General Study Guide
General Study Guide
What is an MUN?
Model United Nations (MUN) is a comprehensive academic simulation of the UN’s inner
workings. In this environment, students step into the roles of international diplomats,
representing the interests of various member states in a series of intense discussions and debates
regarding the most pressing issues facing our world today. Because it is a functional simulation,
the conference mirrors the actual structure of the United Nations. Participants are divided into
specific committees such as the Security Council or the General Assembly - each of which is
tasked with resolving unique challenges within their respective jurisdictions.
During a conference, you aren't just a student. you are a delegate representing an allocated
nation. Per UN standards, delegates are expected to move beyond simple debate and engage in
genuine, constructive dialogue to find realistic ways to address regional and global concerns.
This requires a deep dive into the realm of multilateral diplomacy. By accurately simulating
bodies like the United Nations General Assembly, MUN forces students to adopt the personas
of ambassadors from a vast range of countries—from Afghanistan to Zimbabwe. You’ll be
expected to advocate for your assigned state's position on the Organization’s expansive agenda,
regardless of your personal opinions.
As a "delegate," the work goes far beyond just public speaking. You’ll be responsible for
drafting formal resolutions, mapping out political strategies, and negotiating with both close
allies and traditional adversaries. Success in a committee room depends on your ability to settle
disputes and navigate the Rules of Procedure with precision. Ultimately, the goal of any MUN
conference is to mobilize international cooperation and develop tangible solutions for the crises
that impact almost every nation on the planet. Whether you are mediating a conflict or building a
coalition, you are participating in a tradition of diplomacy that seeks to better the world through
communication.
❏ General Committees:
Novice committees are a more comfortable setting for delegates who are newer to the activity.
The topics of discussion are often simpler and novice in nature. There will be designated periods
of time in Novice committees dedicated by the staff to teach Model UN. And the Executive
Board members will proceed with the committee to be a learning orientated experience rather
than a massively technical one and heated one. General Assemblies, Security Council or
specialized bodies, these committees are intermediate in difficulty level. Topics range from
conflict-centric such as cyber warfare to humanitarian topics such as empowering the status of
women.
❏ Crisis Committees:
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These committees are the most fast-paced and advanced in nature. Crisis committees simulate a
real-time situation that delegates have to resolve. Instead of writing draft resolutions, delegates
write directives that have immediate effect on the situation.
Delegates: In an MUN, the participants, or the representatives of countries are called delegates.
Please keep in mind that throughout the conference you will be acknowledged as delegates. For
example: the delegate of Niger.
Executive Board Members: They are the honorable judges who will be serve as your guidance
and enforce the rules of procedure for the next 3 days of the conference. In MUN terms, they are
known as the EBs or Dais.
Formal sessions: This is known as structured debate, where all the delegates follow the rules of
procedure. The statements made by the delegates in formal sessions are binding. Usually, all the
speeches given by delegates fall under formal sessions.
Informal Sessions: This is where the delegates take a break from the strict rules of procedures
and interact directly while maintaining their diplomatic norms. While these sessions are not
binding, they are highly essential for negotiating and creating documentation.
Committees: These are the simulated bodies of the United Nations, agencies, or organizations
such as UNHRC, UNSC, IPC and a crisis cabinet (GCF) in DCMUN 2026. Each committee has
a different area of work and their own mandate.
Decorum: This refers to maintenance of proper behavior, or discipline during the committee. It is
crucial to be respectful and diplomatic during an MUN.
Quorum: The number of member states needed to begin the meeting. For GA committees, it is
1/3rd of the committee.
Bloc: Blocs can be defined as a group of countries with similar policies, common goals, or the
same perspective on a specific issue. Essentially, they are alliances. E.g., ASEAN is a bloc.
Rules of Procedure
Notably, a conference is based on some fundamental rules that will be followed throughout
all sessions, and it is crucial for delegates to take note of the following before entering
the conference. They are given below:
♦ Procedural Matters
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It refers to the structure and the flow of debate. The things that fall under procedural matters are
roll call, setting the agenda, motions, etc. In simple words the basic rules required to run a
committee. In procedural matters, it is essential to have a simple majority voting. No
abstentions are allowed during procedural matters. Delegates must vote “yes” or “no”.
NOTE: Voting on procedural matters is a two-step process. Once the motion is raised for a
particular matter, the executive board asks the committee if any other delegate seconds that
motion i.e. if anyone was going to raise a similar motion as that of the delegate. If at least one
delegate seconds that motion, then the committee moves to vote on that motion. However, if no
delegate seconds that motion, that motion fails immediately and no voting is conducted on it.
♦ Substantive Matters
It discusses the matters that determines the outcome of the debate. Things such as voting on the
draft resolution, amendments, clauses, any actions that influences the agenda. It requires a two
third majority to pass on a substantive matter. Delegates may use abstention on the
substantive matters depending on their voting status.
NOTE: Only Member states can vote on substantive matters which include adoption of
resolutions and passing amendments. Observer states cannot participate in voting of substantive
matters. No delegate is allowed to abstain from voting on procedural matters such as voting for
motions. This refers to the official way of doing something like voting on a motion for a
moderated caucus, regardless of whether they are Members or Observer States.
♦ Roll Call
Every committee session begins with a roll call. The chair calls out each delegate's country
name. If any of the Delegates were not present during the Roll Call, upon their arrival they shall
send a note to the chairpersons clarifying their status of presence. Delegates respond with either
of the two options:
➢ "Present"– Means they are present and can choose one of 3 voting stances “Yes, No or
Abstain” on any substantive matter. This stance implies that a delegate does not have a
particularly polarised or opinionated stance on a topic. The delegate is present and reserves the
right to abstain on substantive (i.e. having a firm basis or importance) matters. This includes
resolutions, presidential statements, press statements (for Security Council only) and
amendments. This means that the delegate can vote Yes, No or Abstain.
➢ "Present and Voting"– Means they must vote either “Yes or No” and shall have no right to
abstain from any vote on the substantial matter. This voting stance implies that a delegate is
extremely opinionated on a subject. The delegate is present and will vote on all resolutions i.e.
only vote Yes or No; the delegation does not reserve the right to abstain from voting.
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♦ Quorum
➢ The quorum for the adoption of resolutions/decisions and elections is a simple majority
of Member States. The simple majority refers to 50% + 1 of the committee members.
NOTE: After the introductory remarks, the quorum is taken into account. Instances
where they are used:
Setting the Agenda, initiating a moderated/unmoderated caucus, Suspension or
adjournment of meeting, Resuming Debate, raising a motion for the Introduction of draft
resolution, raising a motion for the voting session of draft resolution, Reordering voting
on Draft Resolutions, After the roll call, session begins, Adoption of Draft Resolutions
The most standard rules of procedure (ROP) is the UNA-USA ROP. Yet certain committees may
follow different procedures depending on the discretion of the executive board members.
However, the UNA-USA ROP outlines the fundamental principles of any producers. Therefore,
all the delegates are expected to know the given points thoroughly.
In the GSL, a delegate may speak about anything related to the agenda. For instance, this is
where a delegate gets the floor to give their opening speech. Initially, a delegate must build up on
their respective country's stance, actions and interests on the agenda. Furthermore, outlining the
key points of the agenda in the GSL is a must for any delegates. Here is an example of the
opening speech by the delegate of Sudan the committee of UNSC.
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sign it. proving themselves as the enemies of peace. The question here is; what has led them to
not signing? In fact, It's the fuel that they have gotten from the Sahel region, the weapons, the
troops and so on. Now; what is needed is a commitment of all parties towards mediation. What
is needed is our right to express our civilian's opinions who want peace, consequences showing
justice against the actions by the rebels. We remind the council once again; the crisis is ours; it
doesn’t fall under the chapter VI and VII of the UN charter. Therefore, every nation present in
the council will be strategizing on the agenda by respecting Sudan's Sovereignty as stated in
Article 2(1) and Article 2(7). Once again, we call for mediation not for military intervention.”
