MUN in the Classroom

Alexander Raymond Rubio

Colegio Hebreo Monte Sinaí

About myself

About the following weeks

Four modules:

(Oct/3) Introduction and Research
(Oct/9) Introduction to Protocol ~ Rules of Procedure
(Oct/16) Protocol ~ Resolutions ~ Simulation
(Oct/23) Simulation ~ Closing

Introduction to MUN

What is Model United Nations?

MUN Conferences are educational programs that have served as a basic tool for students in comprehending global politics and the functioning of international relations. They are simulation-driven events in which participants (delegates) take an active role in representing a specific nation/representative and its interests within certain organizations and institutions (committees).

In addition to developing research, writing, speaking, and rhetorical skills, MUN seeks to enhance critical thinking towards the analysis of the dynamic political landscape we face today (and through history).

How are traditional Conferences and Delegates different from today's?

Traditional Conferences	World-Class Conferences
Focused on consensus building	Focused on realism
Unrealistic debates; tendency to break a country's position	Are aware of the limits embedded in modern politics
Quantity > Quality	Quality content is the focus
Portrayal of international organizations as unrealistically effective	Reflect the realities and bounds of international relations
Awards: Resolution drafting, promotion of cooperation (even if unrealistic)	Awards: Firm and knowledgeable in national positions + political savvy and innovative ideas

Types of Committees

Traditional Committees

General Assemblies

Specialized Committees

Historical Committees

Cabinets

*crisis?

Important concepts

(which will be detailed next week)

Parliamentary Procedure
=> Points & Motions

Debate Flow
=> Speaker's Lists, Caucuses, Working Papers & Resolutions

Research

About the Position Paper

2-4 paged investigation that summarizes a country's involvement in a specific topic.
No specific format, but is generally composed of:

Introductory Background: A brief history of the country concerning the topic

Country's involvement in past international actions

Current policy situation (and its justification)

Possible solutions

Is usually delivered within the first sessions of the conference.

What makes a good Position Paper

Keeps it simple ~ You're not writing an epic novel
Is fluent and well-organized
Includes all citations and references
Elegantly broken down ~ Use subtopics
Shows comprehension of:

a country's position towards the topic and its key players (other nations, organizations, treaties).
why a past policy was enacted, and why it was/wasn't successful.
solutions as are realistic and justified alternatives/amendments to current policies; and emerge by inertia from the paper.

Position Paper in the debate

The Position Paper has a twofold relevance during a conference

It shows how keen a delegate is in comprehending a country's policy, and the (political, cultural, economic) reasons behind it
It serves as the basic (yet not only) tool for factual and accurate information for a delegate to use within the debate.

The quality of a Position Paper has a large influence in a delegate's development in the debate. Profound knowledge on a subject will make it easier for a delegate to handle information, react with compelling arguments, and be a knowledgeable leader in the debate floor.