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Beginners' Guide

The Beginners' Guide for CGC International MUN 2026 is designed to familiarize first-time delegates with essential MUN terminologies and procedures. The guide includes information on roles such as delegates and the Executive Board, as well as key concepts like committees, resolutions, and various types of caucuses. It aims to prepare participants for effective engagement in debates and discussions during the conference.
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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
19 views17 pages

Beginners' Guide

The Beginners' Guide for CGC International MUN 2026 is designed to familiarize first-time delegates with essential MUN terminologies and procedures. The guide includes information on roles such as delegates and the Executive Board, as well as key concepts like committees, resolutions, and various types of caucuses. It aims to prepare participants for effective engagement in debates and discussions during the conference.
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

BEGINNERS’

GUIDE
NOTE: THE BEGINNERS’ GUIDE IS ESPECIALLY DESIGNED TO
HELP FIRST TIMERS GET FAMILIAR WITH BASIC MUN
TERMINOLOGIES

Be a part of Legacy...
LETTER FROM THE
Dear Delegates,
SECRETARIAT
At the outset, on behalf of the Secretariat, we extend a warm welcome to all of you and
congratulate you on being a part of the CGC International MUN 2026.

CGC International MUN has a legacy of hosting some of the finest debaters from across the
country, and this year, we expect the level of debate to reach new heights. This ambition can
only be realized if you, as a delegate, come prepared and put forth your best effort.

To ensure that every delegate is fully informed and equipped for the competition, the
Secretariat has undertaken the significant task of creating a Delegate Resource Hub,
designed to meet every possible need of a delegate.

We will be providing three different guides to assist you:


Beginner's Guide: Tailored for first-time participants
Expert's Guide: Offering the best strategies to gain a competitive edge
Background Guide: A comprehensive committee guide prepared by the Executive Board
Members

We are thrilled to have you as part of this vibrant and intellectually stimulating gathering,
where you will have the opportunity to engage with like-minded individuals, sharpen your
diplomatic skills, and contribute to meaningful discussions on global issues.

Your participation is key to the success of this event, and we look forward to the dynamic
perspectives you will bring to the table. As a delegate, you will not only gain invaluable
experience but also become part of a global community committed to fostering cooperation,
dialogue, and understanding.

Wishing you all a very warm good luck and hope to see you all at this conference to
discuss imperative issues of national interest.

Warm Regards,
Secretariat
Instagram- CGCMUN26
Gmail- cgcinternationalmun2026@[Link]
BASIC TERMINOLOGIES
Delegate
A delegate is a participant who represents a country (or sometimes an organization or
special interest group) in a committee. As a delegate, you'll be responsible for speaking
on behalf of your assigned country, researching its position on global issues, and
working with other delegates to find solutions to problems. You'll participate in debates,
negotiations, and resolutions, aiming to achieve the best outcome for your country.

Executive Board (EB)


The Executive Board is made up of the individuals who run the MUN conference and
each of its committees. The EB usually consists of the Chair, Vice-Chairs, and sometimes
other staff members. Their main role is to facilitate the proceedings, manage the flow of
debate, enforce the rules, and ensure that everything runs smoothly. They guide
delegates, ensuring that the debate stays on track and that all participants are following
the rules of procedure.

Committee
A committee is a specific group within the MUN conference where delegates represent
different countries or organizations. Each committee focuses on a particular global
issue, such as climate change, international security, or human rights. During the
conference, delegates work within their committees to draft resolutions, negotiate with
other countries, and debate various aspects of the issue.

Agenda
The agenda is the official topic for discussion in your committee. It provides structure
and direction to your debates, helping the committee focus on specific global issues.

Resolution
A resolution is a formal document that proposes a solution to a problem being
discussed in a committee. It’s drafted by delegates and is usually a collective effort.
Once it’s debated and amended, a resolution can be voted on by the committee. If it
passes, it becomes the official stance of that committee on the issue.
GENERAL SPEAKERS’ LIST (GSL)
The GSL is like the main queue for giving speeches in an MUN committee. It’s where
delegates take turns to speak about the topic being discussed, sharing their country’s
opinions and ideas.

Moderated Caucus
A moderated caucus is a type of debate where the Chair allows delegates to speak for a
set amount of time in an orderly fashion. It's often used to encourage discussion on a
specific part of a topic and helps to facilitate more structured dialogue.

Unmoderated Caucus
An unmoderated caucus is a break in the formal debate where delegates can freely
discuss issues in smaller groups without the guidance of the Chair. It allows for informal
negotiations, lobbying, and drafting resolutions in smaller groups.

Bloc
A bloc is a group of countries with similar interests or positions on a specific issue.
Delegates often work together in blocs to draft resolutions and push for solutions that
align with their countries' positions.

