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Compiled by:

The Ateneo Model United Nations Commission

Reproduced by:

The FEU International Studies Society

This work is reproduced as permitted by the Ateneo de Manila

Association of European Studies Students.

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Table of Contents

INTRODUCTION 4

CONFERENCE PROGRAM 6

CODE OF CONDUCT 8

GENERAL INFORMATION 10

THE INTERNATIONAL STUDIE SOCIETY MODEL UN COMMITTEE 12

BEFORE THE CONFERENCE 16

BEGINNING THE COMMITTEE 19

DEBATE ON A RESOLUTION 23

WORKING PAPERS 30

RESOLUTIONS 32

THE INTERNATIONAL STUDIES SOCIETY MODEL UN CONFERENCE TOPICS 44

POSITION PAPERS 46

TIPS AND REMINDERS 50

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Introduction

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Model United Nations

Model United Nations is an academic simulation of the existing New York based United

Nations organization in an academic environment. It provides opportunities for students

around the world to practice cross‐cultural communication, experience multilateral

diplomacy, and engage in discussions involving the world’s issues and current events.

Model United Nations thus becomes a platform for young individuals to hone their skills in

negotiations, writing, policy analysis, and problem‐solving as they work together to realize

common goals and come to accord through resolutions and good will.

International Studies Society Model United Nations Primer

The International Studies Society Model United Nations Conference Primer is intended to

provide all pertinent information concerning procedural and logistical guidelines all

delegates are required to observe and abide by. Delegates are encouraged to read this

primer thoroughly especially during their pre‐ conference preparation. Moreover, this primer

serves as a guide for delegates during the conference proper to ensure that proceedings go

efficiently and without disorder of any kind. Should there be any inquiries or clarifications

pertaining to anything connected to the conference that are not found in this primer,

delegates are to direct their concerns to the International Studies Society officers.

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Conference

Program

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International Studies Society Model United Nations 2014

CONFERENCE PROGRAM

Saturday, 11 October 2014

9:00am-6:00pm

9:00am – 9:30am - Registration

9:30am – 9:50am - Invocation

9:50am – 10:00am - Roll Call of Delegates

10:00am – 12:00nn - General Assembly Session 1 (Library Viewing Room)

Security Council Session 1 (NRH Discussion Room)

12:00nn – 1:30pm - Lunch Break

1:30pm – 4:30pm - General Assembly Session 2 (Library Viewing Room)

Security Council Session 2 (NRH Discussion Room)

4:30pm – 5:30pm - Presentation of Resolutions

5:30pm – 6:00pm - Awarding and Closing Remarks

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Code of Conduct

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CODE OF CONDUCT

Dress Code In order to effectively embody the character of a professional UN delegate, participants of

International Studies Society Model UN are required to wear diplomatic/corporate attire.

Everyone is enjoined to limit the colors of their attire to neutral shades.

International Studies Society Model UN will not tolerate attire that includes T‐shirts, short pants,

athletic wear, denim apparel, and hats.

International Studies Society strongly respects religious diversity. In line with this principle,

religious attire that may have been considered as inappropriate will be permitted. The

International Studies Society Model UN Secretariat reserves the right to decline the

admittance of any delegate deemed to be dressed in inappropriate attire. Dress code

violations will automatically forfeit delegates of their privileges during the conference.

Decorum International Studies Society Model UN delegates are expected to carry themselves in a manner appropriate of real‐life diplomats. Diplomatic etiquette should be highly observed

throughout the entire conference.

The debates that transpire during any Model United Nations conference generally carry a well‐ defined tone of formality. Delegates are therefore encouraged to communicate and

cooperate with other delegates with utmost respect and courtesy.

Principles of a healthy line of cross‐cultural communication that acknowledges both religious

and cultural diversity should be held as the standard in this conference. All types of

contemptuous acts and deeds will be sanctioned by the organizers of this conference.

Alcoholic beverages, cigarette smoking, drugs, public displays of affection, and any explicitly

lascivious acts are prohibited. Delegates found to have violated these rules will be

sanctioned accordingly and will not be allowed to join the conference thereafter.

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General

Information

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GENERAL INFORMATION

Name Tags Name tags will be provided for the delegates before the conference which will serve as their

credentials. The name tag will include the delegate’s full name, country assignment,

committee designation, and the institution he/she hails from. Delegates and staff members

are obligated to wear their name tags at all times for the entire duration of the conference.

Placards Placards will be provided for each delegate, indicating his/her country assignment and

council designation. Delegates are encouraged to handle their placards with care.

Delegates may keep their placards as souvenirs at the end of the conference.

Registration Delegates must check‐in for each day of the conference at the registration desk located

outside the Exhibit Hall before convening. Upon signing in, delegates will receive their

delegate kits, which include the delegate’s name tag and placard.

Liability International Studies Society Model UN will not hold itself liable for any damage, theft or loss

of any and all items during the conference or outside it. Delegates are advised not to leave

their belongings unattended.

Language English will be the official working language of this conference, and formal language shall be

used. All delegates are always to refer to themselves in third person (i.e. The delegate of <full

official name of your assigned country> moves to…), and never in first (I move to…).

Delegations For the International Studies Society Model UN 2014, delegates are assigned in one General

Assembly. Countries in the General Assembly are represented by only one delegate. Each

country is given one vote.

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The International

Studies Society

Model UN

Committee

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INTERNATIONAL STUDIES SOCIETY MODEL UN COMMITTEE

Committee Size Brief Description Sample Issue

General Assembly At least 30

delegates; 1 Chair;

and 2 Vice Chairs

The General Assembly is

usually the largest

council designation in

any Model United

Nations conference. In

larger global

conferences, the General

Assembly comprises of

several sub‐committees

such as the Historic

General Assembly, the

World Trade

Organization, the

Economic and Social

Council, and others. The

topics discussed in this

committee are often

intercontinental in nature,

involving many of the

member states.

Climate Change:

Addressing the Issue

of Deforestation

Security Council 15 countries

represented; 1

Chair; 1 Vice Chair

The Security Council is

generally part of a

committee referred to

as Specialized Agents,

which often limit the

number of their

Delegate participants.

The Security Council

deals with issues that

press on peace,

security, conflict,

politics, and economic

influences.

