What is MUN: glossary to everything a first-time delegate should know
Cc :- Pictures from TIMUN where delegates are raising plag cards to comply with an ongoing motion.
Model United Nations or MUN which has been popular recently is an extra activity discussion for students interested in diplomacy and UN world affairs. MUN serves as a testament to guide the students to take stands and condemn for bringing societal change. MUN is a platform where students across schools and colleges come together to debate and discuss, throughout the conference which typically spans two – three days, the students can participate as delegates by choosing a MUN committee and engage in lively discussions adhering to UN and parliamentary norms with others, each advocating their stances for the world problem to find a correlative resolutions.
By regularly participating in MUN conferences students get a chance to dive deeper into social problems which helps them develop self-esteem, moral intelligence, confidence, leadership skills, team spirit, research, writing, and great public speaking skills which are necessary to make students ready for the world of today, tomorrow and beyond.
Engaging in MUN conferences gives an outlook towards the world and around us, which also helps one to foster relationships and create a network of like-minded people. Not only does MUN help in personality development and up-skilling, but it also aids in building students’ CVs which is important for higher studies.
Moving forward there is a lot of confusion about MUN and the terms that is used during the conference, it’s not easy to grasp the MUN terms as a first-timer participating in the MUN. To make it simple, below is a glossary list of all the terms in MUN:-
Delegate – who is a delegate?
In a Model United Nations (MUN) conference, a delegate is a student who represents a country or individual. They dive into research, advocate for their assigned position, and engage in discussions with other delegates. Their job is to share their country’s perspective, suggest solutions, and be actively involved in debates and decision-making.
Executive Board – What is an executive board?
The Executive Board consists of experienced MUN mentors, such as chairs, vice-chairs, and other key roles like rapporteurs or heads. They keep the committee sessions on track, manage discussions, and ensure everything runs smoothly. They also evaluate delegate performances and handle the overall organization of the MUN.
Position Paper – What is a position paper?
A position paper is a written document that delegates prepare to present their country’s stance on the issues at hand. It explains their country’s viewpoints and proposed solutions. This paper helps other delegates understand where you stand and what kind of resolutions or actions you might support.
Resolution – what is a resolution ?
A resolution is a formal proposal that delegates develop to address a specific issue. It’s debated and voted on during committee sessions. Once agreed upon, it becomes an official document that outlines actions or recommendations for tackling the issue.
Crisis Committee – what is crisis committee?
A crisis committee is a high-energy part of MUN where delegates face urgent and rapidly changing global issues. It requires quick thinking and fast decision-making to manage and resolve these pressing problems effectively.
Portfolio – what is a portfolio?
In MUN, a portfolio is essentially the set of responsibilities or topics you’re in charge of. It represents the country or person you are advocating for. You’ll need to prepare your speeches, research, and resolutions based on this portfolio.
Points – what are the points?
During MUN meetings, you’ll use “points” to raise specific comments or questions.
Point of Order: Used to address a procedural mistake.
Point of Information: Requests clarification from a speaker.
Point of Personal Privilege: Deals with personal issues affecting your participation. Point of Parliamentary Procedure: Focuses on procedural questions.
Caucus – what is a caucus?
A caucus is a break from the formal debate where delegates discuss strategies, draft resolutions, or negotiate in smaller groups. It’s a chance for informal, yet important, discussions.
Moderated Caucus – what is a moderated caucus?
During a moderated caucus, the discussion is more structured but still flexible. Each delegate gets a set time to speak on specific issues, allowing for focused and organized discussions.
Unmoderated Caucus – what is an unmoderated caucus?
An unmoderated caucus is a more relaxed break where delegates can move around, talk freely, and brainstorm without strict rules. It’s great for working together and building consensus on key issues.
Yields – what is yields?
When a delegate yields they’re choosing to give up their remaining time to let someone else speak. This helps keep the conversation moving and makes sure everyone has a chance to join in. It’s a way to make discussions run smoothly and include more voices.
Committee – what is a committee?
A Committee is a group of people put together to discuss and make decisions on specific issues. They work as a team to come up with solutions or recommendations.
Agenda – what is an agenda ?
An Agenda is a list that shows what topics will be talked about in a meeting and in what order. It helps keep the meeting organized and makes sure everything important is covered.
Motion – what is a motion?
A Motion is a formal suggestion made during a meeting for a particular action or decision. After the suggestion is made, the group discusses it and votes on whether to approve or reject it.
Mandate – what is a mandate?
A Mandate is a set of instructions or an official order given to a UN body , outlining their specific duties and goals. It tells them what they are expected to do and provides the authority to carry out those tasks. The mandate helps ensure that the work is focused and aligned with the overall objectives of the UN.
These were the list of some MUN glossary terms that a delegates need to know prior the conference. Experiencing an MUN helps a student to boost confidence and solidify necessary skills of modern age world. It is very easy to register for MUN, one can check out THE INDRAPRASTHA MUN website for more details.
