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Table of contents
Theme………………………………………………………………………………3
Letter from the Secretary Generals ……………………………………………….4
What is the United Nations………………………………………………………...5
Introduction to MUN ……………………………………………………………...5
Seven-step strategy for MUN research …………………………………………...7
Research Links ……………………………...…………………………………….9
Procedure …………………………………...……………………………………10
VETO Countries ……………………...………………………………………….11
Opening Speech ……………………...…………………………………….…….12
How to participate in caucuses….…………………………….………………….14
Resolution Paper ………………....…………………………….………………...15
Amendments………………………………………………………………………20
MUN Dress Code ………………………………………………………………...21
MUN Guidelines ………………....…………………………………...………….22
MUN VOCABS…………………………………………………………………...24
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“The Flame of the Flux”
Our theme for this year’s conference, “The Flame of the Flux” is
based on the Greek philosopher Heraclitus. The flux is centered around
change, transformation, and adaptability in our modern world. The
flame by nature, represents destruction by consuming and breaking
down the old, clearing away what is no longer needed. Simultaneously,
it symbolizes renewal by creating space for new growth, as seen in
nature where fires can rejuvenate ecosystems. This duality captures the
idea that the end of one phase can lead to a new beginning. For
example, the fall of great empires is like a flame that destroys the old,
creating space for new, stronger civilizations to rise and build on the
lessons of the past.
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Letter from the Secretary General
Dear Delegates,
I am delighted to extend a warm welcome to you for the 8th annual RASMUN24-25 conference!
This year represents a significant turning point in our ongoing efforts to foster an atmosphere of
dialogue, diplomacy, and creative problem-solving. You have demonstrated your dedication to
tackling the most important issues facing the globe by participating in RASMUN, and I am delighted
to see the distinct viewpoints and ideas you will provide to our committees.
The Flame of the Flux symbolizes how absolutely nothing stays constant in global affairs and
how they are always changing. The world is always changing, with new alliances and power
dynamics emerging and disappearing like a flickering flame. This theme pushes participants to
create adaptable solutions and embrace uncertainty. This year we rise strong in the face of
immorality and injustice, participants are encouraged by this theme to embrace uncertainty and
come up with flexible solutions. It serves as a reminder that, just as great civilizations arose from
fallen empires, so too can new beginnings emerge from the ruins of conflict. The theme encourages
attendees to be the change they wish to see, beginning with this year's conference, by inspiring hope
for a better future.
In addition to serving as your secretary general, I am also starting this journey with you
delegates in order to bring about the change I envision for the world. Although the problems we face
are numerous and complicated, they also present previously unheard-of chances for creativity and
teamwork. Throughout this conference, you will not only develop practical skills in negotiation and
public speaking but also engage in meaningful conversations about the future of global cooperation.
Vision and inspiration are the foundation of any meaningful journey. The first thing you
should ask yourself as you start this conference is, "What do I aspire to be, and what is my vision for
this journey?" This journey is an opportunity to understand your own potential as a leader and
changemaker, not just a three-day conference to debate and resolve issues. You can bring about
change by contributing to the development of new approaches to some of the most important issues
facing the globe. This conference offers you the opportunity to set an outstanding example, create
fresh viewpoints, and act as the catalyst for worldwide positive change.
Finally, delegates my advice to you as your secretary general if you choose to continue in
that amazing journey, is that the Model United Nations is so much more than winning an award; it’s
a way to gain perspective, build a character, and to forge relationships. Remember, you are not just
representing your assigned countries; you are the architects of positive change in our Model UN
community and, by extension, in the world we inhabit. Write resolutions, give speeches and make a
change, it is us, the future leaders and diplomats of the world.
Yours Sincerely,
RASMUN24-25 Secretary General
Zaid Khouli
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What is The United Nations (UN)?
● The United Nations (UN) is an international organization founded in 1945 after
World War II to promote peace, security, and cooperation among countries.
● It was established to prevent future conflicts and foster global collaboration on
various issues, including human rights, development, international law, and
humanitarian aid.
● The UN has 193 member states and operates through various organs, including:
○ The General assembly
○ The Security Council
○ The International Court of Justice
○ UN agencies such the UNICEF and UNESCO etc.
