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Galati Model United Nations 2015 – Official Handbook
th
th
24 - 26 April 2015
GALAŢI MODEL UNITED NATIONS
Handbook
Revised for the 12th Edition
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Galati Model United Nations 2015 – Official Handbook
Introduction
For new and beginning delegates, who may lack experience in the practice of Model United Nations
(MUN), it is very normal to find the rules of procedure confusing, and so merely reading them may
not necessarily lead to understanding them. If that is the case for you worry not, for MUN is like a
sport: the best way to learn it is to practice it, and the rules quickly become second nature. In the
meanwhile, if you prefer gaining some foundations before attending the conference, this guide will
elucidate key points of the GalMUN rules.
We will move through a general outline of debate in its entirety – that which you can expect to
experience over the three days, not just in any committee-session – with specific reference to the
rules of procedure. It would thus be helpful if one reads this guide whilst simultaneously considering
the list of rules themselves.
Table of Contents
1.
Welcome Letters from the GalMUN Secretary General and Deputy
Secretary General
2.
Rules and Procedures
3.
A Guide to the Rules and Procedures
4.
Awards Policy
5.
Dress Code
6.
How to prepare for GalMUN 2015
a.
How to write a Position Paper?
b.
How to write a Working Paper?
c.
How to write a Resolution?
7.
This year’s Chairs & Committees
8.
Annexes
9.
Previous editions
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Galati Model United Nations 2015 – Official Handbook
Honourable delegates,
It is my distinct honour and privilege to welcome you to the 12th edition of Galaţi Model
United Nations. I would like to congratulate all of you for having been selected to participate
in this unique Model UN Conference. We each come with a different story of our journey
along the MUN circuit, and it is my hope that, through this Conference, those of you who are
at the beginning of their travel will be able to overcome their emotions and let this edition be
a once in a lifetime experience.
In order to be successful in MUN you must “adapt, improvise, and overcome”; to adapt to
changes within your committee, improvise new solutions and gather allies, and finally
overcome the challenges faced, whether as a delegate or a committee. Quick thinking and
analysis skills are deeply valued in Model UN. Being able to respect differences of opinion,
compromise, build consensus and negotiate, are important abilities you will acquire, that will
serve you well in every sphere of your life. Mastering the art of diplomacy is not easy, and
empowering yourself with such an ability at this young age is admirable.
I hope this experience will help you better understand what UN really stands for, and will
inspire you remain passionate and committed to making a positive contribution to humanity.
Let these three days be of learning, growth, and fun. Let GalMUN make you aware of your
role in our collective future, let it open your eyes and show you that the world needs your
involvement – let it be a wakeup call.
Once more, allow me congratulate you on having been selected to be a part of this Model UN
Conference. It is an honour to serve as your Secretary-General, and I wish you the best of luck
in your deliberations in the coming days.
Best regards,
Magda-SimonaTînjală
Secretary General, Galaţi Model United Nations 2015
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Galati Model United Nations 2015 – Official Handbook
Distinguished soon-to-be Delegates,
It is with great pleasure that I welcome you, on behalf of the GalMUN Secretariat, to the 12th
Edition of Galati Model United Nations, hosted and organised by “VasileAlecsandri” National
High School! Having experienced MUN two years ago for the first time, it is indeed incredible
to think of all the twists and turns along the road of self-mastery, which have brought me
here today - undoubtedly the highlight of my MUN career so far.
First and foremost, sincere congratulations on being selected for this highly demanding and
prestigious conference! We expect nothing short of excellence from you. Galati Model United
Nations has become a tradition, not only for our high school and for our city, but for our
students as individuals. We recognise MUN conferences as the keynote of the toughest
problems from all around the world and have therefore decided to challenge you with the
most relevant topics in the international agenda at present.
Having been promised the cream of the crop, we are looking forward to decisive and
effective resolutions of the topics under discussion. This Handbook should be the starting
point of your research and, of course, the very next leap forward on your road to success.
Needless to say, there is much more information available, so it falls on you to be adequately
prepared.
This year, one of our strengths is certainly the Secretariat: the Chairpersons you will meet are
amongst the most talented and resourceful people - passionate and eager to help you
throughout the debate.
GalMUN 2015 will be an amazing chance for you to test and improve your skills as a future
leader, so grab the opportunity with both hands and with arms wide open! Stand up for
yourself even if your voice shakes, be active, use the skills and knowledge you have gained so
far to become a role model! This world deserves the best answers and you are here because
you want to be part of the solution. Now, it’s time to create it.
Best of luck and may you have a fruitful debate!
Best regards,
Silvia-AndreeaTafta
Deputy Secretary General, Galati Model United Nations 2015
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Galati Model United Nations 2015 – Official Handbook
2. Rules and Procedures
Rule 1 – General Authority of the Secretary-General
The Secretary-General may, at any time, make either written or oral statements to the
Committee. Interpretation of the rules shall be reserved exclusively to the SecretaryGeneral.
The Secretary-General shall rule on matters not specified by the Rules of Procedure. Any
deviation from the provisional agenda is at the approval of the Secretary-General.
The Secretary-General has ultimate authority over any decisions and rulings made in regard
to the Conference and his or her decision are final and not subject to appeal.
The Secretary-General may delegate members of the Secretariat to exercise his or her
authority under this rule or any duties or prerogatives specified elsewhere in the Rules of
Procedure.
Rule 2 – General Authority of the Committee Directorate
In addition to exercising the duties and authority described elsewhere in these rules,
theCommittee Chairperson shall declare the opening and closing of each meeting of the
committee,direct the discussions towards consensus, andensure observance of the Rules.
