Motions
What are motions used for?
Motions are proposed by delegations to direct debate
What is a point of inquiry?
When you ask the Chair a question about the rules (if you are confused about the structure, phrases, etc.) i.e. parliamentary procedure
For writing resolutions, what do preambulatory clauses do?
They describe the situation around the topic and why it is important
What is a speaker's list?
A list of delegations, giving the order in which they will speak for a specific amount of time
What is the main goal of a Model UN committee?
For countries with different opinions and perspectives to come together and try to solve global issues by debating, writing resolutions and voting
What are the different ways a delegate can motion? Name 5
1. Motion to open Speaker's List, 2. Motion for a moderated caucus, 3. Motion for an unmoderated caucus, 4. Motion to introduce a draft resolution 5. Motion to close debate and enter voting procedure
What is point of personal privilege?
Used to address a personal discomfort (needing to go to the bathroom, can't hear, etc.)
For writing resolutions, what do operative clauses do?
They give actionable solutions to the problem and what the committee should do
How is a draft resolution introduced?
A draft resolution must be introduced through a motion before it can be voted upon in the voting procedure
What is your goal as a delegate of a country?
Who votes on motions?
The committee (the delegations)
What is a point of information?
Used if you have a question for another delegation
Give an example of a preambulatory clause.
A statement that starts with a verb ending in (-ing) that describes the situation/topic
When do voting procedures occur?
After delegations have read their resolutions and debated them in moderated caucuses (if they want) and they are ready to vote
What is the different between a moderated and unmoderated caucus?
For a moderated caucus, delegations speak one by one for a period of time at their seats. Moderated caucuses have a subtopic that delegates debate about, and the Chair is involved. For unmoderated caucuses, delegations may roam freely, talking to different countries. The Chair is not involved in the discussion.
When voting on a motion, what does it require in order to pass?
It typically requires a majority vote
Are points voted on?
No-- only motions
Give an example of an operative clause.
A statement starting with a verb ending in (-s) that gives an action solution to the topic
What happens after voting procedures?
The Director will look favorably on a motion to adjourn. The conference ends!
What are the three ways you can vote?
Vote for, vote against or abstain
What is the correct phrase to use when you motion for a moderated caucus?
"The delegation of _____ motions for a moderated caucus with a total time of ____ and a speaking time of _____ on the topic of _____."
What is point of order?
Used if the Chair has made a mistake (skipping a country on the Speaker's List, etc.)
Sponsors are the countries that write the resolutions. Signatories are the countries that agree with the resolution OR want to see this resolution debated. You must have at least 3 signatories (you can have more than 3).
What is the purpose of your opening speech? What is the maximum amount of time for the speech? What if you have time remaining?
Gives your country's perspective and position on the topic, and gives proposals of what the committee should do. You have a max of 90 seconds (1 min 30 secs) to speak. If you have time remaining, you yield your time to the chair!
You start with the speaker's list and go into opening speeches. After opening speeches, a delegation will motion for a moderated caucus on a subtopic and there will be a speakers list of what countries will speak in what order. Then debate can go into an unmoderated caucus and there can be multiple moderated and unmoderated caucuses. During at least after the first unmoderated caucus you will draft resolutions, and resolutions will be read and voted on.