, do not hesitate to say that it is against your country’s policy.
● Negotiate: While it is often necessary to give up something that you want, make sure that
you are not giving up anything too important.
● Listen: By listening to what others are saying you will able to build on other people’s ideas
and add more to the discussion. Listening also shows respect for each delegate in your
group.
● Do not interrupt: Allow other delegates to finish their thoughts rather than interrupting
others in the middle of a sentence. It sometimes helps to write down your idea so that you
can bring it up when the delegate is finished speaking.
● Record ideas: Start to formulate a resolution in writing. Rather than waiting until the last
minute, begin recording fellow delegates’ ideas right away.
● Be resourceful: By providing fellow delegates with resolution text, maps or information as
they need it, you will show that you are valuable to the group.
● Have one-on-one conversations: Speaking with an individual or in a small group is the best
way to find out a delegate’s position on an issue. Larger groups are better suited to
brainstorming.
● Stay calm: In caucuses, delegates can sometimes “lose their cool.” Staying calm will not
only help your group be more effective, but will be noticed by the conference staff. Always
keep your voice at a normal level. If you see that you are becoming upset or raising your
voice, excuse yourself from the group for a few minutes.
● Use time effectively: Make sure you have enough time to hear everyone’s ideas so that you
can discuss them during formal debate. Try not to waste time arguing over small details that
do not seriously affect the draft resolution.
● Show respect: Never give orders or tell other delegates what they should or should not do.
Be polite and treat all your fellow delegates with respect.
● Provide constructive critique: Rather than negatively criticizing another delegate, focus on
providing constructive critique. If you dislike an idea, try to offer an alternative. Critique
ideas, not people.
● Establish connections with other delegates: Although it can be tempting to call a fellow
delegate “Pakistan,” “Brazil” or “Sweden”, you can form a better connection with a
delegate by learning his or her name and where he or she comes from. Ask the delegate
about his or her ideas and impressions of the debate. Showing interest in your fellow
delegates at the beginning of the conference will help you gain more support later on and
can help you to form lasting friendships.

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10. SPECIFIC PROCEDURES FOR TSSMUN

There are many complicated aspects of an MUN conference and so the procedures of conferences
vary from school to school. We hope that this list will clarify specific procedures of the TAISM and
TSSMUN conferences. However, please do not hesitate to contact us (majab@sultansschool.org) with any
questions you may have.

At a TSS MUN Conference:

Speeches:

Depending on the size of your delegation, 5 – 10 students will be predetermined to provide opening
speeches in GA / UNHCR and all must be prepared to talk in the Security Council. This will be clarified
and determined October 10th.

Caucusing:

● Delegates must make realistic alliances during un-moderated caucusing – please do not just work
with your friends.
● A resolution must have 1 main submitter and 20 signatories before you give it to the chairs.
● At the end of caucusing, the main submitters of resolutions will need to print one copy of their
final resolutions. (Printers will be available.)
● The resolution and then give it to the chairs.
● The chairs will choose one resolution per topic and they will make the copies of the resolution.

Debate:

● Note-passers will distribute copies of the resolution and the main submitter will read the
resolution (only the operative clauses).
● The main submitter will then be asked to speak for the resolution. There will then be points of
information.
● When the main submitter is finished speaking, he/she may either yield the floor to the chair or to
a signatory or co-submitter. The signatory or co-submitter does not have to accept the yielding,
but he/she usually does.
● Amendments are to be submitted to the chair in note form.
● We do use “friendly amendments” (amendments that automatically pass because they were
submitted by the resolution’s main submitter).
● If your amendment is selected by the chairs, they will say, “There has been an amendment
submitted by the delegate of ____. Will the delegate of _____ please approach the podium to read
the amendment.”
● After you read the amendment, stop speaking. The chair will ask, “Will the delegate now speak
for the amendment.” You may now say why you think the amendment is important.
● When you are finished speaking, the chair will ask, “Is the delegate open to any points of
information?” You may respond either “Yes” or “No,” but the standard practice is to say “Yes.”
● The chair will then call on delegates wishing to ask a question. (This has to be a question, you
cannot just make a statement.) Delegates with questions will be handed microphones by the
note-passers. If you do not understand a question, the delegate at the podium must ask the chair

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 to ask the delegate to repeat/rephrase the question. (The delegate at the podium is not allowed to
converse directly with the delegate asking the question.)
● If you ask a question and the delegate at the podium does not answer the question, you may ask
the chair for a follow-up question. You may not ask a different question in a follow up, you may
only rephrase or clarify. Only one follow-up question is allowed.
● There will be no amendments to amendments.

