Model UN Academy
General Assembly
What is Model UN?
Model UN is a simulation of the United Nations. A student, typically known as a delegate, is assigned to a country to represent. Regardless of a student's personal beliefs or values, they are expected to adhere to their country's stance as a delegate of that country.
A Model UN conference is an event in which students act as delegates, taking on the roles of their assigned countries. A conference is the culmination of the entire event, often hosted by high schools or universities. Some examples of Model UN conferences are Harvard Model UN, Chicago International Model UN, and Saint Ignatius Model UN.
Within a conference, committees are held. A committee is a group of delegates who come together to discuss and solve a particular topic or type of issue. This guide covers General Assembly committees, which serve as the standard committee type for Model UN. Beginners are recommended to start with the General Assembly. Some common examples of General Assembly committees are the World Health Organization (discusses global health issues) and the United Nations Children's Fund (focuses on children's rights and welfare).
As a delegate in a committee, a student will discuss their country's stance on a topic, debate with other delegates, form alliances with delegates that have a similar stance, and form resolutions to the problem discussed.
General Assembly committees can be split into four different categories, each of which will be covered in detail below:
1. Preparation
2. The Moderated Caucus
3. The Unmoderated Caucus
4. Presentation and Voting
Preparation
It is vital to come prepared to Model UN conferences. The first step to preparation for a Model UN conference consists of research. Delegates typically research their country's history, government, policies, and values. Additionally, delegates are encouraged to study the topics that are assigned to their committee. Typically, a committee will have 2 topics, but the number of topics can vary by conference.
A good starting point for research is the background guide, which is provided by the website of a conference. Some valuable research sources are below.
General Research Tools:
■ UN.org
■ The United Nations Digital Library
■ The United Nations Treaty Collection
Country-Specific Information:
■ Permanent Missions to the United Nations
■ Embassy Websites
News and Current Events:
■ Reuters
Policy and Academic Research:
■ Council on Foreign Relations
Many conferences require delegates to submit their research/preparation in the form of a position paper (also known as a white paper), a short essay that clarifies a delegate's position (as a representative of their country), demonstrates research and understanding of the issue, proposes possible solutions that align with the stance of the delegate, and helps guide discussion during the conference. The position paper is a great way to ensure that a delegate is prepared for committee and has adequate background knowledge. One position paper should be written for each topic.
A delegate should bring all of their materials digitally on a personal device (such as a tablet or computer), a printed-out position paper, research notes, pens, papers, sticky notes, and water. Delegates are recommended not to use school-issued devices because it can lead to problems with sharing online documents with other delegates during committee. The standard dress code for a Model UN Conference is Western Business Attire.
The Moderated Caucus
A conference begins with the roll call, which establishes the attendance of delegates and determines whether quorum is met. The quorum is the typical number of delegates required to hold a committee session. When their country's name is called, delegates may respond with "present" or "present and voting". If a delegate chooses to respond with "present", they may abstain from voting later in committee, allowing greater flexibility. If a delegate chooses to respond with "present and voting", they may not abstain from voting later in committee, showing a firmer commitment to taking a clear stance on each issue discussed. New delegates are encouraged to respond with "present" due to the flexibility given by the response.
A moderated caucus is a structured form of debate used to focus the discussion on one specific sub-topic within a broader agenda. During this caucus, delegates give speeches about the sub-topic, allowing the entire committee to form an understanding of each delegate's unique position and find possible allies. The first subtopic of a committee is typically formal debate, in which each delegate discusses the main topics, national policy, and their position. Some key features of a moderated caucus are:
1. Topic-focused: allows delegates to dive deep into a single issue
2. Moderated by the dais (the person or group of people who run the committee) to ensure order and formality. Some other responsibilities of the dais include managing quorum, moderating discussion, recognizing speakers, making the final call on procedures, timing speeches, guiding the flow of debate, overseeing voting, and deciding awards.
3. Proposed by delegates: Any delegate can motion (to request a committee to perform a certain action) for a moderated caucus by specifying the topic, the total time, and the speaking time. For example, if a delegate says, "Motion for a 9-minute moderated caucus with a 45-second speaking time on possible funding for climate adaptation," they have just motioned for a caucus with a topic of possible funding for climate adaptation. Their suggested caucus will last for 9 minutes and each delegate will get to speak for 45 seconds. It is important to note that motions are only requested once the previous caucus has elapsed (unless the motion is to adjourn the current caucus). All possible motions are listed under the "Miscellaneous" heading of this guide.
Once a few motions have been suggested, the committee will vote on which motion it wants to see passed. The first motion to receive a simple majority of votes (more than one-half of the votes) will be passed and the moderated caucus that was motioned for will begin. If no motion receives a simple majority, delegates make new motions and the voting process repeats until one receives a simple majority.
At the beginning of a moderated caucus, the dais will choose a speaker's list, which is the list of delegates that will speak during the moderated caucus. The delegate who motioned for the current moderated caucus is able to choose if they want to speak first or last during that caucus.
A delegate may yield their speaking time during a moderated caucus either to: the dais (remaining time relinquished), another delegate (allows another delegate to speak without being on the speaker's list), or questions (gives time for other delegates to ask questions).
Delegates can also send a note (a piece of paper) to other delegates during a moderated caucus by passing it to the recipient. These notes are a method of reaching out to people a delegate may want to work with later in committee. Delegates are discouraged from sending notes during another delegate's speech, as it is considered disrespectful.
The Unmoderated Caucus
An unmoderated caucus is a less structured form of discussion in which delegates leave their seats and form groups with other delegates who hold a similar position or stance to them. A group is known as a bloc, formed through the recognition of similar speeches during a moderated caucus or through communication during caucuses using notes. Sometimes, blocs will form as a result of lobbying, which is the informal process of building alliances with other delegates outside of or before the committee begins. For these reasons, an unmoderated caucus almost always occurs after several moderated caucuses have elapsed. Any delegate can motion for an unmoderated caucus by specifying the total time.
Once blocs are formed, delegates will begin writing a working paper, which serves as a draft for the culmination of the solutions that they want to see in effect in an effort to solve the topic being discussed. Many delegates contribute their solutions and ideas to a working paper, ensuring that all voices and perspectives are heard. However, solutions written in a working paper are expected to work well together, even if they are different. If the various solutions don't work well together, the bloc should be separated into multiple smaller blocs with a more specialized and individual focus.
After multiple unmoderated caucuses, the working paper will become the resolution paper, which is the final draft. The format of a resolution paper is the same as a white paper (see How to Write a White Paper). The first part of a resolution paper is where delegates write a preambulatory clause. These clauses state the purpose of the resolution paper. The rest of the paper is dedicated to writing solutions, which should be as specific as possible. Resolution papers typically have sponsors and signatories. A sponsor is a delegate who contributed greatly to a resolution paper and came up with many of the main ideas (typically 2-5 delegates). A signatory is a delegate who helped write a resolution paper or a delegate from another bloc who wants to see the paper presented and voted on. Typically, there is no limit on signatories.
Presentation and Voting
As long as a resolution paper has enough sponsors and signatories (the minimum varies by conference), the sponsors will be able to present the resolution paper to the rest of the committee. Some sponsors will read the resolution paper (give the presentation) and others will participate in a Q&A session with the rest of the room.
Once all presentations are finished, all delegates in the committee will vote on each resolution paper presented (either with a "yes", "no", "abstain" [unless a delegate responded to roll call with "present and voting"], "yes with rights" [explains vote after], "no with rights" [explains vote after], or "pass" [temporarily delays vote]). If a paper receives a simple majority of votes, it will be passed.
Sometimes, an amendment may be proposed for a resolution paper, which can serve as a compromise between two groups of delegates. A friendly amendment (agreed upon by all sponsors) can be passed with no voting. An unfriendly amendment (not agreed upon by all sponsors) requires a committee vote and a simple majority to pass. Once all papers are voted on, the entire General Assembly committee process repeats for each committee topic until all topics have been addressed. At this point, the committee ends.
