VPS MUN 2024

1) A letter to the delegates

2) Types of Committees
3) Committees in VPSMUN
4) Who’s who in MUN
5) Position Papers
6) Research
7) How does a committee function?
8) Format of Draft Resolution
9) Tips to succeed in MUN
10) Glossary
11) Ending Note

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 "More than ever before in human history, we share a common destiny. We
can master it only if we face it together. And that, my friends, is why we
have the United Nations." - Kofi Annan

In the grander scheme of International diplomacy, the United Nations

stands as testament to what greatness dialogue and negotiation can
achieve. It is a beacon of unity in a world often divided by chaos and havoc,
offering a platform where voices from every corner of the globe can be
heard and heeded.

The UN illuminates pathways to a future where cooperation triumphs over

confrontation, and where the dignity and rights of every individual and
every country are upheld and respected.

We at VPS, try to replicate the prestigious institution of UN through

VPSMUN. In the vibrant classrooms of VPS, filled with diplomacy for 2
entire days, we aim at weaving together the aspirations, perspectives, and
solutions of tomorrow's leaders.

Here, the weight of history meets the buoyancy of innovation, as delegates

navigate complex issues, forge alliances, and craft resolutions that aim at
simplifying the complexities of our world. Keeping students aware of all
worldly happenings while fostering holistic development of thoughts, Mun
is more than just a conference, but a memorable experience for life.

The 4th edition of VPSMUN 2024 is finally here, better than ever before.
We, the secretariat, are thrilled to give you all an immersive experience
across various aspects of the world. Having 8 committees that delve into
different spectrums from vulnerable times of the past to traveling into the
boundless innovation of the future, we travel across countries borders and
time as well. As delegates, it becomes your collective responsibility to take
rational decisions which have the potential of changing the world as we
know it.

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Bring out logical and practical solutions to life-threatening disastrous
problems to save the future while analyzing the past to explore
possibilities of a better present.

All the very best to all the delegates working towards making VPSMUN
2024 a huge success! Have fun!

- P Bhavana Bhat (Secretary General),

Prajwal Bhat P S (Deputy Secretary General)

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Let’s first begin with the actual meaning and intent of MUN,
MUN or Model United Nations is a simulation of the actual proceedings which
occur in the official UN. The United Nations (UN), set up in 1945, is an
international organization promoting peace, security, and cooperation among
countries. With 193 member states, it addresses a wide range of global issues
including conflict resolution, human rights, economic development, and
humanitarian aid. The UN has many such committees ranging from General
Assemblies (GAs) to ECOSOCs (Economics and Social Council) which aim at
specific tasks and responsibilities.

Each participant in the MUN conference is addressed as a delegate. A

delegate represents a particular country/person in a specific committee.
Students role-play world leaders for 2 whole days, they take upon the role
of representatives of a particular country (such representatives are called
delegates) where they try to solve issues relating to the agenda of the
committee from their own assigned delegation. A delegate's responsibility
is to represent their designated country/persona and participate in
discussions within the council to improve the situation by proposing
resolutions, suggesting amendments to modify the resolution under
discussion, or establishing and clarifying their country's stance. The
delegates must be dressed in school uniform in order to comply with the
code of conduct of the United Nations.

Professionalism should be maintained to a high degree. Misconduct will

not be tolerated, standard procedures will be followed by punishing
delegates, if need be.

For example, let’s say there is a delegate of Afghanistan in UNSC, with the
agenda of UNSC being the China-Taiwan conflict. Now, the delegate of
Afghanistan has to provide his contributions keeping in mind the actual

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opinion and foreign policy of Afghanistan. The delegate cannot express his
personal views, but must research his country’s stance on that particular
issue and contribute.

A committee is a small formal gathering of people including the chairs and

the delegates. The 8 committees in VPSMUN collectively make the MUN
conference. The purpose of the committees is to make meaningful changes
in the world in contrast to the agenda.

In a United Nations committee, an agenda refers to the issues that the

committee will discuss, debate, and address during its sessions. The
agenda outlines the specific subjects that the members of the committee
consider to be of significant importance and priority. The agenda is the
main subject for discussion in every committee.

Types of committees
GAs - General Assemblies
General Assemblies are the largest committees found at any MUN
conference, and generally simulate actual United Nations General
Assembly Committees, such as the Committee for Disarmament and
International Security (DISEC). In these large committees, all countries are
represented and they focus on a specific policy issue that the delegates
must craft a resolution to address. Ultimately, the size of the committee
distinguishes GAs from the rest of a conference’s numerous organs and
committees.

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ECOSOCs - Economic and Social Council
ECOSOCs, while generally smaller than GAs, can vary greatly in size. In
Inter-School MUNs, ECOSOCs range from 50 up to almost 200 delegates.
ECOSOCs, like GAs, seek to craft a resolution to solve international issues
that generally center on regional, economic, social, and cultural issues.
ECOSOCs can simulate real-world UN organizations, such as the UN
Commission for Science and Technological Development (UNCSTD), or
other national/regional bodies such as the British House of Commons.

Crisis Committees
Crisis Committees are different from both GAs and ECOSOCs. They tend
to focus on specific issues, geographic areas and historical periods. For
example, in the previous year’s edition of VPSMUN, we had a hypothetical
situation of WORLD WAR III, where delegates had to work under high
stakes and make quick decisions. In essence, crisis committees have a
narrower and more specific focus, while GAs and ECOSOCs focus on
broad global concepts and issues. Crisis committees also have the
distinguishing characteristic of portfolio powers, where delegates have
and can use individual powers that are part of their bio in order to shape
the “world” they interact in. Crisis committees also include crisis updates,
which are unplanned “crises” that delegates must resolve through debate
and directives. Lastly, crisis committees are the smallest of committees,
usually with less than 30 delegates per committee. They tend to be faster-
paced and more dynamic than assemblies with set topics.