Regional Coverage

and

Global Effects of

Somalian piracy

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Delegates

Delegates are the main participants in any Model United Nations Conference. Each

participant is assigned a country to represent within the context of his/her committee’s

theme. In order to ensure that proceedings carry on appropriately, each delegate is

cautioned to conscientiously reflect only his/her nation’s views and policies. The delegates

must take great caution to not “go out of character” as a representative of their respective

country as this will ruin the quality of the debate and the negotiation

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Notes Delegates are allowed to pass notes to each other with the help of pages (note passers). The

Chair, however, may revoke this privilege if he/she deems that this dispensation is being

maltreated.

Secretariat or Dais The Secretariat is in charge of a Model UN committee. It is composed of the Officers of the

International Studies Society Model UN Commission, a Chair, a Vice-Chair, a Rapporteur, and

the pages in each committee. It is the administrative organ of the conference. The

Secretariat has numerous tasks that range from delivering notes, ensuring that delegates

behave in a professional manner, and ensuring that all delegates receive copies of the

resolutions being debated on.

Chairs Chairs take on the roles of moderators who have absolute parliamentary control during and

over the conference. They are primarily tasked with facilitating the flow of debate from roll

call to passing resolutions in order to ensure that the discussions in their respective

committees proceed efficiently and remain relevant to the topics at hand. Chairs come to

decisions regarding agendas, objections, motions, amendments, and votes. They are also

allowed to address points of order, and they are allowed to recommend procedural

mechanisms. In addition, Chairs are responsible for keeping order during the conference

proceedings by taking note of any violations or warnings delegates may incur.

Pages Pages are also referred to as “note passers”. They are responsible for relaying messages from

one delegate to another or from one delegate to the Chair, and they have no power in the

flow of the debate. The Chair may call for assistance from pages in counting votes,

distributing copies of resolutions, and other logistical matters.

Appeal Though Chairs have absolute control over the conference and their decisions are considered

final, there are certain cases when delegates may appeal a decision made by the Chair.

However, the move to appeal the Chair’s decision still lies within the jurisdiction of the Chair

who has the authority to accept or reject the appeal. If the appeal in question is directed

towards the whole committee and not to specific conference proceedings, delegates may

address the appeal to the Secretariat

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Before the

Conference

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BEFORE THE CONFERENCE Position Papers A position paper is a one‐page summary statement. Preparing a position paper enables the

delegate concisely collect all the information gathered on his/her country, committee, and

the topic in question, and in this manner, s/he is familiarized with the country s/he has been

assigned to before the committee session convenes. Delegates are required to submit their

position papers before the conference.

Six--Step Strategy for Model UN Research

Preparing for a Model United Nations Conference may be a tedious task if you are unable to

focus your research properly. This strategy will guide you to properly prepare for the

discussions and debates during the conference:

1. Know your country in general.

a) Form of government;

b) General demographic (population statistics on religious and cultural diversity);

c) Any issues on rebellion, separatists, issues with indigenous people (if any);

d) Geographical borders and topographical characteristics;

2. Know the issue, both objectively and in the framework of your country’s policies.

a) Know whether your country is central to the issue, and always, always keep your

country’s position in the matter in mind.

b) Look at official statements by the pertinent government agencies;

c) Statements given by government officials in international conferences;

d) Government press releases (go to Foreign Affairs site, usually);

e) Research on the important specifics of the issue in general.

3. Using the information about the issue in relation to your country’s policy, foreshadow

and framework thoughts accordingly.

a) Good time to write a position paper (see above);

b) Given the basic policies you are aware of, try now to formulate what your country will

now say.

c) Identify your “red lines” in the issue, the non-negotiables of your country.

4. Look for UN-related resolutions that your country may have supported before which

are related to the topic/policy at hand.

a) Read them, and determine if the resolution still fits with your policy, or is it time to

change?

b) What does the resolution try to do with the issue?

c) What tone in resolutions do you think should you write/sponsor?

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5. Determine the core states that influence the issue. Determine your role in the issue.

a) Will my country be expected to give strong stances on the issue?

b) Will my country be a major actor in the debate, given my position with regards to the

issue?

c) Who are my country’s allies?

d) Who are the countries I should look out for? Why?

6. Branch out. Look for sub--issues that fall under the council issue. Try to familiarize

yourself with some of these. They will help during the debates and other occurrences

requiring your direct contributions.

a) You may find a topic to write a resolution on.

b) Crisis situations may occur. You may want to prepare for them.

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Beginning the

Committee

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BEGINNING THE COMMITTEE

Roll Call The Chair begins with a roll call to which the delegates will respond to with “present in voting”

which is indicative of a delegate’s attendance, but with the right to abstain during voting

procedures. “Absent” will be cast by the dais when the delegate is not present.

Each committee will have one topic and several draft resolutions on various specific issues

pertaining to the committee’s theme. Setting the agenda serves to lay down the order by

which the resolutions that are already available will be discussed. The primary purpose of

calling the roll is to determine the existence of quorum.

Quorum Quorum is the needed minimum number of delegates in order for a committee to start its

session. The quorum of an IS-MUN General Assembly is majority which is fifty percent of the

delegates plus one to offset discussion on resolutions and voting.

Setting of the Agenda Due to the nature of the International Studies Society Model UN, the agenda is determined

and released to the delegates prior to the conference. Hence, the Chair will ask the

Rapporteur to provide the agenda at the beginning of the session.

Delivery of Policy Statements Every delegate has to prepare and orally present an opening speech at the beginning of the conference, stating his/her country’s stance on the committee‐specific issue. Delegates are

given a maximum of sixty seconds for their opening speeches. The Chair is responsible for

strictly imposing this time limit to accommodate all the delegates before lobbying and

discussions on resolutions can begin.

Customarily, opening speeches are presented formally thus the delegate who is about to

deliver his/her opening speech must address the Chair and the committee respectfully.

For example, “Good morning/afternoon/evening, honorable Chair and fellow delegates.

<Full official name of your assigned country> is honoured to be present in this year’s

International Studies Society Model UN Conference.”

Motions It is encouraged that a member of the assembly to set the general speaker’s time for the

entire session. However, if no motion is raised to set the speaker’s time, it can be set later on.