The Chairperson may rule motions judged not to be constructive to the course of debate as
dilatory with the exception of motions to appeal the decision of the Chair.
The Chairperson may temporarily transfer duties to assistants at his or her discretion.
The Chairperson is required to hand over the duties to a designated member of the
Secretariat upon the request of the Secretary-General. In case of repeated breach of the
rules the Secretary-General may remove the Chairperson and appoint another one.
The Chairperson may propose an alteration from the provisional agenda with the approval of
the Secretary-General.
In exercising these functions, the Chairperson will at all times be subject to the Rules of
Procedure and responsible to the Secretary-General.
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Rule 3 – Appeal
A delegate may appeal any decision of the Chairperson unless otherwise stated in the rules
in the form of a motion to appeal the decision of the Chairperson. This motion requires a
second. The Chairpersonmay make an oral statement to the Committee in defence of the
ruling. The committee will then move directly to vote on the motion. A two-thirds majority is
required to overrule the Chairperson’s decision. Any decision of the Secretary-General or
members of the Secretariat acting with his or her authority cannot be appealed.
Rule 4 – Languages of the conference
(6) English will be the official and working language of the Conference. No
representative may address any forum or submit a document in a language other
than English with the exception of the non-English language committees, which will
use the specified language in all addresses and written documents.
Rule 5 –Participation of Non-members
Representatives of accredited observers will have the same rights as those of full members,
except that they may not sponsor or vote on resolutions. They may distribute working
papers.
(2) Delegates shall show courtesy to other delegates, the Secretariat, Committee
Chairpersons and the professional staff of the venue and shall at all times present
themselves in formal business attire.
(3) The Committee Chairperson will immediately call to order any delegate who fails to
comply with this rule. The Secretary-General may expel any delegate for failing to adhere to
this rule.
Rule 6 – Attendance and Quorum
(1) The Chairperson may declare a session open and permit debate when at least one third
of the committee is present. The presence of a majority of those Member States in
attendance at the opening session shall be required for any decision on the substantive
question to be taken. A quorum will be assumed to be present unless specifically challenged
by a roll call, triggered by a point of order.
(2) At the beginning of the opening session, and other sessions at the discretion of the
Chairperson, the Chairperson will call on Member States and Non-Members in English
alphabetical order to state their attendance. Members of all committees, unless otherwise
specified, will reply ‘present’ or ‘present and voting’, where ‘present and voting’ means the
Member State declares not to abstain on substantive votes.
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Rule 7 – Setting the Agenda
A motion to set the agenda is in order as the first motion during the opening session of the
committee or once debate on other items is concluded. The delegate making the motion will
state the agenda item to be debated first. This motion requires a second.
Rule 8 – Debate and the Speakers’ list
After the agenda has been determined, one continuously open speakers’ list will be
established for the purpose of general debate of the agenda item under consideration.
Speaker’s time will be set at the discretion of the Chairperson. The motion to change the
speaker’s time requires a second, and a simple majority of present and present and voting to
pass. The speakers’ list will be followed for all debate on the agenda item, except when
superseded by procedural motions or debate on amendments.
Delegates may speak generally on the agenda item being considered and may discuss any
resolution or working paper currently on the floor. Separate speakers’ lists will be
established as needed for procedural motions and debate on amendments. Any Member
State or Non-Member may add its name to the speakers’ list by submitting a request in
writing to the Chairperson or, at the discretion of the Chairperson, by raising their placards
when asked. Once the end of a speakers’ list has been reached, debate is considered
automatically closed. If there are no objections, the motion shall be considered as
automatically adopted by the committee.
If there are seconds and objections, a speakers’ list will be established to discuss the motion,
with an equal number of speakers for and against the motion. A motion to close debate (in
accordance with Rule 10) will be in order after the Committee has heard at least two
speakers for the motion and two against, or the speakers list is exhausted.
On closure of debate, the committee will move directly to a voting procedure. A simple
majority is required to set the agenda. If the motion fails, the Committee will automatically
move to debate the second agenda item.
After the Committee has adopted, rejected or tabled a resolutionon the first agenda item,
the Committee will automatically proceed to discuss the second agenda item.
All motions for caucus shall be ruled dilatory during the consideration of the agenda. The
delegates will not be allowed to yield their time before the agenda is set.
Rule 9 – Unmoderated and Moderated Caucus
A motion to enter either unmoderated or moderated caucus is in order at any time when the
floor is open. The delegate proposing the motion must briefly explain its purpose and specify
a time limit for the caucus, not to exceed thirty minutes. A motion to enter moderated
caucus additionally requires a specified topic and a speaker’s time limit.
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These motions require a second. A majority of members present and present and voting is
required for passage. Once the time limit for the caucus has elapsed, a further motion to
enter caucus may be proposed by the delegates and requires a second and simple majority
of members present and present and voting to pass. An absolute maximum of two
extensions may be granted for any single caucus and time for any of the extensions may not
exceed the time limit for the original caucus. The Director’s decision not to allow a motion
for an extension of a debate is not subject to appeal.
Rule 10 – Closure of Debate
A delegate may propose a motion to close debate on the item currently under discussion at
any time when the floor is open. This motion requires a second. Permission to speak may
only be granted up to two delegates opposing the closure, after which the motion shall be
put to a vote.
Closure of debate requires a two-thirds majority.