Keep in mind, delegates may talk about any subtopics related to the agenda in the
GSL throughout the conference, for example: one of the subtopics of the Israel-Palestine conflict
is the blockade of humanitarian aid
Note: I) Usually, the time for GSL is about ninety or sixty seconds. However, it varies according
to the decision of the whole committee. Delegates may request to be added in the general
speakers list at any time by sending a chit to the chair or by raising their placard whenever the
floor is open. Delegate may yield their remaining time to the chair (in which case they may ask if
the speaker is open to POIs), to the next speaker (where the remaining time of the speaker is
added to the time of the next), or for POIs, if their speaking time has not elapsed.
II) The general speaker's list is non-exhaustive throughout the entirety of the conference; i.e. it
can only be adjourned. If the GSL is exhausted, the committee is suspended for the conference.
The GSL continues unless interrupted by other motions.
Yielding Time:
After giving a speech, delegates have the option to yield their remaining time to either of these
three:
➢ To another delegate- The remaining time will be offered to another delegate as allotted by the
former speaker
➢ To points of information (POI)- Delegates shall be asked POIs by the chair or other delegates
in the committee room. Answers to those POIs are limited to the time remaining in the delegate's
speech
➢ To the dais- The dais can choose to use the yielded time however they wish to do so.
NOTE: If a delegate does not specify how to utilise their remaining time at their speech’s end, it
is yielded to the dais by default
2) Moderated Caucus
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It is a formal debate session where the representatives focus mainly on the important subtopics.
There are three main things in a moderated caucus: total time, individual speaking time, and the
topic (a subtopic of the agenda). These are all proposed by the delegates when a motion is
raised and voted on. There are no yields in the moderated caucus. The delegate raising the
motion for the moderated caucus may decide to speak first, last or otherwise may reserve their
rights. The delegates are advised to make use of POIs via chits during moderated caucuses.
Usually, the topics for the moderated caucuses are decided before the conference.
Note: The total time set for a moderated caucus must be divisible by each speaker’s speaking
time: i.e., the caucus must support an integer number of speakers. Therefore, a motion for a
moderated caucus of 20 minutes with each speaker getting 90 seconds will not be entertained
however a moderated caucus with a total time of 15 minutes can accommodate 10 speakers, each
with 90 seconds of speaking time and hence will be entered.
Additionally, the individual speaking time set at the beginning of the formal debate (GSL) cannot
be exceeded while raising a motion for a moderated caucus. For example, if at the start of GSL,
the individual speaking time is set at 60 seconds, then for any moderated caucus, the individual
speaking time shall not exceed over 60 seconds.
3) Unmoderated Caucus
This refers to the temporary suspension of the formal debate and session. An Unmod (as it
is usually called) opens the room for delegates to build their strategies, to work with their bloc
most importantly bringing people by their side though lobbying. How you behave in an unmod
differentiates you from other delegates.
4) Motion
A motion is a formal suggestion made by the delegates to take an action in the committee. It is a
procedural matter passed by the voting of the simple majority in the committee. A motion
determines the flow the of the debate. Therefore, the delegates are expected to use it wisely, the
“The delegate of the Russian Federation would raise a motion to start the roll call session.” ➢
Motion to set the agenda
“The delegate of Russian Federation raises a motion to set the agenda to _____ as the first topic
of discussion.”
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“The delegate of the Russian Federation raises a motion to commence the general speakers list
with each speaker getting 90 seconds”
“The delegate of the Russian Federation raises a motion to temporarily suspend the general
speakers list and move onto a moderated caucus on the topic of the proliferation of small arms
and light weapons with each speaker getting sixty seconds and a total time of fifteen minutes.”
“The delegate of the Russian Federation raises a motion to temporarily suspend the general
speakers list and move onto an unmoderated caucus of 10 minutes.”
“The delegate of the Russian Federation raises a motion to move into the presentation of the
Draft Resolution 1.1” (the order of the draft resolution may vary so make sure you word it
accordingly)
“The delegate of the Russian Federation raises a motion to start the POI session for draft
resolution 1.1”
“The delegate of the Russian Federation raises a motion to start the amendment session for the
Draft Resolution 1.1”
NOTE: A delegate cannot second their own motion. However, a delegate must vote in favor of
the motion. However, all delegates are required to vote in favor of the motion or against the
motion . Sometimes, the Dais may pass motions as per their discretion.
Order of Disruption
The order in which motions are voted on is based on the order of disruption. The more speakers
that the motion can entertain, the higher it is in priority. Thus, if motions to move into an
unmoderated caucus of 5 minutes, a moderated caucus of 15 minutes, and a moderated caucus
for 20 minutes, they would be voted on in the following order:
1) Unmoderated caucus of 5 minutes (Everyone speaks in an unmod, i.e., the highest number
of speakers)
If, by chance, the unmod is voted on and passes, the following two motions will not be voted on.
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Points
In decreasing order of precedence, these are the points that are accepted in an MUN.
1. Point of Personal Privilege: This point may be raised at any time and is raised by a delegate
to address a matter of personal discomfort. This may be raised due to a number of reasons; for
example, if you cannot hear the currently speaking delegate’s words clearly, if you need to go to
the bathroom, if you have an emergency phone call, if the room is too cold, etc.
2. Point of Parliamentary Inquiry: This point is raised if you have any questions for the Dais.
It may be used to clear confusion about parliamentary procedure as well. For example, you
may raise this point to ask who the next speaker is.
3. Point of Order: A delegate can rise to this point if there is a discrepancy or improperness in
the Rules of Procedures by a delegate or an executive board member. The dais may choose to
entertain or not entertain the point of order and to clarify if there has been any confusion
regarding the Rules of Procedures. This point cannot be raised by interrupting another delegate.
Points of order can be raised by Member States at any point in the meeting. If a delegate believes
that the executive board is not following the Rules of Procedure or not being sufficiently active
in ensuring others do so, they may raise a point of order. The executive board then has to
interrupt proceedings to hear the point of order and rule immediately on it (i.e. decide whether
the objection is valid or not, should be accepted or not, and whether to take action on it or not).
The Rules also allow any delegate who believes that the executive board’s ruling is incorrect to
appeal against the verdict. The appeal must immediately be put to a vote and if successful, the
executive board must immediately rule according to the appeal. However, delegates are advised
not to raise points of order for minor divergence that may be accidental or inconsequential; and
the dais may deliberately divert from the Rules of Procedure to some extent better facilitate the
needs of the committee.
4. Point of Information (POIs): These are questions directed towards other delegates. This may
be questions about their content, their solutions, or even about matters you want them to address
in
the committee. POIs are taken audibly after GSLs, and the speaker has to answer them. They
can choose to answer via chit as well. However, when not in the GSL, POIs must be sent via
chit.
TIP: POIs are invaluable tools to interact with and clarify the stances of other delegates, so we
suggest you prepare some before the conference.
Usually, the executive board will ask if there are any points on the floor. To raise a point,
you must first raise your placard and wait to be recognized by the Dais.
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With permission from the Dais, you may elaborate (i.e., the room is too cold, USA’s name
was skipped in the GSL, etc.)
Right of Reply
This may be raised if a delegate feels that their country’s sovereignty, dignity, or personal
integrity is harmed or insulted by the words of another delegate. When raising this point, they
must quote exactly which statement offended them and why. Validity and course of action are
determined by the executive board. For example, they determine whether the right of reply is in
order or not. They may even give the delegate time to respond.
