Debate Structure
What is a moderated caucus, and when is it used?
A moderated caucus is when delegates give short, timed speeches directed by the Chair to focus on a specific topic.
What is a Point of Inquiry, and when is it used?
What is a question to the Chair about rules or procedure?
What is the difference between a working paper and a draft resolution?
A working paper is an informal set of ideas; a draft resolution is a formal, Chair-approved document with proper format.
What does “simple majority” mean in voting?
What is more than half of the votes cast?
What does it mean to “maintain decorum” in MUN?
What is to behave diplomatically, respectfully, and according to parliamentary procedure.
The committee is too disorganized, and the Chair wants delegates to move freely and form blocs.
What is Unmoderated Caucus?
A delegate believes the Chair has not followed proper procedure. What point should they raise?
What is a Point of Order?
A delegate has a document with ideas for solving the crisis but it hasn’t been approved by the Chair yet. What is this called?
What is a working paper?
A resolution requires two-thirds approval to pass. If there are 90 delegates, how many “yes” votes are needed?
What is 60 votes?
A delegate says, “I think my country believes human rights are important.” How should they phrase this properly in third person?
What is “The delegate of [country] believes human rights are important.”
What does it mean for a delegate to “yield the floor,” and what are the three types of yields?
It means giving up the rest of one’s speaking time. Delegates may yield to the Chair, to questions, or to another delegate.
What is a Point of Personal Privilege? Give one example when it may be used.
What is addressing personal comfort or audibility issues? Such as not being able to hear a speaker or needing air conditioning adjusted.
What is a friendly amendment, and how is it added to a resolution?
What is a friendly amendment, and how is it added to a resolution?
During a roll call vote, what are the four possible responses a delegate can give?
What is Yes, No, Abstain, Pass?
What is the difference between being a sponsor and a signatory of a resolution?
Sponsors are the main authors and supporters; signatories just want the draft discussed but don’t have to agree with its content.
You are on the speakers’ list, but you think an informal discussion would help build a resolution faster. What motion should you make?
What is a motion Unmoderated or Moderated caucus?
The committee has been debating for hours, and many delegates want to take a break. What motion should be made?
A Motion to Suspend Debate.
Some delegates want to remove one controversial clause from a draft resolution, while keeping the rest. What motion should be made?
What is Division of the Question?
Delegates want to vote on parts of a draft resolution separately instead of as one whole document. What is this called?
What is division of the Question?
Before the session officially begins, delegates walk around and try to form alliances. What is this called, and why is it important?
Lobbying, it helps build blocs, draft resolutions, and gain allies before debate.
What is the role of the Chair in managing debate and enforcing rules?
The Chair enforces rules of procedure, keeps order, recognizes speakers, and ensures fairness in debate.
What motion is used to formally end the entire session for the day?
A Motion to Adjourn the Meeting.
What are the steps a draft resolution must go through before becoming an official resolution?
It must be written, gain required sponsors/signatories, be approved by the Chair, introduced to the committee, debated, and then passed by a substantive vote.
What is the difference between substantive voting and procedural voting? Give an example of each.
Substantive voting is on draft resolutions or amendments (only members with voting rights may vote). Procedural voting is on motions (all delegates vote).
Why is it better for many countries to agree on a resolution instead of just barely passing it?
Because when more countries agree, the resolution is stronger, more respected, and countries are less likely to argue or ignore it.