Cleveland Council on World Affairs

Model United Nations Program

Chair Manual

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
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Introduction 3

Staff Expectations 4

Conduct of the Chair 6

Rules of Parliamentary Procedure 7

Model UN Glossary 14

Explanation of Rules from a Delegate’s Perspective 18

Points and Motions: Short Form Chart 20

Resolution and Amendment Writing 22

Sample Resolution 24

Formal Voting Procedure 25

Sample Committee Dialogue 26

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 Introduction

Thank you for volunteering at one of the annual Cleveland council on World Affairs Model United
Nations conferences. Without the volunteer participation of the chairs, co-chairs, observers, and
runners, CCWA would not be able to hold these conferences for area students. Thank you for your time
and effort to make this conference run smoothly!

While you may not be a participant in the committee sessions the way the delegates are, by no means is
the job of a chair and the rest of the leadership staff an easy one. One should have a good working
knowledge of parliamentary procedure, how a resolution should be written, and the rules of the
conference. The chair and the rest of the staff have the task of keeping committees running smoothly
and on schedule, and encouraging lively debate among the delegates. Finally, the chair and staff have
the final say on which delegates will walk away from the conference with awards. It is up to you and the
rest of the volunteer staff of your committee to evaluate delegates and recognize those who have
displayed a knowledge and level of discourse above the rest of their peers.

To help you in these tasks, this manual provides guidelines for parliamentary procedure, an overview of
committee session, and an explanation of scoring. Please read through this and refer to it as often as
needed to answer questions as they may arise from the students.

Good luck and thank you for all of your hard work.

-CCWA Staff

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 Staff Expectations

As a CCWA staff member, it is important to follow and remember a few key guidelines:
 Punctuality  Impartiality, fairness
 Appearance  Honesty
 Poise  Respectfulness

It is important for all staff to be on time, both at the beginning of the day and after each recess.
Professional dress is expected from both the students and staff; dress pants, dress shirts, dresses, and
sweaters are all acceptable attire. Jeans, T-shirts, tennis shoes, and distracting clothing are not permitted,
and detract from the experience of all present.

Staff, especially those acting as chairs and co-chairs, are expected to conduct themselves with poise. It
is often necessary to address multiple points or motions simultaneously, to contend with violations of
diplomatic courtesy, to field questions, and to approve resolutions. How the chairs and co-chairs handle
these challenges has an immense effect on the committee. The impartiality and honesty of those in the
committee sessions ensure fairness in the sessions, as well as in the scoring and awards.

Chairs

The role of the chair is to facilitate debate and to ensure that delegates follow the rules of parliamentary
procedure. Chairs also explain and clarify rules so that even novice delegates can feel comfortable
participating. Along with clarifying the rules and facilitating the flow of the committee sessions, the
chair also helps set the atmosphere of the simulation. The chair’s duties are:
 Being responsible for the orderly conduct and function of the body
 Taking roll call and maintaining attendance records
 Declaring the opening and closing of each session
 Ensuring observance of the rules of parliamentary procedure, including by:
○ Ruling on points and motions;
○ According the right to speak to delegates and enforcing speaking time limits; and
○ Guiding committee through difficult procedures, particularly voting procedure.
 Answering delegates’ questions
 Facilitating all other operations of the body, including observing the main conference schedule.

The chair also accords four privileges:

 Order: The chair will have complete control of the proceedings at any meeting and the
maintenance of order therein.
 Discretion: The chair has the discretion to entertain a motion, to deny a motion, or to decide that
a particular motion is appropriate or inappropriate.
 Delegation: The chair has the power to delegate authority to either a co-chair or any other
appropriate person.
 Format: The chair may require that any motion or request be submitted in writing.

The chair has significant influence on the atmosphere and ambiance of the committee. While it is
important to ensure the workings of the committee run smoothly and decorum is observed, lighter

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moments can be encouraged as well. While MUN is a serious learning experience, students should find
it pleasurable and fun.

Co-chairs

Co-chairs are responsible for the logistics of the committee session, as well as supporting the chair and
being ready to assume the responsibilities of the chair in the event the chair is unable to lead the
committee. Duties of the co-chair are as follows:
 Take attendance
 Record the votes
 Review resolutions
 Direct discussion, accord the right to speak, enforce and interpret the rules
 Advise delegates on the possible course of debate, and suggest motions when necessary

Observers

In some cases, observers may also be present during a committee session. Observers act as aids to the
chair and co-chair, fill in if there is an absence, and encourage the participation of novice delegates.
Observers also typically take notes on the score sheets during committee sessions, which are then used
by the chair and co-chair in deciding who should be chosen as award recipients. If there is no observer
in the committee, the chair and/or co-chair must take over these scoring responsibilities, as documented
proof of scoring decisions is required at the end of the conference.

Runners

The duties of a runner may overlap with those of a co-chair or observer, or may be the domain of
another person entirely. Runners are typically those volunteers who do not have much experience with
CCWA Model UN conferences, and so can have the opportunity to sit in on a committee session. They
are not required to know the rules of parliamentary procedure or scoring as do the chair, co-chair, and
observer, and so can learn how a session runs for future conferences, or if they are needed to fill in if
another volunteer cannot make it to the conference. Aside from being able to watch a committee
session, runners are in charge of making copies of all working papers, resolutions, and amendments that
a committee may need, and can find CCWA staff members if a problem occurs. This allows the chair
and co-chair to concentrate on what is happening during the committee session, and for the whole
experience to run smoothly. Runners are encouraged, just as the rest of the staff is, to ask the students
questions during moderated caucus and breaks in order to encourage the student thought process, and to
learn more themselves as the conference progresses.

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 Conduct of the Chair

USE OF THE GAVEL

The gavel is a powerful tool of the chair. Light taps are used to signify that a delegate should wrap up a
speech, while slightly heavier taps indicate the end of the speaking time limit. The gavel may also be
used to call for “decorum,” or quietness in the committee, but it should be used sparingly for this
purpose so the chair may avoid an overbearing presence.

UNBIASED CONDUCT
It is difficult but important for the chair to avoid showing any bias. It is always important to engage
those students who don’t speak much. However, even when many students who have not previously
spoken decide to participate, it is important not to neglect those who have spoken often.

GUIDE DEBATE
If the committee seems slow to take a specific course of action that the chair deems fit or necessary
(such as motioning for recesses or introductions of resolutions), the chair should interject by stating that
“The chair would now look favorably upon ____,” detailing the desired motion. Also, a chair must
remember that if there are no yields after a formal speech, the chair must open the floor to comments. If
certain students refrain from speaking, it is good for the chair to encourage them to participate.

INTERPRET RULES
Points of Order and Privilege (if the current speaker cannot be heard) are in order at any time, including
interrupting a speaker. Points of Inquiry/Information can be made any time somebody is not speaking.
Motions can be made only when the committee is in formal debate. Motions are not in order during
moderated or unmoderated caucus.

If a motion is made at an improper time or would not be worthwhile, the chair should rule the motion
“dilatory,” meaning out of order, or literally, time wasting.

MAINTAIN ORDER (“DECORUM”)

Delegates may pass notes at all times except during formal voting procedure. The passing of notes
should not be disruptive.

If a delegate makes a valid Point of Privilege to leave the room, they may. Delegates don’t need to ask
to go to the bathroom; they should just leave. Delegates may also go into the hall in order to work on a
resolution (double delegations must leave one delegate in the room). Delegates are not permitted to
leave the building at any time unless under the approval of their faculty advisor.
 Rules of Parliamentary Procedure
Adapted from the Lake Erie International Model United Nations corporation (LEIMUN)

Article 1 - Official Language

The only official language for the conferences is English. All formal business shall be conducted in English.

Article 2 - Rule Priorities

These rules are the only official rules of the conference. Matters not delineated in these rules shall be governed according to
the United Nations Charter or other governing document.

Article 3 - Interpretation of the Rules

If a dispute over the interpretation of these Rules arises, final interpretation of these rules, the United Nations Charter,
international treaties, and all portions of international law shall be considered. The final interpretation is not subject to appeal.

