R

CHMUN IX
January 10-11 2014
Position Paper Guidelines
Chantilly Model UN
What is a position paper?
A position paper, also referred to as a policy paper, is an essay summarizing a countrys
views and policies on the issues to be discussed in committee. It organizes ideas,
proposed solutions, statistics, and general background information on each topic.
Background guides and topics can be found here: http://chantillymun.org/background_guides.html.
Position papers will be read by each committees respective chairs/co-chairs and will be
factored into awards decisions. They will primarily be used to measure the breadth and
substance of research delegates conducted in preparation for the conference. For
CHMUN IX, each delegation must submit a position paper in order to be considered for
awards. Plagiarism will result in disqualification from awards.

How do I write one?
Position papers are generally formulaic in nature, but requirements can change from
conference to conference. CHMUN IX has a preferred format, but delegates can deviate
from the preferred format as long as all the crucial information is presented. Keep in
mind that a good position paper will present and back-up proposals for resolutions
based on country policy. This is the most important part of the paper. The following is
the favored format outline:
1. Cover page
a. Name of committee
b. Country flag+ Country name
c. Name of delegates
d. School
2. Introduction
a. This is a very brief summary of the countrys current status. Possibly list
some relevant facts that could potentially substantiate claims made later in
the paper. Should be no more than a short paragraph
3. Topic I- (Make sure to list the name of the topic as the heading)
a. Introduction
i. This section should be used to describe the issue based on further
research. Do not simply state facts found in the background guides,
the chair wants to see how you researched outside of the given
information. This is where delegates can reference previous UN
resolutions/laws if possible.
ii. Delegates should keep this section brief as well
b. Proposed solutions
i. This should be the meat of the paper. This includes specific policies
a country seeks to implement in order to resolve the issue. Adhere
to country policy when making claims. Organize this section into
paragraphs to make it easier to navigate during committee.
4. Topic II
a. Introduction
b. Proposed Solutions
5. Works Cited
a. Delegates should include a bibliography page giving credit to any and all
sources in MLA format.

Further Information
Delegates are requested to use a professional font e.g. times new roman, Calibri, etc.
and font size 11 or 12. There is no specific length requirement to the paper; as long as
all information is presented thoroughly and sufficiently, then the paper is acceptable.
Again, this guide is simply an outline, not a required/enforced format. Nonetheless,
delegates are urged to use information in this guide to their benefit.