Other motions can be raised as well, but the context within which they are made must be

taken into consideration.

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Type of Motion What does it do? When is it applicable? How many votes are

needed to pass?

Motion for an Un‐

moderated Caucus

Un‐moderated

caucuses are multi‐

lateral discussions that

do not impose

parliamentary

procedures.

When sides of an

argument feel that a

structured debate is

not conducive to

state a point clearly to

another. It is also an

opportunity to lobby

in‐session.

Only one delegate needs

to second the motion. If

there are objections, one

speaker “for” and one

“against” will be required

by the Chair. Simple

majority will be needed to

pass.

Motion for a

Moderated Caucus

Moderated Caucuses

are debates to limit

topics to a more

specific discussion.

They follow the order

of countries listed on

the speakers’ list. To

be placed on the list,

one needs to raise his

placard.

When council opts to

stick within a timed

and orderly series of

exchanges on the

matter being

discussed.

Only one delegate needs

to second the motion. If

there are objections, one

speaker “for” and one

“against” will be required

by the Chair.

Simply majority will be

needed to pass.

Motion to Table

Resolution

To simply junk the

resolution for

whatever meritorious

reason. Should be

raised between

speeches.

Between speeches on

the resolution. When

no points are being

raised.

2/3 majority.

- When someone motions

to table a resolution, the

council proceeds straight

to voting block.

Motion to move

directly to voting

procedures

Ends all debate on

the resolution, and

immediately places

the council into voting

procedures.

In between speeches

on the resolution, and

when no points are

being raised.

No vote needed. Only a

second and no objections.

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Points

Point When to use it What it does

How to say it

Point of Order

Immediately after you

think that the Chair or a

delegate made an error

in procedure.

It informs the

concerned

parties of the

error in

procedure.

“This delegate believes that

the Chair/the delegate of ____

made an error in/by…”

Point of

Parliamentary

Inquiry

At any time you are

confused with matters

pertaining to procedures.

Rise only when no one is

speaking.

Asks the Chair

how to continue

with the Debate

“This delegate would like to

inquire about the… (time of

suspension of session, etc.)”

Point of Personal

Privilege

When no one is speaking.

You may only interrupt

speaker if the point is on

audibility.

Asks the Chair to

grant you timed

bathroom

breaks, etc.

Unless it is on the matter of

audibility of another speaker,

all points of personal privilege

are to be sent via note‐

passers. State reason for such

a request. Wait for

confirmation from the Chair.

Point of

Information

When the Chair opens up

the floor for points after a

speech is delivered.

Inquires from the

delegate who

just gave a

speech

Polite phrasing of a question

related to the speech he just

delivered.

Motion to divide

the question

Debate on the

resolution will be done

per operative clause,

instead of taking it as

a whole document. If

motion passes, voting

on the resolution will

also be a division of

the question.

In between speeches

on the resolution.

Done to hasten

debate proceedings

to more problematic

clauses.

Majority Vote

- To pass the motion, voting

per question will follow

procedure of council

requirements

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Debate on a

Resolution

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DEBATE ON A RESOLUTION

General Speaker’s List The General Speaker’s List is part of the conference’s default method of debate. The Chair

lists down the order by which delegates can address the committee prior to voting on a

resolution. If delegates wish to be placed on the General Speaker’s List, raising the placard is

enough for the Chair to recognize a delegate as a speaker. Once the General Speaker’s List

has been established, delegates are allowed one minute to speak. The Chair will strictly

monitor the time limit. The Chair may open the floor to points of motion thereafter and any

delegate may move to open unmoderated caucus on the topic at hand.

Special Speaker’s List The creation of a Special Speaker’s List is a type of moderated caucus dedicated to a

specific aspect of the topic or issue that needs special attention. Any delegate can motion

for a Special Speaker’s List once the Chair opens the floor for points of motion. For example,

the topic of discussion is Somalian piracy. A delegate may motion for a Special Speaker’s List

for a moderated caucus on a specific topic he/she wants to focus on such as financing

terrorist organizations. The delegate who motioned for the Special Speaker’s List will have to

state the purpose and time limit of the entire moderated caucus as well as the time limit for

each delegate’s speech, which is usually set to thirty seconds.

Yield If a delegate does not finish his/her speech in the time allotted during a discussion on a

resolution, and if there are more than 25 seconds left for his/her speech, s/he may yield to

any of the following:

●To questions

● His/her time to the Chair

● His/her time to another delegate

If the delegate yields to questions, and no one raises a question, the Chair will appoint at

least one other delegate to ask questions regarding the speech, which the delegate who

has the floor is obligated to answer each question in a one‐minute time frame.

Yielding to the Chair ends the time the speaker has been given, however, the Chair can opt

to move down the Speaker’s list or open the floor for questions directed to the speaker from

other delegates.

Yielding the remaining time to another delegate only allows that delegate to speak in the

permitted time frame increased by the time yielded to him/her. After the remaining time has

passed, the Chair will move down on the Speaker’s List.

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Moderated Caucus

The purpose of a moderated caucus is to focus the debate on a specific aspect of the topic

during the discussion. Any delegate may move for a moderated caucus after the Chair

opens the floor for points. The Chair will only facilitate the voting of those in favor of or

opposed to a moderated caucus. If the majority of the committee raises their placards, a

moderated caucus will ensue. The Speaker’s List will be temporarily suspended on the event

of a moderated caucus. The Chair will encourage delegates to speak at will.

A moderated caucus will only be open for a specific purpose provided by the delegate who

motioned for it. The delegate in question will also indicate 1) the time of the entire caucus, 2)

the topic, and 3) speaker’s time, which the Chair will strictly monitor.

Unmoderated Caucus An unmoderated caucus presents opportunities for delegates to speak informally about their

nations’ positions on the topic in question as well as to lobby in preparation for their working

papers and draft resolutions. The Chair will ask the one who motioned for an unmoderated

caucus to state the purpose of such a motion and the time limit for the discussion, which is

usually capped at a maximum of ten minutes. The Chair will strictly monitor the time limit.

Once the purpose and time limit has been specified, delegates will vote whether they are in

favor of or opposed to an unmoderated caucus.