Miscellaneous
The motion order precedence determines which motions are most important and which motions are voted on first when multiple motions are suggested at the same time. The motion order precedence is as follows: Point of Order (corrects procedural errors), Point of Personal Privilege (addresses a delegate's personal discomfort or need at the time), Point of Parliamentary Inquiry (asks a clarifying question about a rule or procedure), Motion to Adjourn the Meeting (ends the committee session for the day or permanently [if it's the final committee session]), Motion to Suspend the Meeting (pauses the committee for lunch or breaks), Motion to Adjourn Debate (ends debate on a topic without voting on it), Motion to Close Debate (ends the speaker's list and moves to voting procedure), Motion to Set the Agenda (chooses which topic to discuss first [typically motioned for at the beginning of committee]), Motion for a Moderated Caucus, Motion for an Unmoderated Caucus, and Motion to Change Speaking Time (adjusts how long a speaker can speak during debate). It is important to note that a point, a request raised by a delegate for information or for an action relating to the delegate, can be made without the delegate being called on.
A supermajority is a majority in which more than two-thirds of the votes are needed. Supermajorities are required for a special resolution (anything deemed critical or sensitive by the dais), amendments to resolution papers, suggested changes to procedure, suspension of debate about a topic in order to move immediately to voting, the revival of a topic that was set aside earlier, or Division of the Question (voting for parts of a resolution paper separately).
A dilatory motion is a motion that is considered disruptive and made with the sole purpose of obstructing the flow of debate and committee. They are strongly discouraged in order to maintain efficiency and decorum. Some examples of dilatory motions are re-submitting a failed motion without any substantial change or introducing motions simply to waste time. The dais has the power to rule a motion as dilatory based on its intent and timing. If ruled dilatory, the motion is ignored and discarded.
The typical voting referenced in this guide is substantive voting, which allows for "yes", "no", and "abstain" (unless a delegate responded to roll call with "present and voting"), "yes with rights" (explains vote after), "no with rights" (explains vote after), or "pass" (temporarily delays vote). Procedural voting is a type of voting from which no one can abstain. Some examples are setting the agenda, moving into a moderated or unmoderated caucus, setting or modifying speaking time, and the closure of debate. Roll call voting is a type of voting in which the dais calls out each country's name in alphabetical order and delegates respond with their substantive vote.
Respect and Behavior
It is important to be respectful to other delegates, the dais, and the conference as a whole. Significant effort is put into the creation and running of every Model UN conference, so delegates should put their best effort into their work and contribute to the committee as much as they can.
Glossary
● Amendment: A revision to part of a resolution paper that can serve as a compromise between two groups of delegates.
● Background Guide: A research guide provided by the conference website; a good starting point for preparing for committee.
● Bloc: A group of delegates who share a similar position or stance on an issue. ● Committee: A group of delegates who come together to discuss and solve a specific topic or type of issue.
● Dais: The person or group of people who run the committee.
● Delegate: A student assigned to represent a country.
● Dilatory Motion: A motion considered disruptive, proposed solely to obstruct the flow of debate or committee proceedings.
● Division of the Question: Voting on parts of a resolution paper separately.
● Formal Debate: A structured debate (similar to a moderated caucus) where each delegate discusses main topics, national policy, and their country’s position.
● Lobbying: The informal process of building alliances with other delegates before or outside of formal committee sessions.
● Model UN: A simulation of the United Nations.
● Model UN Conference: An event where students act as delegates, representing assigned countries.
● Moderated Caucus: A structured form of debate focused on one specific sub-topic within a broader agenda.
● Motion: A formal request for the committee to perform a specific action.
● Motion Order Precedence: The order of importance for motions, used to determine which is voted on first when multiple motions are proposed.
● Motion for a Moderated Caucus: A motion requesting a moderated caucus.
● Motion for an Unmoderated Caucus: A motion requesting an unmoderated caucus. ● Motion to Adjourn Debate: Ends discussion on a topic without moving to a vote.
● Motion to Adjourn the Meeting: Ends the committee session for the day or permanently (if it’s the final session).
● Motion to Change Speaking Time: Adjusts how long each speaker may speak during debate.
● Motion to Close Debate: Ends the speaker’s list and moves the committee into voting procedure.
● Motion to Set the Agenda: Chooses which topic to discuss first (usually motioned at the beginning of committee).
● Motion to Suspend the Meeting: Pauses the committee session for breaks or lunch.
● Note: A small piece of paper passed between delegates during a moderated caucus to
● Point: A request raised by a delegate for information or action related to the delegate; can be made without being recognized.
● Point of Order: Used to correct a procedural error.
● Point of Parliamentary Inquiry: Used to ask a clarifying question about rules or procedure.
● Point of Personal Privilege: Used to address a delegate’s personal discomfort or need. ● Position Paper: A short essay that clarifies a delegate’s stance, demonstrates research, proposes aligned solutions, and guides committee discussion.
● Procedural Voting: A type of vote from which no delegate may abstain.
● Quorum: The minimum number of delegates required for the committee to proceed.
● Resolution Paper: The final draft of proposed solutions that delegates want implemented to address the issue.
● Roll Call: The attendance check at the beginning of a session to determine quorum.
● Roll Call Voting: A vote where the dais calls each country in alphabetical order and delegates respond with their substantive vote.
● Signatory: A delegate who helped write a resolution paper or supports it being presented and voted on.
● Simple Majority: More than half of the votes.
● Speaker’s List: The list of delegates scheduled to speak during a moderated caucus.
● Special Resolution: A resolution deemed critical or sensitive by the dais.
● Sponsor: A delegate who contributed significantly to a resolution paper and authored many of its ideas.
● Substantive Voting: Voting that allows responses such as yes, no, abstain (unless marked "present and voting"), yes with rights, no with rights, or pass.
● Supermajority: A majority requiring more than two-thirds of the votes.
● Unmoderated Caucus: A less structured debate format where delegates move freely to form groups and collaborate on solutions.
● White Paper: Another name for a position paper.
● Working Paper: A draft of proposed solutions that will eventually become a resolution paper.
● Yield: The act of giving up the remainder of one’s speaking time to the dais, another delegate, or for questions.
How to Write a White Paper
Many conferences require delegates to submit their research/preparation in the form of a position paper (also known as a white paper), a short essay that clarifies a delegate's position (as a representative of their country), demonstrates research and understanding of the issue, proposes possible solutions that align with the stance of the delegate, and helps guide discussion during the conference. The position paper is a great way to ensure that a delegate is prepared for committee and has adequate background knowledge. One position paper should be written for each topic.
White papers should be 1-2 pages in length, have a font of Times New Roman (12 pt), have single spacing, and margins of 1 inch. At the top left of your position paper, a delegate should specify their committee, topic, country, the type of paper, full name, and school (if applicable).
The first paragraph of a white paper should focus on background knowledge and global context. Some important points to include are a concise overview of the global issue, key stats, historical context, and/or UN actions. Delegates are encouraged to be as specific as possible in this paragraph.
The second paragraph of a white paper should state clearly where a delegate's country stands on the topic and explain the country's reasoning. Some important points to include are the country's viewpoint on key aspects of the issue (for, against, or in between), reasons for the country's stance (economic, security, political, etc.), and/or past official statements, voting history, or relevant national policies.
The third paragraph of a white paper should provide actionable, reasonable policies that align with the country's interests, ideals, and values. Some important points to include are specific proposals for treaties, programs, regulations, or cooperation, financial, technical or diplomatic contributions, and/or regional solutions or partnerships.
The fourth paragraph of a white paper is the conclusion, which is optional. The purpose of this paragraph is to show that a delegate's country is cooperative and solution-oriented. This paragraph should reaffirm a country's commitment to the goals of the committee, a willingness to work with specific nations or blocs, and emphasize diplomacy and collective action.