Article 4 - Appeal of the Ruling of the chair

A delegate may appeal the ruling of the chair, except as provided for in these rules. The motion to appeal must be made
immediately following the ruling in question, and must be seconded. The chair shall speak briefly in favor of the ruling, and
the delegate making the motion shall speak briefly against the ruling. The chair shall then put the question as follows: "Shall
the decision of the chair be sustained?" A "YES" vote signifies support for the ruling of the chair. A "NO" vote signifies
opposition to the ruling of the chair. The decision of the chair is sustained, unless a majority of the members of the body cast
their votes in opposition.

Article 5 - Powers of the chair

1. The chair shall be responsible for the orderly conduct and function of the body, ensuring observance of these Rules,
and ruling on Points of Order.
2. The chair shall have the responsibility of facilitating the operations of the body.
3. The chair shall declare the opening and closing of each session.
4. The chair shall accord the right to speak, call the roll, maintain attendance records, put questions, and announce
decisions.
5. The chair shall not be accorded a vote.
6. The rulings of the chair are subject to appeal, except as specifically delineated elsewhere in these Rules.

Article 6 - Quorum
1. A quorum shall always consist of a majority of the assigned member nations in each committee. A quorum is
required before the body may begin the conduct of business. After determining the presence of a quorum, it is
assumed that quorum is present, unless specifically challenged by a Quorum Check.
2. If at any time a delegate feels that a quorum is not present, the delegate may make a Point of Order to call for a
Quorum Check. The chair shall immediately ensure that a quorum is present by asking for a show of placards. If a
quorum is present, business shall continue at the point where the Quorum Check was called. If a quorum is not
present, the chair shall declare the body to be recessed until a quorum is present.
3. The Point of Order to call for a Quorum Check may interrupt the speaker. If a quorum is present, the speaker shall
proceed as normal. If a quorum in not present, the chair shall recognize the interrupted speaker, with a full allotment
of speaking time, as the first order of business when returning from the recess.

Article 7 - Roll Call Procedure

1. The chair will call the roll for the purposes of establishing quorum at the beginning of each session. Members who
desire to be considered present shall reply "present" when the name of their delegation is called. No members may
be announced by proxy. A reply of "present and voting" requires the member to vote in the affirmative or negative
on any substantive matter.
2. The chair will have the time of the last roll call posted. Delegations who were not considered present at the time of
the last roll call and wish to be accorded full voting rights, must submit a note, in writing, to the chair requesting that
they be considered present.
Article 8 - Procedural Voting
1. Each delegation shall have one vote. A procedural vote is one that applies to the actions of the committee rather than
to policy or resolutions pertaining to policy.
2. No member may cast a vote by proxy or on behalf of another member country.
3. Procedural motions shall pass with the affirmative votes of a majority of the members of the committee.

Article 9 - Setting the Agenda

1. The body shall set its own Agenda, deciding between the two topics members have researched. Debate will begin
with two speakers for and two speakers against the motion, and a choice will be made with the affirmative votes of
the majority of the members.
2. If, after a time, the chair determines that the body is unable to settle upon a single Agenda Topic, the chair shall
conduct a vote between the two topic areas receiving the most votes. In case of a tie, the chair shall cast the deciding
vote. In terms of agenda setting, we use only the two topics selected for the committee by our staff.
3. Once the topic area is disposed of, a new Agenda Topic will then be selected in the above manner.

Article 10 - Speakers List

1. A Speakers List shall be opened automatically, by the chair, following the setting of an Agenda Topic, for the purpose
of debate in all substantive manners pertaining to the Agenda Topic. The Speakers List will be established by a show
of placards.
2. After the initial list is established, any member wishing to be added to the Speakers List, providing they are not
currently on the Speakers List, shall notify the chair in writing.
3. A Speakers List is established for each individual topic and the Speakers List expires when a topic is tabled or
adjourned or whenever a resolution has passed.
4. When the Speakers List is exhausted, debate is automatically closed on the Topic Area. The body immediately moves
into Voting Procedures on the proposals on the floor.
5. A delegate may move to close the Speakers List whenever the floor is open. This motion requires a second. If there is
opposition, it is debatable to the extent of one speaker for and against the motion, and passes with the affirmative
votes of a majority of the members. If the motion passes, the chair will permit no additions to the Speakers List.
6. A delegate may move to reopen a closed Speakers List whenever the floor is open. This motion requires a second. If
there is opposition, it is debatable to the extent of one speaker for and against the motion, and passes with the
affirmative votes of a majority of the members.

Article 11 - Speeches and Debate

1. No delegate may address the body without the permission of the chair.
2. The chair shall call upon speakers in accordance with the Speaker’s List.
3. Delegations comprised of more than one delegate may share allotted speaking time among members of the same
delegation provided they do so in accordance with conference Policies.
4. Speeches must be given while seated or standing next to the delegation’s assigned position or from a point designated
by the chair.
5. The chair shall call a speaker to order if: the delegate’s remarks are frivolous, dilatory, or not germane to the set
Agenda Topic under discussion; the delegation’s allotted time has expired; or the speaker’s remarks are directed to a
personality or nation rather than the issue at hand.
6. The chair may recognize two delegates other than the speaker to comment on any substantive speech. comments are
limited to thirty seconds and are only in order after substantive speeches without yields, and are considered part of
the substantive speech. comments may not be yielded and must be germane to the speech they are commenting
upon.

Article 12 - Caucus
1. A delegate may move for a caucus whenever the floor is open. The motion for a caucus must include a reference to
the type of caucus requested (moderated or unmoderated), a time limit, and the purpose of the caucus.
2. This motion requires a second, is not debatable, and passes with the affirmative votes of a majority of the members.
3. A caucus is the complete suspension of all rules in order to discuss the business at hand. conference Policies remain
in effect at all times. During a moderated caucus, the Moderator will have the sole authority to grant speaking rights
in the caucus.
 4. The chair will call the body back to order at the appointed time. The body may not reconvene from a caucus early,
unless all delegations are present and there is unanimous consent. The time for a caucus may be extended at the
chair’s discretion.

Article 13 - Limit or Extend Speeches

1. Whenever the floor is open, a delegate may move to further limit or extend the amount of time each delegation may
speak while on the Speakers List. This time limit remains in effect for the remainder of the conference, unless it is
changed in accordance with this Rule. This motion requires a second. If there is opposition, it is debatable to the
extent of one speaker for and against the motion, and passes with the affirmative votes of a majority of the members
of the body.
2. Once a particular speaker’s time has expired, a member of another delegation may move to have that particular
speaker’s time extended. The motion to extend the speaker’s time requires a second, is not debatable, and passes
with the affirmative vote of a majority of the members of the body. Extended time may not be yielded, except to the
chair. Time yielded to another delegation may not be extended. The chair shall permit a single extension, of a time
determined at the discretion of the chair, not to exceed two minutes.

Article 14 - Yields
A delegation that is on the Speaker's List and has been granted the right to speak, may yield the remainder of their allotted
time in one of the following ways:
1. To The chair: A delegate may at any time conclude the delegation’s speech by yielding to the chair. Upon doing so,
the entire delegation shall retake their seats.
2. To Another Delegate: A delegation may yield unused time to another delegation. The intention to yield to another
delegation may be made at any time during the delegation’s speech. Time may not be yielded to more than one
delegation, and yielded time may not be yielded again, except to the chair.
3. To Questions: A delegation may yield to questions at the conclusion of the delegation’s speech. The chair shall
recognize delegates to ask questions of the speaker. A delegate recognized to ask a question shall be limited to
asking only one question. Only one member of the speaking delegation may answer a question, but that member
may change from question to question. A delegation shall only be assessed for time that is actually spent answering a
question. A delegation that has yielded time to questions yields to questions from all delegates recognized by the
chair. A delegation may still yield to the chair at any time. Time yielded to questions may be extended, but may not
be yielded again, except to the chair.

Article 15 - Points
1. A delegate may interrupt with a Point whenever the floor is open. A delegate may only interrupt a speaker with a
Point of Order or Personal Privilege, only when the Point directly concerns the speech being interrupted. A delegate
raising a Point may not speak on the substance of the matter at hand, but may be granted time to make a short
statement concerning the Point. If the chair feels that Points are being used to disrupt or delay the orderly conduct of
business, the chair may rule that they must be submitted in writing for a specific period of time. This decision is not
subject to appeal.
2. Point of Personal Privilege: A delegate may raise a Point of Personal Privilege whenever the delegate experiences
personal discomfort that impairs the delegate’s ability to participate in the proceedings, except as specifically
delineated elsewhere in these in these Rules. The chair shall make every reasonable effort to rectify the situation.
3. Point of Order: A delegate may raise a Point of Order whenever the delegate believes that these Rules are being
violated. The chair will then immediately rule on the Point of Order.
4. Point of Information: A delegate may raise a Point of Information whenever the delegate desires to make an inquiry
to the chair concerning these Rules, the state of business (past, present, and future); or any other relevant question
pertaining to “conference matters.”