Example
Delegate: “The delegate of USA has stated ‘The President of Niger is a worthless slave for the
rich people.’ This is clearly an insult towards our dignity.
Executive Board: “The right of reply is in order; delegate, you have 30 seconds to respond.”
Chits
Formal chits are utilized when you want to formally send a message, inquiry or statement to the
Dais. For example, wanting to add your name to the GSL. An informal chit is used to simply
send a message to your fellow delegates without the Dais reading it. This may be about the
agenda or arbitrary content.
Please do not write Via Dais on informal chits (as they are not intended to be seen by them), and
please do not waste paper and the energy of room admins to send unnecessary banter via chit.
- Fold it in half
- Inside, you write the contents (e.g., all the examples shown above qualify for this) - On the
outside, you write down the title (not applicable for formal and informal chits), who the sender
and receiver (if needed) are. Write ‘Via Dais’ on the chit if you want the chit to be seen and
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marked (you should be writing Via Dais for most chits, except for informal ones). Below are
some examples of what the folded part (outside) of the chit should look like.
Communique 1.0
From: USA
To: Dais
POI
From: USA
To: Russia
Via Dais
Consultation Sessions (OPTIONAL): Consultation sessions are usually not part of the UNA-
USA ROP, however, depending on the decisions of the Dais, you may have to face them.
Consultation sessions have a total time, but no individual speaking time and no topic.
Essentially, it flows like a conversation, in which all committee members are included. Anyone
can speak at any time on any matter; you may even interrupt others, though it is not encouraged.
There is no order of speaking either, Russia may speak after USA, only for USA to speak again.
Each speech given by the delegates should be connected to the ongoing discussion, and thus,
these speeches are often given impromptu. Sometimes, a delegate may
moderate the session to ensure too much interrupting or countries talking over each other do not
take place. There’s also a form of consultation sessions known as formal consultations, which are
moderated by the Dais.
A system that a country follows to act in their internal matters is known as the domestic policy
and a foreign policy is the structure of how a country acts with the other countries present in the
world. Let’s take Bangladesh as an example. The Initiations taken to overcome the July political
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crisis falls under the domestic policy. On the other hand, Bangladesh dealing with the Rohingyas
crisis in cooperation with other nations falls under the foreign Policy.
To Evaluate the Domestic Policy delegates must take note of the following:
• During the cold war U.S pushed the idea of Capitalism. They Emphasized on
“The AMERICAN DREAM”. As a result, the United States had successfully made citizens
equate capitalism with democracy and success.
o The strategies and initiation taken by your respective assigned countries to solve the
conflicts within the nation
• Sierra Leone has established the truth and reconciliation commission under the lone Peace
agreement. This domestic action has led to nations unity and proper justice. This is often cited in
the au and un. Enforcing Sierra Leon's strong image in the eyes of the other nations.
o Delegates should take notes on the country's portfolio they are measured by the points
given bellow:
• Study on the resources that you have and resources that your country needs, for
example: Bangladesh has agricultural and water resources, however it imports resources such as
natural gas and modern technologies
• Research on the budgeting of your assigned country; such as, in 2023 the U.S defense ministry
spent around $860 billion for NATO's budget.
Delegates must have a clear understanding of the most crucial part of attending any conferences.
That crucial part is none other than their foreign policy.
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• Research on the bloc that your assigned country is a part of. For example: SAARC, ASEAN,
BRICS, OIC etc.
o Take a note on the relations between your respective countries and other nations. Read up on
the past and present relations. For example: since 1917, the United States and the Russian
Federation has had a tense rivalry.
• Read up on the conventions, treaties, or agreements that your respective country has signed
with other nations.
o Russia has signed the Treaty with Iran and other littoral nations on the Caspian Sea
(Convention on the Legal Status of the Caspian Sea, 2018). This provides Russia with
the Leverage of controlling the dominance in the energy exports and blocking the U.S/ NATO
military presence in the Caspian.
• Delegates should keep in mind the international laws, conventions or agencies that the country
you’re representing oppose or abide by, for example:
o Iran refused IAEA Inspections after the US withdrawal from the JCPOA
o In the current timeline Russia is not a part of the United Nations Human Rights Council
• Read up on the statements made by your assigned country on the issue that you're given to
discuss.
o “Our response will be military if NATO expansion doesn’t stop,” This statement by Sergei
Ryabkov on the agenda of the Russia Ukraine war is a crucial statement made by the Russian
Federation.
NOTE: Analyze to what extent a country wants other nations or the United Nations to interfere.
For example, Sudan supports UN peacekeeping missions in certain conditions. If it doesn’t meet
those certain conditions, then the government will repel it like UNITAMS.
NOTE: If you have been allocated as a character rather than a country (say, in a specialized
committee such as GCF), make sure you research thoroughly on what your person’s duties are
and what type of work they usually do. The rest remains the same; if you are the Finance
Minister in The Grand Council of Fascism, you should learn about the then budget, income
sources and spending during the timeframe of the committee.
Research Methodology
• Understand the agenda. Find and watch a YouTube video, say, from Vox, on the agenda to
have a basic idea. Slowly start going more in-depth, search the agenda up on google and see
what you find. Break down the agendas into small units in simple words, identify the main issues
or points of conflicts.
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• Research on the mandate of the committee that you are given. Each committee has a
mandate, including the extent of their functions and powers. Be very careful to not go beyond the
mandate when thinking of actions to take. E.g., if your assigned committee is UNHRC, simply
search up ‘UNHRC Mandate’, you will find their entire mandate on the official website;
• Research on your foreign and domestic policy. Make sure you have clear understanding of your
countries' interest and contribution in the agenda, and additionally, the effects of the agenda on
your assigned country. To add to this, gather knowledge about the views of the neighboring
countries and the major players on the agenda (most often, the P5 countries such as USA, Russia,
China). Keep in mind whether their views align or differ with you. Research what
blocs, especially regional, you may be in (NATO, ASEAN), what alliances (Russia-China, USA-
Israel) you have. Here, you must read the statements made your respective nation on the
agendas;
• Read the study guide thoroughly now, from your countries point of view and note down points
as you go;
• Take notes on the previous actions that has been done on the agenda by your country and also
by international agencies;
• Read through passed resolutions passed on the agenda, and the actions taken as the result of the
discussion on the agenda. Learn and understand the major resolutions, especially (e.g., the
NPT for IAEA). Also read thoroughly through the agencies working closely regarding the
agenda;
• Go in depth with the problems, figure out the causes and effects within your own mind; •
Research and note down views and the actions of the other nations present in the
committee. Always remember a good delegate knows the other side of the story!
• Have a clear understanding of the international laws such as the UN Charter, Geneva
Convention, R2P etc.;
• Lastly, you use the most important asset present with you. It’s not your laptop, or phone: it’s
your brain. Connect all the points like bullets in a gun and come up with your own
innovative solutions. This is the point where the delegates secure their position in the award list,
or miss out. Make sure your solutions answer ‘why’, ‘who’, ‘when’, ‘where’ and most
importantly, ‘how’. They should be detailed, well-thought out, and innovative.
Please keep in mind that this list is not exhaustive. Also, make sure the sources you use align
with your country’s policies; e.g., do not cite a source that your country does not recognize.
Regardless, for your own understanding, you may use any source.