Some general tips while writing a white paper are that delegates should do extensive research (as covered in General Assembly), write from the viewpoint of their country—not themselves—use formal language, avoid first-person (referring to themselves as their country name), cite official United Nations sources for credibility, and follow the conference-specific guidelines.
Example White Paper #1
SPECPOL
Iraq
Topic A: Ensuring the Safety of Atomic Production
James Smith
American High School
Historically, Iraq has pursued nuclear power as a means to remedy the crippling power outages that plague the majority of the country. Although Iraq is not currently pursuing nuclear power, we are in a unique position to testify about the effect of UN intervention in nuclear programs. Under the presidency of Saddam Hussein, Iraq pursued a nuclear program, which faced staunch opposition from Western powers, namely the United States. Because of this opposition, Iraq was faced with consistent, harsh inspections of its facilities by the UN. Despite the existence of an Iraqi Atomic Energy Commission, these inspections still occurred. They completely hampered Iraq’s ability to pursue nuclear power as a viable option. A key ability of this committee is to determine the regulations and subsequent enforcement of regulations on nuclear power. With nuclear power having a much lower barrier of entry than it historically had, many nations now look to nuclear power as a cheap source of energy. With this rise in nuclear power use, proper regulations must be put in place to ensure both the economic prosperity of countries and the proper safety of these facilities.
Iraq believes that regulation and enforcement of nations’ nuclear safety should be left to their respective governments, with support and guidance from the International Atomic Energy Agency. Overzealous regulation can completely obstruct a country’s path toward nuclear energy, and Iraq strongly believes that self-regulation, with guidance and oversight, is the most effective method to aid countries in their path toward nuclear energy. From its nuclear program in the 1980s, completely halted by foreign intervention and bombing, to plans of building new reactors in the next decade to tackle Iraq’s power outages, Iraq is in a prime position to discuss the proper course of action to regulate nuclear power. Iraq has its own Atomic Energy Commission which supervises and presides over plans for nuclear energy, and already has strong mandates about how nuclear power is maintained and used. This places Iraq in a prime position to construct a robust and actionable plan on how the UN should approach nuclear regulation.
In aiming to support the transition of not only Western powers, but developing countries to nuclear power, this committee must focus on the balance of sufficient nuclear regulation and oversight on an international level to not hinder the production and use of nuclear power, but rather to guide and support it. To this end, Iraq believes resolutions should emphasize three key areas: one, developing and aiding in the establishment of nuclear energy commissions run by the individual country that is developing nuclear power. Secondly, continued guidance and supervision of the national agencies that supervise nuclear power in the development of new nuclear reactors, and in maintaining current reactors. Thirdly, supporting the nuclear programs of countries monetarily, aiding the transition to nuclear energy, and ensuring that all countries, regardless of economic status, can safely continue production of nuclear energy.
Example White Paper #2
SPECPOL
Iraq
Topic B: Modern Day Neocolonialism
James Smith
American High School
Iraq has seen firsthand the devastating effect that neocolonialism has on developing nations. Many of our neighboring countries in the Middle East have had their economies purposefully stunted, and efforts to modernize have been blocked, all to retain the cheap labor and resources that Western powers exploit. Iraq itself has experienced this, as our nation has been subject to a series of invasions and occupations lasting from the early 20th century to beyond 2010. As a result of this constant violence, militant groups have a hold over large parts of Iraq, many of our citizens remain in poverty, and crippling debt undermines any attempt to improve the economic conditions within Iraq. These obstacles have immensely increased our dependence on foreign powers for trade, aid, loans, and investment. Issues very similar to our own exist not only within Iraq and the Middle East but in many developing countries throughout the world. As these developing nations and their citizens continue to be exploited, immediate action should take place to remedy the control that richer powers have and the accompanying economic strain.
In the past, the United Nations attempted to curb the economic dependence that developing nations have on developed nations, namely by emphasizing the importance of infrastructure and decent employment on economic independence. Iraq believes that while these goals are achievable, they must be greatly expanded upon to ensure that economic independence is truly reached. Ineffective or insufficient aid prolongs dependence on foreign powers, leading to less development, lower living quality, and overall worse economic outcomes. From an invasion of Iraq in 1991 to an 8-year-long occupation of Iraq, which lasted until 2011, along with the following years of political unrest and economic instability leading to foreign dependence, Iraq is in a prime position to speak to exactly what aid should look like for developing nations that are overly dependent on developed nations.
In aiming to support the economic prosperity of developing nations, and reduce their dependence on foreign powers for aid, trade, loans, and investments, this committee must focus on the reduction of economic imperialism, limiting nations’ political interference within other nations, and economic self-sufficiency. To this end, Iraq believes resolutions should emphasize a
fourfold framework: one, encourage debt relief or debt pause plans for countries whose foreign debt prevents economic growth. Secondly, discourage the influence of politics within other nations through military or other action that inhibits democracy and the will of citizens. Thirdly, encourage private investment into an area, providing jobs and development, to spur economic growth and independence. Fourthly, actively discourage the funding or support of militant groups in other nations that attempt to wrest power from a democratically elected government.
Example White Paper #3
World Health Organization
United Kingdom
Topic B: Universal Health Coverage
James Smith
American High School
Historically, the United Kingdom has pushed for far-reaching healthcare reforms to ensure that all citizens, regardless of class, race, or gender, have access to healthcare. The U.K. has been a pioneer of universal health coverage since 1948, when the National Health Service was established. The British model for universal healthcare has been followed by many countries seeking to develop socialized health services and has personally assisted nations seeking to develop their healthcare systems. The U.K. has helped develop universal health coverage systems in nations globally and has developed an exceedingly successful universal health coverage system for its own citizens, which has amassed a wealth of knowledge in the proper course of action to develop robust and effective healthcare programs. A key aspect of this committee is determining the correct course of action to encourage socialized healthcare programs in nations that don’t already have one, and providing aid to these nations for their healthcare systems. With universal healthcare becoming increasingly necessary for all countries to adopt, the proper course of action to foster universal healthcare programs, and the type of aid should be provided to nations developing these programs are pressing matters.
The U.K. believes that implementation of universal health coverage in low and middle-income nations should be a top priority to ensure frameworks are in place to aid those who may not have access to other healthcare programs. Ineffective implementation of healthcare within low and middle-class nations could lead to the appropriation of healthcare based on ability, rather than need, which could drastically worsen the already existing difficulties with providing healthcare to underprivileged populations. The U.K. believes strongly that combining direct aid and a framework tailored to specific nations to guide them toward universal health coverage can lead countries to develop effective and sustainable universal health coverage programs. In its experience with developing healthcare reforms worldwide, as well as the successful development and maintenance of universal health coverage for its own citizens, the U.K. is in a prime position to speak to what the proper course of action is and what aid is needed to foster universal health coverage in nations globally.
In aiming to support the transition of not only Western powers, but developing countries and middle/low-income nations, this committee must focus on the balance of direct aid to nations’ healthcare programs and aid in creating a structure for robust and effective universal health coverage programs. To this end, the U.K. believes resolutions should emphasize threefold frameworks: one, aiding in the advancement of general health services within a country in preparation for future development. Secondly, provide guidance and a tailored framework a country can follow to smoothly transition health programs to provide universal health coverage. Thirdly, directly aiding countries developing universal health coverage monetarily, and ensuring that all countries, regardless of economic status, can efficiently and sustainably provide universal health coverage for their citizens.