Rule 11 – Postponement of Debate
Whenever the floor is open, a delegate may motion to postpone debate on a resolution or
amendment currently on the floor. The motion, otherwise known as tabling, requires a
second, a two-thirds majority to pass and will be debatable to the extent of one speaker in
favour and one against the motion. No debate or further votes will be allowed on any
resolution or amendment on which debate has been postponed, unless the debate is
resumed.
A motion to resume debate on a resolution or amendment that has been postponed will
require a second, a simple majority to pass and will be debatable to the extent of one
speaker in favour and one opposed.
Rule 12 – Suspension or Adjournment of the Meeting
(1) Whenever the floor is open, a delegate may move to suspend the meeting of the
Committeeuntil its next scheduled meeting. This motion will usually be in order only in
situations specified in the schedule of the Conference. The Chairperson may rule such
motion dilatory and this decision is not subject to appeal. Such motion will not be debated
and will require a simple majority to pass.
(2) Whenever the floor is open a delegate may move to adjourn the meeting of the
Committee for the duration of the Conference. This motion will not be in order until three
quarters of the time scheduled for the last session of the Committee have elapsed. The
Director may rule such motion dilatory and this decision is not subject to appeal. Such
motion will not be debated and will require a simple majority to pass.
(3) The Secretary General may suspend or adjourn the meeting at any time at his or her
discretion.
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Rule 13 – Speeches
No delegate may address a session without having previously obtained the permission of the
Chairperson. The Chairperson may call a speaker to order if his or her remarks are not
relevant to the subject under discussion, do not follow correct parliamentary convention or
are otherwise discourteous. The Chairperson may limit the time allotted to each speaker.
When a delegate exceeds the time limit, the Director may call the speaker to order.
Delegates who commit a serious breach of rules CAN be permanently removed from the
Committee by the Secretary-General or a designated Secretariat member.
Rule 14 – Yields
(1) A delegate granted the right to speak in general debate shall, upon completing his or her
speech, yield the remaining time to points of information. The Chairperson, who has the
right to call to order any delegate whose question is rhetorical, leading and/or not designed
to elicit information, may select questioners. Follow-up questions will be allowed only at the
discretion of the Chairperson. Only answers to questions will be deducted from the
speaker’s remaining time. The delegate may refuse to answer the question.
(2) Once there are no more points of information, the delegate may yield the remaining time
in one of two ways:
a. Yield to another delegate. His or her remaining time will be given to that delegate, who
may not make any further yields.
b. Yield to the Chairperson. Such a yield should be made if the delegate does not wish to
yield to another delegate. The Chairperson will then move to the next speaker on the
speakers’ list.
(3) Yields are not in order if the delegate has exhausted the time limit for the speech or
during moderated caucus.
If the Chairperson deems that there is not enough time left for points of information, she or
he shall ask the delegate to yield the remaining time back to the Chairperson.
Rule 15 – Right of Reply
A delegation which national honour or integrity has been insulted by another delegate may
request a right of reply. The request must be made in writing and submitted to the
Chairpersonwithout delay. The decision to grant the right of reply is at the discretion of the
Chairperson and is not open to appeal. A right of reply will not be granted solely in order to
correct a perceived inaccuracy in a speech. The Chairperson shall determine an appropriate
time limit for the reply, not exceeding 1 minute. A right of reply to a right of reply is out of
order.
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Rule 16 – Point of Personal Privilege
Whenever a delegate experiences personal discomfort, which impairs his or her ability to
participate, he or she may rise to a point of personal privilege. While a point of personal
privilege may interrupt a speaker, delegates should only do so with the utmost discretion
and only with reference to the audibility of the speaker unless in exceptional circumstances.
Rule 17 – Point of Order
A delegate may rise to a point of order to indicate an instance of improper parliamentary
procedure.
A delegate shall, in rising to a point of order, clarify the substance of the point.
The Chairperson, in accordance with the Rules of Procedure, will immediately rule upon the
point of order. The Chairperson may rule out those points that are dilatory or improper; such
a decision is not subject to appeal. Points of order may not interrupt the speech of a
delegate or Chairperson.
Rule 18 – Point of Parliamentary Procedure
A delegate may rise to a point of parliamentary procedure to request clarification from the
Chairperson regarding the Rules. A point of parliamentary procedure shall not relate to a
substantial issue under discussion and it may not interrupt a speaker.
Rule 19 – Working Papers
Delegates may propose working papers for consideration by the Committee. Working papers
are intended to aid the committee in its discussion and need not be written in resolution
format.
Working papers are not official documents, but do require the approval of the Chairperson
before a delegate submitting the paper can move for its introduction. This motion requires a
second and a simple majority of delegates present and present and voting to pass. Working
papers do not require additional sponsors or signatories. There can be no amendments to
working papers and more than one working paper may be on the floor at any one time.
Rule 20 – Draft Resolutions
A draft resolution may be introduced when it receives the approval of the Chairperson and is
signed by ten percent of Member States present and present and voting. Signing a resolution
need not indicate support of the resolution and the signatory has no further obligations or
ownership of the resolution.
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A draft resolution may have up to four sponsors, and a delegate may count as a sponsor only
if the delegate has authored, or helped to write, the draft resolution. The role of a sponsor
indicates support of the draft resolution and the number of sponsors counts towards the
final number of the signatories.
Once a resolution has been approved, it has been copied and distributed and a motion to
introduce the draft resolution entertained, a delegate may read out loud the operative
closes, yields are out of order. The motion to introduce a draft resolution requires a second
and a simple majority to pass. More than one resolution may be on the floor at any one
time, but no more than one resolution may be passed per agenda item.
Rule 21 – Amendments
An amendment is a proposal that adds to, deletes from or revises part of a draft resolution.
