MUN Preparation Essentials

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What is the purpose of preparing a 'Research Binder' before the MUN conference?

To organize all the information collected about the country and topics.

Why is it essential to research both your country and committee topics before the conference?

It ensures informed speeches and strong arguments during negotiations.

What should you focus on while researching your country profile?

Physical geography, culture, politics & government, and economy.

What are some key components to include in your Country Profile?

Official name, population, capital, official language, and GDP. Signup and view all the answers

What is the timeline for writing your 'Opening Speech' in relation to the conference?

It should be written and practiced one week before the conference. Signup and view all the answers

How many weeks prior to the conference should you print and read the Background Guide?

Six weeks before the conference. Signup and view all the answers

What type of information should you include in your Research Binder?

Information about your country and the topics being discussed. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it beneficial to know about past international actions related to your topic?

It provides context and insights for creating realistic resolutions. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary type of government in your country?

The primary type of government in my country is a parliamentary democracy. Signup and view all the answers

Identify two natural resources that are abundant in your country.

My country has abundant natural resources such as oil and timber. Signup and view all the answers

Name one significant leader in your country and their role.

One significant leader in my country is the Prime Minister, who oversees the government. Signup and view all the answers

What is the currency used in your country?

The currency used in my country is the national dollar. Signup and view all the answers

How many personnel are typically present in your country’s military?

My country’s military typically has around 250,000 personnel. Signup and view all the answers

List one major import and one major export of your country.

One major import is machinery, while a major export is agricultural products. Signup and view all the answers

Who are your country’s two primary allies?

My country’s primary allies include Country A and Country B. Signup and view all the answers

Identify one of your country’s biggest trading partners.

One of my country’s biggest trading partners is Country X. Signup and view all the answers

What are the four main components that should be included in the header of a resolution?

Committee, Topic, Sponsors, and Signatories. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the preambular paragraphs in a resolution?

To explain why the resolution is being introduced and to set the scene for the discussion. Signup and view all the answers

How do operative paragraphs differ from preambular paragraphs in a resolution?

Operative paragraphs outline specific actions to be taken, whereas preambular paragraphs provide context and rationale. Signup and view all the answers

What role do signatories play in the introduction of a resolution?

Signatories express interest in having the resolution introduced but do not necessarily support it. Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum percentage of signatories required for a resolution to be accepted in a committee?

Usually about 20% of the committee members. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common characteristic of preambular phrases used in resolutions?

Preambular phrases are italicized and begin each preambular paragraph. Signup and view all the answers

Can you name two examples of preambular phrases used in resolutions?

Examples include 'Expressing concern' and 'Recalling'. Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of mentioning past UN resolutions or treaties in the preamble?

It provides context and shows how the current issue relates to previous actions. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of operative paragraphs in a UN resolution?

Operative paragraphs outline actions for the UN to take and must be crafted carefully. Signup and view all the answers

What punctuation marks the end of the final operative paragraph?

The final operative paragraph ends with a period. Signup and view all the answers

List three examples of operative phrases used in UN resolutions.

Examples include 'Recommends', 'Condemns', and 'Urges'. Signup and view all the answers

How should sub-operatives be introduced within an operative paragraph?

Sub-operatives should be introduced using a colon. Signup and view all the answers

Why is the concern over civilian casualties significant in the context of UAV strikes?

The concern highlights the ethical implications and potential violations of international law in military actions. Signup and view all the answers

What does welcoming the January 2014 report of the Secretary-General indicate in a resolution?

It signifies acknowledgment of ongoing efforts towards cooperation in combating terrorism. Signup and view all the answers

What is one key concern mentioned regarding national sovereignty in the context of UAV usage?

The concern is that extrajudicial targeted killings violate the sovereignty of nations. Signup and view all the answers

In the sample resolution, which aspect of UAVs is highlighted as beneficial?

The potential medical, commercial, agricultural, and other beneficial functions of unarmed UAVs. Signup and view all the answers

What does 'recalling' previous resolutions signify in the context of UN resolutions?