Introduction to MUN
● It is a simulation of the United Nations.
● It gives students the unique opportunity to debate and discuss issues that affect our
world today to negotiate peaceful solutions.
● Students are asked to adopt the viewpoint of a particular country and negotiate topics
ranging from human rights and security to ecology and the environment and political
matters.
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What do you stand to gain from the
experience?
● Model United Nations provides students with the unique opportunity to discuss
and debate current global affairs so that they are more able to understand and
appreciate the causes of conflicts that affect our world.
● The combination of research, preparation, involvement, and interaction will help
to develop delegates’ debating, researching, and public speaking skills - all skills
that will help the delegates in their later life.
● MUN is not only highly educational, as it broadens your knowledge of our world,
but it is also fun! Even though we try and encourage stimulating debate, we
primarily want you to enjoy yourself.
● Model United Nations is also a great social event where you can meet and get to
know new people.
Overwhelmed?
This is a detailed guide to the procedures of MUN, but please don’t be put off.
MUN is as much for beginners as for experienced delegates and our chairs will be
happy to assist you on the day if you are still confused. There will be many first-
time delegates at the conference, so don’t be nervous. Everyone has been a first-
time delegate at one point, and the MUN team are a lovely group of people who
will be more than happy to help you throughout the day. Before the conference, you
can e-mail your chairs for information.
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SEVEN-STEP STRATEGY FOR MODEL UN
RESEARCH
1. Familiarize yourself with the country that you are representing.
Several standard sources found in documents collections and online are
available for providing the current information about an overview of the
country's government, recent history, and economy as well as current
statistical information.
2. Gather Background Information on the United Nations Organization
Successful participation at a Model UN session requires a baseline
understanding of the United Nations organization itself, including its
structure and rules of procedures.
3. Gather Background Information on the Assigned Issues
At the same time that Model UN participants immerse themselves in the
foreign policy stance 'opinion "of their assigned country, they need to
acquaint themselves with the international issue areas--and the status of
discussions at the UN in these areas-- For very current information,
newspapers such as the New York Times, The Times (London), Le Monde
and Le Monde Diplomatique include significant coverage of United
Nations activities as do magazines such as the United Nations Chronicle
and the Economist. And up to date information about activities of the UN
organizations is available by searching the United Nations Press Release
database.
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4. Review Speeches at the UN by the Country's Representatives
Speeches and statements in discussions in meetings of the principal
organs of the United Nations (General Assembly, Economic and Social
Council, Security Council) --and their subsidiary standing and
committees-- are key sources for establishing the international policy
position of UN member nations.
5. Review Policy Statements from the Country's Political Leadership
There are useful sources for locating official statements of policy from
foreign countries. Perhaps the most important are letters written by
heads of state and foreign ministers to the Secretary-General on issues of
mutual interest. A popular source includes newsletters and other
information emanating from the embassies of foreign states.
6. Study the Texts of Resolutions Sponsored by the Country
Model UN participants are interested in resolutions and draft resolutions
for several reasons. First, these documents serve as examples for writing
their own resolutions in terms of form. But MUN participants are also
interested in the content of the resolutions that their own country has
participated in sponsoring. The United Nations gopher includes the full
text for General Assembly resolutions, Economic and Social Council
resolutions, and Security Council resolutions.
7. Develop an Understanding of the Country's Voting Pattern
Establishing the voting pattern for a nation in particular issue areas at
the United Nations is a challenge. For the record of all resolutions that
have been passed, the most current source for the General Assembly is
the annual Resolutions and Decisions press release at the United Nations
website.
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Research links
CIA: The world Factbook:
[Link]
DelegatePal:
[Link]
International MUN country profiles
[Link]
United Nations Website:
[Link]
BBC news country profiles
[Link]
MUN country profile and Policy Map
[Link]
MUN planet
[Link]
UN documents, voting records, previous speeches in the UN
[Link]
UN documents related to your country and topic
[Link]
Global Policy Forum
[Link]
Encyclopedia britanica
[Link]
News Websites:
[Link]
[Link]
[Link]
history
[Link]
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Procedure
- Delegates in a Model United Nations conference are given
Allocations allocations- usually, assignments of nations
- Carry out background research into your country.
- Each delegate is assigned to a committee.