Delegates may amend any draft resolution that has been introduced. Amendments shall
normally be submitted in writing, have only one sponsor,are subject to the approval of the
Chairperson and require signatories of not less than one eighth of Member States present
and present and voting.
Amendments to amendments are out of order; however, an amended part of a resolution
may be further amended. Perambulatory phrases may not be amended, unless at the
discretion of the Chairperson. A delegate may motion to introduce an amendment when the
floor is open, which requires a simple majority to pass. Upon successful introduction of an
amendment, the general speakers’ list will be temporarily suspended and a new speakers’
list established for and against the amendment.
A motion to close debate (Rule 10) will be in order once the committee has heard at least
two speakers against, unless there are fewer delegates wishing to speak against.
Once debate is closed on the amendment, the committee will move to an immediate vote. A
passed amendment shall be treated as an integral part of the draft resolution under debate.
Amendments that do not alter the substance of a draft resolution and are proposed in order
to rectify spelling errors or other minor errors can be incorporated into the resolution
without a vote at the discretion of the Chairperson.
Rule 22 – Competence
A motion to question the competence of the committee to discuss a resolution or an
amendmentis in order only immediately after the resolution or amendment has been
introduced. The motionrequires atwo-thirdsmajority to pass and is debatable to the extent
of up to two speakers for and two against.
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Rule 23 – General Voting Procedure
(1) All members of the committee, including observers, shall have one vote on procedural
motions including votes on amendments. No abstentions are permitted on procedural
matters.
(2) The only substantive question concerns the adoption of resolutions, where only full
Member
States may vote. Each vote may be a ‘yes’, ‘no’ or ‘abstain’. Voting with ‘rights’ is not
permitted.
Members present and voting will be defined as members casting an affirmative or negative
vote only. Voting shall normally be by a show of placards, except when the Chairperson has
authorized a roll call vote or where a motion for a roll call vote has been passed by a simple
majority of the committee. A roll call vote shall be taken in English alphabetical order of the
names of the Members. Members will respond ‘yes’, ‘no’, ‘abstain’ or ‘pass’, where Member
States who respond ‘pass’ must respond either ‘yes’ or ‘no’ when asked a second time by the
Chairperson once the roll call has finished.
(3) Only a point of order or a point of personal privilege may interrupt voting procedures and
must be made in connection to the actual voting.
(4) Unless specified otherwise in the Rules, decisions of the Committee shall be made by a
simple majority of the members present and present and voting. In special circumstances, a
vote may be considered by the Secretary General and on the recommendation of the
Committee Chairperson an ‘important question’ under Article 18 of the Charter. Votes
identified as such require a two-thirds majority for passage.
(5) If two or more proposals relate to the same question, they shall, unless the committee
decides otherwise through a motion to postpone debate, be voted on in the order in which
they were submitted.
A longer motion of one type does not supersede the shorter version of the same motion.
(6) The General Voting Procedure may be altered by the specific rules relating to committees
provided elsewhere in the Rules.
Rule 24 – Motion To Reorder Draft Resolutions
A motion to reorder draft resolutions will be in order immediately after closure of debate on
an agenda item, but prior to entering voting procedures.
The motion requires a second, and a simple majority to pass.
If the motion to reorder draft resolutions passes, the Chairperson then will subsequently
accept motions specifying the order in which the draft resolutions should be voted on.
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Once this is done, the committee will vote on the motions in the order they were submitted,
until all fail or one of them passes. The motion specifying the reordering of draft resolutions
requires a simple majority for passage.
Rule 25 – Division of the Question
After the debate on an agenda item has been closed, but before a substantive voting, a
delegate may move that the operative clauses be voted on separately. Perambulatory
clauses and sub-operative clauses may not be separated in a division of the question. If there
are calls for multiple divisions, those shall be voted upon in an order to be set by the
Chairperson where the most radical division will be voted upon first.
A motion to divide the question requires a second and shall be voted upon, requiring a
simple majority to pass. Permission to speak on the motion shall be given only to two
speakers in favour and two against. If the motion passes, the resolution will be divided
accordingly, and a separate procedural vote will be taken on each divided part to determine
whether or not it is included in the final draft.
Parts of the resolution that are subsequently passed will be recombined into a final
document and then put to a substantive vote.
Rule 26 – Order of Precedence, Special Voting Procedures and Annexes
The order of precedence regarding points and motions listed in the Rules of Procedure shall
constitute part of the Rules and be applied to proceedings in all committees of the
Conference as outlined in Annex (1).
However, unless otherwise specified in the Rules, motions that require a vote shall be
considered by the Committee in order of their disturbance to the proceedings, with the most
disturbing motions being voted on first.
The following annexes to the Rules of Procedure shall be regarded as constituent parts of
the Rules and shall be applicable only to the respective committees:
Annex (2): Security Council and Historical Security Council – Special Rules and Voting
Procedures
Annex (3): International Court of Justice – Special Rules and Voting Procedures
Annex (4): Crisis Committee – Special Rules and Voting Procedures
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3.A guide to the Rules and Procedures
Step 1
Upon the opening of the debate, after the Committee Chairpersons will have
performed roll-call and established quorum, we will proceed with the General Speakers’ List,
which is the order in which delegates may speak about the topic in general – that is, they
may discuss anything related to the topic, not being bound to any specific aspect of it. The
time-limit for speeches is at the discretion of the Chairpersons (but usually 90 or 120
seconds long), and delegates may place themselves on the List by raising their placards when
asked to, or by subsequent notes to the Chairperson. If one finishes their speech before their
time has elapsed, they are required to yield their time to points of information, although the
delegate may refuse to answer questions posed. If there are no or no more such points, and
speaker’s time has still not elapsed, he or she may yield to another delegate or back to the
Chair – in the latter case the Chair will simply allot time to the next speaker on the List.
