Module 5: Formal Procedure and the General Speakers List
This session teaches the formal movement of debate, including roll call, setting the
agenda, opening the General Speakers List, speeches, yields, points, motions, and the
role of the Chair.
Core Reading
The General Speakers List is the formal backbone of committee debate. It allows
delegates to state positions, introduce priorities, respond to previous speakers, and signal
possible areas of cooperation. A strong GSL speech is not a random opinion. It gives the
committee a clear sense of your country position and proposed direction.
Key Questions
What is formal debate?
What is the General Speakers List?
How do points and motions guide procedure?
How can a delegate use formal debate strategically?
What is Formal Debate?
Formal debate is the structured part of Model UN discussion where delegates speak one
at a time, after being recognized by the Chair or Executive Board. It follows the Rules of
Procedure and allows the committee to hear the official positions of different countries in
an organized manner.
In formal debate, delegates do not interrupt each other, speak casually across the room, or
negotiate freely. Instead, they raise their placards, wait to be recognized, and speak within
a fixed time limit. This creates order, fairness, and equal opportunity.
Formal debate usually takes place through the General Speakers List, often called the
GSL. It is the default mode of debate in most Model UN committees. When the committee
is not in a caucus or voting procedure, it usually returns to the GSL.
Formal debate is important because it gives the committee a common foundation.
Delegates use it to introduce their country’s position, define the problem, respond to
previous speakers, identify allies, signal priorities, and place key concerns on record.
A good formal debate speech is not just a speech for the sake of speaking. It should help
the committee move forward. It should answer:
• What does my country think about this agenda?
• Why does my country hold this position?
• What aspect of the problem should the committee focus on?
• What kind of solution does my country support?
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• Which countries might agree or disagree with this position?
Formal debate is therefore the official voice of the committee. It is where countries state
their positions publicly before moving into focused caucuses, negotiations, and resolution
drafting.
What is the General Speakers List?
The General Speakers List, or GSL, is the list of delegates who wish to speak during
formal debate. Once the GSL is opened, delegates may raise their placards or send a note
to the Executive Board to have their country added to the list. The Chair then calls upon
delegates in the order in which their names appear.
The GSL is often the first major speaking opportunity in a Model UN committee. It allows
each delegation to present its broad position on the agenda. Unlike a moderated caucus,
which focuses on a narrow sub-topic, the GSL allows delegates to speak more generally
about the agenda, their country’s concerns, and possible solutions.
For example, if the agenda is “Improving Digital Access to Education,” a GSL speech
may include:
• The importance of digital education
• How the agenda affects the delegate’s country
• The country’s previous efforts
• Key challenges such as connectivity, devices, teacher training, affordability, or language
• The type of international cooperation the country supports
•
The GSL helps the committee understand the range of positions in the room. Some
countries may emphasize funding. Others may emphasize technology transfer. Others
may focus on rural access, girls’ education, refugee children, privacy, digital safety, or
teacher training.
A delegate should listen carefully during the GSL because it reveals the political map of
the committee. It helps identify:
• Potential allies,
• Countries with opposing positions,
• Countries that are undecided,
• Recurring themes,
• Possible moderated caucus topics,
• Issues that may later become clauses in a resolution.
The GSL is not only a speaking platform. It is also a listening tool and a strategy tool.
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Structure of a Strong GSL Speech
A strong GSL speech should be clear, diplomatic, and purposeful. Since time is limited,
delegates should avoid long introductions and vague statements. A useful structure is:
1. Opening Position
Begin by clearly stating your country’s broad position.
Example:
“The delegation of South Africa recognizes digital access to education as a central
requirement for inclusive development and equal opportunity in the twenty-first century.”
2. Problem Framing
Explain how your country understands the problem.
Example:
“However, the digital divide is not merely a question of internet connectivity. It is also
connected to electricity, affordability, teacher training, local language content, and the
ability of marginalized communities to use digital tools meaningfully.”