Lobbying and Negotiating Lobbying and negotiating are two of the most important skills every delegate in any MUN

conference must develop. A delegate should be able to effectively share his/her stance with

other delegates in order to accomplish key tasks during the conference such as drafting

resolutions, working papers, and resolutions themselves. Moreover, negotiating can be a very

helpful ability during crisis situations when delegates are challenged to engage in

high‐pressure discussions that require them to think critically in order to restore peace and

order back to the committee proceedings.

More than discussing certain issues with other delegates, negotiating involves coming to a

compromise. To be able to start negotiations, a delegate must first be clear on what he/she

wants to achieve and the plan by which he/she aims to accomplish it. Research plays an

important role in committee proceedings because delegates will find it easier to negotiate

with countries that share similar goals and policies such as Australia and the UK because they

recognize the same monarchy. While delegates should be clear on what they want, they

should also consider what they don’t want to happen.

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In a room full of delegates attempting to lobby and negotiate for support for their stance,

delegates have to be cautious not to be overpowered by another delegate’s opinion or

manner of delivery. The point of lobbying and negotiating is to come to a point of

compromise after all the ideas have been presented clearly, constructively criticized, and

agreed upon.

Delegates must always remember to treat each other with respect and courtesy as if they

were in a professional setting at a real United Nations conference. Every delegate should be

given an opportunity to speak and petition for their stances and ideas. When a delegate is

speaking, everyone is advised to listen attentively and considerately without suddenly

interjecting.

Delegates are likewise reminded that they are representatives of a country so bias and

personal opinion should be excluded from the discussions as much as possible.

Suspension or Adjournment of Session A motion to adjourn the session from any delegate may only be entertained by the Chair once he/she opens the floor for motions and if three‐quarters of the allotted time for the

whole session has already been spent. The motion to adjourn the sessions requires a majority

Postponement or Resumption of Debate If the Chair opens the floor for points of motion and a delegate moves to postpone or resume discussion on a resolution or an amendment, the proceedings will require a two‐thirds

majority vote only after two‐thirds of the entire set committee session time has been spent.

Reconsideration A motion to reconsider is entertained after a resolution has been adopted or rejected. A

delegate who voted with the majority must make the move to make a point of

reconsideration. The Chair will hear from only two delegates against the motion and will proceed to facilitating the voting process where two‐thirds of those who are present and

voting will be required for this motion to be passed.

Closure of Debate As with all points, a delegate may only move to close a debate only if the floor is open. After

a delegate moves to close the debate, the Chair will hear from two speakers against the

motion and none from the group of delegates who are in favor of it. If the majority of the

committee is in favor of closing the debate, the Chair will pass this motion and the resolution

or amendment in question will be voted on thereafter.

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Voting No friendly or unfriendly (see page 39) amendment and draft resolution could be considered

to be official until after it passes a parliamentary voting procedure. There are two ways of counting votes‐ one is by having delegates raise their placards. If the Chair finds results

unclear for whatever logistical reason, he may opt to take a roll‐call vote.

When any delegate motions to move into voting procedure passes, the Chair will mandate

all delegates to go back to their designated places, should they be elsewhere. When the

committee is in voting procedures, no delegate will be permitted to both enter and exit the

conference hall.

There are three possible votes to cast. One may vote “for”, “against” or “abstain” on a

resolution. Abstentions are only permitted when voting for a resolution. All other matters that

require voting procedures will not have abstentions as possible votes.

For procedural matters (unless specified otherwise in this primer), resolutions or amendments

to pass in the GA, they need to be agreed upon by majority vote of the members present.

This is defined by 50% + 1. For example, if there are 40 members, majority vote is 20 + 1.

Majority vote is also required to pass motions on procedure in the SC.

When a resolution passes, delegates are free to clap. However, clapping for a resolution that

failed is strictly prohibited. Motions to applaud the author(s) of the resolution are welcome.

Objections to these informal motions are not in order.

Types of Voting

Type Method

By Voice (viva

voce)

Members of the assembly in favor say “Aye”, then members against

say “No”. Afterward, those who abstain say, “Abstain”.

By Show of Hands Members in favor raise their right hand, then the vote will be counted.

Members against and those abstain do the same.

By Rising Members in favor rise, then the vote will be counted. Members against

and those abstain do the same.

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By Roll Call Members are called individually in alphabetical order and each

says “For”, “Against” or “Abstain” depending on whether they

said “Present” or “Present and Voting”.*

*This is the pre-determined method for voting for A-MUN. It can

be modified if a delegate moves to do so.

By General

Consent

Members are asked by the Chair if there are any objections, and

if there are none, then the council proceeds to another method

of voting.*

*This method is used on the assumption that General Consent

can be attained.

By Ballot Members are to write whether they are for, against or abstain by

writing their vote and their assigned country on a piece of paper.

This is to be collected and counted by members of the dais.

Right to Reply

All delegates reserve the right to reply to questions and clarifications set by co‐delegates.

Rights to reply come into play when allegations are set by any other delegate. All a delegate

needs is to raise his placard right after the speech in question is delivered. The delegate

should request for the right to reply, and he shall be given 30 seconds to respond to anything

that may have been raised in the previous speech.

Grievances and Warnings For example, if a delegate has “threatened” another delegate (within the context of merely

representing countries in an academically simulated diplomacy event) in any way, the

affected delegate can stand until the Chair recognizes his/her grievance. Once the

grievance is recognized, the Chair gives the offending delegate a warning and takes note of

it.

Issues on Delegate Competence It is assumed by both the Chairs and the delegates in the committee that statements from all

delegates are accurate representations of their country’s foreign policy. However, should

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there be any obviously detrimental errors made by any delegate, any delegate who notices

should act by sending a note identifying the error to the Chair, in case the Chair himself does

not notice the erroneous statement.

The Chair will respond by sending a note to the delegate in question mentioning that such an

error was indeed committed. This will take place if the Chair believes that the error made by

the delegate did not directly affect the quality and flow of debate. However, if the Chair

notices that the quality of debate has been adversely affected by the error, the Chair may

directly inform the committee in order to correct misconceptions and prevent more errors to

occur as an effect of the one in question.