Committee - Read the topic briefs of your committee topic to learn about
their roles and positions on assigned topics
Resolution -- An official document made by the delegates as a proposed
solution to each of the issues debated.
- Participants work together to identify points of agreement and
Lobbying combine their concepts into working papers, in other words a
resolution
- Time will be allocated to debate in support and against the
Debate resolution that is chosen/ has the most support.
- There will be time for delegates to propose amendments for the
Amendment resolution.
- Time will be allocated to debate for and against the
amendment.
- - A vote will be held on any amendments put forward and this will
Voting decide whether they become part of the overall resolution.
-
- Voting will then take place on whether the resolution should be
passed or not.
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VETO Countries
● VETO Countries typically refers to the five permanent members of the United
Nations Security Council (UNSC), each of which possesses the power of veto.
● The power of veto allows each of these countries to block any substantive
resolution, including those related to issues of international peace and security,
even if the resolution has the support of all other UNSC members.
● This power was granted to the five permanent members to ensure their active
participation and cooperation in the UN, particularly in the aftermath of World
War II.
● Veto Countries include:
○ The United States of America
○ The United Kingdom
○ France
○ Russia
○ China
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Opening speech
This is made before the first session of the conference to be read at the start of the
second day of the conference. Opening speeches should be as brief as possible,
conveying the point of view of the delegate's country concerning the topics a hand.
The speech should be no longer than two minutes.
In this speech and throughout the conference the delegates should refrain from
using personal pronouns (such as I), and the speaker should use the English
language throughout the forum unless he/she wishes to greet the forum at the
beginning of his/ her opening speech with their native language. (For instance, the
representative of India can greet the forum with Namas
Sample Opening Speech
Honorable president, distinguished chair, fellow delegates and esteemed guests
The delegation/state of______ is utmostly privileged and honored to be a part of
this stately conference. The delegate stands before you today hoping that we can
find solutions to there critical and important topics.
The delegation of _____ has continuously shown its complete support and
dedication to (1st topic) and it will continue to do so no matter what the
consequences are. (1st topic) is a serious problem that the world and (a specified
country) has been facing and the delegation of ______ is really looking forward to
find a solution to this topic. Moreover, the delegate also recognizes the effect of
(2nd topic) on the environment, so the delegate is eager to tackle this topic.
The delegation _____ proudly respects the cause of the UN, which is to make a
better, more peaceful world and not to satisfy an individual will. That is why the
delegate urges everyone to vote wisely. The delegates wishes a successful and
fortunate debate. Finally, I would like to express the privilege and honor of being
at such a profound and civilized conference.
The delegate yields the floor back to the chairing panel.
Thank you
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Your excellency the chair, honorable delegates,
Germany has been in the United Nations since 1973 and not only is it the biggest
economy in Europe; but is the 3rd top contributor to the UN budget, as well as
being a founding member of the European Union "E.U" It administers justice, and
is firmly committed to stopping piracy in Somalia, ending the continuous civil
conflicts taking place around the Darfur region in Sudan as a member of the
United Nations-African Union Mission in Darfur "UNAMID".
Germany believes in a pragmatic approach to the world's problems such as
prosecuting piracy in Somalia. Piracy of the Somali coast has been a threat to
international shipping since the second phase of the Somali Civil War and a huge
amount of money has been extorted due to this issue.
As for the Darfur Crisis, the German government reacted by providing.
humanitarian assistance and by supporting the UNAMID mission of the United
Nations and the African Union. Germany is seconding soldiers and police officers
to UNAMID and is helping with police training at the Kofi Annan International
Peacekeeping Training Centre in Accra, Ghana.
We invite you to join us in confronting the world's challenges with a strong spirit of
cooperation.
Germany wishes you all the most interesting debates during the coming few days!
Thank you.
I yield the floor to the President.
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How to participate in caucuses
In Model UN, a “caucus” means a suspension of the traditional Rules of Procedure, which
govern what delegates can or cannot do during a conference. There are two types of caucuses,
and both serve very different functions. However, throughout the conference delegates will move
between the Speakers List, moderated caucuses, and unmoderated caucuses, so it’s important to
be ready for all three main phases of debate.