Article 16 - Rights of Reply

A delegate whose personal or national integrity has been impugned by an extraordinary comment of another delegate may
request a Right of Reply. The Right of Reply is requested by making a Point of Personal Privilege immediately following the
offending speech. A delegate may not interrupt a speaker with a Point of Personal Privilege to request a Right of Reply. The
chair’s decision whether to grant the Right of Reply is discretionary, not debatable, and not subject to appeal. Once granted,
the Right of Reply may be limited in length by the chair. The only yield in order will be a yield to the chair. A Right of Reply
may not be made to a Right of Reply.
Article 17- Precedence
1. The chair may accord itself precedence for the purpose of clarifying rules or explaining any business before the body.
2. Parliamentary points that may interrupt the speaker are always considered immediately by the chair once they are
recognized.
3. Motions shall have the following precedence:
a. Privileged Motions
i. Motion to Recess
ii. Motion to Adjourn
iii. Motion to Caucus
b. Subsidiary Motions
i. Motion to Limit or Extend Speaking Time
ii. Motion to Close or Reopen the Speakers List
iii. Motion to Table Debate
iv. Motion for Previous Question
v. Motion to Adjourn Debate
c. Main Motions
i. Motion to Introduce (a Resolution or Amendment)
ii. Motion to Take From the Table
iii. Motion to Reconsider
iv. Motion to Set the Agenda

Article 18 - Presenting Motions

1. If a delegation is recognized for the expressed purpose of speaking and desires to make a procedural motion, a
member of the delegation may do so at the end of the speech, provided that the delegation has not yet yielded. When
not speaking, a delegate may make a motion when the floor is open between speeches, but may not interrupt a
speaker, except as specifically delineated elsewhere in these Rules.
2. Its originator may withdraw a motion at any time before a vote has been taken on the motion. consideration of the
motion is immediately ended unless another member immediately assumes sponsorship of the motion.

Article 19 - Dilatory Motions

The chair may rule as dilatory (and therefore out of order) any motion that is frivolous or non-germane, and which is clearly
intended to disrupt or delay the normal function of the body. The chair’s rulings in these cases are not subject to appeal.

Article 20 - Working Papers

Delegates may propose working papers for the body’s consideration on the current Agenda Topic. Working papers are a
means of sharing ideas on the agenda topic in an organized manner. Working papers are not required to be in resolution
format, but may be copied and distributed at the chair’s discretion. Working papers shall be considered germane to the
Agenda Topic and therefore may be discussed and debated upon by Speakers on the Speakers List. They cannot be formally
introduced, amended, or voted on by the body.

Article 21 - Sponsorship of Motions and Resolutions

1. A delegation may become a signatory of a resolution at any time before any substantive votes have been taken with
consent of the sponsor.
2. A co-sponsor may drop their signature of a resolution at any time before any substantive votes have been taken.
3. When a sponsor or signatory of a resolution withdraws, another delegation may immediately assume the role of
sponsor or signatory, such that the proposal continues to have the minimum number of sponsors; otherwise the
proposal is considered withdrawn.
4. When a resolution is withdrawn, all proposed amendments to it are withdrawn also. A withdrawn resolution may be
resubmitted to the chair for approval, at a later time, as provided for in these Rules.

Article 22 - Resolutions
1. Multiple resolutions may be on the floor at any time.
2. To become a resolution, a working paper must explain the problem, include historical background and pose a
solution to the problem. 25% of the body’s members, rounded up, are required for signatories.
3. Once a working paper has had the appropriate number of sponsors registered with the chair, the sponsor may move to
introduce the working paper as a resolution whenever the floor is open. This motion is not seconded, debated, or
 voted upon. Once the motion is made, the resolution shall receive a designation by the chair, and is considered on
the floor for debate. The resolution is not read to the body, and no speaking time is accorded to the sponsor for
introduction.

Article 23 - Amendments to Resolutions

1. All amendments shall be submitted, in writing, to the chair. The sponsor may move to introduce the approved
amendments to the body when the floor is open.
2. Amendments that have the approval of the sponsor and all of the co-sponsors are considered friendly amendments
and automatically become a part of the underlying resolution when introduced by the sponsor.
3. If the approval of the sponsor and co-sponsors does not exist, the amendment becomes an unfriendly amendment,
provided it has one sponsor and 25% of the members, rounded up, as co-sponsors for the amendment (in the case of
a resolution). An unfriendly amendment is voted on during voting procedures prior to voting on the underlying
resolution. Unfriendly amendments to unfriendly amendments are out of order.
4. The chair may rule an amendment, which has the effect of negating the main thrust of the underlying resolution or
which bears no resemblance to the underlying resolution, out of order.

Article 24 - Previous Question

A delegate may move for the previous question, whether or not the Speakers List has been exhausted, provided that there is a
resolution on the floor, whenever the floor is open. The motion requires a second, is debatable to the extent of one speaker for
and against, and passes with the affirmative vote of a majority of the members. If the motion passes, the chair shall then
immediately declare the beginning of Voting Procedures for all proposals on the floor, in their order of introduction. If the
motion fails, debate continues at the point where the motion was made.

Article 25 - Division of the Question

1. A motion for division of the question shall be in order during Voting Procedures before any votes have been taken on
the resolution to be divided. A resolution may be divided into any number of groups of clauses, but no single clause
may be split, even along sub-clauses. The Preamble may not be subdivided.
2. A motion to divide the question must specifically state the division that is intended. This motion requires a second. If
there is objection, it is debatable to the extent of one speaker for and against, and passes with the affirmative votes of
a majority of the members.
3. If there is more than one motion to divide a resolution, the motion that most severely divides the proposal will have
precedence over the other motions for division. If two or more motions are equally severe the motion recognized
first by the chair shall have precedence.
4. Once a motion for division passes, all others will be ruled dilatory, and voting shall commence immediately in the
following manner:
a. The chair shall take a substantive vote on each division. Each division receiving affirmative votes of the
majority of the members shall be included in the final proposal.
b. Following the vote on each division, the chair shall immediately announce the results. If the division of the
resolution containing the Preamble is defeated, then the resolution as a whole is defeated, and votes are not
taken on the remaining divisions.
c. This process is repeated until each part of the divided resolution has been voted upon.
5. If all the operative clauses are defeated, then the resolution as a whole is defeated.
6. After all divisions have been voted upon, and if the resolution has not been defeated, the chair shall read the
resolution as revised and put the revised resolution as a whole to the body for a final substantive vote.

Article 26 - Voting Procedure

1. During Voting Procedures, there shall be no talking or passing of notes.
2. There shall be no interruptions, except for Points of Order, Personal Privilege, and Point of Information, or motions
pertaining to the method of voting.
3. During Voting Procedures, only conference staff may leave or enter the room.
4. Any delegate or observer who disrupts Voting Procedure shall be ruled dilatory, and therefore out of order.
5. The body shall first consider each of the unfriendly amendments on the floor in the order they were introduced. The
question to adopt an amendment shall be considered substantive.
6. Once all unfriendly amendments have been dealt with in turn, the body shall then consider the underlying resolution.
7. Voting procedures shall be considered concluded once the chair has announced the final vote on the underlying
resolution.
Article 27 - Substantive Voting
1. Voting shall normally be conducted by a show of placards. A delegate who wishes to question the outcome of a
substantive vote by placards may move for a roll call vote.
2. In the Security council, all substantive votes shall pass with the affirmative votes of a majority of the members and
the absence of a negative vote by one of the permanent members. In all other bodies, all substantive votes shall pass
with the affirmative vote of a majority of the members.
3. A motion for a roll call vote is in order only for substantive votes, and may be made before a substantive vote is to be
taken, or as described above. The motion does not require a second, is not debatable, and is not voted upon. The
motion for a roll call vote only affects a single substantive vote, and must be requested separately for different votes
taken during a single voting procedure.
4. The chair reading the roll in English alphabetical order shall conduct a roll call vote. As the name of each delegation
is called, the delegation shall reply, "Yes;" "Yes, With Rights (of Explanation)" "No;" "No, With Rights (of
Explanation)" "Abstain;" or "Pass".
5. Once the roll has been read through once, the chair will read the names of those delegations that replied, "Pass" in the
first round of voting. A delegation, which responds, "Pass" a second time, will be considered as Abstaining.
6. Once each delegation has voted, the chair will ask if any members wish to change their vote. A delegation that has
not previously requested Rights of Explanation may not do so at this point. A delegation that had chosen to abstain
or had chosen to pass twice may not choose to vote "Yes" or "No" at this point.
7. The chair will then recognize those delegations that requested Rights of Explanation in English alphabetical order.
These speeches may be limited in time by the chair, and may relate only to a specific explanation of the current vote.
8. The chair shall conclude the roll call vote by announcing the final tally of the votes, and whether the resolution has
been passed or defeated.
9. Once a resolution has passed, the Topic Agenda is adjourned. If the resolution fails, debate continues unless the
Speaker's List has been exhausted.