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GENERAL NEWS:
BBC: [Link] (there are good region-specific subcategories of BBC coverage) The
Economist: [Link] CNN: [Link]
Reuters: [Link]
Telegraph: [Link]
UN News: [Link]
NEWSLETTERS:
Al-Monitor: [Link]/pulse/[Link]
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UN News: [Link]
TIP: You should set Google News Alerts for specific countries and/or topics relevant to your
committee: [Link]/alerts
ECONOMICS NEWS:
Bloomberg: http:/[Link]/
CHINA/ASIA NEWS:
Al-Monitor: [Link]
Al Arabiya: [Link]
AFRICA NEWS:
IRIN: [Link]
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JSTOR: [Link]
COUNTRY RESEARCH:
BBC: [Link]
htm://[Link]/int/sod/profiles/[Link]
SECURITY RESEARCH:
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UNSC: [Link]
UNICEF: [Link]
WHO: [Link]
IMO: [Link]
ILO: [Link]
OPEC: [Link]
OECD: [Link]
RESOLUTIONS
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TIP: In the websites given, it will be easier to find the documents you are looking for by
searching up the keywords using Ctrl F
Both draft resolutions and working papers are solution-based documents. However, there are
some differences.
Draft Resolutions
A draft resolution, likely the most important document, is presented at the end of the conference.
It is essentially a collection of all the solutions discussed in the sessions that the committee
would like to see happen. The components of a draft resolution are explained below. We
recommend you go through the example resolution given below along with the components.
The Draft Resolution commences with the Resolution name or title in the top left corner with a
format of e.g.-> Draft Resolution 1.1.1
The three consecutive integers in the title have a significant prelude of their own.
In the event multiple agendas are covered in one conference, in order to demonstrate in regards
to which agenda the said Draft Resolution is referencing, the first integer in the Draft Resolution
title is decided. Suppose, the first agenda is “Addressing the external factors for tri-college
conflict in Science Lab,” then the First Integer would be “1”. Again, if the third agenda is
suppose “Reformation of the July Referendum,” in that case the First Integer would be “3”.
Indicates in which order the draft resolutions are submitted to the committee, in which case the
first document received will be initiated with ‘1’. And ‘2’ will be the starting number for the
second Draft Resolution, and so on.
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The final and third integer point to how many successive revisions were made after a series of
edits called amendments, where delegates embark on a dialogue after the Draft Resolution has
been presented, passing a final clearance on what stays, what has to be removed, or what has to
be added to the Draft Resolution.
• Sponsors: Sponsors are countries that agree to all the content, all solutions, and every word
that is presented in the resolution. They are usually the main contributors and the ones to present
the resolution. Usually, there can be a maximum of 3-4 sponsors, though often only 2 present the
resolution. When being a sponsor, be very careful; make sure everything aligns with
your policies, and that you know the resolution well enough to answer questions about it and
defend it.
• Signatories: These countries do not necessarily have to agree with every clause, nor do they
have to support the resolution. They would simply like to see it presented in the committee.
There are no limit to signatories.
NOTE: Make sure the names written in the resolution are the country’s official names. E.g.,
instead of Russia, write Russian Federation. Writing a country’s name wrong may be grounds for
a right of reply, even.
Notes: At least 20% of the committee must be either sponsors or signatories to a draft
resolution in order for it to be accept
•The name of the main organ adopting the resolution: This is usually either ‘The General
Assembly,’ or ‘The Security Council’. Almost all committees address the General Assembly.
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• Operative Clauses: Operative clauses refer to the solutions themselves. Make sure that they
are detailed, so much that each clause should answer what, how, who, and when. Also make sure
that every solution is in accordance with your committee’s mandate. E.g., usually, most
committees may only offer recommendations. UNSC, however, is an exception, being able to
take definitive action. Operative clauses start with an operative phrase (urges, requests, basically
a (verb+s), and end with a semi-colon [;]. Only the last clause ends with a full-stop. Operative
phrases usually have to be bolded, but again, we advise you consult with your Executive
Board on this.
• Annex: The annex consists of any information that supports the resolution. E.g., it may be
a definition of a term used in the resolution, or even, if you’re introducing a new agency like in
the sample draft resolution provided below, the mandate of that agency.
Presenting a draft resolution (motion to present a resolution has been outlined before) entails
being called to the front to verbally read your draft resolution to the committee, and then
answering questions and responding to amendments regarding it.
NOTES:
• Do not use full-stops anywhere in the resolution except for the beginning in the title (E.g.,
1.1) and the very end. A full-stop denotes the end of the resolution, thus, if you put it
accidentally somewhere, any content after that will not be considered as part of the resolution.
TIP: Use the ‘search’ feature to look up full-stops. Only two results should come up.
• If there are multiple motions to present resolutions, they are voted on in the order in which
they were received.
• Do not use AI or plagiarize when writing your resolution. If a good majority of it is found to
be AI or plagiarized, it may be scrapped.
• Usually, you cannot include any content in the resolution that you did not previously talk about
or bring up in the committee, for example, in your speeches, documentation, or working paper.
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TIP: Be very thorough when checking your resolution in terms of formatting. Formatting errors
may get a resolution scrapped.
Signatories: Republic of Malta, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Republic
of Mozambique, People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria, Co-operative Republic OF Guyana,
Republic of Sierra Leone, Republic of Slovenia, Republic of Ecuador, Republic of Korea
Noting its previous resolutions regarding the situation in the Middle East, including resolutions
242 (1967), 338 (1973), and subsequent texts reaffirming the inadmissibility of acquiring
territory by force,
Considering that the political, security, and humanitarian issues including the Middle East, such
as armed conflict, terrorism, displacement, and regional instability, remain serious challenges,
Noting the pressing need for disarmament, cooperation in security, and peaceful discussion to
avert further aggravation,
Stressing the value of the rule of international law, the United Nations Charter, and respect for
the sovereignty and territorial integrity of States in the region,
Noting with concern the effects of external intervention and the arms build-up on regional
security,
Gratefully accepting efforts by the United Nations, regional organizations, and Member States
to promote dialogue, confidence-building, and humanitarian assistance,
1) Requests all parties in the Middle East to refrain from the threat or use of force against
the territorial integrity or political independence of any State;
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2) Demands the convening of fresh peace negotiations under United Nations auspices with
the involvement of regional organizations such as the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and
the Arab League;
3) Recalls Member States to halt the illegal export of weapons and military equipment to areas
of conflict in the Middle East;
4) Requests the Secretary-General to appoint a Special Envoy on Middle East Security and
Disarmament to facilitate dialogue, track arms smuggling, and settle differences;
5) Supports the creation of a Middle East Regional Dialogue Forum (MERDF) under the
leadership of the UN, bringing regional States together for regional consultations on:
a) Security guarantees,
b) Counterterrorist cooperation,
7) Calls for the initiation of negotiations on establishing a Middle East Zone Free of Nuclear
and Other Weapons of Mass Destruction, on the basis of GA resolution 73/546 (2018);
8) Invites the Secretary-General to report to the General Assembly at its seventy-ninth session
on the status of this resolution's implementation.
1. The Forum shall meet biennially under UN auspices in rotating host States.
2. Membership shall be open to all Middle Eastern States, with the status of observer for
such regional and international organizations as are appropriate.
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4. There will be a permanent Secretariat in Amman, Jordan, with technical support from the UN
Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs (DPPA).
appreciation/satisfaction/etc.
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recalling/considering/etc.
appreciation/apprehension/etc.
condemning/affirming/etc.
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concern/satisfaction/etc.
account/consideration/etc.
NOTE: Make sure you use the right phrase for the right clause.
TIP: You can simply use ‘further’ or other suitable adverbs before any of these phrases to use
them again.
attention to/etc.
condemns/endorses/etc.
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appreciation/hope/etc.
Declares Reaffirms
Working Paper:
Working papers are essentially drafts of draft resolutions. They are much simpler and do not
include preambles. They only contain operative content, and are unformatted. Working papers
are not mandatory and often may not be entertained. An example of a working paper is given
below.