• Moderated Caucuses: In Moderated Caucuses, you continue to deliver speeches
but in a different format. Moderated Caucuses are used to narrow debate to specific parts
of the topic- for example, if you’re discussing “Climate Change” as your main topic, you
may have a moderated caucus to discuss “Agricultural Impacts of Climate Change”.
During a moderated caucus, the next speaker is chosen by the Chair when delegates
raise their placards to be called upon. To start a speech in a moderated caucus, you can
start by responding to another delegate, by saying “In response to the comments of the
delegate of Germany”, for example. Moderated caucuses are more conversational, so
feel free to use the more flexible format to more directly debate with other delegates, or to
try to convince the committee of your specific solutions.
• Unmoderated Caucuses: During an Unmoderated Caucus, delegates are free to
move around the room and will form into groups to write resolutions. Rather than a focus
on debate, unmoderated caucuses are about negotiating resolutions and working together
with your group. Groups will form because of common interests or common solutions to
the topic and will try to write the strongest resolution in the committee and lobby other
delegates to join and support their group. It’s important to find a group to work with that
will allow you to contribute your ideas to the resolution and where everybody can work
together fairly to write a great resolution, rather than a group where people may try to
dominate all the conversation for themselves. Also, if any delegates are sitting alone
during an unmoderated caucus, invite them to work with your group! They may have
great ideas, and it’s a great way to win more support for your resolution.
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Resolution Paper
the resolution is the main result of the work of your committee and is meant to do
exactly what the name implies: “resolve” the problem that your committee is
focused on. Resolutions are the documents the UN uses to make decisions and are
written by groups of Member States collaborating on their ideas. Resolutions have
two main functions: to determine what the United Nations will do about the issue
and to recommend or request that individual Member States undertake actions to
help solve the issue. There is a very specific format to resolutions, and two main
sections: pre-ambulatory and operative.
1. The Preamble
The goal of the preamble of a resolution is to set the scene for the resolution.
Here, you can talk about why the resolution is being written, for example by
talking about how serious the issue is and who it is impacting. You can also
refer to past UN Resolutions, treaties, and international actions related to the
topic. The delegate can also state facts about the topic in general or to support
their argument later in the resolution. Preambular clauses each start with
“preambular phrases”, which should be italicized in your resolution. Each
preambular paragraph should end in a comma.
Preambular phrases
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2. The Operatives
Operative paragraphs determine what action the UN will take on the issue.
This can mean funding solutions, directing members of the UN Secretariat on
what to do, or requesting actions by UN Member States. Each clause acts, so
it’s important to be careful with each of the operative paragraphs in a
resolution! Operative clauses start with an operative phrases, which should be
italicized. Each operative paragraph should also be numbered, and end in a
semicolon, except for the final operative which ends in a period. If at any point
an operative is broken into sub-operatives, you would use a colon to introduce
those sub operatives, which start with lowercase letters.
Operative Phrases
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Sample Resolution paper
Committee: The general assembly
Main Submitter: Kuwait
Co-submitter(s): Iran, Palestine, Ireland
Topic: biased media coverage: Palestine and The Occupation
Fully aware a recent MIT study analyzed over 33,000 New York Times articles
covering Palestinians and Israelis during the first and second intifadas and the
results showed extreme bias against the Palestinians,
Keeping in mind the mainstream media focus is always on Palestinians actions
and it insinuates that Palestinians are the criminals,
Fully alarmed that the state of Israel continuously practices ethnic cleansing and
apartheid against Palestinian civilians,
Alarmed by the fact that in the May 2021 events in Gaza the Israel military forces
conducted an airstrike on a tower that is the workplace for al Jazeera reporters,
1. Calls upon the UN to create an institute that is dedicated to certifying
media outlets and news channels as biased or not;
a. Many factors should be considered before certifying news
channels such as but not limited to:
i. Such as including point of views from both sides
1. demand that journalists follow a preset criterion
ii. If the news channel is only broadcasting selected facts it
should be considered biased
iii. If the news channels pretend to broadcast facts but in
fact they are lies are to be considered biased
b. Before employing any person in this institute there mustn't be
any record of biased against both sides
c. this institute, if successful, should consider an expansion:
i. This expansion includes a UN based news channel:
1. Available on Television
2. Available in multiple languages such as but not
limited to
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a. Arabic
b. English
c. Spanish
d. Chinese
3. Available on social media such as but not limited
to:
a. Instagram
b. Twitter
c. TikTok
d. Telegram
ii. This expansion should also consider creating its own
social media platform:
1. This is highly recommended because Facebook,
Instagram, and many other platforms are proven
to be highly discriminatory and biased
iii. This expansion would be a very good solution for the
situation at hand as it limits media biased
2. Encourages raising awareness about the media bias that is happening
Palestinians on daily bases;
a. Raising wariness in schools colleges and universities:
i. Doesn't recommend including kids under the age of 14 as
the topic might be disturbing
b. Raising awareness about the use of illegal weapons
c. Raise awareness through social media
d. Raise awareness of the 256 Palestinians, including 66 children
and 40 women, that were killed in Gaza and almost 2,000
others that were injured.