Example White Paper #4
UNESCO
Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste
Topic A: Corporatization of Music
James Smith
American High School
The Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste has a rich indigenous history stretching back thousands of years. Music has always been a large part of the Timorese people’s national identity, even playing a part in the Timorese independence movement from Indonesia. Because of Portuguese colonization and numerous violent occupations, much of indigenous Timorese culture and music has withered. Recent independence and reclamation movements have inspired many native groups throughout the country to revive their cultural traditions. These efforts have come with significant difficulty, as Timorese instruments and traditional songs have been largely lost over the past centuries. Furthermore, Timorese artists’ ability to produce music has been hampered significantly by the poverty that plagues the majority of the country. More than 45% of the island’s population lives in poverty, preventing access to resources necessary for preserving music within Timor-Leste. These challenges are not unique to Timorese artists, but are shared by artists throughout the world. The Aboriginal Australians, who have faced similar challenges to those faced by the Timorese, have lost 98% of their cultural music as a result. A key responsibility of this committee is to provide aid in preserving the cultural heritage of peoples throughout the world, along with providing opportunities for communities to share their unique culture. With Western influence increasing its stranglehold over music globally, preserving dying music is more important than ever.
The Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste believes that the implementation of aid programs within underdeveloped and colonized countries to support indigenous artists is paramount to preserving the cultural identity and heritage of music throughout the world. Through its passing of several initiatives to support the music of the indigenous Timorese, Timor-Leste has tried to strengthen the dying forms of music that belong to these communities. Because of Timor-Leste’s bleak economic situation and struggles to maintain its independence from militant neighboring nations, these programs have encountered significant challenges, made worse by a lack of funding and resources. Through direct action and funding by the UN, namely during Timor-Leste’s independence movement, initiatives to revive Timorese music have achieved significant progress. For this reason, the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste strongly believes in the demonstrable positive impact that direct action and funding can have on underdeveloped countries. Not only has this effect been seen in music, but also in a country’s national cohesion and cultural identity as a whole. During Timor-Leste’s independence movements, the aid provided by the UN helped fuel a cultural revitalization within the country, encompassing the arts, traditional language, and cultural history. Because of Timor-Leste’s continuing contention with the historical legacies of colonialism, its launching of independence movements, and endeavors to revitalize indigenous culture, the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste is in a prime position to speak on how best to preserve music within countries facing similar challenges worldwide.
By being as pragmatic as possible, and working to produce effective resolutions, this committee must focus on the combination of direct financial aid, providing education and resources to empower artists, and providing incentives within the music industry to promote the work and talent of underrepresented cultural artists. To this end, the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste believes resolutions should emphasize threefold frameworks: first, creating direct aid programs whereby UN-controlled funds can be appropriately allocated to bolster dying cultural music. Secondly, establishing access to education and resources for artists to aid in preserving and spreading their culture’s music. Lastly, providing artists with contacts within the music industry, and facilitating agreements between artists and industry giants to ensure fair treatment, compensation, and the preservation and conservation of dying forms of music. By focusing on these essential actions, the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste is confident that this committee can pass a resolution that not only safeguards the dwindling music of diverse cultures, but also ensures the protection of the artists themselves, securing the continuity of their invaluable musical traditions.
Example White Paper #5
UNESCO
Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste
Topic B: Trafficking of Cultural Artifacts
James Smith
American High School
Just as a child loses a part of themselves when a parent passes away, nations and their people face a profound loss when stripped of their cultural artifacts. The absence echoes not only in the tangible void left behind but also in the silent erosion of identity and heritage. The Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste has faced a similarly bleak history. In its long and arduous path to statehood, Timor-Leste has experienced colonization, violent occupation, and genocide. Throughout its long history as the most historically rich island of the Lesser Sunda Islands, the native Timorese developed detailed carvings, textiles, and elaborate bronze weapons. Following Portuguese, Dutch, and finally Indonesian occupation, these artifacts have all but disappeared from the island, appearing only in European and Indonesian museums. Artifacts pillaged from Timorese archaeological sites support a thriving black market mostly perpetrated by locals, who often live in poverty. A key aspect of this committee is supporting nations’ attempts to combat art theft and to help nations reclaim artifacts taken during the colonial era. With art theft continuing and colonized nations still without control of their cultural artifacts, developing comprehensive programs to aid nations in protecting cultural heritage and passing new legislation regarding colonial-era holdings are pressing matters.
The Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste firmly advocates for the development of new legislation that enshrines the rights of countries to reclaim cultural property taken before 1970, a period marked by extensive colonial exploitation and plundering of cultural treasures. Timor-Leste's history is fraught with challenges related to cultural property, stemming from its experience negotiating with colonial powers for the return of invaluable artifacts looted during periods of occupation. The struggle for repatriation underscores the urgent need for robust legal frameworks that facilitate the return of stolen cultural artifacts to their countries of origin. Additionally, Timor-Leste has grappled with the scourge of illegal trafficking of cultural artifacts within its borders, highlighting the pressing need for further aid and support mechanisms to protect cultural heritage from exploitation and theft. In this regard, Timor-Leste stands as a testament to the complexities and realities of cultural property issues in the modern world and is well-positioned to contribute valuable insights toward the development of actionable strategies to address these challenges on a global scale.
To ensure practicality and efficacy in its approach, this committee must prioritize the implementation of grassroots initiatives aimed at safeguarding cultural heritage, the development of globally accessible tools to facilitate the tracking of cultural artifact exchanges, and the establishment of mechanisms enabling the repatriation of cultural artifacts acquired before 1970. To enhance efforts to combat the illicit trafficking of cultural artifacts, the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste proposes the establishment of a volunteer corps capable of enrolling online and receiving specialized training to assist in the identification and recovery of stolen cultural treasures. Members of this corps would be empowered to collaborate with INTERPOL, providing valuable information and support in the pursuit of stolen artifacts, and would receive both recognition and compensation for their contributions. Furthermore, to bolster these initiatives, Timor-Leste advocates for the development of an artificial intelligence-driven tool designed to systematically scan online platforms for the sale of stolen cultural artifacts. Equipped with authentication capabilities, this tool would serve to alert appropriate authorities and prevent illicit transactions, complementing existing cultural artifact databases in the ongoing effort to safeguard global heritage. Through concentration on these key initiatives, the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste urges this committee to take decisive action in addressing the urgent need to protect our shared cultural heritage. By prioritizing grassroots initiatives, developing accessible tracking tools, and establishing mechanisms for artifact repatriation, this committee can strengthen collective efforts against cultural trafficking. The proposed establishment of a volunteer corps, coupled with the integration of AI-driven technology, represents tangible steps toward preserving cultural artifacts for future generations.