• “The Delegate of X would like to raise a motion to temporarily suspend the GSL and
present Working Paper 2.1.”
______________________________________________________________________________
Committee: DISEC
Authors: Russian Federation, The Federal Republic of Germany, Republic of Malta, United
Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Republic of Mozambique
1) Urges the convening of fresh peace negotiations among middle eastern countries with the
involvement of respective regional organizations,
2) Calls for member states to halt the illegal export of weapons and equipment to areas of
conflict in the Middle East,
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3) Supports the creation of a Middle East Regional Dialogue Forum under the leadership of the
UN,
5) Further calls for the initiation of negotiations on establishing a Middle East zone free of
nuclear and other weapons of mass destruction,
6) Requests the Secretary-General to appoint a Special Envoy on Middle East Security and
Disarmament.
POI SESSIONS
A POI session is essentially a question-answer session that occurs for both draft resolutions and
working papers. Here, other delegates get the chance to ask POIs to the sponsors/authors of the
resolution/paper, which the latter have to answer on-spot. Usually, the Dais will go clause by
clause and give the committee a set time to ask questions on that clause.
“The delegate of [Insert Delegate country Name] would like to raise the motion to conduct
a POI Session on Draft Resolution [Insert Draft Resolution Name].”
AMENDMENT SESSIONS
An amendment session may occur if the committee wants to make changes to the draft
resolution. A motion is raised (outlined on page 6) and if the motion passes, an amendment
session begins. In the session, the signatories (keep in mind that you need to be a signatory to
propose amendments) propose changes either via chit or orally, depending on the Dais’
decisions. Once again, they usually go clause by clause and give a set time for amendments for
each clause.
If the committee members want to bring changes to the draft resolution, a motion to begin the
amendment session is raised as follows:
“The delegate of would like to raise the motion to introduce the amendment session.”
• Amendment of deletion: This is when an entire clause and its sub-clauses are deleted.
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If three types of amendments are proposed at the same time, an amendment of deletion would
be addressed first, and then modification, and lastly addition.
• A friendly amendment means they are okay with the change, and the change is immediately
brought into effect.
• An unfriendly amendment means they disagree with the change proposed. The committee
then goes into voting on the amendment, and this requires 2/3rds majority for the amendment to
pass. Sometimes, sponsors may be given 30 seconds or so before voting to defend their claim of
the amendment being unfriendly.
Delete clauses 5 and 6 Replace subclause a) with “XYZ” Add clause 9: “XYZ”
If a draft resolution is altered by 60% or more at the end of the amendment session, it is
automatically scrapped and does not go into voting. However, in the case it is not, the committee
begins the vote on the resolution. Depending on your voting status (present, present and voting),
you may vote yes, no, or abstain.
A GA Committee requires simple majority for a resolution to pass, however there may be some
exceptions, for example, if the resolution contains content that is important for recommendations
for maintenance of international peace and security; election of ECOSOC and UNSC member
states; or expulsion and suspension of member states of the United Nations. There are also
exceptions committee wise; e.g., NATO requires consensus to take any action.
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NOTE: Observer nations cannot participate in a lot of things regarding the draft resolution. They
may participate in the POI session, but they cannot propose amendments, nor can they vote on
them, and of course, they cannot vote on the actual resolution itself.
TIP:
I) If you are an observer nation, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be participating in the
Dr. you may pass your amendments through another Member State, or even help
lobby for the resolution from your bloc.
II) The amendments are proposed in this order. Deletion -> Modification ->
Addition. This is done to maintain the logical integrity of the Draft Resolution.
Documentation
Documentation is an integral part in setting you apart from other delegates. They do what you
cannot in speeches, i.e., take action, or set something in stone. There are 100+ different forms of
documentation that are accepted in the UNA-USA ROP (e.g., Commerce Letter, Bill, Statue,
etc.). Some common ones are outlined below. The list of accepted documents differs for every
Executive Board lineup, so make sure to clarify before the conference.
TIPS
• For documents, ask ‘why’, ‘who’, ‘what’, ‘where’, and ‘how’. Make sure at least some of these
questions are answered in each document. For example, for portfolio requests, ‘how’, ‘what’,
and ‘where’, are very important.
• Number your documents for ease of organization. (E.g., your first directive would be 1.0,
the second 1.1, etc. At the same time, your first press release would be 1.0, and the next 1.1). •
Clarify what documents are accepted and in what forms with the Executive Board
members beforehand
Position Papers: A position paper, often mandatory in many committees (please consult with
Dais whether they will be taking one, or not), is used to clarify your country’s stance regarding
the agenda, the solutions you plan to introduce in the committee sessions, and your
understanding of the agenda. It is usually a maximum of two pages, and a list of references must
be outlined at the end (make sure the references are from valid sources!!). It is often made up of
three-four paragraphs, but it must contain the following:
• Background (keep this brief): Explanation of the agenda and why it is urgent. Identify
problems regarding the agenda.
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• Past international actions and what actions your country has been taking/has taken • How the
agenda is affecting your country and your country’s policies regarding the agenda • Your
solutions (that are in line with your country’s policies), why they will work, why you want
to see them implemented, along with past solutions that have been taken or are being taken
(you may build on those, in fact) by the UN, other organizations, or your country and other
countries.
This is where you should be investing most of your time (and word count) to. You are
encouraged to think of new, intuitive solutions (given that they are in line with your policies, of
course)
As it is a formal document, there are a few formatting rules that must be followed (keep in mind
that your Dais may want different formatting)
• Font size: 12
• Spacing: 1.5
• Alignment: Justified
• Your assigned country’s flag and your assigned committee’s logo at the top (usually
not mandatory)
______________________________________________________________________________
Committee: SPECPOL
The People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria extends its highest regards to the distinguished
delegates of the Fourth Committee. In deliberating on the Question of Western Sahara, Algeria
underscores its adherence to the Charter of the United Nations, specifically Article 1(2), which
affirms the UN’s purpose of “developing friendly relations among nations based on respect for
the principle of equal rights and self-determination of peoples.” This issue does not fall within
the scope of a bilateral dispute, nor does it concern mere territorial administration. It is a
recognized and unresolved case of decolonization under international law, as reaffirmed in
Article 73 of the UN Charter and as continuously acknowledged through the territory’s inclusion
on the list of Non-Self-Governing Territories since 1963.
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Algeria approaches this matter as an observer state and a neighbor committed to peace, stability,
and adherence to jus cogens norms. Algeria’s position is informed not by ideology but by the
erga omnes obligation of states to promote the realization of the right to self-determination, a
right codified under common Article 1 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political
Rights (ICCPR) and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights
(ICESCR), both of which Morocco has ratified. This right is further elaborated in the Declaration
on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples (General Assembly
Resolution 1514 (XV)), which asserts that “all peoples have the right to self-determination; by
virtue of that right they freely determine their political status.”
The status of Western Sahara has been unambiguously clarified by the International Court of
Justice in its Advisory Opinion of 16 October 1975, which found “no ties of territorial
sovereignty” between Morocco and Western Sahara (I.C.J. Reports 1975, p. 68, para. 162). The
Court held that General Assembly Resolution 1514 (XV) was applicable, thereby entitling the
Sahrawi people to a process of self-determination free from coercion. Morocco’s subsequent
1975 Green March, a mass movement into Western Sahara accompanied by military presence,
constituted an unlawful annexation in violation of Article 2(4) of the UN Charter, which
prohibits “the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of
any state.”