The above 3 divisions are implemented in VPSMUN in the 3 forms.

Normal Committees
Semi-Crisis Committees
Crisis Committees

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 VPSMUN
The committees that will be a part of VPSMUN 24 are
1. AIPPM (All India Political Parties Meet):
"India's Democracy: A slippery slope to autocracy." Are ED and CBI
working for the government or its parties?

A committee where delegates are assigned portfolios of politicians. It is

fundamentally a Lok Sabha, but with a small twist where even those
politicians without a seat or banned politicians can participate. The
AIPPM simulates the national political environment where
representatives from various Indian political parties come together to
discuss and debate. This committee is highly suggested for those who
love debates and loud slogans.

2. Phoenix (Post Havoc Operations Network for Infrastructure and Exchange):

"Joint Strategies For Disaster Relief To Recover from all Ai-Driven
Adversities”

In Phoenix, the delegates are to work in a desolate world set in the future
with scarce natural resources. With systems failing and advanced tech
causing chaos around the world, can the Earth sustain long enough? It
helps build major problem solving and quick decision making skills.
Suggested for those who like passive debating on probable solutions for
hypothetical issues.

3. MCC (Marvel Crisis Committee):

“Establishing the Galactic Accords: Addressing Power Imbalances
Among Universal Beings”

From the darkest corners of the unknown multiverse, where realities

bleed into one another, whispers meld together into a grave warning: an
extinction-level threat looms. In face of such imminent danger, the MCC
assembles "AVENGERS. . . . Assemble." Here, heroes and villains from
across the vast expanse of the Marvel Cinematic Universe assemble, not
for vengeance or conquest, but for a cause as impactful as Thanos' snap
– the forging of the Galactic Accords. Within the MCC, the very fabric of

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 reality threatens to be ripped apart as portfolios shift, alliances form,
allegiances change, and the fate of countless universes hangs in the
balance. Will these beings set aside their age-old differences to usher in
a new era of galactic peace? Or will their primal instincts rip apart the
already fragile unity, cascading the state of the cosmos into eternal
chaos?

4. HCC (Historical Crisis Committee):

“India at Crossroads: Nation-Building and Global Aspirations in the
Shadow of Partition”

Set in the period of Indian Independence, HCC aims to coordinate and

overcome problems arising from the partition. Delegates are assigned
portfolios of prominent leaders such as Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar
Vallabhai patel and so on.Highly suggested for those who like history and
would like to role-play powerful Indian figures having the ability to
rewrite Indian history.

5. UNSC (United Nations Security Council):

“NATO's Enduring Role in Global Security: Assessing effectiveness in a
Shifting World Order”

In UNSC, the delegates are tasked with one of the most difficult jobs in
the world, maintaining world peace through dialogue and negotiation.
The issues and complex diplomacies come to life in UNSC with delegates
showcasing their statesmanship. This will be a committee with extremely
heated debates with innumerable wars and conflicts going on around the
world. It helps foster being instrumentally convincing and defending
oneself for their own actions. Suggested for those who want a taste of
peak-professionalism and diplomacy alongside being meaningful with
words which have global impact.

6. UNHRC (United Nations Human Rights Council):

“Implications of Non-state actors on Human Rights - Developing
Frameworks for Accountability and Protection"

The original and the most supreme human rights council, where all
countries violating protocols are put on the stand and questioned. This

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 year, HRC will be focusing on NSAs (Terrorists) and their impact on the
world. It is a must attend for all those who love talking about human rights
and fair treatment. It is best for delegates willing to stand up for their
fellow beings and voice out their concerns.

7. ICJ (International Court of Justice):

“Adjudicating International Land and Water Disputes: Addressing Non-
Compliance with ICJ Decisions and Its Consequences”

The ICJ is the most sought-out juridical court for international and global
legalities. It shows that even governments of powerful countries can be
sued and punished, hence proving everyone has a shot at justice. This
year’s ICJ will be leaning on the topic of territorial disputes and
ramifications of non-compliance. It is the ultimate committee for the ones
who love arguing and proving their point against all odds. A highly
suggested committee who love legalities and aspire to become lawyers.

8. UNGA-DISEC (United Nations General Assembly - Disarmament and

International Security):
“Role of technology in the 21st Century warfare, withe special emphasis
on Signal Intelligence and autonomous weapons”

The most original and long-standing committee in VPSMUN, the UNGA-

DISEC. It is a committee which focuses on hardcore issues such as
Nuclear Disarmament, Military Weapon issues etc. Delegates can openly
criticize any country in this committee for not practicing good faith in
terms of the defence sector. Disarmament is the first and most crucial
step towards building world peace and harmony after all. It is suggested
for those who like talking on the topics of world-ending weapons and
their impact on the world.

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While participating in MUN, you will certainly run into a lot of people with
different positions in the conference. In order to utilize all the available
resources, it is important to know who exactly you’re speaking to when
asking questions about the conference or seeking help.

The conference’s leadership staff is divided into the Secretariat and the
Executive Board. The Executive Board is responsible for preparing their
own specific committee. Every committee will have its own exclusive EB.

The Secretariat is responsible for all the aggregate work to be done. They
handle the staffing of the Executive board and ensure that the highest
quality of conference takes place. The secretariat train the EB to perform
their best, supervise all on-goings of MUN and declare its winners.