Rules of Procedure (RoPs)


Rules of Procedure are the guidelines that govern how the MUN conference runs. They
dictate how debates are conducted, how delegates can speak, how resolutions are
introduced, and how voting takes place. Familiarizing yourself with the rules will help
you navigate the conference smoothly.

Yield
Yielding refers to giving up your remaining speaking time during a debate. Delegates can
yield to another delegate (giving them the rest of their time to speak) or yield to
questions (allowing other delegates to ask questions after their speech).
RULES OF PROCEDURE
OFFICIAL LANGUAGE
English is the universal language of diplomacy here. All speeches, debates, and notes
must be in English.
Exception: For AIPPM. Speeches can be delivered in Hindi or English. However, the
documentation will be drafted in English only.

ROLL CALL
Roll call is the first official moment of any MUN session. When the Chair calls your country’s
name, it’s your cue to respond with either:
Option 1: “Present”
By choosing "Present," you keep your options open during voting. You have the freedom to:

Vote in Favor of the resolution


Vote Against the resolution
Abstain from Voting

This option is ideal if your country’s stance on the agenda is diplomatic or neutral.

Option 2: “Present and Voting”


By choosing "Present and Voting," you commit to a decisive vote. You must vote either in
Favor or Against—abstaining is not an option. This option is ideal if your country has a clear
and firm stance on the issue at hand.

Key Considerations:
• If your country is neutral or undecided, go with “Present” for flexibility.
• If your country has a firm opinion, choose “Present and Voting” to show commitment.
GENERAL SPEAKERS’ LIST (GSL)

The GSL is like the main queue for giving speeches in an MUN committee. It’s where
delegates take turns to speak about the topic being discussed, sharing their country’s
opinions and ideas.

1. Start of Debate:
The Chair opens the GSL at the beginning of the session.
Delegates who want to speak raise their placards, and their names are added to
the list.

2. Taking Turns:
The Chair calls on delegates in the order their names appear on the list.
Each delegate gives a short speech (usually 90 seconds) about their country’s
stance and ideas for solving the issue.

3. Rejoining:
After speaking, a delegate can ask to be added back to the list if they want to
speak again later.

4. Pausing the GSL:


The GSL can be temporarily paused for other activities, like moderated caucuses
(focused discussions) or unmoderated caucuses (informal discussions).

5. Ending the GSL:


When no one else wants to speak, or the committee decides to move on, the
GSL ends. This often means it’s time to start drafting resolutions or voting.

Motion to establish General Speakers’ List – “The delegate of (your country) wants to raise a
motion to establish the General Speakers’ List.”
POINTS
Points are the rights and privileges of a delegate, which they can use as per their
convenience. Points allow delegates to seek clarification, ask questions, or express concerns
without disrupting the flow of debate.

1. Point of Personal Privilege


This is the only point that can interrupt a speaker.
Usage: It is used if a delegate cannot hear the speaker or feels physically or
mentally uncomfortable and needs to leave or take a break.

2. Point of Information
This point is used to ask questions based on a delegate's speech.
Usage: After a speech, a delegate can raise their placard and, once recognized,
ask for evidence to support the claim.

3. Point of Order
This is a procedural tool delegates use to highlight and correct errors in the committee's
proceedings.
Usage: It ensures the debate follows the rules of procedure and that no mistakes are
overlooked.
Important Note: The Point of Order may not interrupt a speech. It is at the discretion of
the chairs to decide whether the point is valid and to clarify any irregularities.

4. Point of Parliamentary Inquiry


This is used by delegates to ask the Chair about the rules of procedure or how the
session is being conducted.
Usage: It is a tool for clarification to ensure delegates understand the process and can
participate effectively.
Important Note: These points may not interrupt speakers and can only be raised when
the floor is open for points and motions.
YIELDS
When the delegate is done with their speech during the General Speakers List (GSL) but still
has time left, they can "yield" (or give) the remaining time in three different ways. This is
called making a yield, and it ensures the unused time is handled efficiently. This can only be
done if the delegate speaks for less than 90 seconds.

1. Yield to Chairperson
What It Means: You give the remaining time back to the Chair.
What Happens: The Chair takes over, and the debate moves on to the next speaker.

2. Yield to Another Delegate


What It Means: You give your remaining time to another delegate.
What Happens: The delegate you choose can use your leftover time to speak.

3. Yield to Point of Information


What It Means: You allow other delegates to ask you questions about your speech.
What Happens: Delegates raise their placards, and the Chair selects who can ask
questions. You answer these questions using the remaining time.