It indicates a reference to earlier actions or principles that guide current considerations. Signup and view all the answers

What role do sponsors and signatories play in a UN resolution?

Sponsors draft the resolution while signatories indicate their support for it. Signup and view all the answers

What is the stance of the 2014 Covenant on Extrajudicial Drone Strikes regarding targeted assassinations outside declared conflict zones?

They are treated as violations of the 1966 Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Signup and view all the answers

What rights do nations have under the 2014 Covenant concerning the development of drones?

Nations have the right to develop drones, especially for nonviolent purposes. Signup and view all the answers

In what situations is the use of drones considered acceptable according to the Covenant?

In self-defense and inside declared war zones, in accordance with international law. Signup and view all the answers

What agricultural applications for drones are encouraged by the 2014 Covenant?

Crop dusting, pesticide application, infestation eradication, and soil monitoring. Signup and view all the answers

What principle must parties in a war adhere to regarding the use of drones?

The norm of proportionality, ensuring benefits outweigh expected harms. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of establishing the World Forum on Drone Innovation (WFDI)?

To discuss peaceful uses of drones among private companies, national governments, and NGOs. Signup and view all the answers

List two emergency applications of drones affirmed by the Covenant.

Emergency preparation and disaster responses. Signup and view all the answers

How does the 2014 Covenant address the operation of UAVs in another nation’s airspace?

No state can operate UAVs in another state’s airspace without consent in times of peace. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Preparing for a Model UN Conference

Preparation is vital for effective participation in Model UN discussions.
Informed speeches, strong negotiation skills, and realistic resolutions depend on thorough research.

Conference Preparation Timeline

6 weeks prior: Obtain and review the Background Guide for your committee, available online.
5 weeks prior: Organize the Background Guide into a Research Binder to compile essential information.
4 weeks prior: Develop a comprehensive Country Profile for your assigned country.
2-3 weeks prior: Focus research on topics including Topic Background, Past International Actions, Country Policy, and Possible Solutions.
1 week prior: Write and practice your Opening Speech.

Researching Your Country Profile

Gather specific data on physical geography, culture, politics, government, and economy.
Key aspects include:
- Official name
- Population and geographical size (in square miles)
- Official and commonly spoken languages
- Capital city and major cities
- Ethnic composition and quality of life
- Historical founding date and type of government
- Major leaders and military details
- Total Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and natural resources
- Currency, imports, exports, and key trading partners

Researching Topic Background

Develop a solid understanding of your selected topic before analyzing your country's perspective.
Utilize various online resources, including UN websites and credible articles, to obtain historical context, causes, and impacts linked to the issue.

Past International Action and Country Policy

Investigate previous UN actions addressing the topic using news sources, UN reports, and archival resolutions.
Research your country’s stance through governmental and diplomatic channels to understand its policies related to the topic.

Resolution Components

Header:
- Committee name, Topic name, Sponsors (authors), and Signatories (supporters).
Preamble:
- Justifies the discussion topic; may reference past resolutions and treaties.
- Includes preambular clauses that start with italicized phrases.

Operative Paragraphs

Describe actionable steps for the UN; each paragraph begins with italicized operative phrases.
Operative paragraphs are numbered and end in a semicolon, while the concluding paragraph ends in a period.
Sub-operatives are introduced using a colon.

Preambular and Operative Phrases

Examples of preambular phrases: Acknowledging, Recalling, Recognizing.
Examples of operative phrases: Acknowledges, Requests, Urges.

Sample MUN Resolution Format

Follow specific structure:
- Committee: Specify which committee (e.g., General Assembly, Disarmament).
- Topic: Clearly state the topic (e.g., Use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles).
- Sponsors and Signatories listed for transparency and support.

Additional Resolution Details

Include various considerations regarding the implications of drone use and international cooperation.
Recommend the establishment of forums for discussing peaceful drone applications across various sectors, such as agriculture and emergency responses.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Description

This quiz covers the critical steps to prepare for a Model United Nations (MUN) conference, including the importance of a research binder and country profile. Learn about the timeline for crafting your opening speech and the key components necessary for successful participation. Prepare effectively for your MUN experience with focused research strategies.