Article 28 - Tabling
1. A delegate may move to table a motion, resolution, or Agenda Topic whenever the floor is open. This motion requires
a second. If there is opposition, it is debatable to the extent of one speaker for and against the motion, and passes
with the affirmative votes of a majority of the members. No action or debate will be permitted on a motion,
resolution, or Agenda Topic that has been tabled until it has been taken from the table.
2. Whenever the floor is open, a delegate may move to resume debate on a motion, resolution, or topic that had
previously been tabled by moving to take it from the table. This motion requires a second. If there is opposition, it is
debatable to the extent of one speaker for and against the motion, and passes with the affirmative votes of two-thirds
(2/3) of the members.

Article 29 - Reconsideration of Resolutions

A delegate may move to reconsider a resolution immediately after a substantive vote has been taken on the resolution or any
time thereafter. This motion is only in order if a roll call vote was taken on the resolution, and may only be made by a
member of the prevailing side. This motion requires a second. If there is opposition, it is debatable to the extent of one
speaker for and against the motion, and passes with the affirmative votes of two-thirds (2/3) of the members.

Article 30 - Adjournment of Debate

The body may adjourn debate on the current topic area, closing that topic for the remainder of the conference. Upon
adjournment, all resolutions on the floor are withdrawn from consideration. The purpose of adjourning debate is to signify
that debate on the current topic area is concluded. This motion requires a second. If there is opposition, it is debatable to the
extent of one speaker for and against the motion, and passes with the affirmative votes of a majority of the members.

Article 31 - Recess and Adjournment

1. A recess is a set period of time during which no official business is conducted, and the presence of neither the
officials nor the delegates may be required. Once a period of recess has been set, it may not be shortened, except by
conference officials to bring the recess into conformity with the conference Schedule. When the meeting has
reconvened, the business of the meeting shall continue at the point where the recess occurred. This motion is
normally made at the end of a session.
2. Adjournment signifies that all business of the body contained in the Agenda has been completed. This motion is
normally made only at the last regular meeting of the conference.
3. The motions to Adjourn and to Recess each require a second, are not debatable, and pass with the affirmative votes of
the majority of the members. The chair may rule either of these motions dilatory, and this decision may not be
appealed.
 MODEL UN GLOSSARY
Abstention or Abstain from a vote – Declining to vote either affirmatively or negatively on a resolution.
It’s not possible to abstain if delegation gives “present and voting” as their status at roll call.

Amendments - Details or conditions added to resolutions. Friendly amendments require the support of
the sponsors in order for their addition to resolutions. Unfriendly amendments can be initiated by anyone
in the committee, but require a sponsor and co-sponsors and a majority vote to pass.

Bilateral v. Multilateral - Adjectives describing relations between states. Bilateral agreements or

treaties involving only two countries were characteristic of the pre-WWI period, while multilateral
relationships, involving more than two countries, are much more common today.

Bloc - A group of countries that form a logical combination because of geographical, economic, or
cultural considerations (e.g. G8, African bloc, Arab League).

Caucus - A forum for informal debate, where the rules of debate are suspended or partially suspended,
and delegates are able to gather in groups and freely discuss and work with one another. Caucuses can
be moderated, in which the chair calls on individuals to speak and the speaking list is not used, or
unmoderated, in which delegates are free to move about the room and talk and work together. Motions
and yields of all kinds are out of order during moderated and unmoderated caucuses.

Clauses - The individual sections of a resolution. They are of two types: preambulatory (at the
beginning of a resolution to introduce the issue, state concerns, and previous United Nation’s actions)
and operative, which set out solutions and initiatives for the committee to undertake. Operative clauses
are numbered.

Comments - If a delegate does not yield his/her time during a speech in formal debate, the chair may
recognize two delegates to make comments specifically on that speech.

Consensus – Obtaining widespread agreement on action. Establishing consensus is the goal of UN

resolutions and policy-making.

Dividing the Question – A motion in order during voting procedure. It allows the committee to vote on
operative clauses of a resolution separately, as the delegate who makes the motion specifies (e g. Motion
to divide the question, to consider Clauses 1 and 3 together, but the rest individually). This is useful if
you agree with one part of a resolution but not the whole thing.

Draft Resolution – The term for a resolution that has been formally introduced to the committee but has
not yet been voted on in committee session. See “Resolution.”

Foreign Aid - Money given by one government to another for humanitarian or developmental purposes.
It plays a key role in shaping many countries’ foreign policy. Non-governmental organizations are also
key donors; their contributions may be given to governments or to individuals/groups within a country.
Today, however, states may be more interested in receiving foreign direct investment, through which
foreign citizens and companies may locate companies and businesses within the country and employ its
citizens.
Foreign Policy - The attitudes and interests of a state towards external issues. Foreign policy can be
influenced by a variety of factors such as military strength, trading partners, history, domestic
government, and the interests of groups within the country.

Formal Debate – the “default” type of debate. In Formal Debate, the committee follows a speakers’ list,
with strict time limits on speaking time. Speakers must also formally yield any of their remaining time to
the chair, another delegation, or questions. Most points and motions are in order in formal debate.

G8 (Group of Eight) - A body comprised of eight of the world’s most powerful nations: Canada, the
U.S., U.K., France, Italy, Japan, Germany, and Russia. Yearly meetings enable the leaders of these
nations to establish more personal relationships and discuss issues.

Global Financial Institutions - Recognizing the importance of economic factors in ensuring peace and
human rights, the UN helped to sponsor these institutions shortly after WWII. Though they operate
independently from the UN, they often work in consultation with various UN bodies. The International
Monetary Fund (IMF) is primary concerned with the stability of the world’s financial systems and
currency controls, while the World Bank awards loans and grants to countries to alleviate poverty.
Though both include members of most of the world’s states, they rely primarily on richer countries for
their funding. The World Trade Organization (WTO) brings its members together to negotiate
reductions in tariffs and other barriers to trade and to enforce the members’ agreements. Supporters
praise the enormous growth in the volume of worldwide trade since the establishment of these
institutions, while detractors criticize rich country dominance in making policy, and insufficient concern
for labor and the environment.

Lobbying – Refers to informal caucusing between a small group of delegates, usually outside the
committee room while debate is still in progress.

Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) - Accepted by most countries in 2000, these goals are guiding
the work of the United Nations, the World Bank, and other global and national institutions. They
include the halving of absolute poverty, establishing worldwide universal elementary school education,
protecting the environment and human rights, meeting the special needs of Africa, and reforming the UN
by 2015.

Motions - Motions can only be made in formal debate. They allow a delegate to petition the committee
to change the status quo (e.g., motion for a moderated caucus . . . .), or allow a delegate to ask for or
give information (e.g., motion to comment). A full list of motions is available in the CCWA Model UN
Rules of Parliamentary Procedure.

NGOs (Non-governmental Organizations) - Organizations or associations that are not associated with a
specific country or international political organization. Their aims can be broad (World Vision
International, Amnesty International, Greenpeace) or quite specific (Doctors Without Borders). The UN
has a history of working closely with NGOs, especially on humanitarian projects.
Non-Members or Observer States - Countries which either do not belong to the UN or which have not
been admitted to the UN. Current Observer States include Kosovo and the Vatican.

Placard - Sign stating the name of a delegate’s country, which is used to gain recognition from the chair
and to cast votes.