THE SECRETARIAT:
Secretary-General: Leading the Secretariat, the Secretary-General (SG), is
the head of the conference. All decisions of the secretary general will be
binding on all participants of MUN. The SG is responsible for coordinating
the secretariat in order to ensure the committees run properly and
smoothly. Tasks for the SG could range from solving critical issues
committees confront during performance to guiding the EB.

Deputy Secretary General: Partnering up with the Secretary-General to lead

the secretariat, the deputy secretary general handles the smooth flow of
events and committee development. The DSG focuses on the in-ground
performance of each committee.

Chief of Staff: As the title suggests, the one holding this position is the one
who monitors and is responsible for the selected staff i.e., Chairs,
Organising Committee etc. The COS plays a major role in staff motivation
and sparking interest in each staff-member to work their best.

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Chargé d'affaires: A chargé d'affaires is a person appointed to act as head
of a diplomatic mission in a foreign country while the ambassador is away.

OC Head: The OC head coordinates an organizing committee made up of

OC members present in every committee, ensuring a smooth flow of
proceedings and organizing all necessary arrangements required for the
committee. Assisted by the Deputy OC heads, the OCH works with every
OC member to make the burden on each chair less.

IP head: IP head is the one coordinating and leading the corps of

International Press, The IP head is assisted by the Deputy IP heads to train
all IPs in bringing out the best in delegates by questioning them on their
statements.

Tech Team: It is the group responsible for the entirety of the technical
aspects in VPSMUN. Although they don't interact directly with the
delegates, they play a vital role in a good technological outflow of content
and designing all the official documents related to MUN.

THE EXECUTIVE BOARD:

An executive board will be present in specific to every committee

Chairs: The Chair is responsible for regulating the course of debate in each
committee, and will be the staffer you interact with the most. They play a
role similar to a moderator in Panel Discussions. The Chairs have absolute
power within their councils, including moderating debates, keeping time,
rule on points and motions, and deciding on issues and requests.

Vice Chairs: They are next in line after chairs. They take up the
responsibilities of the chair in case of his/her absence and play an
important role in guiding debate throughout the committee.

OCs: Organizing Committee: An OC is the one who assists chairs with the
course of committee preparation and all technicalities of the particular
committee.

IPs: International Press Members: The International Press questions the

delegates on their portfolio’s actions and statements. They aim at showing

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the true nature of every delegate, whether it is an ugly one or a brighter
one. They are reporters who work on behalf of the public population in
holding the world representatives accountable for their words and actions.

Logistics: The Logistics team will handle most exchanges between chairs,
OCs and IPs. They will work their best to ensure the delegates have a
smoother experience. They play a crucial role in note passing and
communication between the delegates.

Prior to the conference, delegates will be asked to write a “position paper”

based on the agendas presented in their background guides. The Position
Paper is an indicator of the preparation process for any Model United
Nations conference, representing the view of your state or position on the
particular issues your committee is addressing. They must be compulsorily
be submitted by before the first session starts.
They are short [2 paged] documents which give a clear picture of the
stand of a delegate portfolio regarding the agenda at hand.
It’s extremely important to look at the background guides in order to
understand your position’s portfolio powers, or what it is that you have
control over in the context of your committee.
After looking at your position in particular, look at the bigger picture
of your committee.
For committees set in the present, keep up-to-date with current
events, by following outlets such as CNN, Aaj Tak, BBC, Wion among
others.
Since there will be a time gap between the drafting of the Background guide
and the Actual MUN sessions, it is best to understand that situations may
have changed sometimes.
Although it is helpful to start with traditional sources, branch out to
unexpected research material!
It can also be useful to seek out material originating in the country
you are representing. The governments of most countries have an official
website, which can be a valuable repository for news, draft policies, or
press releases. You can even contact their respective embassy via email or

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by phone to get very valuable and exclusive information for your position
paper!

STRUCTURE OF A POSITION PAPER:

● A maximum of 2 pages
● Start with the logo of your committee
● A header consisting of the Delegate Name, Portfolio and Grade
● The Agenda must be clearly stated

The Recommended Structure of the position paper is as follows:

1) The first paragraph should be an introduction to the topic from the
perspective of your position. What is the history of the issue
according to your nation? Why is this issue important? It should also
cover a brief self-introduction to your portfolio with accounts of all
events shaping your opinion and ideologies. It should be a brief
overview of your country /character. Establish the current scenario
globally, locally, regionally about the topic. Express the need to
address the topic.
2) The second paragraph should be an analysis of the topic from your
country’s perspective as well as a multilateral perspective. What
does your nation generally think about the issue? What policies have
worked and not worked in the past on a national and international

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 scale? In this part the delegates strongly assert their opinion and
thoughts about the agenda giving a clear picture of who and what
will you as the delegate support. Consider providing statistics on the
topic, listing some of the real issues that global citizens face in
relation to the topic.
This is most likely the longest part of the position paper and the place
in which you will utilize most of your research.
3) The third paragraph should be a discussion of solutions that you are
proposing to solve the problem. What are these solutions? Why and
how would they work? How will you solve any problems that might
arise in implementing these solutions? It can also include ’’what
would the delegate wish to accomplish in the committee?” [may be
specific to your own portfolio]. This is where you can let your
creativity and research combine, and begin formulating the kinds of
proposals that will later come to fruition in your resolutions. These
solutions do not necessarily have to come directly from your nation
or position, though it is encouraged and proportional marks will be
allotted. This is the most important part of your position paper. In
many solutions, however, look to provide specific details by
describing the who, what, where, when, and why to make it
something that could feasibly be put into action.