Any delegate who would like to determine if the topic of debate is still within the bounds of

jurisdiction of the committee should be raised as a Point of Parliamentary Inquiry to the Chair,

following the same procedures already discussed in this prim

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Working Paper

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WORKING PAPERS

Working Papers are a one-page research summary on a possible topic of a draft resolution. It

usually takes the form of an information sheet with maps, graphs, tables and/or a

comprehensive outline of ideas. It is ill‐advised that paragraphs of text be included in the

working papers. The only content‐based requirement set on working papers is that the

research summary presented in the working paper should serve at least one operative clause

in a draft resolution. The ultimate goal of a working paper is to enlighten the entire

council/committee of ideas shared and/or developed by alliances or individual delegations.

Working papers are not required features of a Model United Nations Conference.

Procedure for Putting Forward a Working Paper The only requirement for the reproduction and distribution of a working paper is to submit it

privately to the Chair, who will inspect its contents in terms of competence and format.

Should the Chair deem the Working Paper to be only indirectly relevant to the

council/committee, he will have the right not to approve its reproduction and distribution.

However, this lack of an approval will not prevent the delegate from using the information to

lobby, should he decide to do so. Violations in format will merit an immediate rejection,

unless edited to comply with the set format.

Format The only format prescribed for a working paper is the inclusion of a proper heading and the

compliance with the prescribed paper size (A4). The orientation of the document (landscape

or portrait) is not of significance. The heading should be placed in the upper left corner of the

page, regardless of orientation. The heading should simply indicate the overall topic of the

Working Paper and the countries who put the document forward.

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Resolution

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RESOLUTIONS

Resolutions are the heart of each Model United Nations Conference. These documents are

the culmination of all discussions, negotiations and lobbying performed and contributed by

the various delegations represented in a council. Like an actual United Nations resolution,

Model UN resolutions are written binding and non-binding policies on how to address the

primary issue being discussed by the council. Resolutions, which are authored and ratified by

delegates in a committee, need only a majority number of votes to pass.

Resolutions written by the UN GA are non-binding, while those by the UN SC are binding. They

simply contain suggestions on how the international community could act on an issue

involving the member states.

Draft Resolutions Draft resolutions are resolutions that have not yet been voted on by the committee to which

it is addressed to. Delegates have multiple options in writing resolutions. There is no mandate

on a timeline involving resolutions. Delegates may opt to come to a conference with a draft

resolution already in the works. Furthermore, delegates are allowed to write resolutions during

the conference itself. There is no restriction in the number of delegates working on a single

resolution.

A draft resolution has three main parts: the heading, preamble (commonly known as the pre‐

ambulatory clauses), and the operative section (commonly known as the operative clauses).

Each draft resolution is technically one long sentence divided into a varying number of

clauses. Each clause ends with either a comma or a semicolon when appropriate. The

subject of the sentence is the committee taking action (General Assembly, Security Council,

etc.), and therefore, the heading of the resolution. The preamble sets the context of the

resolution by a detailed reference of past resolutions that may have been considered while

writing the resolution. The operative clauses contain the concrete action plan the resolution

aims to present to the committee to consider. For the purposes of a sizable committee, a draft resolution could only be included in agenda by the staff if it has at least one‐fifth of the

committee as tentative signatories.

Parts of a Resolution The parts of the resolution highlighted RED constitutes the Heading of the Draft Resolution.

The first country listed in the category “Submitted by” will be considered as Main Submitter.

Main Submitters are tasked to read the operative clauses of the resolution once presented to

the Council/Committee. All questions regarding the resolution are assumed to be directed at

the Main Submitter, unless the question is posed to all Submitters of the draft resolution.

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The parts of the resolution highlighted BLUE constitutes the Pre‐ambulatory Clauses. Pre‐

ambulatory clauses set the context of the draft resolution by offering a detailed introduction.

These clauses include possible references to past resolutions that may have dealt with the

issue being tackled by the draft resolution. These are not read during the presentation of the

resolution.

The parts of the resolution highlighted GREEN constitutes the Operative Clauses. Operative

Clauses are the detailed action plans of the resolution. They are considered to be the heart

of the resolution. Debates will primarily revolve around the content of the Operative Clauses.

For formatting purposes, Operative Clauses are numbered orderly, and are indented by at most an inch for easy identification. All pre‐ambulatory clauses end with a comma. All but

the last one of the operative clauses end with a semi‐colon. The last operative clause ends

with a period. All operative and pre‐ambulatory clauses are to be italicized, as seen in the

template below.

(The following resolution is an excerpt from the United Nations Security Council Resolution

1511. It is used only for the sole purpose of educating delegates on the prescribed format of

resolutions.)

SAMPLE RESOLUTION

SUBJECT: MANDATE OF THE UNITED NATIONS IN IRAQ

SUBMITTED TO: the Security Council

SUBMITTED BY: USA, UK

Co‐Submitters: Spain and Cameroon

The Security Council,

Reaffirming its previous resolutions on Iraq, including resolution 1483 (2003) of 22 May 2003

and 1500 (2003) of 14 August 2003, and on threats to peace and security caused by terrorist

acts, including resolution 1373 2001) of 28 September 2001, and other relevant resolutions,

Underscoring that the sovereignty of Iraq resides in the State of Iraq, reaffirming the right of

the Iraqi people freely to determine their own political future and control their own natural

resources, reiterating its resolve that the day when Iraqis govern themselves must come

quickly, and recognizing the importance of international support, particularly that of

countries in the region, Iraq's neighbours, and regional organizations, in taking forward this

process expeditiously,

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Recognizing that international support for restoration of conditions of stability and security is

essential to the well‐being of the people of Iraq as well as to the ability of all concerned to

carry out their work on behalf of the people of Iraq, and welcoming Member State

contributions in this regard under resolution 1483 (2003),

1. Welcomes the positive response of the international community, in form, such as the

Arab League, the Organization of the Islamic Conference, the United Nations General

Assembly, and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, to

the establishment of the broadly representative Governing Council as all important

step towards an internationally recognized, representative government;

2. Supports the Governing Council's efforts to mobilize the people of Iraq, including by

the appointment of a cabinet of ministers and a preparatory constitutional committee

to lead a process in which the Iraqi people will progressively take control of their own

affairs;

3. Determines that the Governing Council and its ministers are the principal bodies of the

Iraqi interim administration, which, without prejudice to its further evolution, embodies

the sovereignty of the State of Iraq during the transitional period until an internationally

recognized, representative government is established and assumes the responsibilities

of the Authority;

4. Decides to remain seized on the matter.

Resolution Writing There are various ways one could write an effective draft resolution. This primer offers a

possible five‐step guide to writing effective resolutions.