Points – Points can be raised in formal or informal debate. They allow a delegate to ask for information
or accommodation from the chair (NOT from fellow committee members!). There are only two points
that can interrupt a speech: Point of Personal Privilege (if there is too much noise, heat/cold, etc.) and
Point of Order (if a member believes a rule has been violated). Consult the CCWA Model UN Rules of
Parliamentary Procedure for a complete list and rules governing them.

Position Paper - A written statement by a delegate on a particular agenda topic, outlining one’s foreign
policy, proposed solutions, and alternatives. Two position papers (one on each assigned topic) are
required from each delegation prior to a conference.

Regional Organizations - Regional organizations are specifically permitted by the UN Charter and may
be economic, political, or a combination of the two. Frequently, they work in combination with the UN
but they may also be tasked by the UN to carry out a specific function. Some of the better-known
economic regional institutions are the European Union (EU), which has increasingly played a political
role; the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC); and the North American Free Trade
Organization (NAFTA). Political regional institutions include the North Atlantic Treaty Organization
(NATO), the Organization of American States (OAS), the Arab League, and the African Union (AU).

Resolution - A statement of policy accepted/rejected by various bodies or committees of the United

Nations. Resolutions contain a preamble, ambulatory clauses, and operative clauses.

Right of Reply- Used only in formal debate when a delegate feels another debater has insulted and/or
slandered their country or them personally. Rights of reply must be submitted to the chair in writing.

Roll Call - A motion made in voting procedure to individually call out each country’s name for their
vote. A delegate can vote: yes, yes with rights, no, no with rights, abstain, or pass. A country that passes
will be asked to vote again at the end of the list, but then cannot abstain.

Sovereignty - The right of a state to control its own territory and its own citizens without interference
from other bodies. Security Council members are often particularly protective of their sovereignty and
may use the threat or fear of loss of sovereignty to vote against or veto (if applicable) a draft resolution.

Speakers’ List - In formal debate, the chair follows the speaker’s list to recognize delegates. A country’s
name can’t be listed on it more than once.

Sponsor/Co-sponsor - Working papers and draft resolutions require one sponsor (the main author), and
co-sponsors representing 25% of the committee. Being a co-sponsor does not necessarily mean being in
support of the ideas presented, but being in favor of introducing the working paper formally to the
committee for a full debate.
Veto - The five permanent members of the Security Council (U.S., U.K., France, Russia and China) are
said to exercise their veto when they vote “no” on a draft resolution. If any of the five permanent
members cast their veto (i.e., vote “no” or “no with rights”), then the resolution automatically fails to
pass, no matter how many other supporters it has.

WMD - Refers to weapons of mass destruction whether they are nuclear, chemical, or biological.
Eliminating and controlling these weapons has been and continues to be a primary concern of the United
Nations.

Working Paper - Sometimes referred to as an “idea paper”, it is drawn up in the form of a resolution but
has not yet been formally introduced to the committee. Its status as a “working paper” allows for
sponsors and co-sponsors to continue making changes without having to go through the amendment
process. Their overall purpose is to set out specific solutions or policy stances on an issue that can be
debated within the committee.

Yield - In formal debate, delegates must yield their time at the end of a speech in one of three ways: to
the chair (once the speech is over the chair takes the floor and moves on with the speaker’s list); to
questions (delegates can ask the speaker questions for the speaker’s remaining time), or to another
delegate (another speaker uses up the remaining time to give a speech, but cannot yield themselves.)

(Information taken and adapted from: http://www.cowac.org/textmuntools.html)

 Explanation of Rules
From a Delegate’s Perspective

A. Beginning the first session: “Motion to set the agenda at topic ____”
1. Process:
a. This motion requires two speakers for and two against
b. Speakers list is automatically opened by the chair.
i. NOTE: Delegates must raise placards to be placed on the speakers
list, or send a note to the chair. Delegates cannot motion to be
placed on list.
c. After two speakers for and two speakers against have spoken, a vote is
taken on the motion.
2. Relevant motions, points, and yields:
a. Motions: limit/extend speaking time
b. Points: order, information, personal privilege
c. Yields: to the chair, another delegate, questions

B. Formal debate: once a topic is set, the committee is automatically in formal

consideration/debate; this is the default state for the committee.
1. Process:
a. The chair opens a new speakers list. Speaking time is automatically set to
30 seconds unless a motion to change it is on the table.
2. Some reasons to use it:
b. To make introductory speeches
c. To bolster support for your draft resolution
3. Relevant motions, points, and yields:
a. Motions: limit/extend speaking time; caucus
b. Points: order, information, personal privilege
c. Yields: to the chair, another delegate, questions, comments

C. Informal debate: Moderated caucus: the chair recognizes delegates to speak when they
raise their placards. Purpose, speaking time, and length of caucus must be set by delegate when the
caucus is motioned for, and cannot be altered later.
1. Some reasons to use it:
a. To start identifying and solving problems connected to the agenda topic
b. To make sure that more delegates have a chance to express their views to
the committee
2. Relevant motions, points, and yields:
a. Motions: out of order
b. Points: order, information, personal privilege
c. Yields: out of order

D. Informal Debate: Unmoderated caucus: the chair suspends formal rules for a period of
time and for a purpose specified by the delegate who made the motion.
1. Some reasons to use it:
a. To work on draft resolutions
 b. To get support for ideas, clauses, resolutions

E. Introducing and voting on a resolution: (please see rules for all details)
2. Introduction of resolution:
a. Sponsor moves to introduce as a resolution
b. Friendly amendments: amendments submitted to the chair in writing that
have the support of all listed (sponsor and co-sponsors). They are
automatically added to the resolution.
c. Unfriendly amendments: amendments submitted to the chair in writing
that do not have the support of the sponsor and co-sponsors. Each
unfriendly amendment must have a sponsor of its own, and 1/4 of the
committee as its own co-sponsors. These are not automatically added to
the resolution, but are voted on prior to the resolution.
3. Voting procedure:
a. Process:
i. If motion for closure of debate passes or the speakers lists ends,
then the committee moves into voting procedure and the room is
locked down (no entries/exits, note passing, phone use, etc.) until
the committee votes.
ii. consideration of unfriendly amendments, in the order in which they
were introduced
iii. consideration of resolutions, in the order in which they were
introduced
b. NOTE: Once the committee is in voting procedure, ALL unfriendly
amendments and resolutions on the floor must be voted on
4. Relevant motions, points, and yields:
a. Motions: division of the question, roll call vote
b. Points: order, information, personal privilege
c. Yields: out of order

F.Post-voting:
1. After passing at least one resolution: the topic is automatically concluded and the
committee reverts to formal consideration.
a. Relevant motions, points, and yields:
i. Motions: set the agenda
ii. Points: order, information, personal privilege
iii. Yields: to the chair, another delegate, questions
2. After voting down all resolutions on the floor: the committee reverts to formal debate
and a motion to go on to the next topic is needed to continue.
b. Relevant Motions, Points, and Yields:
i. Motions: table the topic
ii. Points: order, information, personal privilege
iii. Yields: to the chair, another delegate, questions
20 of 36
 Points and Motions: Short Form Chart
Adapted from the Lake Erie International Model United Nations corporation (LEIMUN)
Motion Purpose Rule Needs Interrupt Debatable Amendable Vote
Second Speaker Needed

Points

Personal Privilege Experiencing personal discomfort that impairs the Art. 18 N/A Yes* N/A N/A N/A
ability to participate

Right of Reply (as a In order if a delegate’s personal or national integrity Art. 16 N/A No N/A N/A N/A
Personal Privilege) has been impugned in the course of debate; must be
made right after statement; chair sets length of time;
only yield to chair

Order Rules are being violated, or call for a quorum check Art. 18 N/A Yes* N/A N/A N/A

Information Make an inquiry to the chair concerning these Rules, Art. 18 N/A No N/A N/A N/A
the state of business, or any other relevant question on
conference matters

Privileged Motions

Recess A set period of time during which no official business Art. 34 Yes No No No Majority
is conducted

Adjourn All business of the body has been completed Art. 34 Yes No No No Majority

Caucus complete suspension of all rules to discuss the Art. 15 Yes No No No Majority
business at hand

Subsidiary Motions

Limit or Extend Change the amount of time each delegation may Art. 16 Yes No 1f: 1a Yes Majority
Speaking Time speak while on the Speakers List