Example Resolution Paper
UNESCO
Topic Area B: Trafficking of Cultural Objects
Formulation upon Objects of Cultural Significance (FOCUS)
Sponsors: Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Brazil, Brunei, Central African Republic, Chad, Chile, China, Croatia, Côte D'Ivoire, Egypt, Eswatini, Georgia, Germany, Haiti, India, Iraq, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Mexico, Montenegro, Republic of Korea, Russian Federation, Saudi Arabia, Turkmenistan, Zambia,
Signatories: Bolivia, Cuba, El Salvador, Equatorial Guinea, Greece, Indonesia, Latvia, Liberia, Lithuania, Madagascar, Morocco, Norway, Peru, Togo, Türkiye, United States of America
Preambulatory Clauses:
Recognizing the necessity of repatriation of cultural artifacts,
Alarmed by the amount of cultural objects being trafficked,
Cognizant of the responsibility neighboring countries of victim nations have in relic protection,
Approving a system to determine ownership of objects,
Acknowledging the importance of protecting cultural heritage and archaeological sites,
Noting the importance of protecting cultural heritage and significance of artifacts,
Favorable to educating the general public on cultural objects,
Adamant about the retrieval of unlawfully trafficked goods,
1. Establishing new international organizations headed under UNESCO;
a. Establishes the FOCUS Organization;
i. Prioritizing collaboration between countries and facilitate peaceful cooperation;
ii. Organizing subcommittee effort;
iii. Acting as neutral intermediaries between member nations;
iv. Communicating with museums directly;
v. Inviting independent organizations where their jurisdiction pertains such as the International Council Of Museums (ICOM) and INTERPOL;
vi. Furthering the reach of current programs such as the Red Lists and the Lost Art Database;
vii. Creating branches within the overarching organization to address more specific issues;
b. Establishes the Artifact Rescue Corps for Heritage (ARCH) for the protection and rescue of cultural objects from illegal trafficking, along with their continued maintenance;
i. Overseen by members of UNESCO, INTERPOL, and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC);
ii. Controlled regionally through distinct UN-controlled boards to better represent cultural interests;
iii. Members receive compensation and recognition for significant contributions of recovering and returning artifacts;
iv. Volunteers may sign up to receive necessary education online, enabling a wider-reaching volunteer corps;
1. Educated in the local university program established under Clause 5
2. Nations that don’t have internet access, or who struggle to get citizens to sign up online, may advertise in person at local government offices, cultural centers, etc.;
c. Forms a judicial committee to draft guidelines on how nations should prosecute criminals who steal or harm cultural property;
i. Meet every 2 years;
ii. Formed of nations judged to be secure that would be best suited to give advice on such safety matters;
iii. Security will be determined under the most recent Global Peace Index, and take into account the history of legal action;
1. Communicating with museums directly;
2. Inviting independent organizations where their jurisdiction pertains, such as the International Council Of Museums (ICOM) and INTERPOL;
3. Furthering the reach of current programs such as the Red Lists and the Lost Art Database;
2. Creates sources for funding and resources to aid countries in these efforts;
a. Implementing resources that work on providing training and strengthening law enforcement officials to intercept trafficked objects;
i. Using UNESCO initiatives to empower law enforcement agencies and cultural heritage professionals to protect national borders from the illegal transfer of objects;
1. Enlisting 3 professionals from the UN Security Council for each member country at its borders and creating task forces that coordinate between countries to eliminate cross-border operations;
2. Using cultural heritage professionals from officials at the cultural sites with increased knowledge of the history and the preservation of the objects;
3. Requiring law enforcement officers to undergo equality and diversity training to ensure that they treat all people (migrants and minorities particularly) with respect and fair treatment;
ii. Creating patterns to provide legal enforcement for cultural sites that are most at risk to prevent the theft of cultural artifacts;
1. Utilizing information on the value of cultural objects, location, as well as the history of theft of objects to generate AI-based patterns;
2. Using AI-based patterns to deploy law enforcement at high-risk locations;
3. Recommending for member countries to share information on the histories of thefts and the locations at increased risk within the nations;
iii. Tracing the movement or transfer of the marked cultural objects from the ancestral cultural sites;
1. Utilizing a transparent method for marking valuable cultural objects to track movement and eliminate the domestic or national export of artifacts;
iv. Collaborating with UNODC to gain support and criminal tracing resources;
1. Using tactics from both UNESCO and UNODC will be applied for the most productivity;
2. Partnering with UNODC to assist in tackling the concern of drug sale association with artifact trafficking;
3. Recommending UNESCO to reallocate funds for an educational campaign endeavor that will host training sessions for local individuals who are passionate about the region;
b. Reallocating funds from pre-existing UNESCO projects that have grown to be null and independent donors;
c. Creating a Global Fund for the Preservation of Cultural History (GFPCH);
i. Part of UNESCO's yearly 1.5 billion dollar budget will be contributed along with any voluntary contributions from individual countries;
d. Having internationally acclaimed museums and art institutes funded by their home cities or countries to appropriate a proportional percentage of revenue acquired by tourism to the UNESCO fund for the repatriation of cultural objects;
e. Requiring a UNESCO ethical certification for museum curators;
i. Reduces the corruption within museums that increases the ability for trafficking of such objects for increased profit;
f. Providing funds for background checks;
i. Provenance documents (documents recounting the history, time period, and significance of a piece of art or artifact) can easily be forged by black market sellers who want to increase their profit but decrease their suspicion;
ii. Bettering background checks is imperative to limit the influx of counterfeit documents;
1. Allocating funds to improve/create museums in the countries of origin of the stolen cultural objects to ensure that protective and security measures have the increased chance to prevent damage or theft of the artifacts;
g. Creating a board of respected art/museum experts or curators that will choose which objects to prioritize in buying/getting them back;
3. Implements measures of multinational legislation;
a. Authorizes the Criminal International Accountability Operation (CIAO) to combat transnational cultural relic trafficking through harsher anti-criminal punishments;
i. The organization would consist of impartial and secure members of the international community;
1. Security and impartiality would be defined by Global Peace Index as well as historic and recent legal actions;
ii. The organization would meet on a biannual basis;
b. Introduces encouraged anti-criminal legislation guidelines for countries to follow at their individual discretion;
i. Would include harsher prison sentences;
1. Recommended a minimum of 8 years, with applicable fines to be judged by individual countries;
ii. Nations would follow guidelines at their individual discretions;
c. Emphasizes multilateral police efforts across borders to track smugglers and communicate with one another;
d. Establishes global and accessible database of smuggling hotspots that police can track down;
e. Employs data analysts from willing countries to identify patterns in routes;
f. Protects nations’ rights to archaeological findings;
i. Granting rights to archaeological finds to the country in which they are found rather than the company that provides the labor;
ii. Specialized trainings such as protocols for those working in excavation sites;
g. Promotes archaeological institutions throughout communities;
i. Improved funding for archaeological institutions by means of UNESCO funding and encouraged community or national funding;
h. Encourages cross-border cooperation and shares any relevant information regarding the detection or whereabouts of stolen cultural objects as well as cooperating in their recovery;
i. Provides further security for UNESCO Heritage Sites and preventing all further exploitation and extraction of artifacts from them;
ii. Establishes a committee that oversees these sites and their cultural artifacts, thus allowing them to improve the security measures;
iii. Sets up research compounds around the sites to assist in further learning and to give additional safekeeping to the site;
j. Improves secure communications for researchers and security;
i. Creates new formats of communication for the transfer of vital information;
ii. Makes existing databases more accessible to all regions and nations;
k. Strengthens national legislations and enforcement of severe penalties against traffickers to effectively combat illicit trade;
l. Calls upon the Compromise Across Nations (CAN) board that aids in determining ownership of cultural objects;
i. The board is composed of representatives from all nations that take pride in their cultural heritage and would be rotated as well as gain input from UNESCO members and regional cultural councils;
ii. Any nation can apply for ownership of artifacts through the board;
1. Review of historical and cultural significance will occur through boards of specialists and UNESCO to determine where it may be best placed;
2. The extent of protection provided by nations will be taken into account when determining ownership;
a. Factors included but not limited to: funding toward the protection of objects, status of active conflict within accepting and donating states, and specific measures/locations for the protection of objects themselves;
iii. Created an international cultural ‘Sink or Swim’ initiative by Iraq, allowing for nations who have ownership of artifacts to have mutual exchange agreements with other nations in order to promote cultural learning and variety in public historical museum exhibitions;
1. Exchange can be through physical artifacts, information, monetarily, etc.;
a. Encourage tourism in those nations where they can lease artifacts from other nations to allocate 10% of their annual museum revenue to artifacts returned;
b. Distribute a certain amount of money to the nations depending on the percentage of their artifacts that are there;
2. These are to be used for educational purposes only and not to be changed;
m. Establishes a taxation system (TPOSA) paid towards UNESCO cultural funds, regulated with WTO and INTERPOL on the international sale of historically significant goods;