1. The delegate should know the topic of the council well. This is done by basic

research methodologies. Then, the submitters should narrow down the topic to a more

specific aspect. One way of effectively narrowing down a topic for a resolution is to

enumerate all possible issues that fall under the more general council issue.

General Council Issue

Possible Resolution Topics

Humanitarian Assistance for Unstable

Member States

Organized Foreign Aid for Pakistan after the large‐scale July 2010 floods, Installation of

Peacekeeping Forces in the Ivory Coast to maintain stability and prevent large‐scale

violence, Rebuilding of Haiti after the 2010

earthquake, etc.

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2. Once the submitters have effectively narrowed down a topic for consideration,

listing down possible action plans that will directly answer the needs posed by the

draft resolution topic. In listing down possible steps for the unified action plan, the

submitters should consider the importance of making sure that the ideas are feasible,

not redundant and are accurate.

Resolution Topic

Possible Steps for the Action Plan

UN’s role in the reconstruction of Haiti after

the 2010 earthquake

Increase in foreign aid in the form of supplies

that cater to the basic human needs (food,

medication, water, temporary shelter,

clothing), send peacekeeping forces to

maintain stability while rebuilding process

takes place, encourage foreign investments

to stimulate Haitian economic system, assess

damage, and determine points of

reconstruction, etc.

Climate Change

Climate Change and its security

implications, Climate Change and

agriculture development, Review of the

Convention on Biological Diversity, etc.

Situation in Honduras: democracy

breakdown

Condemn the coup d’état, demand for the

restoration of the constitutional government,

call on UN members states to not recognize

any unconstitutional government Honduras

would present to the international

community, encourage regional efforts to

restore constitutional democracy

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3. The next step to take would be to order your action plan logically. This is the step

where submitters could decide which of the enumerated steps for the possible action

plan should be retained or dropped. In doing this, submitters are encouraged to

consider matters on feasibility, redundancy and accuracy. After striking down steps

deemed impertinent, the next step is to order the steps in a clear and logical outline.

There are numerous ways of ordering the steps of the action plan. However, most

United Nations resolutions opt to follow a chronological framework by ordering the

action plans in the preferred order of execution. The ordering of UN resolutions are

feasible but must be logical.

4. After giving your action plan a logical order, each step in your action plan will now

take the place of the operative clauses of the draft resolution. For each

step/operative clause, submitters should now cite more specific details pertaining to

each step/operative clause.

Draft Operative Clause

Further Developed Details

Reconstruction of infrastructure in

Haiti

1.Priority should be given to rebuilding roads, air

strips, hospitals, and headquarters for bodies vital to

stabilization;

2. Encourage direct foreign investments to fund

infrastructure, reconstruction, and to simulate Haitian

economy.

5. The final step will be for the submitters to organize their outline to fit the technical

requirements of UN Resolutions. This should be the phase for the operative clauses and

the pre‐ambulatory clauses to be merged into one document. The clauses of the

entire draft resolution should be phrased in the passive voice of the English language

conventions. Format in draft resolution in accordance to the standard Resolution

Format is being applied in this conference.

Pre-ambulatory Clauses

Operative Clauses

Acknowledging

Accepts

Affirming

Affirms

Alarmed by

Approves

Approving

Authorizes

Aware of

Calls

Believing

Calls upon

Bearing in mind

Condemns*

Cognizant of

Congratulates

Confident of

Confirms

Contemplating

Considers

Convinced

Declares accordingly

Deeply concerned

Demands*

Deeply convinced

Deplores

Deeply disturbed

Draws attention

Deeply regretting

Designates

Desiring

Emphasizes

Emphasizing Encourages

Expecting

Endorses

Expressing satisfaction

Expresses its appreciation

Fulfilling

Expresses its hope

Fully alarmed

Further invites

Fully aware

Further proclaims

Fully believing

Further reminds

Further deploring

Further requests

Further recalling

Has resolved

Guided by

Notes

Having adopted

Notes with…

Having considered

Proclaims

Having further considered

Reaffirms

Having devoted attention

Recommends

Having examined

Regrets

Having heard

Requests

Having received

Resolves

Having studied

Solemnly affirms

Hoping Strongly condemns*

Keeping in mind

Supports

Noting with regret

Trusts

Nothing with satisfaction

Urges

Noting with deep concern

Takes note of

Noting further

Noting with approval

Observing

Realizing

Recalling

Recognizing

Referring

Seeking

Taking into account

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Amendments Amendments are proposed changes to a draft resolution currently being discussed by the

committee. These allow delegates who did not have opportunities to contribute to a draft

resolution to offer ideas and thoughts on how to improve it by making it more agreeable to

other nations. There are two types of amendments: friendly amendments and unfriendly

amendments.

In order for an amendment to be considered friendly, the main submitter and co‐submitter

should first agree on the amendment. If the amendment is not approved by the main submitter and co‐ submitters, it will be deemed unfriendly. Unfriendly amendments will need to

receive a simple majority vote from the committee before it is placed in the draft resolution.

For this conference, there will be no limit to the number of friendly amendments. However,

only a maximum of 3 unfriendly amendments will be submitted for voting by the entire council.

Amendments, once deemed friendly or unfriendly, will be forwarded to the Chair. The

submitter of the amendment should indicate whether the amendment is friendly or unfriendly

for the sake of voting procedure.