Close or Reopen the Close or Reopen the Speakers List Art. 13 Yes No 1f: 1a No Majority
Speakers List

Table Debate Table a motion, resolution, recommendation, or Art. 31 Yes No 1f: 1a No Majority
Agenda Topic

Close Begin Voting Procedure for all proposals on the floor Art. 27 Yes No 1f: 1a No Majority
Debate/Previous
Question

Question competence Questions the competence of the body to discuss a Art. 11 Yes No 2f: 2a No Majority
21 of 36
Motion Purpose Rule Needs Interrupt Debatable Amendable Vote
Second Speaker Needed

proposal

Adjourn Debate Closes the topic area for the remainder of the Art. 33 Yes No 1f: 1a No Majority
conference

Main Motions

Introduce Submit a resolution or recommendation to the body Art. 25 No No No No N/A

Take from the Table Take from the table any motion, resolution, Art. 31 Yes No 1f: 1a No 2/3
recommendation, or Agenda Topic

Set the Agenda Choose an Agenda Topic to discuss Art. 12 Yes No 2f: 2a Yes Majority

Incidental Motions (incidental to a specific situation and take precedence at that time)

Appeal the Ruling of Overrule a specific decision made by the chair. Art. 4 Yes No chair f: 1a No Majority
the chair opposed

Divide the Question Take separate votes on different clauses of a Art. 28 Yes No 1f, 1a No Majority
resolution. Most severe division gets precedence.

Roll Call Vote Vote by calling each member nation individually. Art. 30 No No No No N/A

b. Moderated Caucusing
PRECEDENDE OF MOTIONS c. Suspension of the Meeting
6. Adjournment of the Meeting
1. Parliamentary Points 7. Motions applicable to the matter under consideration
2. Points which may interrupt a speaker a. Tabling of Debate
a. Points of Personal Privilege b. Closure of Debate
b. Points of Order c. competence
3. Points which are in order only when the floor is open d. Division of the Question
a. Points of Parliamentary Inquiry 8. Substantive motions
b. Rights of Reply a. Introduction of Resolutions
4. Procedural Motions b. Introduction of Amendments
5. Motions which are not debatable 9. Other procedural motions
a. Caucusing a. Time Limit on Speeches

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 Resolution and Amendment Writing
NOTE: There are no pre-written resolutions At CCWA Model UN conferences!

RESOLUTION WRITING
A resolution is written in the form of a long sentence. The following numbers correspond with sections
of the Sample Resolution on the next page.

1. The resolution’s name will be assigned by the chair and is determined by the topic and the order in
which it was introduced to the committee. For example, if the committee is on Topic B and the
resolution is the third to be submitted, it receives the appellation: Resolution B/3.

2. The committee name, sponsor, signatories, and topic should be written against the top left margin, in
that order.
● The Sponsor is the delegation who is the lead writer and supporter of the
resolution.
● Signatories are those who want to see the resolution debated on the floor, but who
do not necessarily favor the resolution.

3. A resolution needs at least 1/4 of the committee signed on as either a sponsor or signatory.

4. Preambulatory clauses begin with an underlined word and end with a comma.
● These clauses address the problem being discussed, recall past actions taken,
explain the purpose of the resolution, and offer support for the operative clauses.

Perambulatory Phrases
Acknowledging Deeply convinced Guided By Noting with satisfaction
Affirming Deeply disturbed Having adopted Noting with zest
Alarmed by Deeply regretting Having considered Observing
Approving Desiring Having considered further Reaffirming
Aware of Emphasizing Having devoted attention Realizing
Bearing in mind Expecting Having examined Recalling
Believing Expressing its appreciation Having heard Recalling with concern
cognizant of Expressing its satisfaction Having received Recognizing
confident Fulfilling Having studied Referring
considering also Fully alarmed Hoping Seeking
contemplating Fully aware Keeping in mind Taking into account
convinced Fully believing Noting further Taking into consideration
Declaring Further deploring Noting with approval Taking note
Deeply concerned Further recalling Noting with deep concern Viewing with appreciation
Deeply conscious Gravely concerned Noting with regret Welcoming

23 of 36
5. Operative clauses begin with a number and an underlined word, and end with a semicolon. The
exception is the last line of the resolution, which should end in a period.
● These clauses develop the solution to the problem recognized in the
Preambulatory clauses.
● The terms “condemn” and “demand” may be used ONLY in the Security council.

Operative Clauses

Accepts Decides Further invites Renews

Affirms Declares accordingly Further proclaims Regrets
Appeals Demands** Further Recommends Requests
Approves Deplores Further reminds Resolves
Authorizes Designates Further requests Solemnly affirms
Calls Draws attention Has resolved Strongly condemns**
Calls for Emphasizes Notes Supports
Calls upon Encourages Offers Takes note of
commends Endorses Proclaims Transmits
condemns** Expresses its appreciation Reaffirms Trusts
congratulates Expresses its hope Recommends Urges
confirms Further endorses Reminds **Security council only

6. Before a working paper can be submitted as a resolution, it must have at least 1/4 of the committee
as sponsor and signatories. The sponsor must motion to introduce the resolution.

AMENDMENT WRITING
An amendment is an addition to a resolution.

1. An amendment needs to be written in the correct format: each additional preamble or operative
clause must be written the same as if they were submitted in a resolution (see guidelines above).
2. Each amendment needs at least 1/4 of the committee signed as sponsor and signatories.
• Friendly amendments are amendments approved by the sponsor and signatories
of the resolution. If they give their approval, then the amendment is friendly and
is automatically added to the resolution.
• Unfriendly amendments are amendments not approved by the sponsor and
signatories of the resolution. They are voted on during formal voting procedure.

24 of 36
 Sample Resolution
Resolution A/3

LEGAL COMMITTEE
TOPIC A: THE IMMIGRATION OF PEOPLE WITH HIV/AIDS
RESOLUTION A/1
Signatories: Angola, Brazil, France, India, Kazakhstan, Lithuania, Malaysia,
South Africa, Zimbabwe

The Legal Committee,

Recognizing the plight of peoples throughout the world infected by HIV/AIDS,

Aware of the rapid spread of HIV/AIDS within and among countries,

Recalling Article 13.2 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights: “Everyone has the right to
leave any country, including his own, and return to his country,”

Reaffirming the principle of national sovereignty,

1. Requests that all citizens of all states be granted the minimum international human rights
standards affirmed by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights;

2. Deplores any state that impedes the basic human rights of and the internal movement of
its citizens that are infected with HIV/AIDS;

3. Notes that the Universal Declaration of Human Rights permits peoples suffering from
persecution to seek asylum in other countries;

4. Further notes that the above mentioned right may only be invoked in cases of political
persecution;

5. Reaffirms that sovereign states have the right to deny entry into their countries;

6. Proclaims that all states have the right to control the entry of all individuals into their
borders and to decide which applicants for citizenship in their state may become full
citizens of that state;

7. Reminds the members of the UN that HIV-positive testing is an inefficient and expensive
means of policing national borders;

8. Urges all states to pursue compassionate and humanitarian policies toward the victims of
HIV/AIDS;

9. Affirms to remain actively seized of the matter.

25 of 36
 Formal Voting Procedure

If the Speakers’ List runs out, or the committee motions to close debate, debate can be closed and the
committee moves to voting procedure on any resolutions. In voting procedure, there is no talking, note
passing, or moving around by the delegates. Doors to the committee room should be sealed, and no one
allowed in or out (unless it is an emergency).

Voting can be in the form of placard voting, when the chair asks who is ‘for’, who is ‘against’, and who
‘abstains’, and the delegates raise their placards for each.

Roll call voting occurs only when there is a motion to do so. The chair goes down the roll call list and
each country in turn says ‘yes’, ‘no’, ‘yes with rights’, ‘no with rights’, ‘pass’, or ‘abstain’. Any country
whose is’ present and voting’ may not abstain; any country that passes is asked its vote at the end, and if
it passes again they are counted as having abstained. If any country votes with rights, they are allowed
30 seconds before the tally is counted to explain why they voted the way they did. They are also allowed
to change their vote. If a country abstains, this changes the number of votes needed to pass the
resolution, meaning you take them out of the total number of countries.

Unfriendly amendments are voted upon before the resolution in question is voted upon; therefore they
may not end up in the final resolution voted up.