i. Failure to comply with this system as discovered by audit of individuals or corporate bodies by WTO analysts would result in the individual or corporation facing international charges before the ICJ, with charges being added for trafficking of cultural goods and smuggling in tandem with any fraud-related charges;
ii. Taxation rate may vary depending on exchange rates and PPP between relevant nations, but a baseline of 16% would be recommended, to be adjusted as seen fit within a reasonable degree by the World Trade Organization;
iii. Individuals found guilty under TPOSA violations would be held accountable to sentencing carried out in their own nation, but determined on an international level as determined by the ICJ;
4. Supports efforts to repatriate stolen archaeological items;
a. Employs museum curators and archaeology experts to go through existing exhibits to inspect artifacts for signs of illegal poaching;
i. Can be aided by Germany’s NEXUD AI app which can be accessed globally and is already funded/running Repurposing Mexico’s existing AI programs for drug trafficking;
b. Promotes international platforms for negotiations regarding repatriation;
i. Using past UNESCO methods to help monitor the return of cultural objects;
1. Past restorative actions through India;
2. In 2019, Afghanistan returned 170 artwork pieces and restored artworks through the help of ICOM;
ii. Expands direct negotiations with the country holders of cultural artifacts and transforms them into an international platform to address issues of reparation;
iii. Employs previously existing protocols of the 1970 convention on the means of prohibiting and preventing illicit import export and transfer of ownership of cultural property and apply them to previously removed artifacts;
iv. Utilizes seizure and return clause of 1970 convention to ensure safe return of objects trafficked before and after 1970;
c. Develops a set standard for repatriation;
i. Strengthening decisions from the 1970 Hague convention that prohibits theft during armed conflicts, stronger implementation of punishment if not followed;
ii. Acknowledging the global injustice of colonialism and establishes a system in which, when taken involuntarily, they should be returned to the origin country;
iii. Applying the concept of simple stealing equally to unlawfully taken artifacts, holding traffickers accountable for stealing indigenous and traditional arts and artifacts, creative copyright applied on stolen art that made it to ethnic boutiques and handicraft stores in the Western world;
d. Using UNESCO’s International Council of Museums to oversee the restoration;
i. Adhering to past actions of ICOM, in which over 17000 objects have been recovered from illegal trafficking systems and restored;
e. Establishes a UNESCO exam exhibition of artifacts out of their original country, incentivizing the return of those items so that those museums can get a UNESCO certificate of approval;
5. Outlining the formation of a framework for a global education system that would better
educate individuals about the importance of the preservation of these items;
a. This resolution is working toward the education of both students and civil service officers;
i. With students, UNESCO will partner with universities or institutions in order to avoid brain drain and bring high-quality education to LDCs;
1. Education topics will include the significance of cultural objects, intellectual property law, cultural property law, and trade agreements;
ii. The university professors/ qualified educational individuals will receive recognition and/or compensation for their efforts;
iii. Civil servants and officers of the law will receive additional educational requirements before entering service that deal with cultural trafficking, especially in “red zones” or areas where this action is prominent;
1. This is to prevent bribery and corruption at high levels;
2. A monetary reward will also be offered for cultural operations that are successful in order to provide incentive;
3. Stronger consequences or legal repercussions will be put into place by working with LEGAL and INTERPOL;
iv. Smaller divisions will be formed under this resolution based on geographical location (ensuring that every country will receive equal attention and resources in order to combat their issues);
1. These divisions will be handling certain UNESCO-determined districts that will aid in the recuperation of these objects;
2. Underdeveloped countries will have the opportunity to receive aid and resources that are funded by UNESCO and former colonizing countries;
b. Volunteer groups and applicable NGOs will create stated educational material;
i. Educational materials will be used to educate the public on artifacts presented in museums;
1. This can be done in the form of signs, videos, or guided tours by individual museums and jurisdiction;
ii. Educational material will be verified by UNESCO and applicable countries;
6. Recognizes the need to cultural identity and heritage, and the implications that a strong cultural identity has for the safeguarding of cultural objects;
a. Calls for the creation of a UNESCO-hosted conference that brings stolen cultural artifacts to light;
i. Reminding that a majority of stolen cultural objects are in public and private institutions, and showcased to the public;
ii. Emphasizing that there is no legal obligation for an institution to showcase their artifacts and that there is instead a strong moral obligation to do so;
iii. Recommending for the funding for the conference to be provided by the donors and industry professionals who currently fund the institutions that hold cultural artifacts;
iv. Acknowledging that the powerful nations that hoist these artifacts are constantly looking to build relationships with smaller and less powerful countries, especially countries that faced colonialism (these countries can participate in the UNESCO-based conference to do so);
v. Emphasizing that once the conference is over, the cultural artifact can be taken back to its ethnic homeland;
vi. Reminding that this conference is purely voluntary, and that it is a surefire way to return a significant amount of cultural objects back to their ethnic region;
b. Utilize UNESCO’s #Unite4Heritage project to help immerse initiatives that encourage the promotion and donation towards this cause;
i. Addressing effective methods through social media campaigns through locally and internationally run events;
ii. Expanding upon the hosted conference in 1970’s to gather global sentiment of trafficking and taking into account present events to create an updated resolution of repairing the cultural loss;
c. Recognize the value that cultural objects hold for their country and their history and prevent illicit action in attempts to reclaim them;
i. Acknowledging the concern certain members of society have with expropriated cultural artifacts;
ii. Honoring the regional legislation protecting foreign cultural property within public or private collections.
Crisis
What is Crisis?
Crisis committees are a more advanced, smaller, fast-paced type of Model UN committee that simulates the rapid-response decision-making process of a specific body. They can be historical, contemporary, fictional, or futuristic. Some examples of Crisis committees are the United States Presidential Cabinet on the Cuban Missile Crisis, the United Nations Security Council responding to a nuclear threat, a zombie apocalypse, or space colonies. Many Crisis committees are also based on books and movies. Unlike the long-term solutions that a General Assembly committee focuses on, crisis committees highlight immediate response and short-term solutions. Crisis committees are recommended for delegates who have already done a General Assembly committee. Crisis committees can be split into four different categories, each of which will be covered in detail below:
1. Preparation
2. The Position
3. The Frontroom
4. The Backroom
The standard Crisis committee is known as a Single Crisis, which is covered in this guide. A Joint Crisis Committee is two separate Crisis committees with opposing sides to the same issue. An example of this could be the United States of America and the Soviet Union during the Cold War. An Ad-Hoc Committee is a type of Crisis committee in which the delegates don't know their topic until the day of the conference. Ad-hoc committees are extremely advanced and only recommended for experienced delegates.
Preparation
Everything required for preparation for a General Assembly committee is also required to prepare for a Crisis committee. Any preparation covered in this guide is meant to be supplemental to the preparation for a General Assembly committee and only used during Crisis committees.
For Crisis committees, many conferences require delegates to submit a white paper (the standard General Assembly position paper) and a black paper for each topic. Black papers are short position papers that explain a delegate's position and role in the Crisis committee, assessment of the situation, objectives, and intended initial actions. Black papers ensure that delegates are ready for the fast pace of Crisis committees and have a strong background knowledge of their position. Black papers should outline a delegate's intended crisis arc (expanded on below), but should not be too specific—it’s typically prohibited to write crisis notes (expanded on below) ahead of the committee. A good way to differentiate between white and black papers is to remember that white papers are what a delegate would allow everyone to know, while black papers are what a delegate would want to keep hidden from the general public.
The Position
In a Crisis committee, delegates typically represent individual people instead of countries. For example, a delegate may be the Secretary of Energy in a Presidential Cabinet or the President of a company in the Board of Directors. As a result, delegates must be ready to represent their individual's opinions, values, and possible actions rather than the policies of a larger group or country. Furthermore, delegates typically have a portfolio of powers, a collection of powers and capabilities that they can use as a result of the position of the individual they are representing. For example, a spy chief may have access to surveillance and a general might command troops. Delegates are encouraged to use these powers throughout the committee.
Frontroom
In a General Assembly committee, delegates spend the committee working together, discussing, and collaborating to write a resolution paper in order to solve an issue. This often takes a long time. However, Crisis committees have directives instead. A directive is a short resolution paper with short-term solutions written by groups of delegates in response to a problem. The format is the same as that of a white paper (see How to Write a White paper) and its structure only contains solutions. Directives do not contain preambulatory clauses because their point is to be short and to the point. The part of a committee that contains moderated caucuses, unmoderated caucuses, and directives is known as the frontroom.