On the other hand, position papers for crisis committees will be slightly
different. This is primarily because large, traditional committees have
defined topics whereas crisis committees have more general topic areas
that could be explored but are not as defined. Each delegate must submit
a 1-2 paged, single-spaced document that explains the situation at hand,
potential solutions to the topics, and what the delegate will advocate
during the committee. Delegates do NOT need to describe their crisis arc
or other individual plans, though they may if they wish to.

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HOW DOES A COMMITTEE FUNCTION?
In each committee session, the Chair will take a roll call for each
country/representative in the committee. When your position is called on,
you can either vote as “present” or “present and voting”. If you choose to
say “present”, you can abstain from voting, whereas if you choose to say
“present and voting”, you have to vote and cannot abstain.
During the first committee session, the Chair will introduce both
him/herself as well as the rest of the EB. After taking roll call, the Chair will
open the floor to points or motions from the committee. The Chair will
almost always look to open a Primary Speaker’s List to allow delegates to
debate which topic the committee should discuss. Typically, committees
will not have the time to address all topics introduced in the background
guide.

The Speaker’s List is, quite literally, a running list of nations/persons that
wish to speak. Speaker’s Lists are opened at the beginning of the
committee and allow the delegates to speak freely about the topics to be
discussed by the committee for the duration of the conference. To be
placed on the Speaker’s List, a delegate only needs to raise the placard and
continue to do so until the Chair places that delegate on the list. Delegates
generally get to speak only once during the opening Speaker’s List, but can
attempt to add their name back on the list if the Chair either reopens the
list or if the delegate sends a note to the EB asking to be placed on the list.
In case there are multiple agendas, the chair will start with the major
agenda first and then proceed with the minor one.

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 This is when delegates get to talk about their portfolio’s stance and
communicate their opinions to the committee.
If a delegate finishes his/her introduction earlier, the remaining time can be
yielded.
“Motion to open the General Speakers’ List with for a total of minutes
with per speaker time ”

Your Opening Speech is your first opportunity to share your country’s

policy on the topic at hand, make a positive impression, and engage the
committee to listen to your ideas.
Beginning with a question, quote or statistical data is an easy and
interesting way to begin your speeches.
This is the first opportunity for substantive debate and give delegates an
opportunity to explain why one topic merits particular attention. Such
speeches are wonderful opportunities to make your presence known to
the committee. The first speeches will be used to convey the particular
views, goals and solutions delegates are seeking. Good speeches end with
a “call to action,” so that like-minded delegates can choose to work
together. This plays an important role in conveying your country’s stance
and giving justifications as to why your country has adopted that stance.
The Chair will generally have a time-frame in mind for how long he/she
wants the Speaker’s List to last.

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During formal debate, delegates must specify how they wish to yield the
remaining time after their speech.
Delegates can yield their time in one of three ways:
To The Chair: The remaining speaking time is forfeit and the
committee moves on.
To Another Delegate: The delegate may grant the time remaining of
his/her speaking time to another delegate. The delegate who has
been yielded to may not make further yields on the remaining time.
To Questions: The delegate may use the remainder of his or her time
to answer questions posed by other delegates. The Chair shall select
delegates to pose questions, and only the time used to respond to
questions shall be counted against the speaker’s remaining time. The
Chair may cut off a delegate who takes too long to ask a question.
After a series of these speeches, delegates may seek to pass motions.

A motion is a formal proposal by a delegate to carry out a specific action

through dialogue within a conference. E.g.: Moderated Caucus,
Unmoderated Caucus, Roll call and other motions which require voting

The chairs may ask for motions at any point when the floor is open.
If the motion is in order, the Delegate in question will be given a
period of 1 minute to explain his/her conduct.
The motion will then be put into voting procedure and will require a
simple majority to be passed.

The first motion to be raised in any committee will be “motion to set the
agenda”. This is just a formal way of introducing the already pre decided
agenda as given in the Background Guide.

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Moderated Caucuses:
A regulated, time-limited debate focusing on a specific aspect of the topic at
hand, from addressing a certain crisis to discussion on a particular issue
related to the agenda. To motion for such a caucus, the delegate must state
the time allocated for the caucus, the speaking time per speaker, and the
topic the delegate wishes to see discussed. A simple majority is required to
pass the motion, and the delegate who originally submits the passed motion
may choose to speak first or last in the moderated caucus. After that, the
Chair will call on other delegates who are raising their placard to speak.

E.g.: The delegate of India moves to motion for a 10 minute moderated

caucus with per speaker time of 1 minute, about the topic “Increase in the
number of online scammers in India, can it be correlated to the IT boom in
India?

Unmoderated Caucus:
A time-constrained but unregulated debate. During an Unmoderated
Caucus, delegates are free to move about inside the committee room and to
discuss the topic of the unmoderated caucus. Unmoderated caucuses are
often used to build coalitions for resolution-writing, merge working papers,
or craft directives (in crisis committees). It is also used to communicate semi-
formally with other delegates and build connections.
To motion for an unmoderated caucus, the delegate must state the
desired allocated time of the unmoderated caucus. No topic is required for
an unmoderated caucus. A simple majority is required for such a motion to
pass.
E.g. “The delegate of India moves for a motion of a 15 minute
unmoderated caucus.”

Motion to Extend a Caucus

A Delegate may raise a motion to extend the un/moderated caucus if they
feel that additional time would benefit committee work. The Delegate
moving for an extension of the Caucus must specify the duration of the
extension.

E.g.: “Motion to extend the unmoderated / moderated caucus by mins.”

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 Tip: The chair usually allows for an unmoderated caucus after 1-2
moderated caucuses. In unmoderated caucuses, the delegates
will pool together to discover common ground with others, most
often centering around some of the more notable speakers from
previous speeches. A bloc is a group of delegates within a
committee with similar interests and ambitions. Blocs can be
formed and solidified by the second or third committee session.