How to Submit Amendments On a sheet of paper, the delegate must indicate the any of the following:

Strike <clause number> ‐ this will remove the entire clause from the draft resolution

Insert <amendment/editing> in <clause number>

Replace <…> with <amendment> in <clause number> ‐ to replace words, phrases with better

phrasing

Strike <…> in <clause number> - to strike out a word/phrase in a clause

Debate on Unfriendly Amendments Just like how a debate on resolutions takes place, there will be “for” and “against” speeches

for each unfriendly amendment. The number of speeches to be given by both sides will be

determined by the committee. After the speeches, the committee will vote to adopt the

amendment into the resolution. A simple majority is required for all committees except the

Security Council, which requires 9 of the 15 members to vote in favor of it. There are no

abstentions on voting for an amendment.

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Amending an Amendment Amendments may be amended following the same procedure of amending a resolution, as

explained previously. These must be submitted during the debate on the amendment.

Amendments to amendments that have already been voted down or incorporated into the

draft resolution will not be considered. If an amendment to an amendment passes, then it will

be incorporated directly into the resolution. If the amendment for an amendment fails,

debate on the originally proposed amendment will resume.

Resolution Analysis A Model United Nations delegate will encounter various relations even in a single

conference. This part of the primer aims to present a practical framework for delegates,

regardless of experience, on how to analyze resolutions for purposes of debate.

The first aspect each delegate should look at in the process of resolution analysis is the clarity of the issue being discussed. UN Resolutions should always have a narrowed‐down issue,

which has the general issue of the council as its root. Since UN Resolutions are action plans for

specific issues concerning the international community, the lack of a specific concentration

will not produce an effective resolution.

For example, UN resolutions that discuss the broad issues of “Climate Change” or

“Peacekeeping Forces” will be difficult to draft because of a lack of concentration. A lack of

concentration will only result in general action plans.

General Issues

Specific and Pertinent Issues

Climate Change

Desertification, whaling in international waters, preservation of coastal

territories, etc.

Peacekeeping

Forces

Mandate of Peacekeeping forces in Somalia, reforming the legal

mandate of peacekeeping forces in UN Legal System, etc.

Rights of

Indigenous People

Extension of Rights covered by the UN Convention on the Rights of

Indigenous people to reflect globalization, reform in the economic

rights of Indigenous People, etc.

The second point of analysis a Model UN Delegate could look at is the feasibility of the entire

resolution in general. All resolutions should be realistic, if implemented in actuality. Since

Model United Nations Conferences should, as much as possible effectively and accurately,

simulate actions in the United Nations, all the stipulations in a Model UN resolution should be

ones that could actually be executed by the United Nations General Assembly.

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The implementation of excellent Model UN Resolutions wouldn’t be difficult to imagine in the

real world. Potential problems on resolution feasibility are often found in the timeframe and

the deadlines set for completion and the legality of the actions being proposed or

mandated.

The third point of analysis a Model UN delegate could look at is the possible redundancy of a resolution. Should there be any other resolution that already covers any of the stipulations in the resolution, the resolution could be considered redundant, and therefore, weak. Redundancy also covers the occurrence when the steps proposed by a resolution, though not found in existing ones, have already been proven to be inadequate in relation to the issue by virtue of common knowledge. All resolutions have to be forward-thinking and progressive. This means that prior to writing a resolution, a delegate, without disregarding the clarity of the topic, should research effectively on the topic/issue s/he would want to discuss in the resolution.

The next point of analysis a Model UN delegate could look at is the development of ideas in

a resolution. A good resolution will have multiple operative clauses, each pertaining to a

separate detail that helps build the entire resolution’s main idea. With this in mind, repetitive

operative clauses should be avoided in order to maintain a logical order of ideas in a single

resolution. Since resolutions are, in structure, outlines, they should follow conventional

principles of logical idea presentation. An effective resolution will flow smoothly and clearly if

the ideas of the submitters are developed logically. Resolutions should also be well-worded.

Clear and direct statements of ideas will always be the better choice.

Possible Action Plans

Feasible?

Why?

Setting a 3-year plan for the global

eradication of AIDS

NO

Development projects such as this could not

possibly be eradicated in 3 years for various

reasons ranging from global population to

pace of scientific research.

Setting a 5-year plan on the

rebuilding of Haitian infrastructure

after the 2010 earthquake, with a

re-assessment by the UN to be

presented to the GA to consider

future steps once the deadline

expires.

YES

The UN does set short-term timeframes for

isolated issues, with the conditional

commitment that all pertinent UN bodies will

present an assessment of the progress, to

consider future action plans.

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Another important point of analysis is the determination of the accuracy of a resolution. It will

be assumed by other delegates that what you write in your resolution is correct based on

credible sources gathered through the appropriate research methodologies. As an act of

courtesy to other delegates, it is deemed imperative for delegates to present only factual

technical details. Furthermore, the entire resolution and flow of discussions will become

erroneous should the inaccuracy be left unnoticed. Debates on the competence of a

delegate and the credibility of his research should be avoided.

Other details to not when analyzing resolutions include the idea of financing United Nations

projects. It should be assumed that the UN has no real concern for funding. Debates on and

possible issues related to money are not necessary. Another problem a delegate may

determine is the quality of the resolution as a whole. If the resolution is deemed to be too

problematic to even put up for debate and amendments, a majority of delegates could

vote to table a resolution.

Most importantly, a delegate should always ask himself/herself whether the pending

resolution being discussed directly affects his country’s foreign policy. The answer to this

question should play a key role in the analysis of the resolution, and how the delegate would

vote on the resolution.

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International

Studies Society

Model UN

Conference Topic

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THE IS SOCIETY MODEL UN CONFERENCE TOPIC

General Assembly: Global Health and LGBTQI Rights

Continuing developments being made in medicine and technology have consequently led

to a more judicious awareness of combating HIV/AIDS and other diseases among

communities, bringing the exchange of them and its effects on health to the forefront of

global medical discourse along and concerning all demographics.

With the growing involvement of the public with the concerns of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual,

Transgender, Questioning, and Intersex community, the strengthened cooperation between

them have proven that the fight for the establishment of gender equality and empowerment

is continuously progressing.

However, as a demographic that has only recently gained traction and widespread support

of their rights, there remains a need to take current methods and develop them with respect

to the growing LGBTQI community. While some countries in the Western parts of the world

have transitioned to the legalization of gay marriage, other countries continue to implement

harsh laws on LGBTQI people. Such penalizing efforts have significantly decreased the

accessibility of different LGBTQI communities to much-needed health care.