Backroom
Crisis committees also have the backroom, which is the behind-the-scenes element of a Crisis simulation. The backroom exists to receive crisis notes from delegates (private notes sent to backroom chairs to take secret actions for a delegate's personal agenda). Some of the most common reasons a delegate sends a crisis note are to further their own power, to harm an opposing delegate, or to learn more about an event with some hidden details. Crisis notes should be as specific as possible and should outline a delegate's intentions and plans. They should also include a TLDR. It’s typically prohibited to write crisis notes ahead of the committee.
A delegate's Crisis arc is their long-term narrative, evolving storyline, and strategic plan that a delegate develops through crisis notes. It includes backroom actions, frontroom behavior, and actions with other delegates. It can span the entire committee—from the first crisis note to the final directive.
The backroom staff consistently give Crisis updates based on their own agenda, a delegate's crisis notes, or random events that may happen. For example, a Crisis update may be an article released about an action a delegate took in the backroom. Another example of a Crisis update may be an assassination, which typically results from a delegate attempting to remove their opposition in the backroom. When a delegate is assassinated, they receive a new position and continue in committee.
Miscellaneous
Specialized committees are simulated bodies that differ from the traditional General Assembly or Crisis committee in a variety of ways. This may include historical committees (set in a specific time period), regional bodies (such as the African Union or the European Union), or futuristic committees (based on fictional books, movies, or ideas). These specialized committees often have different rules of procedure, smaller delegate pools, and specialized topics. Specific differences for a committee can be found in the committee's background guide on the conference website.
Private directives are directives that a small group of delegates work on in private. These directives typically contain actions the delegates want to take for their own agendas. Some common uses for private directives are espionage, military movements, propaganda, and internal government actions. Private directives are often used as crisis notes that multiple delegates can work on, allowing communication and collaboration that helps each delegate shape their own narrative.
Respect and Behavior
It is important to be respectful to other delegates, the dais, and the conference as a whole. Significant effort is put into the creation and running of every Model UN conference, so delegates should put their best effort into their work and contribute to the committee as much as they can.
Glossary
● Ad-Hoc Committee: A type of Crisis committee in which delegates don't know their topic until the day of the conference.
● Assassination: The removal of another delegate from committee, resulting in a new position for the removed delegate.
● Backroom: The behind-the-scenes element of a Crisis simulation.
● Crisis: A more advanced, fast-paced type of Model UN committee that simulates the rapid-response decision-making process of a specific body.
● Crisis Arc: A delegate's long-term narrative, evolving storyline, and strategic plan that a delegate develops through crisis notes.
● Crisis Notes: Private notes sent to backroom chairs requesting secret actions in pursuit of a delegate's personal agenda.
● Crisis Update: Random, influential events that may occur at any time and affect most of the delegates.
● Directive: A short resolution paper with short-term solutions written by groups of delegates in response to a Crisis update.
● Frontroom: The part of committee that contains moderated caucuses, unmoderated caucuses, and directives.
● Joint Crisis Committee: Two separate Crisis committees with opposing sides to the same issue.
● Portfolio of Powers: A collection of powers and capabilities a delegate can use based on the position of the individual they represent.
● Private Directive: Directives that a small group of delegates work on in private to help each delegate shape their own narrative.
● Single Crisis: The standard Crisis committee.
● Specialized Committees: Simulated bodies that differ from the traditional General Assembly or Crisis committees in a variety of ways.
Example Black Paper
JCC: Nigerian-Biafran War: Biafra
Louis Mbanefo
Black Paper
James Smith
American High School
In addition to my pivotal role in advancing Biafra's quest for statehood, I aspire to ascend to the presidency of our nation, a vision bolstered by my adept negotiations with the United States of America. While steadfastly advocating for Biafran sovereignty, I am cognizant of the imperative for foreign support to fortify our path to statehood, compelling me to strategically align with American interests in the region. To this strategic end, I envision establishing a robust corporate entity to oversee Biafra's oil resources, drawing upon the wealth amassed from my lucrative legal practice. Through leveraging my control over Biafra’s courts, I aim to assert control over drilling rights, ensuring that any concessions granted to other entities are deemed unconstitutional through judicial channels. Utilizing my influence within the Biafran legislative branch, I intend to garner substantial backing for my corporate venture, thereby compelling American drilling enterprises to operate under it, thereby ensuring prosperity for both myself and Biafra. Subsequently, I plan to utilize the resources at my disposal to strategically lobby within the realm of American politics, cultivating support not only for Biafra but also for my corporate endeavors. Furthermore, I hope to utilize my corporate assets to acquire prominent American media companies, thereby shaping public perception and subtly spreading the notion of Soviet interference in Nigeria, thereby garnering heightened American support for our cause. Upon solidifying American backing, I envision leveraging my amassed wealth and influence to orchestrate the removal of the incumbent Biafran president, Odumegwu Ojukwu, and then
positioning myself as a viable presidential candidate through judicious manipulation of public sentiment and political dynamics.
Example Directive
Committee: Ad-Hoc: Cabinet of Ukraine
Position: Minister of Energy
● Engages the Chinese Foreign Affairs Minister in negotiations towards investing in Ukraine’s energy and infrastructure sectors,
○ Negotiates a Chinese grant towards rebuilding the civilian infrastructure and energy grids,
○ Calls for Chinese humanitarian aid in the aim of furthering relations between the nations, and as a motion of goodwill towards the eventual integration of Chinese corporations into Ukraine’s economy,
● Prompts Chinese energy and infrastructure companies towards actively participating in Ukraine’s remerging energy and infrastructure sector, and in investment towards infrastructure projects,
○ Negotiates renewable energy contracts with several Chinese energy companies, working towards revitalizing Ukraine’s damaged energy sector,
■ China Yangtze Power Corporation,
■ Xinjiang Goldwind Science Technology Co. Ltd.,
■ JinkoSolar Holdings Co. Ltd.,
○ Engages Chinese petroleum sector towards providing national gas and oil exports, while investing in Ukraine’s own natural gas and oil reserves,
● Sends a diplomatic representative to the government of the People’s Republic of China with the aim of opening Chinese-Ukrainian communications towards prompting investment and aid,
● Forms a commission of ministers to address Chinese-Ukrainian relations, while monitoring the Chinese investment and aid that is provided to Ukraine by China,
○ Monitors the aid provided to Ukraine, making sure that investments or participation of state or private sectors don’t turn sour, or harm Ukraine’s national interests,
○ Aims to address Chinese concerns or desires within the region, and to maintain Ukraine’s national interests within the relationship between China and Ukraine,
● Advocates for the creation a direct line of communication between the respective leaders to:
○ Establish a lasting connection,
○ Keep each nation informed about current developments,
● Utilizes accurate Ukrainian intelligence on Russia and the United States to:
○ Bargain a position of negotiation with China,
○ Strengthen our position with China.
Example Crisis Note #1
Committee: Joint Crisis Committee: Nigerian-Biafran War: Biafra
Position: Louis Mbanefo
To my beautiful wife,
At this point, my priority is to take control of the power of the Judicial Branch. To this end, I will utilize my newly acquired fortune to bribe many of the judges in power. I know I won't have to worry about not having enough money because $200,000 USD is worth a lot, especially in 1960. If any judge decides to refuse, I will use my influence over the Head Justice to force them into submission, while also utilizing contacts acquired from my time serving in the Eastern Region Parliament. This will allow me to earn support within the legislative branch. To further increase my influence in the judicial branch, I will use my bodyguards to physically intimidate justices. With this, I will have complete control of the judicial branch. If you could carry out these tasks, I would be forever grateful to you, my love. Only a few judges should have to be bribed because only the top judges in the Supreme Court matter, as they are able to take on any case from the lower courts and have the power to influence judgement.