Last Motion - Motion to Adjourn Meeting

This motion is passed at the end of a committee when a DR has been
passed and the committee succeeds. A delegate may raise his placard and
upon recognition say - “ The delegate of ____ rises to motion to adjourn
the meeting”

Motion to Introduce Draft Resolution

It is a motion to introduce the draft resolution drafted by the delegates to
solve the issues discussed in the committee. It is raised after the required
no of signatories is reached. After being raised, the operative clauses are
read out, approvals and disagreements are discussed, and the motion is put
through a procedural vote.

Motions are key to any MUN conference to practically implement anything

In addition to this, the delegates can also utilize points.

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Points are the most common feature of an MUN conference. Points can
be raised for any issues related to comfort, queries about council
procedures, or clarifications on a presentation.

If recognized by the chair, the delegate has the opportunity to explain the
type of point they would like to make

No further approval or disagreements are required. Points are not

subjected to voting.
The Chairperson may decide to overrule it at their discretion.

Types of Points
1. Point Of Personal Privilege:
Raised when a delegate feels personal discomfort. It can be raised if the
delegate wishes to use the restroom, make other delegates repeat certain
points, require the fan to be turned off etc.

2. Point of Parliamentary Enquiry:

A question is directed to the chair when a delegate is doubtful about the
procedures of the conference or wants to verify the information in a
speaker's speech. It can be raised if the delegate is not aware of the
formalities of a committee. He/she can openly raise this point and clear
any doubts with the chair.

3. Point Of Order:
In VPS MUN 2024, this point is raised to indicate an error in committee
proceedings and not for the contents of a speech, for example, a logical
fallacy.

4. Point Of Information:
It is a concise question raised by a delegate to clarify the contents of a
speech after the speech has concluded. Shortly after making a point of
information, if the delegate wishes, they have the right to request the chair

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for a follow-up. In VPSMUN POIs and yields can be used in moderated
caucus as well.
E.g. “Could the delegate please clarify what he stated in his GSL?
5. Right to Reply
A Right of Reply (RoR) is a tool in MUN to correct and answer back to an
insulting statement made by a delegate against another. RTRs are a serious
formality that is only to be used in times when the integrity of the portfolio
is compromised and serious snideness takes place. The affected delegate
has to give in writing why the right to reply is invoked and the secretary
general will personally come and pass the RTR (if deemed necessary). In
the presence of the Secretary-General, the RTR battle happens where
both the delegate who insulted and the delegate who insulted face-off
against each other with 1 minute as their opening statement and 1 minute
as their closing statement.

After the face-off, the decision of the winner is put to a vote for the
delegates with the votes of the Secretariat having special importance.

RTRs get higher marks compared to any other motion, however, if lost, it
can also lead to a negative marking

Format of RTR
Portfolio:
Against:

Body: (to include the derogatory statements made by the offending

portfolio, to also include how the integrity/reputation of the portfolio has
been affected due to the statements)

Addressed to the EB and the Secretary-General.

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Working papers are drafted within a working group, and are then
discussed with a larger number of delegations and revised or merged as

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needed according to their input. Working papers are submitted to the Dais
for review and feedback. Working papers may go through several revisions
before being approved as a draft resolution. If your committee has multiple
working papers addressing the same aspect of the topic, your Dais may
encourage you to merge them with other papers. Working papers, with
several revisions and improvements, can become a Draft resolution. It is a
way to get started on the DR way before the committee heads in the
direction of passing DRs.

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A Draft resolution (DR) is a summary of the solutions that have been
discussed during the course of the committee in a format. It consists of the
actionable solutions that can be implemented based on the discussions and
prior documents passed on the same agenda. It can be introduced when it
has the 1/3rd of the committee as signatories and approval from the EB.
A delegation may make a motion to introduce a draft resolution or
amendment, upon its approval by the dais. After the chair passes the
motion, authors/sponsors will be invited by the Chair to read out the text
of the draft resolution.
Separate time will be given to the delegates by the chair to make certain
documents.
A sponsor of a resolution is usually an original writer of the document or
one who contributed greatly to it. A signatory to a resolution is a delegate
that signs a resolution to indicate the delegate’s interest in hearing the
draft resolution presented to the committee. It is important to note here
that all signatories need not vote for the same DR.

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After the presentation, a QnA session may be held with a specified length
of time where the presenters of the DR entertain and answer questions
posed by the committee:

A substantive question is a question that inquires about the

intentions behind a particular phrase, sentence or specific verbatim.
A non-substantive question is one where delegates correct the
vocabulary, grammar, punctuation and so on of the DR

Q&A is an opportunity for delegates to get extra points. It is a rare chance

for delegates to show who is truly leading their respective bloc; those
leaders should be the ones who can sufficiently and knowledgeably
answer the committee’s questions or ask intelligent questions of their own.

Opposing Blocs express their questions on the DR and two types of

Amendments take place:

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The committee can move to have a two-on-two session, where the 2
sponsors of each DR (assuming there are 2 DRs) face off against each other
and point out flaws in each other DRs. However, two-on-two’s are
completely up to the chair’s discretion and are not compulsorily followed
in every committee.

As soon as the committee enters the voting procedure, the

room is locked and amendments are no longer accepted. A draft
resolution needs the majority of the committee’s YES votes to pass; bear
in mind delegates may vote “Yes”, “No”, or “Abstaining.” However,
abstentions do not change the required votes for a simple majority and can
only be used by delegates who answered “Present,” as opposed to
“Present and Voting,” when the roll was taken in the first committee
session.