The so-called Madrid Accords of November 1975, a trilateral agreement between Spain,
Morocco, and Mauritania that purported to transfer administrative control of Western Sahara,
lacked legal validity as per General Assembly Resolution 34/37 (1979), which reaffirmed the
inalienable right of the Sahrawi people and recognized the Polisario Front as their sole legitimate
representative. The United Nations has never recognized Moroccan sovereignty over the
territory.
In 1991, pursuant to Security Council Resolution 690 (1991), the United Nations established
MINURSO to oversee the implementation of a Settlement Plan agreed to by both Morocco and
the Polisario Front. This plan was explicitly rooted in the conduct of a referendum in accordance
with the principles of self-determination. Morocco’s subsequent withdrawal of support in 2001,
in contravention of its prior commitment, constitutes a violation of the principle of pacta sunt
servanda under Article 26 of the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties (1969). Algeria hosts
over 170,000 Sahrawi refugees in the Tindouf camps, providing essential services in cooperation
with UNHCR, WFP, and UNICEF. This engagement reflects Algeria’s obligations under the
1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 Protocol, particularly Article 23, which ensures access to
public relief and assistance. The so-called “Autonomy Plan” put forth by Morocco is
incompatible with the principle of self-determination, as it offers no genuine opportunity for the
Sahrawi people to freely determine their political future. Algeria recalls the 2010 advisory legal
opinion of the African Union Commission on International Law, which reaffirmed that any
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solution to the Western Sahara conflict must be “based on the free and genuine expression of the
will of the people.”
Algeria urges the recommencement of direct, unconditional negotiations between Morocco and
the Polisario Front, pursuant to Security Council Resolutions 2351 (2017), 2548 (2020), and
2703 (2023), with the objective of realizing the Sahrawi people's self-determination in
conformity with international legal norms and Article 33 of the UN Charter (Pacific Settlement
of Disputes). Algeria calls on this committee to demand that Morocco respect MINURSO’s core
mandate to conduct a referendum. Deliberate obstruction violates not only Security Council
resolutions but undermines the very authority of the United Nations and constitutes a breach of
Article 25 of the UN Charter. Algeria insists that the Security Council expand MINURSO’s
remit to include impartial human rights observation, in accordance with Article 55(c) of the UN
Charter and the OHCHR’s recommendation in its 2013 and 2015 technical missions. The
exclusion of such a component makes MINURSO an outlier among peacekeeping missions and
weakens international oversight in occupied territories. In accordance with Article 41(2) of the
ILC Draft Articles on the Responsibility of States for Internationally Wrongful Acts (2001),
Algeria calls on all member states to refrain from recognizing or supporting Morocco’s unlawful
annexation, including through diplomatic missions in occupied Dakhla and Laayoune.
References:
[Link]
[Link]
independence colonial-countries-and-peoples
[Link]
[Link]
[Link]
families [Link]
[Link]
sahara-
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______________________________________________________________________________
Communiqué 1.0
The United States urges all nations to look towards diplomatic solutions rather than further
exacerbate the situation at hand; we believe that if the United States and Russia can see eye to
eye then this committee still has an untapped mine of diplomacy. The United States of America
would therefore formally like to extent its hand as being the chief witness to the Treaty that is to
be signed between Republic of China and the People’s Republic of China.
After a majority of the first two sessions in disagreement, the delegations of Russia and the
United States have found themselves in a consensus in regards to the methods Taiwan can use to
effectively reunify, if that is their wish to do so. Therefore, the United States and Russia will
work together in discussing and suggesting ways to ease this reunification specifically in terms
of Legal, Administrative and Civil autonomy of power between the nations aforementioned.
Signed: The President of the United States (Zabir Hossain) and the President
Press Release: Press Releases are statements released to the general public by the countries’
(usually official) press. For example, an expression of condolence, condemnation, frustration,
etc. Most importantly, though, it may be used for propaganda, as well as discrediting claims or
propaganda made by other countries. A press release is not government affiliated, and instead
comes from a news agency. The claims do not have to be true, or even fact-based; only
believable. The content must be written similar to newspaper articles. Make sure the content is
not too far-fetched from what an agency would usually release. They are often very under-
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utilized, so we encourage all delegates to keep this form of documentation in mind during
committee sessions. An example is given below.
_____________________________________________________________________________
Nancy Pelosi, the Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, said at a press briefing
yesterday, ‘we as a nation condemn the use of dirty tactics when it comes to political gains’. This
statement was made soon after it was revealed that Russia and China had colluded in rigging
each other’s polls in order to keep Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping in office indefinitely.
TIP: Research your country’s official news agency or the news agencies the government uses to
release statements beforehand.
Directives: Directives are made up of simply operative clauses containing to-the-point actions
that a country is taking. These actions are intended to be immediately taken. A joint directive is
the same, except they are solutions that many countries are taking. Generally, directives
represent actions taken by the whole committee and are put to vote. However, this may differ.
There are many variations of a directive: A committee directive, containing actions that the
entire committee has come together to take, which are usually put to vote; covert directives,
which are kept hidden from the committee and may be from a single country or a joint one (all
directives except for a committee directive are often covert); this all depends on the Executive
Board members, so please clarify how directives will be handled. Directives are usually only
used in times of crisis, and essential in a crisis committee. An example is given below.
___________________________________________________________________________
Directive 1.0
From: USA
Date: 09.10.25
In response to US diplomats being kidnapped and taken hostage in Yemen, the US decides to
take the following measures:
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1) Direct the CIA to find out the exact coordinates of the location in which the hostages are
contained, and the exact details, such as security measures, obstacles, and guards stationed, of
the location.
3) Cooperate with the Yemeni Government to ensure smooth operations through dialogue and
transparency of plans.
4) Prepare a medical team comprised of ‘special agent medics’ of the FBI and have them on
standby in a safe location in Sanaa, Yemen.
Portfolio Request: A portfolio request is used in times of war or when taking specific military
action. This could range from full-scale battle, to simply escorting merchant ships. Portfolio
requests contain much less information and often used to outline the terms of war, officially state
what a confrontation means to them (i.e., Russia calling the Ukraine war a Special Military
Operation), or even what sort of
military capital may be used in a show of fair play, deterrence, intimidation, etc. Make sure
the information included are not so detailed to avoid giving the opposition an advantage. They
are usually published to the committee to read. There also may be private portfolio requests,
which are for the eyes of the Executive Board only, as they typically contain far more strategic
information, such as troop numbers and positions or military tactics that if disclosed, would
become disadvantageous. Please clarify with the Dais whether private portfolio requests are
accepted or not.
Please note that portfolio requests do not have any specific formats, but in general, must contain
title, date, and the name of sender. There is no specific length either. The example given below is
not the only way to write a portfolio request (i.e., it could also be written in points.)
______________________________________________________________________________
To: Dais
Date: 30/04/2026
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Following the brazen terrorist attack in Moscow by individuals of Ukrainian origin, whom we
have apprehended and questioned, we have decided to intensify our military operation in
Ukraine. Sometime in the next few weeks, an additional of 20,000 to a million troops will be
moving towards Odesa. Air artillery will also be involved. Ukraine has only solidified the fact
that they are a danger to Europe, and accordingly, we will not back down.
Action Orders: Action orders are very similar to private portfolio requests. These are often
actions immediately taken by a country, often military. Joint action orders are simply actions
taken by multiple countries. An example is given below.
______________________________________________________________________________
• Pakistan’s 12 Division commanded by Lt Gen Sher Afgun along with Special Service Group
(SSG), Pakistan Army Corp s of Engineers, and PAF - if not more will be involved in the
operation.