Order of Disruption
The motion which entertains the higher number of speakers, is voted upon first as per the
order of disruption. For example, a delegate of Australia raised a motion for a total time
of 10 minutes with per-speaker time of 60 seconds, a total of 10 speakers can be
accommodated, similarly India raised a motion for 20 minutes with a per-speaker time
being 60 seconds, a total 20 speakers can be accommodated. Hence, India’s motion shall
be voted upon first as it accommodates higher number of speakers.
MODERATED CAUCUS
A Moderated Caucus is a formal debate where the committee discusses a specific subtopic
in detail. The goal of a Moderated Caucus is to understand the committee’s opinion on the
issue.

- How to Start a Moderated Caucus:


A delegate can say:
"Motion to open a Moderated Caucus to discuss[Subtopic] for [maximum XYZ minutes] with
each speaker having [maximum XYZ minute]."

- Approval Requirements: A Moderated Caucus needs a Simple Majority to pass and can
be approved by an informal vote. If there are multiple motions (up to XYZ), the Chairperson
will decide which one to vote on first.
- Motion to Raise a Moderated Caucus:
"The delegate of (your country) wants to raise a motion to suspend the formal debate and
move into a moderated caucus on the topic [subtopic of the agenda] for a total time of 20
minutes with each speaker getting 60 seconds."

UNMODERATED CAUCUS
An Unmoderated Caucus is a suspension of formal debate where delegates can freely
move around, discuss, and negotiate with others without being moderated by the Chair. It
allows for informal, dynamic interaction to build alliances, draft resolutions, and collaborate
on ideas.
- How to Start an Unmoderated Caucus:
A delegate can say:
"Motion to open an Unmoderated Caucus for [Purpose] for [maximum XYZ + XYZ minutes]."

- Approval Requirements: An Unmoderated Caucus also requires a Simple Majority to pass


and can be approved by an informal vote.

Note:
There is no topic and no per-speaker time in an Unmoderated Caucus. The total time
can vary from 5 minutes to any length as per the discretion of the Chairperson.
- Priority: In terms of disruption, the motion for an Unmoderated Caucus
is given priority over the motion for a Moderated Caucus during the
voting procedure.
CHITS
Chits are small, handwritten or typed notes that delegates use to communicate with each
other or the dais (the moderators or chairs of the committee) during a MUN session. The
main purpose of writing chits is to discuss ideas, form alliances, or share opinions with other
delegates.
- There is no fixed specification for the format of chits, and there is no maximum number
of chits allowed. This depends on the discretion of each Executive Board (EB) Panel and
shall be communicated after setting the quorum.
- There are generally three types of chits:
▪ Via EB/POI Chits(Formal)
▪ Substantive Chits(Formal)
▪ Transitive Chits(Informal)

VIA EB/POI/QUESTION CHITS

1. Purpose:
These chits allow for seamless interaction between delegates, the Executive Board (EB),
and other participants, fostering better diplomacy and efficiency in the committee. They
are used to ask questions from other delegates.

2. Format:
From: [Your Country Name]
To: [Country you want to ask the question from]
Via: Executive Board (used for Formal Chits which are marked)
POI Question: [Your Question]

3. Answering a Chit:
These chits are marked by the Executive Board.
It is important to mention "Via: Executive Board" followed by their answer or justification.

4. Important Note:
It is not mandatory for a delegate to answer a question. Any delegate can
refuse to answer a question asked via chit.
RESOLUTIONS
A Resolution is a document that provides a solution to the main issue being discussed.
Before it can be introduced, it needs the approval and signature of the Presiding Officer. The
voting to approve the resolution must follow the Formal Voting procedure. The resolution
must follow a specific format. If multiple resolutions are submitted at the same time, the one
with more signatories will be discussed and voted on first.

1. Authors:
An Author is someone who writes, organizes, and develops the resolution.
Requirements: At least one author is needed, but there is no limit to the number of
authors as long as they meet the required number of signatories.
Important Note: An author cannot vote against the resolution but can withdraw it if
needed.

2. Signatories:
A Signatory supports the idea of discussing the resolution in the committee.
Requirements: A minimum number of signatories is needed for the resolution, but the
exact number depends on the rules of the committee.
Important Note: Signatories can vote however they choose.

Basics of a Resolution

Who: Who writes a resolution?


Any delegate in the committee can write a resolution (although in rare instances an
observer state is not allowed to directly write a resolution). The author of a resolution is
called a sponsor. Most resolutions have multiple sponsors because it takes a group of
countries to share good ideas and come to a consensus.

What: What is a resolution?


A resolution is a document that contains all the issues that the committee wants to
solve and the proposed solutions to those issue. It’s called a resolution because that’s
what the United Nations calls the documents they produce. Technically, the resolution
should be called a draft resolution before it is voted upon and then called a
resolution after it is successfully passed during the voting bloc.
When/Where: When and where are resolutions written?
Most conferences require students to write resolutions during the conference.
Specifically, resolutions are usually written during unmoderated caucus (sometimes
called informal caucus) where delegates are free to roam around the committee to
collaborate on ideas with each other, and sometimes students work outside in hallways
or computer labs as well. Resolution writing becomes more focused during the latter
sessions of the committee when different country policies are clear and different ideas
have been mentioned already.