The voting procedure continues until all DRs are either passed or rejected
by the committee. Once all DRs have been voted on, it is said that the
committee has passed ( if there exists only 1 agenda)

Special Motions with respect to a DR:

Straw Poll: It is a pseudo kind of voting where the general opinion of the
committee is taken into consideration for a specific topic in the DR. It isn't
usually used in the committee, but is often used in Ad-HOC and fast-paced
committees.
Motion to reorder resolution: This motion basically allows the delegate to
request a re-order of the voting order of the DRs. For example, if
Resolution X was up for voting first, a delegate can request to place it at
the end of the voting process

Motion to divide question: This motion divides the resolution and specific
clauses to be voted upon separately i.e., it allows the committee to vote
upon specific clauses for the larger resolution separately. If the larger
resolution fails, the clauses even if passed, will not be in effect.

A general trick is to separate particular clauses a delegate or a bloc dislikes

and vote against the clause to pass a resolution without that clause.

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Important Points to Consider While Writing the Draft Resolution:

In the preambulatory clauses, describe the recent history of the

situation and the issue as it currently exists
Reference past United Nations actions and previous resolutions
passed on the topic, when available
In the operative clauses, include actions or recommendations that
will solve the problem, not just make a statement
Do not be political in the content of the draft resolution - this may
damage efforts to reach a consensus on the issue
Consider the point of view of other nations whenever possible
Write the draft resolution from your country’s side of the
international or United Nations perspective, not just from your
country’s individual point of view however one should not sign or
sponsor a resolution that goes against its foreign policy
Consider whether the substance is within the purview of your
committee, and is relevant;
Refer issues that need further discussion to appropriate, existing
bodies;
Always consider previous UN resolutions on the topic - do not
duplicate what other resolutions have done without referring to the
appropriate sources.
Know the meaning of specific terms such as signatories and
sponsors.

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Definition of Majority
A simple majority is defined as a situation where there are more
votes in favour than those opposed. (50% + 1 in favour)
A two-thirds majority is defined as a situation where there are at
least twice as many votes in favour than those opposed.
A unanimous vote is defined as a situation where every delegate
present votes in favour. Delegations abstaining in substantive
matters are not considered to be voting. (100% in favour)

Motion for a roll call vote

Roll call votes conduct voting similar to Roll call attendance at the
beginning of each session.

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Lobbying is extremely important to improve your resolution and to avoid
repeated resolutions. Forming a bloc is the base for succeeding in MUN
for any delegate. A bloc is a group of countries with common interests who
have formed an alliance. During lobbying, you must form blocs and discuss
your resolution with your ally countries so that you can improve it by
adding their clauses or merging your resolution with theirs.’

Member States can belong to multiple groups based on regional

relationships, as well as common positions on specific issues. Groups will
be formed either by delegations with similar views, or delegations whose
governments are interested for different reasons in having similar
positions.

1. EB takes roll call

2. Delegate motions to open debate
3. Delegate motions to set agenda
4. Delegate motions to open the general speaker’s list
5. After a few speeches, delegate motions for a Moderated Caucus, stating
total length, per speaker time and topic of the caucus
6. After significant debate, delegate motions for an unmoderated Caucus,
setting the total time.
7. The committee has multiple Moderated caucuses and Unmoderated
caucuses.
8. Amendments to the Draft Resolution are submitted and voted upon
(based on if friendly or unfriendly)
9. Can happen repeatedly until all Draft Resolutions are discussed.
Optional– Delegate can motion for a Moderated Caucus to discuss the
Draft Resolution
10. Delegate motions to Close the Debate and move into the voting
procedure. Optionally- Delegates can motion to divide the question.
11. Resolutions are voted upon by the Committee.

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This summary is in no way a completely accurate description of the MUN
proceedings, as in many situations the flow of committee is determined
either by the desires of the Chair or the progress of the delegates in the
production of draft resolutions. However, it is our hope this description
gives you a general idea of the course of MUN proceedings, providing
you with a framework with which you can gauge the progress of the
committee during the debate. The specific changes in the ROP is
mentioned in the respective background guides. The functioning of crisis
committees greatly varies from the traditional one explained above,
separate guides for the same will be given by the respective chairs.

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STRUCTURE OF DRAFT RESOLUTION
The goal of every committee is to craft a document that answers the
problem or issue confronting that committee. The purpose of the United

Nations is to solve global problems. Diplomats work together to develop

solutions to these problems. When they’ve agreed on these solutions, they
write them down into a written document called a resolution. At any MUN
Conference, you have the same goal: to share your possible solutions with
other delegates, listen to their possible solutions, decide what you agree
on, and write it all into a resolution.

Resolutions represent the formal recommendations and/or decisions of

the committee on the topic at hand. They are documents in which the body
expresses a commitment to undertake certain action, or which calls on
Member States to implement certain measures. Resolutions thus represent
a form of political commitment. Please note, however, that resolutions are,
except for Security Council resolutions, not legally binding.

Every committee (excluding crisis committees) strives to pass a resolution.

A resolution is a document seeking to address the issues pertaining to the
agenda of the committee. Resolutions require a series of preambulatory
clauses recounting the problem and previous actions taken & operative
clauses outlining specific recommendations for resolving the problem. The
DR will generally be split into several sections. Therefore, Draft resolutions
take time to draft.