• Lt Gen Sher Afgun will be assigned two tank regiments (from 6 Armored Division), an
independent artillery brigade (Artillery 4 Corps) consisting of three medium regiments, one field
regiment, two heavy batteries of 155 mm guns and 8 inch guns respectively, a Light Anti-
Aircraft gun battery, a corps artillery locating regiment, another artillery brigade (Artillery 7
Division) consisting of two field regiments and one locating regiment.
• His infantry component will consist of three infantry brigades i.e. Number 4 Sector (3 and a
quarter infantry battalions of the semi-regular AKRF), 10 Brigade (Two regular battalions)
detached from 7 Division and placed under command
12 Division for Kabul and his own divisions, 102 Brigade (three infantry battalions).
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• Akhtar Malik moved to Kharian on 28th August with a small tactical headquarters.
Arrangements were made to exercise command of Kabul force through the communication
system of the 4 Corps Artillery Brigade.
Juner-Al-Annaf
TIP: Make sure there is sufficient detail in your private portfolio requests and action orders.
Scan for loopholes and weaknesses, as the Dais will be on the lookout for them. The length of
the document does not matter, the content does; a longer document does not necessarily mean
better. Instead of treating it as a piece of paper, try to envision the action you’re taking and
whether it is feasible and how it would play out in reality, or whether it would be successful.
Also, make sure you are being realistic: you should not be sending 3000 aircraft carriers to a
small border skirmish, especially if you do not have them in the first place. Make sure to know
the military capabilities of your own country, e.g., how many fighters your country has, and
specific models. These will come in especially handy for crises.
TIP: For military actions, we suggest you do a little research on how your country usually
handles operations. In fact, we suggest you watch videos on military operations in general.
Additionally, Sun Tzu’s ‘The Art of War’ is especially helpful.
Treaty: Treaties are formal written agreements between two or more countries. These may
outline content ranging from cooperation or an alliance to a set of obligations or specific goals.
Treaties are mainly utilized in UNSC and Crisis Committees. However, they may not be
entertained sometimes, so we advise you to clarify with the Dais. All treaties must be made in
accordance with the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties (1969). The types of the treaties
are given below.
• Cover page: This should contain the type of treaty, the title of the treaty the countries that the
treaty has been signed between, where it was signed, and the date of signing. (Tip: Make
it pretty!)
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• Preambles: Exactly like draft resolution preambles; just make sure to include why you are
writing the treaty. These may outline shared concerns, provide background to the issue, reference
past agreements or resolutions, and provide moral or legal ground for the treaty.
TIP: outline the benefits that the signing of this treaty will have for the greater world.
• Transitional Clause: A connecting clause between the preambles and the articles. E.g.,
“Have agreed upon the following Articles of the Agreement:”
• Articles: Operative clauses are contained in the articles. Each article should have a name.
Also, the first article should include the exact locations, resources used, and people involved.
The following articles may be included:
- Accession and Withdrawal: The process in which other states may join, or withdraw.
Make sure you outline the terms of accession or withdrawal clearly
- Initiation: whether it will be initiated upon signing, ratification, how it will be initiated, etc. -
Depositary: Designates a body which may safeguard the agreement, handle
communications, manage accession and withdrawals, etc.
NOTE: You should be including an article regarding amendment, accession and withdrawal,
termination, and initiation.
• Additional documents (separate from the treaty): These documents are rarely asked for and
not often necessary, but they may be included either way.
- Miscellaneous: If you are introducing a new agency or something similar, you may write
a mandate/constitution for it. You may even have to outline budgeting. This all depends on what
kind of treaty you are writing, however. An example of a bilateral treaty’s format is given below.
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Treaty between (Dhaka College) and (Ideal College) on (Zone of Influence in Science
Lab)
Guided by the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations and the
constitution of Bangladesh,
The Parties shall cooperate in the field of (Subject) on the basis of equality, mutual respect,
and reciprocity.
The cooperation between the Parties shall include, but not be limited to:
(Area 1)
(Area 2)
(Area 3)
The Parties may establish joint committees, working groups, or expert consultations for the
implementation of this Treaty.
Competent authorities of both Parties shall ensure effective execution of the agreed activities.
Article 4: Dispute Settlement
Any disputes concerning the interpretation or application of this Treaty shall be settled
through consultations and negotiations between the Parties.
Pending the entry into force of this Treaty, the Parties shall take the necessary preparatory
measures for its implementation.
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Any agreements or arrangements in force between the Parties on matters covered by this
Treaty shall continue to apply until replaced or modified in accordance with this Treaty.
This Treaty shall enter into force on the date of the exchange of instruments of ratification by
the Parties.
This Treaty shall remain in force for a period of (X years) and shall be automatically renewed
for successive periods of (X years), unless either Party notifies the other in writing of its
intention to terminate the Treaty at least (X months) prior to the expiry of the current term.
This Treaty may also be terminated at any time by mutual written agreement of the Parties.
Article 8: Amendments
This Treaty may be amended by mutual written consent of the Parties. Amendments shall enter
into force following the same procedures as set out in Article 6.
Final Provisions
Done at (City), on (Date), in duplicate, in the (languages of both Parties), both texts being
equally authentic.
In Witness Whereof, the undersigned, being duly authorized by their respective Governments,
have signed this Treaty.
TIP: Keep in mind that treaties may be accepted even when not in this specific format. Please
clarify with the Dais on this matter.
The United Nations Charter is an integral document that every delegate should know about.
Given below is a rough summary. Even so, we encourage you to read through the document at
least once.
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The first chapter, comprised of two articles, outlines the fundamentals of the UN. This includes
ensuring international peace, security, and cooperation (Article 1, Clause 1), and means to do
that (such as solving disputes peacefully, suppressing aggression, etc.); solving international
problems and upholding human rights; developing friendly relations between nations (Article 1,
Clause 2); and giving assistance to the United Nations and preventing giving away assistance to
nations that the UN is taking preventative measures against (Article 2, Clause 5). This clause
also highlights the importance of sovereign equality and non-interference in sovereign matters
(Article 2, Clause 7).
This chapter outlines what states the original members of the UN are (Article 3), and that all
peace-loving states are welcome to become members (Article 4, Clause 1). It also outlines the
process of membership (Article 4, Clause 2), and what conditions there must be for a state to
have their membership suspended or to have them expelled (Article 5 and 6)
This chapter outlines the principal organs of the UN (Article 7, Clause 1), and that subsidiary
organs, if needed, may be established in accordance with the charter (Article 7, Clause 2). It also
states that there are no restrictions on men and women in terms of participation (Article 7, Clause
3).
Chapter Four outlines the composition, functions and powers, voting, and procedure of the
General Assembly. Notably, that it consists of all the members of the UN (Article 9, Clause 1)
and that they all have one vote (Article 18, Clause 1), what sort of matters it may consider
(Article 10 and 11), its interactions with the Security Council (Article 12 and 15, among others),
that it may adopt its own rules of procedure (Article 21), etc.
This chapter outlines the composition, functions and powers, and voting of the Security Council.
Notably, that its permanent and non-permanent members (Article 23), the decisions of the UNSC
being binding
(Article 25), and how states outside the UNSC may participate in sessions without vote (Article
31 and 32), among others.
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This chapter emphasizes the peaceful resolutions to disputes, i.e., negotiations (Article 33), how
states may bring issues to the attention of the UNSC or the General Assembly (Article 35), how
the Security Council may navigate disputes (Article 34, 35 and 36), and what to do in case a
settlement fails (Article 37).
This chapter outlines the response after the Council determines threat or aggression (Article 39),
how it may take provisional measures (Article 40), and in what conditions military force may be
used and how (Article 42, and 45-47). It also, most famously, affirms the right to self-defense
(Article 51).
This chapter encourages the role of regional arrangements in fostering international peace
(Article 52, Clause 2 and 3), though in accordance with the principles of the Charter and under
UN oversight (Article 54).
