Model United Nations Flow of Debate Training Video

Summary

The video demonstrates the flow of debate and procedures in a Model United Nations (MUN) committee, using the United Nations Security Council as an example. It explains key roles like the chair, delegates, and secretary, and walks through processes such as taking attendance, opening debates, setting the agenda, and proposing motions. Various debate formats like the speaker's list, moderated and unmoderated caucuses are discussed, alongside the voting procedures and methods to introduce resolutions and amendments. The video provides a practical guide to running a MUN committee, showcasing the dynamics of diplomatic debate and decision-making.

Takeaways

• 📋 The Model UN session follows standard procedures like moderating debate and maintaining order.
• 🗳️ The chair manages motions, calling on delegates to speak, and overseeing voting procedures.
• 👥 A speakers list is used for formal debate, allowing each delegate to express their position on topics.
• ✅ Motions are introduced, seconded, and voted on to determine the course of debate, like setting agenda topics.
• 🎙️ Delegates can yield their remaining speaking time to the chair, another delegate, or for questions.
• 🌍 The agenda topics in this example are environmental sustainability and space exploration.
• 🕰️ Moderated caucuses have structured speaking times, while unmoderated caucuses allow free movement and informal discussion.
• ✋ Points like 'point of inquiry', 'point of personal privilege', and 'point of order' help maintain clarity, comfort, and procedural correctness.
• 📝 Draft resolutions require sponsors, signatories, and formal introduction, with possible amendments added during debate.
• 🔔 Voting procedures, including roll call votes, are used to decide on resolutions and motions, based on majority rule.

Q & A

What is the purpose of the United Nations Security Council session in the script?

The purpose of the United Nations Security Council session in the script is to demonstrate the flow of debate and Model United Nations (MUN) procedures during a committee session, with an example using the Security Council.

What roles do the chair and secretary play in a Model United Nations committee?

The chair moderates the debate, keeps order, tells delegates when they may speak, and oversees motions and votes. The secretary, or co-chair, assists the chair by keeping track of time, maintaining the speakers list, and handling other administrative tasks.

What is the difference between 'present' and 'present and voting' during roll call?

'Present' means the delegate can vote 'yes,' 'no,' or abstain on substantive matters. 'Present and voting' means the delegate can only vote 'yes' or 'no' and cannot abstain.

What is a speaker's list, and how is it used in MUN?

A speaker's list is a formal way for each delegate to present their position on a topic. The speaking order is set, and delegates are added to the list to take turns speaking. It is often used to debate agenda order or other subjects of debate.

What is the difference between a moderated caucus and an unmoderated caucus?

In a moderated caucus, the chair calls on speakers one by one to discuss a specified subtopic with a set speaking time. In contrast, an unmoderated caucus allows delegates to speak freely, move around, and engage in informal discussions without a set order.

What is the process for introducing a draft resolution in a Model UN session?

To introduce a draft resolution, a delegate must motion to introduce it, gain enough sponsors and signatories, and read it aloud to the committee. After the resolution is introduced, time is allowed for questions and discussion through caucuses.

What are friendly and unfriendly amendments in MUN, and how are they handled?

A friendly amendment is an edit to a draft resolution that the original authors agree with, and it is automatically added. An unfriendly amendment is one that the authors do not agree with and must be voted on by the committee.

How are voting procedures initiated, and what are the options for voting on a resolution?

Voting procedures are initiated by a motion to enter voting on resolutions. Delegates can vote in favor, against, or abstain. A roll call vote can also be used, where each country is called individually to state their vote.

What are some types of motions that delegates can raise during a MUN session?

Delegates can raise motions for actions like opening debate, setting the agenda, opening or closing the speaker’s list, entering moderated or unmoderated caucuses, and moving into voting procedures. Motions can also be raised to extend caucuses or suspend the session.

What is a point of personal privilege, and when is it used?

A point of personal privilege is used by a delegate to address personal comfort, such as asking to go to the bathroom, open a window, or request the speaker to speak louder. It can be raised at any time but should not interrupt a speaker.