11. RESOLUTIONS

The final results of discussion, writing and negotiation are resolutions—written suggestions for
addressing a specific problem or issue. Resolutions, which are drafted by delegates and voted on
by the committee, normally require a simple majority to pass (except in the Security Council).
Only Security Council resolutions can compel nations to take action. All other UN bodies use
resolutions to make recommendations or suggestions for future action.

Draft Resolutions
Draft resolutions are all resolutions that have not yet been voted on. Delegates write draft
resolutions alone or with other countries. There are three main parts to a draft resolution: the
heading, the preamble and the operative section. The heading shows the committee and topic
along with the resolution number. It also lists the draft resolution’s sponsors and signatories (see
below). 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.

Bringing a Resolution to the Floor for Debate

A draft resolution must always gain the support of a certain number of member states in the
committee before the sponsors (the delegates who created the resolution) may submit it to the
committee staff. Many conferences require signatures from 20 percent (at TSS you need 20) of
the countries present in order to submit a draft resolution. A staff member will read the draft
resolution to ensure that it is relevant and in proper format. Only when a staff member formally
accepts the document and assigns it a number can it be referred to in formal debate.

Resolution Writing
● Be sure to follow the format for resolutions provided by the conference organizers. Each
conference may have a slightly different format.
● Create a detailed resolution. For example, if your resolution calls for a new program, think
about how it will be funded and what body will manage it.
● Try to cite facts whenever possible.
● Be realistic. Do not create objectives for your resolution that cannot be met. Make sure your
body can take the action suggested. For example, the General Assembly can’t sanction
another country – only the Security Council can do so.
● Try to find multiple sponsors. Your committee will be more likely to approve the
resolutions if many delegates contribute ideas.
● Preambulatory clauses are historic justifications for action. Use them to cite past
resolutions, precedents and statements about the purpose of action.

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 ● Operative clauses are policies that the resolution is designed to create. Use them to explain
what the committee will do to address the issue.

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 in dealing with
the issue; and
● General statements on the topic, its significance and its impact.

Sample Preambulatory Phrases

Affirming Expecting Having studied
Alarmed by Expressing its appreciation Keeping in mind
Approving Expressing its satisfaction Noting with regret
Aware of Fulfilling Noting with deep concern
Bearing in mind Fully alarmed Noting with satisfaction
Believing Fully aware Noting further
Confident Fully believing Noting with approval
Contemplating Further deploring Observing
Convinced Further recalling Reaffirming
Declaring Guided by Realizing
Deeply concerned Having adopted Recalling
Deeply conscious Having considered Recognizing
Deeply convinced Having considered further Referring
Deeply disturbed Having devoted attention Seeking
Deeply regretting Having examined Taking into account
Desiring Having heard Taking into consideration
Emphasizing Having received Taking note
Viewing with appreciation
Welcoming

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

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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.

Sample Operative Phrases

Accepts Encourages Further recommends
Affirms Endorses Further requests
Approves Expresses its appreciation Further resolves
Authorizes Expresses its hope Has resolved
Calls Further invites Notes
Calls upon Deplores Proclaims
Condemns Designates Reaffirms
Confirms Draws the attention Recommends
Congratulates Emphasizes Regrets
Considers Encourages Reminds
Declares accordingly Endorses Requests
Deplores Expresses its appreciation Solemnly affirms
Designates Expresses its hope Strongly condemns
Draws the attention Further invites Supports
Emphasizes Further proclaims Takes note of
Further reminds Transmits
Trusts

Sponsors and Signatories

Sponsors of a draft resolution are the principal authors of the document and agree with its
substance. Although it is possible to have only one sponsor, this rarely occurs at the UN, since
countries must work together to create widely agreeable language in order for the draft resolution
to pass. Sponsors control a draft resolution and only the sponsors can approve immediate
changes.

Signatories are countries that may or may not agree with the substance of the draft resolution but
still wish to see it debated so that they can propose amendments.

A certain percentage of the committee must be either sponsors or signatories to a draft resolution
in order for it to be accepted.

Friendly and Unfriendly Amendments

Approved draft resolutions are modified through amendments. An amendment is a written

statement that adds, deletes or revises an operative clause in a draft resolution. The amendment

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process is used to strengthen consensus on a resolution by allowing delegates to change certain
sections. There are two types of amendments:

A friendly amendment is a change to the draft resolution that all sponsors agree with. After the
amendment is signed by all of the draft resolution’s sponsors and approved by the committee
director or president, it will be automatically incorporated into the resolution.

