The MUN Masterclass

Your complete guide to conquering the committee.

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Phase 1: Pre-Conference

Research and preparation are the keys to victory.

Research Your Portfolio

You represent a country, a historical figure, or a minister (like in Lok Sabha). You must understand your portfolio's economy, allies, enemies, and past actions.

The Position Paper

A 1-2 page document outlining your stance on the agenda. It includes the background of the issue, past actions, and your proposed solutions.

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Phase 2: The Flow of Debate

Understanding how a committee operates from start to finish.

General Speaker's List (GSL)

The default state of the committee. Delegates give broad speeches (usually 60-90 seconds) outlining their overall policy on the agenda.

Moderated Caucus

A structured debate on a highly specific sub-topic. You raise your placard to be called on by the Chair (or Speaker) to speak.

Unmoderated Caucus

Informal lobbying time. You leave your seat, talk directly to other delegates, form alliances (blocs), and write Working Papers together.

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Phase 3: Points & Motions

The tools you use to interact with the Chair/Speaker and the committee.

Raising a Motion

To suggest an action, you raise your placard and say: 'The delegate of [Country] raises a motion for a [Type of Caucus] on the topic [Topic] for [Total Time] and [Speaker Time].'

Point of Personal Privilege

Used if you experience physical discomfort. E.g., 'The delegate cannot hear the speaker'. (Can interrupt a speaker).

Point of Information

A formal question directed at a delegate who has just finished speaking and yielded their time to questions.

Point of Order

Used to point out a mistake in the rules of procedure made by the Chair/Speaker or another delegate.

Point of Parliamentary Inquiry

Used to ask the Chair/Speaker a question about the rules. E.g., 'What is the voting majority required?'

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Phase 4: Resolutions & Directives

Formalizing your solutions.

Draft Resolution / Directive

The final document of solutions. GA committees pass Resolutions, while Crisis/Indian/Fictional committees pass quick action Directives.

Amendments

Changes proposed to a document before it is voted upon. They can add, strike out, or modify clauses.

Voting Block

The doors are sealed. Delegates vote 'Yes', 'No', or 'Abstain'. If it passes, the committee succeeds!