3. Country Connection
Connect the agenda to your country’s reality, policy, or priorities.
Example:
“South Africa understands the importance of expanding digital education while ensuring
that historical inequalities are not reproduced through new technologies.”
4. Proposed Direction
Suggest the type of solution your country supports.
Example:
“The delegation therefore supports international cooperation focused on infrastructure,
teacher capacity-building, public digital resources, and affordable access for underserved
communities.”
5. Diplomatic Closing
End by inviting cooperation.
Example:
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“The delegation looks forward to working with member states committed to practical,
inclusive, and equitable solutions.”
What are Points and Motions?
Points and motions are the tools delegates use to guide committee procedure. They help
the committee ask questions, correct procedural issues, change the format of debate,
move into caucuses, introduce documents, and eventually close debate.
A Model UN committee cannot move forward randomly. It moves through procedure.
Points and motions are the language of that procedure.
A point is usually used to ask for clarification, raise a concern, or address a procedural
issue.
A motion is used to propose an action that changes the direction or stage of debate.
In simple terms:
Points help delegates ask or correct.
Motions help delegates move the committee forward.
Common Points in Model UN
1. Point of Personal Privilege
A Point of Personal Privilege is used when a delegate is experiencing personal discomfort
that affects their ability to participate.
Examples:
• The delegate cannot hear the speaker.
• The room is too cold or too hot.
• The delegate needs to be excused.
• There is some physical discomfort affecting participation.
Example phrasing:
“The delegate of Brazil raises a Point of Personal Privilege. The delegate is unable to hear
the speaker.”
This point should not be misused. It is not meant for asking questions about the agenda or
challenging another delegate’s argument.
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2. Point of Inquiry
A Point of Inquiry is used to ask the Chair a question about procedure.
Examples:
• How does a delegate raise a motion for moderated caucus?
• What stage of debate is the committee currently in?
• Can the delegate be added to the GSL?
• What is the required majority for a motion?
Example phrasing:
“The delegate of Kenya raises a Point of Inquiry. Could the Chair please clarify the
procedure for introducing a draft resolution?”
This point helps delegates learn and follow procedure correctly.
3. Point of Order
A Point of Order is used when a delegate believes there has been a procedural error.
Examples:
• A motion was accepted when it was not in order.
• A delegate was interrupted incorrectly.
• Voting procedure was not followed properly.
• Speaking time was applied incorrectly.
Example phrasing:
“The delegate of Japan raises a Point of Order. The delegate believes that the motion is
not in order at this stage of debate.”
A Point of Order should be used respectfully and only when necessary. It is not a tool for
arguing about the substance of the agenda.
4. Point of Information
A Point of Information is a question asked to a delegate after their speech, usually if the
speaker has yielded to questions or if the rules permit questioning.
Example phrasing:
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“The delegate of India would like to ask the delegate of France whether the proposed
funding mechanism includes support for developing countries.”
A good Point of Information is short, clear, and relevant. It should test the speaker’s policy,
clarify their position, or expose a gap in their argument.
Common Motions in Model UN
1. Motion to Open the General Speakers List
This motion begins formal debate.
Example:
“The delegate of Ghana moves to open the General Speakers List.”
Once passed or accepted by the Chair, delegates can be added to the speaking list.
2. Motion for a Moderated Caucus
This motion temporarily suspends formal debate and moves the committee into focused
discussion on a specific sub-topic.
Example:
“The delegate of India moves for a moderated caucus on the topic of teacher training for
digital education, for a total time of 10 minutes, with individual speaker time of 45
seconds.”
A good moderated caucus motion includes:
• Topic
• Total time,
• Individual speaker time.
The topic should be focused. “Education” is too broad. “Teacher training for digital
education in rural communities” is stronger.
3. Motion for an Unmoderated Caucus
This motion allows delegates to leave formal speaking structure and negotiate freely.
Example:
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“The delegate of South Africa moves for an unmoderated caucus for 15 minutes for the
purpose of bloc formation and discussion of draft resolution clauses.”