An unfriendly amendment is a change that some or all of the draft resolution’s sponsors do not
support and must be voted upon by the committee. The author(s) of the amendment will need to
obtain a required number of signatories in order to introduce it (usually 20 percent of the
committee). Prior to voting on the draft resolution, the committee votes on all unfriendly
amendments.

Ultimately, resolutions passed by a committee represent a great deal of debate and compromise.
They are the tangible results of hours if not days of Model UN debate. As a result, it is important
to become familiar with the resolution process and practice drafting resolutions using the proper
structure and wording.

Sample Resolution:

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General Assembly Third Committee
Sponsors: United States, Austria and Italy
Signatories: Greece, Tajikistan, Japan, Canada, Mali, the Netherlands and Gabon
Topic: “Strengthening UN coordination of humanitarian assistance in complex emergencies”

The General Assembly,

Reminding all nations of the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human
Rights, which recognizes the inherent dignity, equality and inalienable rights of all global citizens, [use
commas to separate preambulatory clauses]

Reaffirming its Resolution 33/1996 of 25 July 1996, which encourages Governments to work with UN
bodies aimed at improving the coordination and effectiveness of humanitarian assistance,

Noting with satisfaction the past efforts of various relevant UN bodies and nongovernmental
organizations,

Stressing the fact that the United Nations faces significant financial obstacles and is in need of reform,
particularly in the humanitarian realm,

1. Encourages all relevant agencies of the United Nations to collaborate more closely with
countries at the grassroots level to enhance the carrying out of relief efforts; [use semicolons to
separate operative clauses]

2. Urges member states to comply with the goals of the UN Department of Humanitarian Affairs
to streamline efforts of humanitarian aid;

3. Requests that all nations develop rapid deployment forces to better enhance the coordination of
relief efforts of humanitarian assistance in complex emergencies;

4. Calls for the development of a United Nations Trust Fund that encourages voluntary donations
from the private transnational sector to aid in funding the implementation of rapid deployment
forces;

5. Stresses the continuing need for impartial and objective information on the political, economic
and social situations and events of all countries;

6. Calls upon states to respond quickly and generously to consolidated appeals for humanitarian
assistance; and

7. Requests the expansion of preventive actions and assurance of post-conflict assistance through
reconstruction and development. [end resolutions with a period]

12. DRESSING FOR SUCCESS

19
Dressing professionally and appropriately is an important aspect of Model UN preparations. Just
like being polite and having proper manners, dressing appropriately is an important way to show
respect for the nation you are representing, for your fellow delegates and for the United Nations.
Western business attire, or international standard business attire, serves as customary dress for
workplaces. It entails wearing a suit, which is made up of trousers, a matching jacket, a
button-down dress shirt, and a tie. Conservative dress shoes and socks are also important. Skirts
and dresses may also be worn as long as they fall to a decent length. The main thing to remember
is to always insure that your appearance is tidy and put-together, and that you are well-covered.

Clothing Females Males

A suit always looks professional. Be sure A suit always looks professional. Be sure
Suits
to keep suits clean and wrinkle-free. to keep suits clean and wrinkle-free.

No t-shirts or tank tops. A blouse,

sweater, or button-down shirt of any kind
is appropriate. Dresses are also No t-shirts. A collared/button-down shirt
Tops
appropriate as long as they are not is appropriate and do not forget a tie!
revealing and adequate in length (follow
the rules below for skirt length).

No jeans or shorts. Slacks and suit-pants

are acceptable. Skirts must be worn with
pantyhose/stockings and should be past No jeans or shorts. Slacks, preferable in
Bottoms
the knee. Bottoms should have a subtle dark colors, are appropriate.
pattern; avoid loud designs. NO
SKINNY TROUSERS>

No sneakers or open-toe sandals.

No sneakers or open-toe sandals. Loafers
Remember: high-heeled shoes may look
Shoes or other types of dress shoes are
pretty, but they can also be very
preferred.
uncomfortable, so use your discretion.

Keep hair clean and out of your face for a Keep hair clean and out of your face a
Hair
professional look. professional look.