Structure of resolution:
1) Heading:
The heading should include the following information below in this order:
1. Name of the Committee
2. Title of the resolution
3. List of the sponsors
4. List of the signatories

2) Body
Written in the form of a long coherent sentence divided into clauses
and sub-clauses

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 Each clause deals with a certain aspect of the problem

3) Preambulatory Clauses:
Preambulatory clauses deal with background information including the
problem addressed, explain the purpose of the resolution and elucidate
reasons for taking actions in the operative clauses, and the purpose of the
resolution. Remember that preambular clauses generally begin with
present participles (written in italics) and are always followed by a comma.
The preamble of a resolution aims at recalling the issue and highlighting
The ongoing dynamics of the situation. Past UN resolutions, treaties,
or conventions related to the topic,
Past regional, non-governmental, or national efforts in resolving this
topic,
Statements made by the Secretary-General or a relevant UN body
or agency, and,
General background information on the significance of the topic.

Below is a series of preambulatory phrases delegates can use to

structure the preamble. Remember to begin each sentence of the
preamble with one of these words/phrases and italicize it.

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This should include 4-5 clauses using the preamble phrases mentioned
earlier which describe the issue at hand.
4) Operative Clauses:
It suggests actions that should be taken by the UN to resolve the problem,
justifying the ‘who’ and ‘how’ involved in implementing the suggested
actions. Operative clauses begin with an active, present tense verb (in
italics) and are followed by a semicolon, with a period placed after the final
clause. Operative clauses can have sub-clauses. The body of a resolution
is structured with operating clauses and details how the committee bloc
plans on solving the issue. This is the crux of the resolution, where
delegates should be concentrating most of their focus. Enclosed is a series
of operative words that will help to structure your resolution. Again,
remember to begin each sentence of the operative section with one of
these words and underline it. To provide structure to your resolutions,
make sure to number your clauses and always end the sentence with a
comma, only end the last sentence with a full stop. The language of
operative clauses should suggest action going forward. The action may be
as vague as a denunciation of a certain situation or a call for negotiations,
or as specific as a call for a ceasefire or a monetary commitment for a
particular project. These clauses may recommend, urge, condemn,
encourage, request certain actions, or state an opinion regarding an
existing situation.

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 Remember, in Draft Resolutions quality trumps quantity when it comes
to adding clauses.

Important points regarding the resolution format:

The first word/phrase in all clauses must be italicized and underlined.

This phrase must clearly indicate the type of action or view in the
clause. A list of suggested phrases that may be used to start a clause
is attached later in this document.
Operative clauses must be numbered.
All preambulatory clauses must end in a comma.
All operative clauses except the last one must end in a semi-colon.
The last one should end in a full-stop.

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VPS MUN 2024
1. Delegates must raise their hand if they wish to speak. Delegates
must maintain silence until permission from the chair is obtained.
They can speak freely in Unmoderated caucuses.
2. Delegates should address the Chairperson and House before
delivering their speech.
3. Delegates must avoid using personal pronouns and speak in the third
person at all times.
4. Delegates cannot insult any member of the House, guest, and
member of the Administrative Staff or Student Officer physically or
verbally.
5. All delegates are expected to maintain decorum during VPS MUN.
Disrespect of staff decisions, speaking before recognition and usage
of undiplomatic language on unrelated topics is not acceptable
whatsoever.
6. The delegates are not permitted to eat or engage in any other leisure
activities when the council is in session.
7. Posting about the conference on social media platforms is strictly
prohibited. Strict action will be taken against delegates who violate this.
8. A delegate is expected to talk and be logically right in his country’s
stance in case a conflict of interest arises with another country ie
Being Diplomatic in case of verbal fights.

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There are several steps to be followed to efficiently prepare as a delegate
of a specific portfolio in a committee.

1. The United Nations

The first step will be to acquire a basic idea about the functioning of the
UN, its various branches etc. Here delegates will have to figure out the role
and powers of their committee in the overall functioning of the UN.

2. The Committee
Here the delegates are required to research about
The history of your committee within the UN
Significant achievements - the recent UN resolutions passed in your
committee
Mandate and powers of your committee.
Any special rules and procedures adopted in your committee

A few key points of research regarding the agenda include

Identification and Definition of the problem addressed
Sub issues and topics that can be addressed [as mentioned in the BG]
The history and origin of the problem
Why has it been continuing in modern times
The elements actors involved
The various causes of the problem
The effects and impacts on various sectors and different countries
The current scenario - analyzing its severity
Past international actions taken to tackle the problem
Possible solutions to achieve the agenda
Hindrances [people or countries or communities] to accomplish the
solution
how those issues allow this topic to continue to be a global problem
The controversial issues and international conflicts related to the
agenda

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A few key points that the delegates must be aware of in their portfolio are
The foreign policy
Strategic location - Neighbours and relationship with them
The economic status and expenditures [ developing or developed]
Structure of the government and its heads
Allies and adversaries
Understand the major bloc positions and interests
Importance of resolving the issue with respect to your portfolio

Note: Delegates need to understand the governance, history, structure,

memberships, mandates, functions, recent sessions and current priorities
of the committee.

Member States
Each committee is made up of a specific number of Member States. These
are the full members of the body. All Member States may sponsor working
papers and have full voting rights within the committee. Member States
act through their representatives within a body’s meetings in order to
discuss the matters on the agenda and make progress toward solving them
on a cooperative international level.

Observers
Observers are states, non-Member States, entities, and organizations that
fully participate in negotiations but may not vote on substantive matters,
such as the approval of resolutions, or sponsor proposals (but can fully
contribute to the development or proposals and act as signatories). They
can vote and make all procedural motions.