This chapter promotes conditions of stability through cooperation, such as a higher standard of
living (Article 55), joint action and cooperation between countries (Article 56), and defines
specialized agencies and their roles (Article 57-59).
This chapter establishes ECOSOC and outlines its composition, functions and powers, and
voting (Article 61-74)
This chapter outlines the responsibilities that the UN has regarding non-self-governing territories
and decolonization. For example, it outlines the importance of developing self-governance and
self-determination (Article 73, b.)
This chapter establishes the International Trusteeship System for the administration of specific
territories (Article 75). It outlines what territories apply (Article 77), the objectives of the System
(Article 76), and its functions and powers.
This chapter defines the Trusteeship Council’s composition, functions and powers, voting, and
procedure in supervising trust territories (Article 86-91).
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This chapter establishes the ICJ as the principal judiciary organ, defines its role, and covers
provisions for binding and advisory decisions and compliance (Article 92-96). E.g., if a party
fails to comply with the judgement of the court, the other person may take the issue to the
UNSC. (Article 94, Clause 2)
This chapter defines the Secretariat, led by the Secretary-General, and its functions in
administering UN operations. (Article 99-101). It specifically outlines how the Secretary-General
may bring any issue to the UNSC if it, in his opinion, threatens international peace and security
(Article 99).
This chapter outlines general administrative and legal provisions, e.g., registration and
publication of treaties (Article 102), or what to do in the event of a conflict between obligations
(Article 103)
This chapter covers transitional arrangements related to enforcement per Article 43 and the Four-
Nation Declaration during UN establishment (Article 105, 106)
This chapter outlines the amendment process and requirements, e.g., amendments require 2/3 GA
votes and ratification by 2/3 of Members including all permanent Security Council members
(Article 108). Article 109 also provides for a General Conference to review the Charter.
This chapter outlines the ratification processes, entry into force, and deposition of instruments.
(Article 110)
THE FIRST GENEVA CONVENTION: Convention for the Amelioration of the Condition of the
Wounded and Sick in Armed Forces in the Field
Chapter I
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Article 1: All the states to the convention must respect it and must ensure others respects it;
Article 2: The convention applies to declared war, occupation or armed conflict between the
nations;
Article 3: The convention applies to non-international wars, in domestic conflict execution, trial,
chemical attacks, hostage taking, unlawful torture must be overruled. For example: the Syrian
civil war;
Article 4: The neutral states must take part in ensuring protection of the wounded soldiers,
civilians;
Article 5: Protections continue until the close of all hostilities for persons still wounded, under
treatment or awaiting recovery.
Article 6: New agreements of improving protection with the approval of the host country will be
introduced. However, countries cannot reduce on the existing mechanism;
Article 7: Protected persons cannot renounce the rights under the convention;
Article 8: Protecting powers such as the neutral states may overview the applications
Article 9: ICRC or the other agencies with mutual respect to the sovereignty may take part as
provides;
Article 10: Nations where no protecting power is operating ICRC and other organizations may
take the responsibility;
Article 11: Protecting power may resolve the conflicts about applying the convention;
Chapter II
Article 12: Wounded and sick must be respected and treated without any discrimination;
Article 13: The wounded mechanism applies to militias, armed groups, civilians accompanying
them;
Article 14: Captured wounded and sick also applies to the facility of the medical care;
Article 15: All parties shall look for the wounded and sick in the conflict zones;
Article 16: Protect wounded and sick against pillage and ill treatment;
Chapters III
Article 17: All parties must prevent despoliation and ensure proper burial of the dead;
Article 18: Parties must collect the information of the dead and transmit them accordingly;
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Article 21-22: Third parties such as ICRC and other organizations may forward the forward
the information about the dead and wounded;
Chapter IV
Article 26-30: Medical staff must not be punished for carrying out their respective duties; Article
31-34: Medical symbols such as the red cross and red crescent must be respected;
Chapter V
Article 35-37: Medical Materials must not be destroyed. As an example, we may take the Russia
Ukraine War where the hospitals were destroyed, and supplies were looted.
Chapter VI
Article 38-44: Medical transport and ambulances must be protected and clearly marked;
Chapter VII
Article 45-47’ The red cross/red crescent must not be used as a shield to disguise fighters. Any
misuse is prohibited;
Chapter VIII
Chapter IX
Article 55: All states must enact laws to punish the breaches
Article 50-55: Defines grave beaches willfully killing, biological experiments, torture;
Chapter X
Article 56-64: Outlines technical details such as the authentic texts, depositary, revision;
Important articles of the Third chapter of Geneva convention: Relative to the treatment
of prisoners
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Article 4: Defines who qualifies as the prison of war. They are militias, civilians, soldiers armed
forces
● To receive the rights of the prison of war, militias must have uniform, carry open arm,
leadership and must follow the laws of war;
● If there is a reasonable doubt they must be treated as the prison of war until the tribunal
initiates;
Article 13: The human treatment of the prison of war. They must not be tortured, mistreated,
exposed to public humiliation
Article 17: Prison of wars must not be insulted, tortured, threatened and humiliated.
● The Prison of wars are obliged to reveal their first name, surname, date of birth, serial
number, army regimental;
● There must absolutely no exceptions even for the ticking bomb scenarios;
Article 118: The prison of wars must be released after the cession of active hostilities
● If the Prison of wars are involved into crimes. They are considered as an exception to this
article.
Outline of the Fourth Geneva convention: Relative to the protection of Civilian Persons War
● Physical harm, family integrity, and discrimination over religious beliefs is prohibited;
Article 32: The torture, murder, killing cruel punishments, experiments on civilians, are strictly
prohibited
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● Mass reprisals, looting and destroying civilian properties are strictly forbidden;
Article 49: Individual or mass forcible transfer of civilians are prohibited the deportation of
civilians as well from the occupied territory.
• The occupied power shall not deport its own population into the occupied territory regardless
of the motive;
Article 53: Occupies cannot destroy homes, infrastructure, property unless there is an urgent
military need.
● The military power must ensure all feasible ways so that the civilian's causalities
are minimalized;
NOTE: The articles outlined above covers the main theme of the Geneva Convention. These
articles are ones mostly used currently. However, we advise you to read the whole
Geneva Convention. We also recommend you to go through other international documents such
as the R2P, ATT, IHL, and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
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MUN Tips
• Research is perhaps the most important part of an MUN. Think of it as your base for everything
else: speeches, documentation, etc. Make sure your research is thorough, and you understand all
aspects of the agenda, your country, existing blocs, etc.
• Learn from your co-delegates. Observe others and analyze what they’re doing, notice why their
speeches sound as captivating as they do and the type of content they use, see what lobbying
tactics they use, etc. You learn the most from those around you, and every successful delegate
can attest to that.
• Prepare the content for your opening speech and prepare your POIs for other countries
beforehand.
• Speak up. Participate. Be active. The more you participate, the more you learn. It’s okay to
make mistakes, because that’s the way you improve. Try to speak in all moderated caucuses,
socialize and connect with other delegates, and ask as many POIs as you can.
• Use unmoderated caucuses tactically. Don’t treat them as simply breaks, but as a time to lobby
other delegates, research a bit more, or even do some writing. They’re one of the only breathers
you will get; use them well.
• Listen to others. It’s very important to understand the perspectives of other delegates in the
committee to lobby to be able to work with them, or even against them.
• Focus on quality over quantity. Always try to make substantial statements, do not
make statements only for the sake of speaking.
• Always make sure to have a clear understanding of all the contents that you state, use in
documentations. Your EBs do not want a bunch of content in a single speech, rather, they look
for a clear understanding of content.
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