TLDR: Use newly acquired fortune to buy out judges and utilize contacts to earn support within the legislative branch. Use bodyguards to physically intimidate justices, increasing my influence in the judicial branch.
Thank you so much, dear. I hope you have a blessed day.
With love,
Louis Mbanefo
Example Crisis Note #2
Committee: The Descendants
Position: Victor Tremaine
Dear Mother, Evil Stepmother
I struggle extensively in adapting to Auradon prep, yet I am firmly committed to ensuring that all villains are able to achieve a new life for themselves, despite you and other villains’ crimes. To this end, I am deeply grateful for the minor magic passed down to me from your possession of the Fairy Godmother’s wand in Cinderella III, a Twist in Time, which imbued you with magic. In order to help steer the public perception of VKs positively, I need funding and influence. In order to get this, please reach out to the three largest news organizations and talk shows, offering
exclusive interviews regarding what really happened on the Isle of the Lost, along with the current status of the villains there. Considering how separated each side is from the other, this information will likely be very valuable to news outlets and interesting to those heroes who are fearful for their fates regarding the villains that once terrorized them. Please negotiate with them, offering exclusive interviews in exchange for 45% of profits, along with editorial control of what is released in the news. Please tell them that if they agree, I can also offer direct communication with villains, offering other perspectives on their stories, never before seen. With this, I hope I can improve my standing among the population of Auradon.
With love,
Victor
Example Crisis Note #3
Committee: The Descendants
Position: Victor Tremaine
Dearest Mother,
I understand your preoccupation with how evil should be infused into this plan, but I beg you to bide your time in order to ensure minimal HK interference with our plan. With the money earned from my interviews, please hire a team of bodyguards loyal to me and the VKs, from outside Auradon (to prevent any other ties to Auradon) in order to ensure my safety and continued influence within Auradon. Additionally, please manage the news outlets where my interviews aired, utilizing the editorial control demanded as part of the terms, ensuring emphasis on the rehabilitative values of VKs, their contributions to Auradon, and the negative effects of HKs on the life of VKs, despite VK's rehabilitated status. With this, I hope to elevate the influence of VKs within Auradon and ensure their continued participation within Auradon prep. Mother, we will carry out evil soon. We will eventually make the HKs and heroes suffer for the fate they have condemned us to. I only need your support, and then the world will open for you.
With love,
Victor Tremaine
Example Crisis Note #4
Committee: The Descendants
Position: Victor Tremaine
Mother,
The time has finally come. We will finally carry out our evil objectives. While magic is disabled within the Isle of the Lost, alchemy and potion making do not directly relate to magic, but rather
fundamental forces of the world and power of ingredients, so should be available to the villains on the Isle of the Lost. Please use your connections with the Evil Queen within the Isle of the Lost to request that she produce three love potions, which will be especially potent due to her experience with alchemy and potion making within her own story. Please use the newly formed joint school on the border of Auradon and the Isle of the Lost outlined in RISE to achieve this smuggling. I plan to have the Fairy Godmother, along with other Auradon leadership poisoned with love potion so that they will be smitten with my beauty, and completely under my influence. This will occur soon mother, so I hope you are satisfied with the eventual outcome. I will provide more information on my plan as soon as I receive your response.
With love and evil,
Victor
Example Crisis Note #5
Committee: The Descendants
Position: Victor Tremaine
Mother,
The time has come. With the passing of our RISE initiative, our joint VK-HK island is complete. As part of the grand opening of our educational institute, I will sneak both you and the Evil Queen disguised as staff, ensuring the successful smuggling of our presence. This grand opening will have an elaborate banquet and ball, in which heroic leadership will be invited and will give speeches to promote collaboration. The Fairy Godmother and other leaders of the heroes will attend. I will instruct the cooks of the island (my body guards from Crisis Note #2 in disguise) to put love potion within the food served to the three leaders of the heroes, causing them to become smitten with my immeasurable beauty. This is the next step towards securing our continued influence.
I hope with this, we are one step closer to achieving our evil ideals.
With love and evvvilll,
Victor
Example Crisis Note #6
Committee: The Descendants
Position: Victor Tremaine
Mother,
Our plan is almost complete. Our final move will be to use our influence through hero leadership to remove the barrier that separates the two isles to ensure full integration of the two societies. In order to achieve this, please send a letter to the Fairy Godmother and hero leadership, offering my affection, and a complete relationship with all leadership (romantic) in exchange for removing the barrier. Please disguise my true intentions as merely desiring to unite my loved ones (my mother, the villains, and the leadership, including the Fairy Godmother). This should be enough to achieve my goal of removing the barrier. Please continue to instruct my bodyguards to keep my safety their top priority and aid my further actions. I hope to see you soon.
With immense love and evvvilll,
Victor
Awards
Introduction
Once a delegate has attended a few Model UN conferences, earning awards is the next step on the road to becoming a great delegate. However, these desirable recognitions are not easy to get, especially at international conferences with hundreds of delegates in each committee! Fortunately, with enough effort, the tried-and-true methods explained below boost any delegate's chances of receiving an award.
All Times
● Research and prepare as much as possible leading up to the conference; background information never hurts.
● Put effort into all work; the dais can tell how much effort a delegate puts into the conference and respects those who work hard.
● Be respectful; the dais appreciates respectful delegates.
● Be consistent; it can be easy to get tired during a committee, so make sure to stay consistent and fight through any fatigue.
● Be detailed and clear.
● Eye contact, good posture, and confident voice at all times.
● A delegate should speak professionally, but still sound like themselves.
● A delegate should never address themselves as "I" or "we", but as "the delegation of ____".
● Represent a position's policies accurately; Model UN is not the place to be expressing personal opinions.
Moderated Caucus
● Memorize the opening speech for a strong impression; make sure to include a strong opening, the position name, a clear statement of the position's policy, and effective rhetoric.
● A delegate should address sub-issues during their speeches.
● Take notes during speeches; having background knowledge on other specific perspectives early into the conference is vital to a delegate's success.
● A delegate should raise their placard at all times (unless they have already spoken in the moderated caucus).
● A delegate should send notes to other delegates telling them to come to find them during unmoderated caucuses; this helps the delegate reaching out be seen as a leader.
Unmoderated Caucus
● Show cooperation; the dais actively seeks out leaders and collaborators.
● Address other delegates by their first name during the unmoderated caucus; this makes the speaker seem more personable and approachable.
● Distribute tasks; this makes a delegate be seen as a leader.
● Contribute to the resolution paper (it is typically better to contribute to the main body than the preambulatory clauses because the main body has the most substance).
● Write creative solutions by thinking outside of the box (but stay realistic).
● Write creative solutions by learning from the United Nations' successes and failures in real life concerning the committee's topic.
● A delegate should ensure that any solutions they propose solve the problem and aren't too extreme or unrealistic.
● Regarding the resolution paper, be willing to compromise with collaborators or other blocs; this shows flexibility.
● Push to get a Q&A session or a presentation spot for the resolution paper presentation (preferably Q&A) and be prepared to take that role.
Crisis-Specific
● Balance the front room and back room (don't focus too much on one or the other).
● Be ready to speak twice in the same moderated caucus (but delegates should not be repeating what was already said).
● Create a directive and come up with the main ideas for it, then pass it around to let others write the details. This shows collaboration and leadership.
● Write multiple directives to address crisis updates.
● Try to be the primary speaker for directives.
● Clarity and specificity are key regarding crisis notes.
● A delegate should be creative and multidimensional with their crisis arc.
● If a delegate's crisis notes are not being approved, they should try different angles.
● A delegate should always use their personal powers (outlined in the background guide).
● A delegate should not worry if they are assassinated; it means someone recognized their influence and the attention is on them (the dais will give the victim a new position).