13. GLOSSARY OF MUN TERMS

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Model UN can be confusing to a beginner, not only because of the complexity of the issues and
the pace of debate, but because of the strangeness of the language. At your first Model UN
conference, you may not think that some of the delegates are speaking English, because of the
weird terms they are using! To save you some confusion, UNA-USA has provided this cheat
sheet of Model UN terminology. Look it over, and soon you'll be able to discuss quorums,
preambulatory clauses, division of the question, and unmoderated caucuses with the best of
them. (Note that several of the terms below, including Secretariat and Secretary-General, have
different meanings in Model UN than they do in the real UN; you should familiarize yourself
with both meanings. Also, rules of procedure vary greatly from Model UN conference to Model
UN conference. Though these are the most common definitions of the terms below, do not be
surprised if you see them used in a slightly different manner at some of the conferences you go
to.)

Abstain - During a vote on a substantive matter, delegates may abstain rather than vote yes or
no. This generally signals that a state does not support the resolution being voted on, but does not
oppose it enough to vote no.

Adjourn - All UN or Model UN sessions end with a vote to adjourn. This means that the debate
is suspended until the next meeting. This can be a short time (e.g., overnight) or a long time
(until next year's conference).
Agenda - The order in which the issues before a committee will be discussed. The first duty of a
committee following the roll call is usually to set the agenda.

Amendment - A change to a resolution. Can be of two types: a "friendly amendment" is

supported by the original draft resolution's sponsors, and is passed automatically, while an
"unfriendly amendment" is not supported by the original sponsors and must be voted on by the
committee as a whole.

Background Guide - A guide to a topic being discussed in a Model UN committee usually

written by conference organizers and distributed to delegates before the conference. The starting
point for any research before a Model UN conference.

Binding - Having legal force in UN member states. Security Council resolutions are binding, as
are decisions of the International Court of Justice; resolutions of the General Assembly and
Economic and Social Council are not.

Bloc - A group of countries in a similar geographical region or with a similar opinion on a

particular topic.

Caucus - A break in formal debate in which countries can more easily and informally discuss a
topic. There are two types: moderated caucus and unmoderated caucus.

Chair - A member of the dais that moderates debate, keeps time, rules on points and motions,
and enforces the rules of procedure. Also known as a Moderator.

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Dais - The group of people, usually high school or college students, in charge of a Model UN
committee. It generally consists of a Chair, a Director, and a Rapporteur.

Decorum - The order and respect for others that all delegates at a Model UN conference must
exhibit. The Chair will call for decorum when he or she feels that the committee is not being
respectful of a speaker, of the dais, or of their roles as ambassadors.

Delegate - A student acting as a representative of a member state or observer in a Model UN

committee for a weekend.

Delegation - The entire group of people representing a member state or observer in all
committees at a particular Model UN conference.
Director - A member of the dais that oversees the creation of working papers and draft
resolutions, acts as an expert on the topic, makes sure delegates accurately reflect the policy of
their countries, and ensures that decorum is maintained during caucuses.

Division of the Question - During voting bloc, delegates may motion to vote on certain clauses
of a resolution separately, so that only the clauses that are passed become part of the final
resolution. This is known as division of the question.

Draft Resolution - A document that seeks to fix the problems addressed by a Model UN
committee. If passed by the committee, the draft resolution will become into a resolution.

Faculty Advisor - The faculty member in charge of a Model UN team, class or club.

Flow of Debate - The order in which events proceed during a Model UN conference. See Flow
of Debate chart.

Gavel - The tool, shaped like a small wooden hammer, that the Chair uses to keep order within a
Model UN committee. Many conferences give the gavel used in a committee to the delegate
recognized by the dais as the best in that committee; therefore, the term is frequently used to
refer to the award given to the best delegate, even in cases where no actual gavel is given.

Formal Debate - The "standard" type of debate at a Model UN conference, in which delegates
speak for a certain time in an order based on a speakers' list.

Head Delegate - The student leader of a Model UN club or team.

Member State - A country that has ratified the Charter of the United Nations and whose
application to join has been accepted by the General Assembly and Security Council. Currently,
there are 191 member states. The only internationally recognized state that is not a member state
is the Holy See.

Moderated Caucus - A type of caucus in which delegates remain seated and the Chair calls on
them one at a time to speak for a short period of time, enabling a freer exchange of opinions than
would be possible in formal debate.

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Moderator - See Chair.

Motion - A request made by a delegate that the committee as a whole do something. Some
motions might be to go into a caucus, to adjourn, to introduce a draft resolution, or to move into
voting bloc. See our Charts of Rules and Motions.

