UN History & Structure
What year and event led to the founding of the United Nations?
1945, following World War II and the failure of the League of Nations
What is the purpose of parliamentary procedure?
To ensure fairness, organization, and diplomacy in debate
What must be specified in a motion for a moderated caucus?
Topic, total time, and individual speaking time
What is the main written product of MUN debate?
A draft resolution
What point may interrupt a speaker?
Point of Personal information
What document outlines the purposes and structure of the UN?
The UN Charter
What’s the key difference between “Present” and “Present and Voting”?
“Present” allows abstentions; “Present and Voting” requires a Yes/No vote
Who selects speakers during a moderated caucus?
The Chair
What is the difference between a sponsor and a signatory?
Sponsors write/support the paper; signatories want it discussed
Which point is used to ask a question about procedure?
Point of Inquiry
Which body handles international peace and security issues?
The UN Security Council
If multiple motions are on the floor, which type is voted on first?
The most disruptive motion (highest impact)
Why might a delegate prefer a moderated caucus over the speakers list?
To focus debate on a specific subtopic or demonstrate leadership
What distinguishes a friendly from an unfriendly amendment?
Friendly = all sponsors agree; Unfriendly = requires vote
Which motion takes precedence: adjournment or moderated caucus?
Adjournment (it ends the session)
Which UN body includes all member states and each has one vote?
The General Assembly
What motion is required to move from formal to informal debate?
A motion for a caucus (moderated or unmoderated)
What happens when the total time for a moderated caucus expires but delegates want to continue?
A motion to extend the moderated caucus can be raised
what is needed for a resolution to pass
A simple majority(50% in favor or greater)
Why is order of precedence important in committee?
It prevents procedural confusion when multiple motions are proposed
Name two specialized UN agencies and describe their roles.
Examples: WHO (health), UNESCO (education/culture), IMF (finance), FAO (food/agriculture)
What happens procedurally if no motions pass after a caucus ends?
The committee automatically returns to the Speakers’ List
How can a delegate use a moderated caucus strategically to influence the committee?
By steering debate toward their resolution’s focus or building consensus on key clauses
What must occur before entering voting procedure?
A motion to enter voting procedure must pass, and debate is closed
List the general order of precedence for common motions.
Unmod → Mod → Adjourn/Suspend → Speakers list