Why?
The ultimate purpose of a committee session is to pass a resolution. All the speeches,
debates, negotiations, and teamwork are supposed to lead up to a resolution that
contains all the proposed solutions to the issue. The resolution(s) that the majority of
the committee agrees upon will be passed during the voting bloc and the sponsors will
be informally commended for building consensus on good ideas. Most conferences
allow multiple resolutions to pass as long as they do not contradict each other, but a
few conferences allow only one resolution to pass.

How to Write a Resolution


How do I write a resolution and what does the format look like? First, here is an
example of how a resolution looks like from UNA-USA’s website:
A resolution is really simple to write. It has three main parts: the heading, the pre-
ambulatory clauses, and the operative clauses. We’ll break down the example above into
these three parts below.

1. Heading
The heading contains four pieces of information: the committee name, the sponsors, the
signatories, and the topic (not necessarily in that order depending on each individual
conference’s rules).
The committee name and topic should be self-explanatory. The sponsors are the authors of
the resolution. The signatories are other delegates in the committee who do not necessarily
agree with the resolution but would like to see it debated.

2. Pre-ambulatory clauses
The pre-ambulatory clauses state all the issues that the committee wants to resolve on this
issue. It may state reasons why the committee is working on this issue and highlight previous
international actions on the issue. Pre-ambulatory clauses can include:

▪ Past UN resolutions, treaties, or conventions related to the topic


▪ Past regional, non-governmental, or national efforts in resolving thistopic
▪ References to the UN Charter or other international frameworks and laws
▪ Statements made by the Secretary-General or a relevant UN body or agency
▪ General background information or facts about the topic, its significance, and its
impact.
It’s very simple to write pre-ambulatory clauses. First, take a statement that you want to
write about (perhaps an issue you want to solve or a specific fact from one of the five bullet
points above). You then take that statement, combine it with an underlined pre-ambulatory
phrase, and end it with a comma. Here are some example pre-ambulatory phrases from
UNA-USA’s website that you can choose from:

For example, my country wants to address the issue of how HIV/AIDS has spread rapidly in
sub-Saharan Africa. I pick a pre-ambulatory phrase from above — I’ll use “Alarmed by” —
and then I combine it to say:

Alarmed by the 17% increase in HIV/AIDS contraction among sub-Saharan African countries
in the past five years,

Strategy Tip: In general, you want fewer pre-ambulatory clauses than operative clauses.
More operative clauses convey that you have more solutions than you have problems.

3. Operative clauses
Operative clauses state the solutions that the sponsors of the resolution propose to
resolve the issues. The operative clauses should address the issues specifically
mentioned in the pre-ambulatory clauses above it.
It’s very simple to write an operative clause. First, take a solution that you want to include in
the draft resolution. You then take that solution, combine it with an underlined operative
phrase, and end it with a semicolon (the last operative clause ends with a period). Operative
clauses are also numbered. This differentiates them from pre-ambulatory clauses, helps show
logical progression in the resolution, and makes the operative clauses easy to refer to in
speeches and comments. Here are some example operative phrases from UNA-USA’s
website that you can choose from:
For example, my first solution is to distribute low-cost medicines for HIV/AIDS to sub-
Saharan African countries. I pick an operative phrase from above — I’ll use “Calls upon” —
and then I combine it and number it to say:

1. Calls upon the developed countries and major pharmaceutical countries to provide low-
cost, generic medicines for HIV/AIDS to sub-Saharan African countries;
Strategy Tip: Usually more details in an operative clause will make it stronger or at least
make the idea more clear to other delegates. A simple way to strengthen each operative
clause is to answer the “who, what, when, where, why, and how” of each resolution. These
details can actually be broken down into sub-operative clauses underneath the main
operative clause.

Amendments
UNA-USA’s website already provides a great explanation of what amendments are:

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


statement that adds, deletes or changes an operative clause in a draft resolution. The
amendment process is used to strengthen consensus on a resolution by allowing delegates
to change the operative clauses (the pre-ambulatory clauses cannot be modified). There
are two types of amendments:

1. 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 chair, it will be automatically incorporated into the resolution.

2. 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. This also refers to delegates
who did not write this resolution at all but see potential in it as long as several changes
are made to it. The sponsors of the amendment will need to obtain a required number
of signatories in order to introduce it. Prior to voting on the draft resolution, the
committee votes on all unfriendly amendments.

Writing an amendment is very simple. All you have to do is make an operative clause
that adds, deletes, or changes an operative clause in a draft resolution. Examples
include:

- Adds an operative clause that reads “14. Encourages all Latin


American countries to...”

- Deletes operative clause 9.

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