This in turn has led to an exponential increase in the number of people affected with HIV/AIDS

in areas where homosexuality continues to be considered a crime, thereby negating many

efforts to curb the spread of the epidemic worldwide.

Hence, in light of the global health discourse, plans for reform and sustainability must be

concretized: how would the growing involvement of the diverse LGBTQI community influence

the course of medical discourse and progress on global epidemics? How can global health

be ascertained given the extant prejudices towards different minorities, more specifically the

LGBTQI community?

Security Council: Israeli – Palestinian Conflict

With growing anti-Semitism in Europe in the late 19th century, the Zionist movement was in full

bloom as the First Zionist Congress took place in Basel, Switzerland in 1897. Leading up to the

aftermath of World War II, the Israel-Palestine Conflict was clearly becoming a pressing global

concern starting from the Balfour Declaration of 1917, a British promise for a Jewish state in

Palestine, and during David Ben-Gurion’s declaration for the State of Israel on March 14, 1948,

which sparked the 1948 Arab-Israeli War. Since then, there have been a number of armed

conflicts, most of which were focused on changing boundaries, in the contested area

involving multiple, intervening third parties. Following the Oslo Accords with Yitzhak Rabin of

Israel and Yasser Arafat of the Palestine Liberation Organization in 1993, it seemed like the

conflict between the two entities was resolved but it ended shortly with the Cave of the

Patriarchs massacre and the assassination of Prime Minister Rabin. Major parties involved in

the current conflict include Palestine and the various militant groups in the state, Israel, the

United States, and Egypt. The question remains — will there ever be a final resolution that

satisfies both states?

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Position Paper

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POSITION PAPERS

The position paper is a one - page paper that expresses the clear stand of the country

regarding the issue. It must contain what the country has done and what the country

proposes to do. In short, this is the formal paper of your country's policy statement. This will

help you in formulating your clear and concise stand on the given topic.

There will be an award for Best Position Paper per committee. Writing a position paper is not

required but highly encouraged.

Format:

- 1.5 spacing

- Short bond paper size - Cambria, size 12

- Justified Text - 1 to 2 pages

Deadline of the policy paper: October 09, 2014, 11:59 PM.

Save as PDF file with file name: IS-MUN2014_<COUNTRY><COMMITTEE>

Example: IS-MUN2014_GhanaGA.pdf

E-mail at internationalstudiesmuna@gmail.com

Subject: <Country>_Council_PositionPaper

Example: Afghanistan_ SC_PositionPaper

On the next page you will find a sample position paper submitted by the delegation of

Romania at the 2007 UNA-USA Model UN Conference in New York City. Position papers need

not be of the same length. The format prescribed above must be followed.

[Source: United Nations Association of the United States America

http://www.unausa.org/global-classrooms-model-un/how-to-participate/odel-un-preparation/position-papers/sample-position-paper]

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SAMPLE POSITION PAPER

Topic: Globalization and Development

Country: Romania

In the past two decades the rapidly growing world trend has been toward globalization. With

the emergence of the internet as a means of communication and the increasing accessibility

of international trade physical barriers are not the only barriers withering away. Protective

tariffs are plummeting and free trade agreements are becoming more prevalent. Romania

appreciates that globalization creates favorable situations for expansion of commercial as

well as economic assets. In the past year Romania has seen a foreign direct investment (FDI)

increase of 199%. Inward FDI increased from EURO 234 million in 2005 to EURO 699 million in

2006. However, Romania realizes that increased globalization does not automatically produce

more equality.

Globalization and Development can contribute to the advancement of the overall

international human condition; however, the delegation of Romania recognizes that without

proper regulation the potential for advancement will remain limited to an elite few individuals,

businesses, and nations. Unless checked and aimed toward the common good, globalization

cannot effectively serve the global community.

Crucial in dealing with the complexities of globalization, good governance must act with

solidarity and responsibility. Romania believes that in involving people in globalization we must

promote moral values, democratic principles, inclusive global political culture, institutions that

safeguard both individual civil rights and inherent freedoms, and the common good. In

addition, coping with the influx of information from globalization governments must act with

solidarity and insight. Access to digital education will undoubtedly result in the confidence of

citizens in their respective administrations and allow for a greater degree of transparency, and

therefore a lesser degree of corruption.

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Romania believes the multinational business community has the ability and the obligation to

pertinent values in human rights, labor standards, and environmental preservation. As stated

by the president, Mr. Traion Basescu, Romania feels a "heartfelt attachment to multilateralism,

as an effective instrument designed to identify the adequate answers to the challenges

brought by globalization."

Romania is party to the majority of multilateral treaties and conventions identified as such by

the Secretary General in the context of the Millennium Summit in 2001. Romania has always

supported innovative and effective ways of establishing cooperation within and between

regional organizations. As one of the newest members of the European Union, Romania is an

active member of the World Trade Organization, and looks forward to offering its support to

the redirection of globalization to best benefit the global community.

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Tips and Reminder

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TIPS AND REMINDERS

1. Please arrive at your council’s assigned venue early.

a) Before the conference, check the International Studies Society Facebook Account

(www.facebook.com/ISSoc) and/or Twitter for announcements.

b) For changes made during the conference, the Chairs will inform you beforehand, and

the same information will be posted on online platforms.

2. Bring your conference materials, laptops or iPads, and chargers.

3. For your own convenience, it is also recommended to bring your own broadband

connection or you can use your FEU WIFI account.

4. Please observe proper decorum.

5. During the conference, do not take things personally. Also, do not be intimidated by

the procedure. The IS-MUN Secretariat is there to help you along the way.

6. The International Studies Society Model UN Conference will be a fruitful learning

experience if the delegates make it so. Remember that a delegate needs to both

a) represent his or her country well; and

b) contribute to resolving the conflict at hand.

7. Make friends and enjoy the experience!

Contact details

Should you have any immediate concerns, please contact either Charlene Batulan

(+639161639397) or Ryan Hernandez (+639274867605) the OICs of the event, or Denson

Acomular (+639367822560), IS Soc PRO. You may also get in touch with us through the

Facebook group: IS Soc MUNA 2014 Group for Delegates, or through an email to

internationalstudiesmuna@gmail.com.