Observer - A state, national organization, regional organization, or non-governmental

organization that is not a member of the UN but participates in its debates. Observers can vote on
procedural matters but not substantive matters. An example is the Holy See.

On the Floor - At a Model UN conference, when a working paper or draft resolution is first
written, it may not be discussed in debate. After it is approved by the Director and introduced by
the committee, it is put "on the floor" and may be discussed.

Operative Clause - The part of a resolution which describes how the UN will address a problem.
It begins with an action verb (decides, establishes, recommends, etc.).

Page - A delegate in a Model UN committee that has volunteered to pass notes from one
delegate to another, or from a delegate to the dais, for a short period of time.

Placard - A piece of cardstock with a country's name on it that a delegate raises in the air to
signal to the Chair that he or she wishes to speak.

Point - A request raised by a delegate for information or for an action relating to that delegate.
Examples include a point of order, a point of inquiry, and a point of personal privilege. See our
Charts of Rules and Motions.

Position Paper - A summary of a country's position on a topic, written by a delegate before a

Model UN conference.

Preambulatory Clause - The part of a resolution that describes previous actions taken on the
topic and reasons why the resolution is necessary. It begins with a participle or adjective (noting,
concerned, regretting, aware of, recalling, etc.).

Procedural - Having to do with the way a committee is run, as opposed to the topic being
discussed. All delegates present must vote on procedural matters and may not abstain.

Quorum - The minimum number of delegates needed to be present for a committee to meet. In
the General Assembly, a quorum consists of one third of the members to begin debate, and a
majority of members to pass a resolution. In the Security Council, no quorum exists for the body
to debate, but nine members must be present to pass a resolution.

Rapporteur - A member of the dais whose duties include keeping the speakers' list and taking
the roll call.

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Resolution - A document that has been passed by an organ of the UN that aims to address a
particular problem or issue. The UN equivalent of a law.

Right of Reply - A right to speak in reply to a previous speaker's comment, invoked when a
delegate feels personally insulted by another's speech. Generally requires a written note to the
Chair to be invoked.

Roll Call - The first order of business in a Model UN committee, during which the Rapporteur
reads aloud the names of each member state in the committee. When a delegate's country's name
is called, he or she may respond "present" or "present and voting." A delegate responding
"present and voting" may not abstain on a substantive vote.

Rules of Procedure - The rules by which a Model UN committee is run. See our Charts of Rules
and Motions.

Second - To agree with a motion being proposed. Many motions must be seconded before they
can be brought to a vote.

Secretariat - The most senior staff of a Model UN conference.

Secretary-General - The leader of a Model UN conference.

Signatory - A country that wishes a draft resolution to be put on the floor and signs the draft
resolution to accomplish this. A signatory need not support a resolution; it only wants it to be
discussed. Usually, Model UN conferences require some minimum number of sponsors and
signatories for a draft resolution to be approved.

Simple Majority - 50% plus one of the number of delegates in a committee. The amount needed
to pass most votes.

Speakers' List - A list that determines the order in which delegates will speak. Whenever a new
topic is opened for discussion, the Chair will create a speakers' list by asking all delegates
wishing to speak to raise their placards and calling on them one at a time. During debate, a
delegate may indicate that he or she wishes to be added to the speakers' list by sending a note to
the dais.

Sponsor - One of the writers of a draft resolution. A friendly amendment can only be created if
all sponsors agree.

Substantive - Having to do with the topic being discussed. A substantive vote is a vote on a draft
resolution or amendment already on the floor during voting bloc. Only member states (not
observer states or non-governmental organizations) may vote on substantive issues.

Unmoderated Caucus - A type of caucus in which delegates leave their seats to mingle and
speak freely. Enables the free sharing of ideas to an extent not possible in formal debate or even

24
a moderated caucus. Frequently used to sort countries into blocs and to write working papers and
draft resolutions.

Working Paper - A document in which the ideas of some delegates on how to resolve an issue
are proposed. Frequently the precursor to a draft resolution.

Veto - The ability, held by China, France, the Russian Federation, the United Kingdom, and the
United States to prevent any draft resolution in the Security Council from passing by voting no.

Vote - A time at which delegates indicate whether they do or do not support a proposed action
for the committee. There are two types: procedural and substantive.

Voting Bloc- The period at the end of a committee session during which delegates vote on
proposed amendments and draft resolutions. Nobody may enter or leave the room during voting
bloc.

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