Step 2
Even though the General Speakers’ List is the backbone of debate, caucuses remain
the main part of the debate. There are two kinds of caucuses: moderated and unmoderated,
where the former is topic-specific debate under the constraints of formal debate like under
the General Speakers’ List, whereas the latter is informal, free debate.
A motion for either caucus must specify time-limit, allowed up to 30 minutes, and for
moderated ones delegates must additionally specify a particular subject of debate – one
aspect of the agenda item to focus discussion on – and the time allocated to each speaker. In
a moderated caucus the Chairpersons establish another speakers’ list, delegates remain in
their seats, are allocated limited speaking time, all have to await their turn, and must keep
their speeches relevant to the subject specified by the motion. In an unmoderated caucus
such regulations do not exist – delegates may freely leave their seats and conduct discussion
as they wish.
In sessions, caucuses bring debate forward in two ways. First, moderated caucuses
serve to concentrate discussion of the committee on particular aspects of the broader topic,
which the proposer deems important. Such aspects will have generally been identified by
the proposers earlier under general debate, and discussion focused thereon allows delegates
to look more deeply into the matters and begin to formulate potential solutions. This
gradually results in working papers (see below), leading to draft resolutions, and ultimately
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to the adoption of a resolution. Second, unmoderated caucuses are usually entertained after
a series of moderated ones, leading delegates to desire (a) identify in blocs what matters to
them most and how they intend to put forth their views and (b) start generating working
papers.
Step 3
Debate ultimately flows towards solving the problem at hand – or, more realistically,
towards a partial solution that has filtered through layers of compromise – but before a
resolution (see below) can be adopted, three steps need be gone through: the synthesis of
working papers, generating draft resolutions (see below), and amending draft resolutions.
The first is thus the synthesis of working papers.
After having considered a series of working papers, it is likely that groups of
delegates – whose countries may share views, or the delegates themselves have found
common ground – cooperatively produce draft resolutions.
A resolution is a document on an agenda item which makes attempt at solving – or,
at least, at alleviating – the problem at hand. But before a resolution can be adopted, which
would mark the closure of debate on the topic under consideration, a few steps still need to
be braved.
Delegates will have to produce draft resolutions, which are mere proposals,
introduce them to the floor, gather support for them, subject them to amendments, and
finally undergo the vote. A motion to introduce a draft resolution can be made whenever the
floor is open and a delegate has been recognised by the Chairpersons, but the draft already
needs to have the support of no less than ten percent of the delegates present (in the form
of sponsors and signatories) and must have been reviewed and approved by the
Chairpersons. Such moves for introduction usually take place after delegates have discussed
a number of working papers, and need a simple majority to pass, after which the draft is
distributed to all delegates, and its operative clauses are read out by one or more of the
sponsors.
Step 4
Once a draft resolution is introduced, it is likely that delegates will call upon
moderated caucuses to consider the draft’s content, and unmoderated caucuses so as to
facilitate the writing of amendments. Amendments are changes to the draft resolution,
which any and all delegates may propose to make. They need to be submitted to the
Chairpersons in writing, who must approve them, with the support of at least one-eighth of
the delegates present (in the form of signatures). When the floor is open, a delegate may
move to introduce their amendment, needing a simple majority, after which the
Chairpersons establish a speakers’ list with at least one in favour and one against. Upon the
closure of debate on that amendment, delegates will vote on whether to accept or reject the
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proposed change to the resolution – if over half the votes of the committee are in favour the
amendment becomes an integral part of the draft resolution.
Step 5
After a few amendments have been discussed, it is likely that a delegate will call for a
motion to close debate, which serves to end all debate on the agenda item considered. Two
delegates may speak against the move to close debate, and subsequently a vote is taken –
for the motion to pass, it needs the support of two-thirds of the delegates present. This is
when voting takes place on draft resolutions. If there is more than one draft, they will be
voted on in order of introduction (from first to last) unless a motion to reorder draft
resolutions is called upon.
Voting on resolutions is special, called substantive votes whereas all other votes are
merely procedural, for delegates may choose to vote in favour, against, or abstain from
voting.
.
4. Awards Policy
Delegates will be ranked using 3 criteria:
1. Knowledge
2. Overall participation
3. Cooperation with committee members
Awards per Committee:
 1 BEST DELEGATE
 1 DISTINGUISHED DELEGATE
 1 BEST POSITION PAPER
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5. Dress Code
All clothing must adhere to guidelines that portray
professionalism and modesty. If a delegate’s attire is deemed
inappropriate by GalMUN staff, the delegate will be asked to leave
the session and return with appropriate attire.
• Standard delegate attire for the conference is business jacket,
slacks/skirt, dress shirt (with tie for men) and dress shoes.
• Dress sweaters, shorts, ball caps, jeans, sneakers, and sunglasses
are considered too casual. Clothes that expose excessive bare skin,
reveal undergarments, or are otherwise revealing are inappropriate.
MUN is a formal event therefore there is a strict dress code that has
to be followed by every delegate. When selecting your outfit think of
a serious job interview. You want to look your best to impress the
person that might be interviewing you. Your outfit and the way you
look will be the first impression they have on you, so to be taken
seriously you should dress up serious and follow Model United
Nation’s dress code.