Unmoderated caucuses are used for:
• Lobbying
• Building alliances
• Writing working papers
• Merging blocs
• Negotiating clauses
• Finalizing draft resolutions
4. Motion to Introduce a Working Paper or Draft Resolution
This motion allows the committee to formally consider a submitted document, once it has
been approved by the Executive Board.
Example:
“The delegate of Brazil moves to introduce Draft Resolution 1.1.”
After introduction, sponsors may be invited to read or explain the draft resolution,
depending on conference rules.
5. Motion to Close Debate
This motion ends debate and moves the committee toward voting procedure.
Example:
“The delegate of France moves to close debate and move into voting procedure.”
This is usually used when the committee has discussed enough and draft resolutions are
ready to be voted upon.
6. Motion to Adjourn the Meeting
This motion ends the committee session or conference proceedings.
Example:
“The delegate of Egypt moves to adjourn the meeting.”
This is usually used at the end of a committee session or final meeting.
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How Do Points and Motions Guide Procedure?
Points and motions guide the movement of the committee. Without them, the committee
would remain stuck in speeches or become chaotic. They allow delegates to shape not
only what is discussed, but also how it is discussed.
For example, if the GSL is too broad and delegates keep repeating general speeches, a
delegate can raise a motion for a moderated caucus on a specific sub-topic. This helps the
committee focus.
If delegates need to negotiate privately and form blocs, someone can raise a motion for an
unmoderated caucus.
If a delegate does not understand what is happening, they can raise a Point of Inquiry.
If the room cannot hear a speaker, a delegate can raise a Point of Personal Privilege.
If there has been a procedural mistake, a delegate can raise a Point of Order.
Thus, points and motions are not decorative. They are practical tools of participation. A
delegate who understands them can help the committee move from general discussion to
focused debate, from focused debate to negotiation, and from negotiation to resolution
drafting.
How Can a Delegate Use Formal Debate Strategically?
Formal debate is not only about giving speeches. A strong delegate uses formal debate to
shape the direction of the committee.
Many beginners treat the GSL as a place to read a prepared speech and then wait for the
next activity. Advanced delegates use the GSL strategically.
1. Use the First Speech to Establish Identity
A delegate’s first GSL speech should clearly establish who they are in the committee.
It should communicate:
• What the country cares about
• How the country understands the agenda
• What broad solutions it supports
• What kind of partners it is looking for
For example:
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“The delegation of Indonesia believes that any discussion on marine pollution must
recognize the responsibilities of coastal states, consumer economies, shipping industries,
and plastic-producing sectors. The delegation supports solutions that combine national
capacity-building, regional cooperation, and accountability for transboundary waste.”
This tells other delegates what Indonesia stands for and who may want to work with it.
2. Listen for Allies and Opponents
Formal debate is not only a speaking opportunity. It is also a listening exercise.
During the GSL, delegates should take notes on:
• Which countries agree with their position
• Which countries oppose them
• Which countries mention similar solutions
• Which countries have strong evidence
• Which countries seem open to compromise
• Which countries are leading possible blocs
A delegate can use this information during unmoderated caucus.
Instead of approaching people randomly, the delegate can say:
“The delegation noticed that your country also emphasized rural connectivity and teacher
training. Would you be interested in working together on a clause?”
This makes lobbying more effective.
3. Use Speeches to Signal Solutions
A delegate should not reveal every detail too early, but they should signal their policy
direction.
For example:
“The delegation supports a three-part approach: infrastructure access, teacher capacity-
building, and affordable multilingual digital resources.”
This gives the committee a clear sense of what the delegate wants. Other countries can
then decide whether to cooperate.
4. Use Formal Debate to Set Caucus Topics
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Strong delegates use GSL speeches to prepare the ground for moderated caucuses.
For example, after several delegates mention funding challenges, a delegate may raise:
“The delegate of Kenya moves for a moderated caucus on financing mechanisms for
digital education infrastructure in developing countries.”