3. The relation of the agenda to your portfolio

Here delegates are required to understand the relevance of the agenda

concerning their country. A few areas of research regarding this are

Impact of the problem on their portfolio

The need for its resolution and its importance
Previous actions taken by the country to tackle it internally and
internationally

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 Future contributions that can be made regarding the agenda

4. Brainstorming Solutions that can be proposed

A. “SPEAR:”-
Speeches: What has your government said about the topic?
Programs: What government programs, funds, or agencies
address the topic?
Events: Has your government attended any major events on
the topic?
Agreements: Has your government supported the major
agreements on the topic?
Reports: Has your government submitted any reports on the
topic?

Through researching SPEARs, you’ll be able to develop a clear

understanding of which aspects of the topic impact your country the most
and how you, as the representative of your country, can propose tangible
and implementable solutions.

B. Look at the list of issues you’ve identified for the topic at hand,
focusing on issues that are most relevant to your country.
C. Analyze the effectiveness of the solutions your country and the UN
are already implementing.
D. Consider possible ways to expand/alter solutions that aren’t working
to solve the issues at hand, and for issues that lack pre-existing
solutions, create new ones.
For UN-based committees, begin by researching the basic information
about your country. The CIA Factbook offers information on the history,
people, government, economy, geography, communications,
transportation, military, and transnational issues for most countries and
dependencies. Think about how factors such as gross domestic product
(GDP), demographics, and geography influence your country’s foreign
policy. Use the Factbook and other such resources to consider the
economic, political, social, religious, or ideological motivations that are
relevant, and make sure you understand your character’s position. Do they

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represent a political party, nation, or group of people? What job does this
person have, and what work have they done in the past?

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Delegates can fill this worksheet if they want to have a brief idea of their
country.

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Press Releases or Press Statements are documents passed by a delegate
usually in two situations:
1. In response to a “specific event” ( be it a terror attack, violence,
bombings etc)
2. In an effort to convey a political message in rapid response or if a
specific event has occurred or is to occur in the future.
For example, press statements were issued in response to specific attacks
by Boko Haram (SC/11768 and SC/11763). They expressed outrage at the
attacks, called for accountability, and referred to future actions by the
Security Council and international community, broadly.
Press statements are adopted by consensus In voting procedures,
the Chair will ask if there is any opposition to adopting the press statement
and will not take a vote. Delegates just have to give their press
statement(in writing) to the EB, who will either read it out or note it down
and update the committee later on.

This section is made for all those who aim at bagging awards and prices.
We hope that this section ignites creative thinking in the delegates and
provides them with potential ideas, tactics, advice and tricks to compete
and succeed in MUN.

1. Decorum and Personality within MUNs

 Although it is common knowledge, a clean and sharply dressed
uniform on a delegate highlights how serious they are about
MUN. It creates a good impression on everyone, which
includes the EB.
 Nobody likes a rude, boisterous, arrogant or combative
delegate. Try your best to build rapport with everyone, even if
they are in the rival blocs.

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2. Speeches
 Giving Speeches is a sure-fire way of boosting your first
impression. You can present yourself in the way you desire, as
a competent, smart and capable delegate through the first few
speeches.
 Nothing is more intimidating than giving speeches to 25+
people! So if you suddenly feel under-confident or anxious,
pick a few faces (the chair can be one) and make eye contact
with those while giving your speech. It is easier to talk to 2-3
people in a room of 30.
 Once you have a general idea of how you plan to begin and
end your speech, it is far easier to improvise. Do not
completely rely on pre-prepared speeches. Have a mental
outline of the speech.
3. Caucusing
 If giving a good speech is one half of gaining credibility and
showing competence, caucusing is the way to seal the deal by
making alliances, forming blocs and gaining majority votes.
 When you first meet with delegates interested in collaborating
with you, it should not come as a complete surprise if some of
the delegates drift off to work with other groups. Of course,
try to convince the delegates to work with you throughout the
duration of the committee, but you will know who you can
work with after that first unmoderated caucus.
 You can build coalitions by moving group to group and
listening to discussions. Generally, there are delegates on the
peripheries of these groups that are being left out of the
conversation. Bring them into yours by offering to work with
them. Convince them that your position is a sure way to build
a bloc.
 Start working on your DR by brainstorming from the 2nd or
the 3rd moderated caucus. Don't be hesitant to send your bloc
members to bring in more members. Take leadership and
assign tasks ie Working on DR and Bringing in other delegates.

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  While crisis committees don’t require delegates to build a
strong bloc to produce a resolution, delegates will still have to
work with others to help garner support to pass directives.
 In crisis committees, you won’t necessarily be working with the
same people on every directive, so get to know your fellow
delegates to keep your options as flexible as possible.
4. The most UNDERRATED Factor- NOTES
 Embrace notes and bring some post-its or small chits to write
in and send them to the EB and other delegates in order to
build rapport and partnerships.
 Notes are a great way to still communicate with the rest of the
committee, even while stuck sitting in your seat. If you share a
view with other delegates, collaborate in the next
Unmoderated caucus.
5. Resolutions
 Resolutions are long and tedious to present and make, Be the
delegate that offers clear, concise clauses that get your points
across.
 Offer something unique to the resolution. Unique, creative
policy solutions are perhaps the best way to distinguish
yourself from the rest of the committee.
 Take initiative to write quick and concise directives. Creative
solutions that display one’s understanding of the situation will
certainly help.
 Crisis notes can be excellent tools to refocusing debates and
aligning the circumstances of the crisis in one’s favor. Pay
attention to the details, the devil lies in the details.
E.g. If you want to assassinate someone, highlight where the person will
be killed, how he will be killed, who the assassin will be and how his body
will be disposed/disguised. Clearly convey the intention of the Crisis note.

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1. https://bestdelegate.com/resources/
2. https://www.munprep.org/curriculum/background-guides-
and-model-un-research

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