For boys: a tie and a formal shirt are expected. Jackets are not
required but are recommended. Formal pants should be used with
the shirt. Jeans and shorts are not appropriate or acceptable. Shoes
should be formal and appropriate for the event, sneakers and sandals
are not acceptable.
For girls: a nice blouse would be appropriate, cleavage should not be
visible. A jacket is a good thing to make your outfit look better.
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All girls should wear nice pants or caprice, as long as their length is
under the knee. If a girl wishes to use a dress it should be a formal
dress that would be appropriate for the event, not a party dress.
6. How to prepare for GalMUN 2015
A good delegate is one that actions as accurate as possible like a real delegate of the
country he represents, trying to reach the best solutions for everybody, helping other
countries when in need, but also protecting its own country’s interests. If you want to be a
strong delegate, you need well-done research, fluency in English and, most important of all,
self-confidence. But you can acquire them all with a little practice.
•
RESEARCH is very important as it helps you to gain information about the issue, and if
you are well informed, you are powerful. We advise you to take the following items of advice
for your research:
•
Find out general information about your country: how big it is, whether it is poor or
rich and what are the basis of its economy, what kind of political regime it has, what
countries it influences or is influenced by, what alliances it has, in what conflict it has been
involved and any other things you consider important and insist on the matters on the
agenda.
•
You should then find out what the issues on the agenda really are about, what they
involve, what action has already been taken worldwide, what is UN’s opinion about this,
what is your country’s opinion about the problem. If you’re country is smaller and you feel
the information you found is not enough to establish a policy, search for the policies allied
with the ones of your country.
•
Browse the past resolutions of UN.
•
If your country is not directly concerned by the issue, try to think as rationally as
possible to help other countries or the people, or nature, in general, but without affecting
the well-being of your own country and people.
•
If your country is directly concerned by the issue, find your weak and your strong
points, try to form alliances and to solve the problem as good as possible for your country,
but without being selfish, ready to make compromises, as well as they do not cost your
country too much.
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•
Try to find out about other countries policies, actions, weak points.
•
Do not use any information that is either false or out-of-date (consider the fact that
each piece of information is updated every year/month). This way you MIGHT give an
impression of well prepared, but you take the risk of being discovered by other delegates. So
do not put yourself in embarrassing situations.
•
Read the resolution very carefully and try to find any way of improving it.
•
Find the parts you do not agree with and change them.
•
Try to find arguments both for the things you believe are wrong and for those you
believe to be right.
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You now have a policy!!!
•
The POLICY STATEMENT is almost entirely based on this policy you obtained. The
policy statement or position paper is a document that allows the others to know your
policies and interact beautifully. It consists of three parts:
•
Introduction, in which you may give your own definition for the problem, agree or
disagree with some of the actions already taken or untaken.
•
The body consists of actions you propose to be taken. Present them together with
brief, but conclusive arguments.
•
In the ending you must restate, in a short paragraph your whole position, with strong
arguments.
•
An ordinary OPENING SPEECH is practically saying what you wrote in the position
paper, but a really good one is only based on it, because in speaking, you have greater
freedom and you can use various means to convince the other delegates, or, at least, to
attract their liking , which is very important. With regard to this you should then have a nice
flow, pleasant and adequate variety in your voice tone, use figures of speech, especially
repetitions and inversions (but not excessively).
•
Don’t bore the audience with long, read speeches; try to make short ones, with
concentrate and clear ideas.
•
BELIEVE WHAT YOU SAY! Try to convince the other delegates that you believe what
you say. Although the policies of your country may not always be the ones you share, you
should avoid combining the two, since this might create confusion. Since every political
doctrine has its arguments and reasons, try to understand them. This would help you stick to
the point of view you should sustain. After all, who knows, you might even get to believe it.
•
If you do not agree with the resolution or with another country’s opinion, do not
totally reject it from the beginning: try to reach a consensus, and the best solutions.
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•
Be polite and courteous all the time.
•
Don’t forget to address the house and the chairs!
•
You may use fine irony, but never put the other delegates in a bad light or laugh at
them. Better try to congratulate every idea you agree with, if you have the chance, just raise
your placard and show another delegate you agree with him or congratulate him for a
wonderful idea.
•
Lobby as much as you can. If the time allocated for lobby is not enough, use the
notes. Also, if the Chair does not give you the permission to speak, you may ask a delegate to
clarify something by using notes.
•
Don’t be intimidated by other delegates.
•
Stick to your point; don’t forget your policy, your interests and your convictions, but
be flexible.
•
Practice as much as you can. Try to make any situation in the everyday life when you
have to support an idea, a moment of practice for the debate.
•
Don’t forget that you know more than any other delegate about your country, but do
not always count on that.
•
NEVER BE AFRAID/ASHAMED TO ASK! Ask whoever you think may give you proper
information and help you eliminate your uncertainties. The Students Officer will always be
happy to help you.
•
BE ATTENTIVE!
•
BE COMMITTED TO IT!
•
BE YOURSELF!
•
LIKE IT! If you like what you are doing, it’s impossible not to do something good.
•
BE ACTIVE during the conference. Even if you are a beginner you shouldn’t display
the ordinary shy attitude. Even if this might be regarded with tolerance, it will not be
encouraged. It is important to understand you shouldn’t talk just for the sake of talking;
however you have to play an active role inside the conference.
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POSITION PAPER GUILDELINE
The position paper is, practically, the same thing as the policy statement or policy address. It
is a formal paper in which a delegate explains the position its country adopts on a certain
subject.