This motion will seem relevant because the delegate has listened to the flow of debate and
identified a recurring concern.
5. Respond to Previous Speakers
A strong GSL speech does not sound disconnected from the room. It responds to what
has already been said.
Example:
“The delegation acknowledges the concerns raised by previous speakers regarding
affordability. However, the committee must also consider the issue of teacher
preparedness, without which digital tools may remain underused.”
This shows that the delegate is actively listening and contributing to the evolving debate.
6. Ask Strategic Points of Information
If Points of Information are allowed, delegates can use them to clarify positions, expose
weaknesses, or build debate.
A good question is not aggressive for the sake of aggression. It is purposeful.
Weak question:
“Does the delegate even have proof for this?”
Stronger question:
“Could the delegate clarify how the proposed mechanism would be funded, particularly for
low-income member states?”
This question tests implementation without sounding disrespectful.
7. Protect Your Country’s Red Lines
Formal debate can be used to make clear what your country cannot support.
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Example:
“The delegation supports international cooperation, but cannot support any framework that
imposes uniform obligations without considering national capacity and development
needs.”
This helps other countries understand your limits before negotiation begins.
8. Build Reputation
Delegates are noticed not only for how often they speak, but for how responsibly they
speak.
A strong delegate:
• Stays within country policy
• Uses evidence
• Remains diplomatic
• Listens to others
• Proposes realistic solutions
• Helps the committee move forward
•
Formal debate is where reputation begins. If a delegate speaks clearly and constructively,
others are more likely to work with them in caucuses and resolutions.
Formal Debate Strategy Framework: LISTEN
Students can remember formal debate strategy through the LISTEN Framework.
L – Locate your country’s position
Know what your country stands for before speaking.
I – Identify allies and opponents
Use speeches to map the committee.
S – Signal your solutions
Make your policy direction clear.
T – Track recurring themes
Notice what issues keep coming up.
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E – Engage with previous speakers
Respond to the debate, not only your prepared notes.
N – Navigate toward caucus and resolution
Use formal debate to move the committee toward focused discussion and drafting.
Formal Debate Note-Taking Template
During GSL, delegates can use this table:
Possible Follow-up
Country Main Position Proposed Solution
Ally/Opponent Question
Supports digital public Teacher training, low-
India Possible ally Ask about funding
infrastructure cost access
Emphasizes Digital safety Ask about
France Possible partner
regulation and privacy standards implementation
Focuses on rural Connectivity and local
Brazil Possible ally Discuss clause
access content
This helps delegates convert listening into strategy.
Common Mistakes in Formal Debate
1. Reading a Generic Speech
Many delegates prepare one speech and read it without adapting to the committee. This
sounds disconnected. A good delegate adjusts based on what others have said.
2. Speaking as Yourself
Delegates should not say, “I believe…” or “In my opinion…” They should say, “The
delegation believes…” or “The Republic of…” This keeps the speech diplomatic and
representative.
3. Giving Only Problems, No Solutions
A speech that only describes the problem does not help the committee move forward.
Every speech should point toward action.
4. Being Too Aggressive
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Model UN is not a shouting contest. Strong disagreement can be expressed respectfully.
5. Ignoring Procedure
A delegate who does not understand points, motions, and speaking rules loses
opportunities to influence debate.
6. Not Listening
Some delegates prepare speeches but do not listen to others. This weakens negotiation.
Listening is one of the strongest tools in Model UN.
Tips for Students
• Use the first GSL speech to establish your position, not to solve everything.
• Listen for allies and contradictions in other speeches.
• Use yields carefully. Yielding to questions can show confidence but requires preparation.
• Do not raise motions without knowing their purpose.
Practice Activities
• Write and present a 60-second GSL speech.
• Practise raising a motion to establish the GSL.
• Take notes on five other delegates and identify potential allies.
Reflection Prompt
What did this session help you understand about your role as a delegate? What is one skill
you need to practise before the next session?
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