A motion to ‘divide the question’ can be made to vote on specific clauses in a resolution; this is done,
and then the remaining clauses in the resolution are voted on as a whole as the new resolution. This only
applies to operative clauses, and at least one operative clause must exist in order for the resolution to
pass afterwards.

The committee can pass as many resolutions as it likes, and resolutions are voted upon in the order in
which they were introduced.

Resolutions pass if 1/2 of the committee (minus abstentions) votes yes.

In the Security Council, resolutions can only pass if all members of the ‘Big 5’ (US, UK, France, Russia,
and China) vote ‘yes.’ A vote of no by any of these countries is considered to be a ‘veto’ and the
resolution will not pass. If the Security council has at least 12 voting members, then a vote of yes by
nine countries is needed for a resolution to pass; otherwise the 1/2 rule can be in effect.

In the case where the first topic was tabled and the second topic was then debated and voted upon (or if
no resolutions are passed on the first), the committee can motion to revisit the first topic, time
permitting.

At the end of voting on the first topic, a speakers list is opened for the new topic and the entire process is
repeated.

Page 26
 Sample Committee Dialogue

Here you will find a short walkthrough of what is likely to happen during a Model UN committee
meeting. Your committee meetings will not necessarily happen exactly like this, but this can be a good
way to familiarize yourself with the way it MIGHT happen.

Note – The chair and the co-chair will often share duties in agreement with the rules and fitting their
style. In this simulation, for simplicity, all talking is done by the chair.

OPENING MEETING

The chair may introduce him- or her-self and let the other members of the staff do the same. After
introductions, the session will commence...

Chair: All right, we will now begin with roll call. I will read off an alphabetized list, so please say
“Present” when I call your country’s name. Afghanistan?

Afghanistan: Present.

Chair: Australia?

Australia: Present and voting.

The chair goes through the rest of the roll call.

Chair: We have 25 delegates present. So 13 positive votes will be required for a majority, and 17 will
be needed for any motions requiring a 2/3 majority.

AGENDA

Chair: We are in formal debate, are there any points or motions on the floor?

Chilean Delegate raises his placard

Chair: To what point do you rise, delegate?

Chile: I move to set the agenda to Topic A.

Chair: The delegate from Chile has moved to set the agenda to topic A. Is there a second?

Several placards go into the air.

Chair: Is there opposition?

Page 27
Several placards go up.

Chair: Seeing opposition, we will now establish a Speaker’s List for and against setting the agenda to
topic A. All those wishing to speak in favor of setting the agenda to topic A, please raise your placard
now. (The chair notes France and Russia). All those wishing to speak against, please raise your placard.
(The chair notes China and Pakistan). Any further additions to the list? Seeing none, delegate from
France you have one minute.

French delegate speaks.

Chair: Thank you, delegate. Are there any points or motions on the floor at this time? Seeing none,
delegate from China, you have 1 minute.

China speaks, followed by Russia and Pakistan.

Chair: Thank you, delegate. We will now vote on the setting the agenda to topic A. I remind the
committee that as this is a procedural matter, all delegations must vote. All those in favor of setting the
agenda to topic A please raise your placards.

Placards are raised and the dais staff counts the number.

Chair: All those opposed to setting the agenda to topic A, please raise your placards.

Placards are raised and the dais staff counts the number.

Chair: That motion passes with a vote of 16 in favor and 9 opposed. The agenda is now set to topic A.

FORMAL DEBATE

Chair: We are in formal debate; are there any points or motions at this time? ... Seeing none, all those
wishing to be added to the Speaker’s List, please raise your placard. (The chair calls out names to the
dais staff, who write them down on a list displayed so that all in the committee room can see it.) ...Any
points or motions? The first delegate on the list is the United States; you have 1 minute, delegate.

The delegate speaks, and yields remaining time to the UK at the end of his speech. The UK finishes and
yields to Germany.

Chair: Delegate, you are out of order. You may not yield after you have already been yielded to. Please
take your seat. Thank you, delegates. Any points or motions?

Togo delegate raises his placard.

Chair: Togo, to what point do you rise?

Page 28
Togo: Motion to set the speaker’s time limit to one minute, thirty seconds.

Chair: That is in order. Is there a second?

A few placards go up.

Chair: Seeing seconds – Is there opposition?

Additional placards go up.

Chair: Seeing opposition, we will take a vote. All those in favor of extending the speakers’ time to one
minute, thirty seconds, please raise your placards.

A few placards go up.

Chair: All those opposed, please raise your placards.

A large number of placards go up.

Chair: That motion clearly fails; the speaker’s time limit will remain set at one minute. Any other
points or motions? Seeing none - Canada, you are recognized for one minute.

Several speakers speak according to the Speaker’s List. In the middle of the Russian Federation’s
speech, France’s placard goes up.

Chair: Excuse me delegate from the Russian Federation. Delegate from France, to what point do you
rise?

France: Point of Personal Privilege. could the delegate from the Russian Federation please speak up so
that the delegations in the back can hear?

Chair: Yes, duly noted. Will the delegate please try to speak louder?

The Russian Federation delegate complies, and continues speaking, louder.

Chair: Thank you, Russian Federation. Are there any points or motions?

The delegate from Libya raises her placard.

Chair: Libya, to what point do you rise?

Libya: Point of Parliamentary Inquiry. If I have a draft of a resolution, how many signatories do I need
before I introduce it?

Chair: Excellent question, Libya. Well, as it states in Article 25, you need the support of 1/4 of the
body, which in our case would be 6.25, or simply 7 (because we always round up). Thank you, Libya.

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UN-MODERATED CAUCUS

Chair: Are there any points or motions on the floor?

The Argentinean delegate raises her placard.

Chair: Delegate from Argentina, to what point do you rise?

Argentina: I move for an unmoderated caucus for 10 minutes to discuss various working papers on the
floor with an aim at achieving greater consensus in the body.

Chair: That is in order. Is there a second? (Several placards go up.) Is there opposition? (No placards
are raised.) If there is no opposition, then the committee will have an unmoderated caucus for a period
of ten minutes, for the purpose of discussing working papers and moving towards a consensus.
Delegates should return to their seats promptly at 11:15, at the expiration of the caucus.

Committee caucuses for ten minutes, and then reconvenes.

MODERATED CAUCUS

Chair: Are there any points or motions on the floor?

The delegate from Mongolia’s placard goes up.

Chair: Mongolia, to what point do you rise?

Mongolia: Motion for a 5 minute moderated caucus with a speaker’s time limit of 30 seconds, with the
purpose of discussing the health issues related to topic A.

Chair: Is there a second? (Placards are raised.) Are any delegates opposed to the motion? (Several
placards go up.). Seeing opposition, we will vote. All those in favor of the delegate’s motion, please
raise your placards…all those opposed… By a clear majority, that motion passes. We are now in
moderated caucus. All delegates wishing to speak please raise your placards.

Many placards go up.

Chair: Gabon. You are recognized for 30 seconds.

Gabon speaks.

Chair: Thank you, Gabon. Those wishing to speak…

Azerbaijan, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Turkmenistan, Indonesia, Chile, Canada, Slovenia, South Africa, and
Yemen speak in turn, after being recognized by the chair.

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Chair: Thank you, distinguished delegate from Yemen. The five minutes is now up. We will now
return to Formal Debate.

INTRODUCING RESOLUTIONS

The delegate from China approaches the chair and informs her that he has a resolution he would like to
submit. The chair verifies that it has a sponsor and the required number of signatories, that it is in
proper resolution format, and that the content is relevant. After verifying this, the chair submits the
approved resolution to the committee runner, who takes it to be copied for each delegation in the
committee. Soon the copies of the resolution are ready and are presented to the chair, who sends a note
to the delegation from China to that effect.

Chair: We are still in formal debate. Are there any points or motions on the floor?

The delegation from China raises their placard.

Chair: Yes, China? To what point do you rise?

China: China motions to introduce Resolution A/1.

Chair: That is in order. Resolution A/1 is now introduced to this body. Are there any points or motions
on the floor?

The delegation from China raises their placard again.

Chair: Yes, China?

China: China motions for a three minute unmoderated caucus for the purpose of allowing the body to
read Resolution A/1.