The position paper is a very useful document as it helps a delegate to settle his ideas in a
clear policy and, provided that it is handed to all the members in the forum before the
conference, helps creating alliances and strengthening positions.
In the introduction, it is usually written either a definition of the subject, or an informative or
historical datum, from which a general position can be extracted.
The body consists of two parts: The first one represents the opinion of your country towards
different actions taken by organisations or governments, or towards statements related to
the issue. In this part, a country may show their wish to create an alliance, by expressing
their support for other countries.
The second part of the body is often a consequence of the first as it is the part in which
action is proposed; action that consists of the continuation of ones already undertaken or
totally new, sometimes innovative, ones.
Finally, the ending is, naturally, the conclusive paragraph. It is usually short and concessive
and express the clear position, whether it is positive or negative, open to alliances or not,
ready to make compromises or not.
TIP: In any statement you make, do not forget to bring at least one argument, short and
clearly expressed. Otherwise, you risk that the other delegates will not understand why you
make the statements you do, or why it is better to take the actions you propose, and will
overlook everything you wrote.
Delegation:
Luxembourg
Commission:
North Atlantic Council
The Question of: NATO’s Role in Rebuilding Iraq
The war in Iraq will certainly remain an important and very controversial event in history,
but more important for the country and the Iraqi people are its consequences.
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Subsequently, international cooperation for helping to rebuild Iraq is of primary importance
under the conditions that, as a developing country, with many religious extremist people,
with a weak economy and siege mentality, Iraq is not able to recover unless it is helped. As
the most important international organization, NATO has the power to help Iraq and its
people and has already taken decisive action in this respect.
Therefore, Luxembourg congratulates NATO on its continuous efforts made in assisting Iraq,
in particular for the success of the Training Mission in Iraq and for the fact that it is trying to
help the country provide for its own security and not by using external military forces. We
also welcome NATO’s initiative of establishing an Iraqi Training Education and Doctrine
Centre, which we believe will be very effective, and we praise the wonderful collaboration
between NATO and the Iraqi authorities, as well as the confidence of the latter. As one of
Luxembourg’s convictions is that, in the long term, the best solution for a country to develop
is to try to change the political, economic and military systems, we would highly recommend
the establishment of special education programmes for the Iraqi youth as well as further
cooperation with the authorities with a view to developing a military and political system
appropriate for Iraq’s speedy recovery.
Delegation:
Luxembourg
Commission:
North Atlantic Council
The Question of: The War on Terror
After the end of the Cold War and the successful reduction of WMD, terrorism has become a
continuously increasing problem worldwide and joint action is vital if we want to live in a
safer world. Terrorism is the use of extreme violence, such as bombing, assassination or
kidnapping, meant to force a government into taking a course of action which will meet
various political demands of the perpetrators.
Luxembourg congratulates NATO on its uninterrupted endeavours to reduce terrorism,
especially on the success obtained by the ISAF and all the missions and campaigns in
Afghanistan. We are also very proud by the strong Military Concept for Defence Against
Terrorism that NATO developed, as it places great emphasis on deterring terrorism, on
sharing and team work. Another aspect which Luxembourg highly appreciates is the training
and exercising opportunities organized for the partners of the alliance and coordinated by
SACEUR.
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However, we consider that more importance should be placed on the education of the local
inhabitants in high risk areas, cooperation with the local authorities and training of the local
military and police forces. Furthermore, Luxembourg would be very happy to help fight
terrorism by peace and cooperation and, most importantly, by educating people in the spirit
of peace.
List 1: useful words for resolutions/communiqués/proposals, position papers and any other
paper or speech:
Acknowledging
Deeply regretting
Having adopted
Affirming
Deploring
Alarmed by
Desiring
Having
considered
Approving
Emphasising
Aware of
Expecting
Having
considered
further
Believing
Expressing its
appreciation
Having devoted
attention
Expressing its
satisfaction
Having examined
Bearing in mind
Confident
Congratulating
Contemplating
Convinced
Declaring
Deeply
concerned
Deeply conscious
Deeply convinced
Deeply disturbed
Fulfilling
Fully alarmed
Fully aware
Fully believing
Further deploring
Further recalling
Guided by
Having heard
Having received
Having studied
Keeping in mind
Noting further
Noting with
appreciation
Noting with
approval
Noting with deep
concern
Noting with
regret
Noting with
satisfaction
Observing
Pointing out
Reaffirming
Realizing
Recalling
Recognising
Referring
Reminding
Seeking
Taking into
account
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Taking into
consideration
Taking note
Viewing with
appreciation
Welcoming
Accepts
Affirms
Approves
Asks
Authorises
Calls for
Calls upon
Condemns
Confirms
Congratulates
Further
recommends
Strongly
condemns
Further requests
Strongly urges
Further resolves
Suggests
Hopes
Supports
Deplores
Invites
Trusts
Designates
Proclaims
Transmits
Encourages
Proposes
Urges
Endorses
Recommends
Expresses its
appreciation
Regrets
Decides
Declares
Declares
accordingly
Expresses its
hope
Further invites
Further
proclaims
Requests
Resolves
Seeks
Strongly affirms
List 2: Terms of address:
Mister/Madam/Honourable/Distinguished Chair/President
Honourable/Fellow Delegates/Representatives
Distinguished Guests
Could the honourable delegate/representative of Hungary repeat his question,
please?
Could/ will the honourable delegate of Hungary clarify his statement that…
Does not the honourable delegate of Hungary agree with Czech Republic when
we say that...
We definitely agree with Hungary, but we should also consider that…
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Honourable delegate of Hungary, do not you agree with Czech Republic when
we say/state that…?