e. As stated in perambulatory clause number 4, al Jazeera news
channel's office was bombed by Israeli military air forces, this
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is a clear indicator that Israel is trying to cover the truth and
the oppression of the Gazan people.
f. This connects to clause one, but it also builds up to a new point
3. recommends creating a documentary show about Palestine;
a. This documentary should document the oppressive acts of the
state of Israel :
i. these acts include but are not limited to:
1. wrongful imprisonment
2. apartheid
3. ethnic cleansing
4. using internationally banned weapons such as but
not limited to:
a. white phosphorus shells which if it came in
touch with human skin it burns it
5. State terrorism
b. This will prove that Palestinians are living in rough conditions.
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Amendments
What is an amendment?
• An amendment is a formal modification or addition made to a draft
resolution that has been introduced during debate in Model United Nations.
Amendments are used to change particular clauses in order to make the
resolution better, make points clearer, or respond to concerns voiced by
delegates.
1) There are two types of amendment in MUN:
a) Friendly amendments:
i) All of the resolution's submitters, or authors, have agreed to these
modifications to the draft.
ii) The committee does not vote on friendly amendments because all of the
submitters agree.
iii) Once submitted, they are automatically included in the draft resolution.
b) Unfriendly amendments:
i) These are the amendments that delegates who are not resolution
submitters who don't agree with the rest of the sponsors have suggested.
ii) Unfriendly amendments have to be brought before the committee for a
vote.
iii) The amendment is added to the draft resolution if it receives the support
of a majority of the committee members. It is rejected if not.
iv) If two thirds of the resolution was amended, it automatically fails.
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MUN Dress Code
*For Boys: *
1. *Suit: * A well-fitted suit in a conservative color (black, navy, gray) is ideal.
2. *Dress Shirt: * A white or light-colored dress shirt is commonly worn with a tie.
3. *Tie: * A conservative tie that complements your suit is essential.
4. *Dress Shoes: * Professional shoes that are comfortable for long periods of
standing and walking.
5. *Belt: * Coordinate your belt with your shoes.
6. *Accessories: * Minimal and understated accessories like a watch or cufflinks
are acceptable.
7. *Grooming: * Ensure you are well-groomed with neat hair and clean-shaven (if
applicable).
*For Girls: *
1. *Business Suit: * A well-tailored business suit, pantsuit, or skirt suit in
conservative colors (black, navy, gray) is appropriate.
2. *Blouse: * Wear a conservative blouse or shirt that complements your suit.
3. *Dress: * A knee-length or longer formal dress is an option for girls, but make
sure it is modest and professional.
4. *Dress Shoes: * Professional shoes that are comfortable for long periods of
standing and walking.
5. *Accessories: * Minimal and tasteful jewelry, such as stud earrings or a simple
necklace, is acceptable.
6. *Makeup: * Keep makeup natural and understated.
8. *Stockings/Tights: * Consider wearing stockings or tights with a skirt or dress
for a polished look.
9. *Avoid Excessive Cleavage: * Ensure your attire is not revealing or too low-cut.
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MUN Guidelines
Model United Nations (MUN) conferences often have rules of respect and
language that apply both inside and outside of committee sessions. These rules are
in place to maintain a professional and respectful atmosphere throughout the entire
conference.