Chair: That is in order. Is there a second? (Placards go up.) Any opposition? (One placard is raised by
a delegate who is writing a different working paper.) Seeing opposition, we will vote. All those in favor,
please raise your placards. . . . all those opposed… By a clear majority, that motion passes. We are now
in a three minute unmoderated caucus, which will expire at 11:55.

INTRODUCING AMENDMENTS

Friendly amendments
The Russian Federation has an amendment to Resolution A/1 and approaches the chair with it in
writing. The chair confirms that it is in proper format, has a sponsor and the right number of
signatories, and is relevant. NOTE - If the amendment is long, it can be copied, but since most
amendments are short, most can be introduced immediately after approval by writing it in large letters
for the entire committee room to see.

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Chair: Are there any points or motions?

The Russian Federation: I move to introduce Amendment A/1/1 to Resolution A/1.

Chair: That is in order. As this amendment lists the sponsor and all signatories of Resolution A/1 as
signatories, it is automatically included as part of Resolution A/1. Delegates, please make a note of the
amendment’s changes on your copy of Resolution A/1.

Unfriendly amendments
India has an amendment to Resolution A/1 and approaches the chair with it in writing. The chair
confirms that it is in proper format, has a sponsor and the right number of signatories, and is relevant.
NOTE - If the amendment is long, it can be copied, but since most amendments are short, most can be
introduced immediately after approval by writing it in large letters for the entire committee room to see.

Chair: Are there any points or motions?

India: I move to introduce Amendment A/1/2 to Resolution A/1.

Chair: That is in order. As this amendment does not have the support of the sponsor and signatories of
Resolution A/1, it is an unfriendly amendment and will be considered separately during voting
procedure.

India raises her placard.

Chair: India, to what point do you rise?

India: India motions for a three minute unmoderated caucus for the purpose of allowing the body to
read Amendment A/1/2.

Chair: That is in order. Is there a second? (Placards go up.) Any opposition? (Placards go up from the
sponsor and signatories to Resolution A/1.) Seeing opposition, we will vote. All those in favor, please
raise your placards. . . . all those opposed… By a slim majority, that motion passes. We are now in a
three minute unmoderated caucus, which will expire at 12:10.

VOTING ON RESOLUTIONS

Chair: Are there any points or motions at this time?

United States raises her placed.

Chair: U.S. To what point do you rise?

United States: Motion for previous question.

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Chair: That motion is in order. The U.S. motions that we close debate on topic A, moving all unfriendly
amendments and resolutions currently on the floor to a vote. Is there a second?

Togo: Second.

Chair: Is there any opposition?

Afghanistan: Opposed.

Chair: Seeing opposition, this motion requires one speaker for and one speaker against… United States,
as you made the original motion, you are recognized for 30 seconds.

United States speaks for closing debate.

Chair: Thank you, United States. I will now recognize Afghanistan to speak against. Delegate, you
have 30 seconds.

Afghanistan speaks for closing debate.

Chair: We will now vote on the motion to close debate. All those in favor… all those opposed… by a
clear majority, debate is closed. We will now move into voting procedure. Staff, please seal the
committee room. Delegates are reminded that there is no talking or note-passing during this time.

We have two resolutions on the floor, Resolution A/1, and Resolution A/2, with an unfriendly
amendment to Resolution A/1, Amendment A/1/2. The committee will first consider Amendment A/1/2,
then Resolution A/1, then Resolution A/2. Amendments and resolutions are passed by simple majority,
which is 13 delegates. Are there any points or motions?

The Iraqi delegate raises her placard.

Chair: Iraq, to what point do you rise?

Iraq: Motion for a roll call vote.

Chair: That motion is in order. That motion does not require a second and will pass with a simple
majority. All those in favor… opposed… This motion passes. We will now proceed with a roll call vote.
Delegations may vote “yes, “yes with rights,” “no,” “no with rights,” “abstain,” and “pass.” Delegations
that pass will be asked after the rest of the committee has voted to cast their vote. Delegations who vote
“with rights” will be given 30 seconds at the conclusion of voting to explain their vote. Delegations who
answered roll call with “present and voting” are reminded that they cannot abstain.

I will now begin the vote on Amendment A/1/2. I will begin at a random point in the list… Gambia?

Gambia: No

Chair: Germany?

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Germany: No

Voting continues.

Chair: By a vote of two “For”, 22 “Against”, and 1 “Abstention” that amendment fails. Now we will
vote on Resolution A/1, which will not include Amendment A/1/2. Are there any points or motions from
the committee?

The delegate from Pakistan raises his placard.

Chair: Pakistan. To what point do you rise?

Pakistan: Motion to divide the question.

Chair: That is in order. How do you propose to divide Resolution A/1?

Pakistan: It should be divided as clauses 1-3, 4-6, and 7-8.

Chair: Is there a second? (No delegates raise their placards.) The chair reminds the committee that if
there are no seconds, the resolution cannot be divided during voting.

Gambia raises placard to second.

Very well, seeing a second – is there any opposition?

Placards go up.

Seeing opposition, we will vote on dividing Resolution A/1 into clauses 1-3, 4-6, and 7-8. All those in
favor, please raise your placards . . . all those opposed. This motion passes. The committee will now vote
on clauses 1-3 of Resolution A/1.

United States raises her placard.

Chair: United States to what point do you rise?

United States: Motion for a roll call vote.

Chair: That motion is in order. That motion does not require a second and will pass with a simple
majority. All those in favor… opposed… This motion passes. We will now proceed with a roll call vote
on clauses 1-3 of Resolution A/1. Delegations may vote “yes, “yes with rights,” “no,” “no with rights,”
“abstain,” and “pass.” Delegations that pass will be asked after the rest of the committee has voted to
cast their vote. Delegations who vote “with rights” will be given 30 seconds at the conclusion of voting
to explain their vote. Delegations who answered roll call with “present and voting” are reminded that
they cannot abstain.

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I will now begin the vote at a random point in the list… Iraq?

Iraq: No

Voting continues.

Chair: By a vote of 20 “For”, 3 “Against”, and 2 “Abstentions,” clauses 1-3 of Resolution A/1 pass. The
second set of clauses, 4-6, will now be voted on. Any points or motions? Seeing none, all those in favor
of the inclusion of clauses 4-6 in Resolution A/1, please raise your placards . . . all those opposed . . .
that fails by a vote of 4 to 21. The committee will now move to a vote on the third set, clauses 7-8. Any
points or motions on the floor? Seeing no points, all those in favor of these clauses… all opposed… by
a vote of 12 in favor, 11 opposed, and 2 abstentions, these clauses will be included in the draft
resolution.

We will now move to a vote on the draft resolution including clauses 1-3 and 7-8. If there are no points
or motions on the floor… all those in favor of Resolution A/1 as divided, please raise your placards… all
those opposed… By a vote of 24 in favor and 1 opposed, Resolution A/1 passes! congratulations!

I will ask delegates to please hold applause until we have completed voting. The committee has one
resolution left to consider, Resolution A/2. Are there any points or motions on the floor at this time?

The United Arab Emirates placard goes up.

Chair: U.A.E. to what point do you rise?

United Arab Emirates: Motion for roll call vote.

Chair: That motion is in order. That motion does not require a second and will pass with a simple
majority. All those in favor… opposed… This motion passes. We will now proceed with a roll call vote
on Resolution A/2. Delegations may vote “yes, “yes with rights,” “no,” “no with rights,” “abstain,” and
“pass.” Delegations that pass will be asked after the rest of the committee has voted to cast their vote.
Delegations who vote “with rights” will be given 30 seconds at the conclusion of voting to explain their
vote. Delegations who answered roll call with “present and voting” are reminded that they cannot
abstain.

I will now begin the vote at a random point in the list… Afghanistan?

Afghanistan: Yes.

Voting continues.

By a vote of 14 in favor, 1 opposed, and 10 abstentions, Resolution A/2 passes! congratulations!

Clapping and brief celebration.

RECESS/ADJOURN

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Note –“recess” means that the committee will reconvene shortly; “adjourn” means that the
conference is over and the committee will not convene again.

Chair: Are there any points or motions at this time? The chair would look kindly on a motion to recess.

India: Motion to recess until 8:30 am tomorrow.

Chair: That is in order. Are there any seconds?

Many placards go up.

Opposition?

No placards go up.

Seeing no opposition, the committee is in recess until 8:30 am tomorrow. Nice work today, delegates!

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