If I may request a follow up…
I am open to any/two more points of information.
Taking these matters into consideration, we call all the nations/governments
to…
Honourable delegate do not you approve that…?
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7. This year’s Chairs and Committees
Security Council
Human Rights
Chaired by Teodora Ursoiu & Sabin Emilian Prunau
Chaired by Roxana Dumitriu & Adelina Halchin
International Court of Justice
Crisis
Chaired by Diana Bogdan & Bogdan Duduc
Chaired by Marina Hercka & Rares Purdea
Environment
Economic and Social Council
Chaired by Andra Boca & Ovidiu Manea
Chaired by Catalina Francu & Loredana Boghea
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8. Annexes
Annex (2): Security Council and Historical Security Council – Special
Rules and Voting Procedures
The Security Council consists of 20 members, of which 15 countries
have the right to vote and the other 5 are observers, being able to
participate in discussion but unable to cast their vote on a resolution
or sign one.
Five of the 15 voting countries are permanent members and can Veto
any resolution or decision made by the committee. These countries
are Russia, the United Kingdom, France, China and the United States.
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Annex (3): International Court of Justice – Special Rules and Voting
Procedures
The Court is comprised of a number of judges. Additionally, there are
two teams, each consisting of two advocates that represent the
opposing parties. The role of the judges is to settle controversies
about court procedure, ensure that the rules and the order of the
court is respected and make all the decisions in respect with the
cases presented before them.
Two teams of advocates (the applicant and the respondent)
represent the opposing parties within the ICJ. The role of the
applicant is to present the case before the court and to make
demands, such as reparations, the removal of troops etc., while the
respondent defends the position of their state as to what concerns
the issue in question.
The cases presented in the International Court of Justice are real
ones, which are either in trial or have already reached an end.
Nonetheless the conclusion reached by the judges during the session
is not to be influenced by the decision to which it has been arrived in
the actual case, and is based solely upon the performance of the two
teams of advocates.
The participants who wish to become judges should keep in mind
that no research is needed before the MUN session; nevertheless,
the simulation demands their full concentration and seriosity as they
will have to discuss and decide over the contentious cases. Those
who wish to participate as advocates should consider the fact that
this task requires great effort, a lot of research, an ability to speak
publicly before a number of people and convince them through
reasoning. Nevertheless that will most certainly bring you great
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satisfaction and a feeling of excitement. Through participating in this
committee not only will you gain experience in matters of public
speaking and debate, but you will also improve your English skills in
an environment suitable for interactive learning.
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Annex (4): Crisis Committee – Special Rules and Voting Procedures
The Crisis Committee at GalMUN follows a slightly modified set of
rules from other committees. Below is a brief explanation of how the
rules of procedure for these committees differs from those of more
traditional committees.
Topics: Once the crisis begins, Crisis Committees will not move from
topic to topic or set the agenda. Instead, the committee will debate
the crisis until it is resolved (usually only at the end of the
conference).
Perpetual Moderated Caucus: Because of the dynamic nature of the
crisis, the committee will not rely on a Speaker’s List and instead
conduct debate through a perpetual moderated crisis. Two main
effects result from this arrangement:
1 – Debate is more freeform and reactive to events
2 – The committee does not enter voting bloc when the Speaker’s List
is exhausted
Despite being a perpetual moderated caucus, delegates may make
motions. The following points and motions are permissible (in order
of precedence). Please refer to the conference rules of procedure for
more details on what each motion does, the debate allowed, and the
required vote.
• Point of Order
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• Point of Information
• Appeal of the Chair
• Suspension of the meeting*
• Adjournment of the Meeting
• Closure of Debate
• Division of the Question
• Roll Call Vote
• Acclamation
• Set the Speakers Time
• Invite a Guest
* Although in a perpetual moderated caucus, delegates may call for
both an unmoderated caucus and a moderated caucus to focus on a
specific subtopic or draft directive.
Directives: Instead of resolutions, Crisis Committees debate
directives. These are messages to the world communicating the
intent of the Committee regarding the current crisis. Directives are
written in resolution format, but are not expected to include the
extensively detailed perambulatory clauses that a resolution will.
Frequently, they will include just a few perambulatory clauses
addressing the current situation and its historical and legal contexts.
Communiqués: A member of the Crisis Committee may send a
communiqué to other members of the committee, the dais, or the
external world (such as non-committee countries or other actors).
The conference’s crisis staff will answer the latter type of
communiqué. In turn, the crisis staff may send communiqués to
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individual delegates with new information or intelligence, with
directions on how to use that information.
Voting: A given Crisis Committee will likely vote on several directives
over the course of the conference. These votes should occur when
the directives are ready, but it is up to the committee to choose to
move into voting bloc. There is only one-way to move into voting
bloc: the motion to close debate.
Inviting Guests: The Crisis Committee may call for external speakers
to address the body. To do so, a committee member must move to
invite the guest; that motion is requires a majority vote to pass. For
instance, in a hypothetical Security Council, Nation X could make the
following motion:
“The State of X moves to invite the Nation of Y to the Security
Council.”
If the motion passes, the dais will then pass this request to the crisis
staff. If available, a representative will be summoned to the
committee chambers, where she will give a brief statement and then
answer questions. Any delegate wishing to ask a question of the
speaker must be called upon by the dais and must direct the question
to the dais. After answering a few questions, the invited guest will
depart from the committee.
The dais may also at times inform the committee of available
speakers; however, the committee does not have to invite
representatives from that list and can invite other guests, but those
individuals may not be available.
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9.Previous editions
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