*Inside the Committee: *
1. *Formal Address: * Inside committee sessions, delegates should use formal
titles and etiquette when addressing each other and the Chairs. This includes
addressing others as "Delegate of [Country]" or using titles like "Mr. President" or
"Madam Chair."
2. *Respectful Behavior: * Delegates must treat all participants with respect
during committee sessions. This includes active listening, refraining from
interrupting others, and avoiding personal attacks or offensive language.
3. *Parliamentary Language: * Delegates should use parliamentary language and
adhere to the rules of procedure when making speeches, raising points, or making
motions.
4. *Cultural Sensitivity: * Delegates should be sensitive to cultural differences and
avoid making comments or jokes that could be perceived as disrespectful or
offensive to any country or culture.
5. *Respect for the Chairing Panel: * Delegates must follow the instructions of
the Chair and respect their authority in managing the committee's proceedings.
6. *Focus on the Issues: * Discussions should center on the topics at hand, and
personal or emotional matters should be avoided.
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*Outside the Committee: *
1. *Respectful Interactions: * Delegates should maintain respectful and
professional interactions with each other outside of committee sessions. This
includes social events, meals, and any other conference-related activities.
2. *Avoiding Inappropriate Language: * Offensive language or profanity should
be avoided in all interactions with fellow delegates and conference organizers.
3. *Respect for Personal Space: * Delegates should respect personal boundaries
and not engage in behavior that makes others uncomfortable.
4. *Inclusivity: * Efforts should be made to include all participants in social
activities, avoiding exclusion or cliques.
It's important to note that MUN conferences often have a Code of Conduct that
outlines these rules and expectations for respectful behavior both inside and
outside the committee. Violations of these rules can result in sanctions or
disciplinary actions by the conference organizers. Upholding these principles of
respect and professionalism is essential for a successful and productive MUN
conference experience.
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MUN VOCABULARY
• *Point of information (POI): *
A Point of Information (POI) is a procedural tool used in Model United
Nations (MUN) that enables delegates to ask questions, clarify points,
or offer quick remarks during a debate. A Point of Information is
primarily meant to steer the discussion and give participants a chance
to interact with the speaker who is currently addressing the committee.
• *Point of order: *
During a committee meeting, delegates or participants may use a
"Point of Order" to call attention to a possible violation of the rules or
procedures as they relate to Model United Nations (MUN) or
parliamentary procedure. A point of order is raised to get clarification,
to fix an error, or to discuss a matter related to the proper
conduction of a session.
• *Point of personal privilege: *
A "Point of Personal Privilege" in Model United Nations (MUN) is a
way for a delegate to approach the chair and ask for immediate
attention to an issue that is affecting their comfort or well-being while
the committee is in session. It is employed in situations where a
delegate's physical discomfort or noise makes it difficult for them to
hear, see, or participate in the proceedings.
• *Amendments (friendly): *
When all parties who contributed to the resolution agree, the main
submitter or co-submitter(s) may edit the resolution in a friendly
manner. The entire house does not vote on a friendly amendment.
Clauses can be changed or eliminated, or a subclause can be added, in
a friendly amendment.
• *Amendments (unfriendly): *
One of the delegates makes an opposed amendment to the chairing
panel, asking for a clause or subclause to be removed. It is carried out
by a delegate who did not submit the resolution. In addition to voting
on it, delegates give speeches either in favor or against the amendment,
outlining their arguments for and against striking down particular
clauses. (if 2/3s of the resolution is stroked out, the resolution
automatically fails)
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• *A request for a follow-up: *
When a delegate is up on the podium discussing or debating a
resolution, this expression is used. A delegate must ask the chairing
panel for a follow-up after asking a question; this request may be
approved or rejected. (granted denied)
• *Motions: *
Formal requests made by delegates to the chair to take specific actions,
such as opening or closing debate. (examples: motion to informal
debate, motion to move on to voting)
• *Right of reply: *
During formal debate in Model United Nations (MUN), delegates can
respond to personal attacks or false statements made by other
delegates using the procedural tool known as the "Right of Reply".
When delegates feel they have been misrepresented or have been the
target of offensive remarks, the Right of Reply is meant to give them a
way to defend their honor—personal or national.
• *Crisis: *
Unforeseen events or situations introduced during the conference that
delegates must respond to in real-time.
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