How to make a working paper or resolution
How to make a working paper or resolution
What is a Working Paper or Draft Resolution?
What is a Working Paper or Draft Resolution?
A Working Paper is the previous step to the draft resolution; both of them show the measures proposed in order to tackle the issue, which, if they pass, are going to be adopted internationally.
The difference is that a Working Paper is normally done before the conference, and this doesn’t necessarily have to present the specific format of a resolution; this would depend on the conference. Moreover, a Working Paper is going to be a tool that you are going to use during Unmoderated Caucus in order to persuade delegates into agreeing or writing clauses for the draft resolution. Meanwhile, the draft resolution always needs to have a specific format and needs to be signed by other delegates.
So, during Unmoderated Caucus, you are going to share your ideas with the rest of the delegates, and after cooperating, you are going to come up with a draft resolution.
Finally, after debating, presenting amendments, and voting, that draft resolution is going to transform into the resolution of your committee. Check What to Expect in order to better understand this.
So, basically, a Working Paper is a document, with resolution format or not, that has clauses you would like to add to the draft resolution.
What parts does it have?
What parts does it have?
As stated before, the draft resolution and sometimes the Working Paper need to have a specific format.
It is important to note that the length of your Working Paper depends on the requirements of the conference you are attending. For instance, if you are specifically asked to write a Working Paper before the conference, make sure you write it really well and in resolution format; it should occupy around two pages. There are some cases, however, when the conference doesn’t ask you to write a Working Paper. In this case, just write two or three clauses or ideas that you know you want to include in the final resolution.
During the explanation, you will notice that we use the term "clause." A clause is a section, similar to a sentence, that explains something specific, often detailing the rights, responsibilities, and privileges of each party according to the document's terms. Each clause focuses on a particular measure related to the main subject of the document.
Header
Header
At the beginning of each resolution, you will find some basic information. This includes:
Committee.
Topic.
Sponsors: A list of countries who helped writing the resolution and support it.
Signatories: A list of countries that what the resolution to be presented, doesn’t necessary mean they fully support it.
Delegate debating at IMUNBP 2023
Preambulatory Clauses
Preambulatory Clauses
The first part of a Working Paper consists of the preambulatory clauses. The goal of these is to give context, reminding the country's position, the intentions with which it has been written, or the urgency in tackling the issue. In addition, in the preambulatory clauses, you can reference important treaties, conventions, or past resolutions on the topic.
Regarding formatting, the verb at the beginning of the clause must be in italics, and at the end of it a comma must be placed, except for the last sentence, which must be followed by a semicolon.
Here is a list of verbs with which you should start these clauses:
Verbs preamb clauses.pdfOperative clauses
Operative clauses
These are clauses with actual measures on how to tackle the issue. Try to make them as specific as possible; the more detail, the more space for debate, amendments, and fun!
The format of an operative clause is:
Format operative clauses.pdfHere is a list of some verbs that can be used at the beginning of the operative clauses. In the ROP of your conference, there are probably others. Some of them, those with an asterisk, are reserved for the Security Council because they are the only committee whose decisions are binding. It is necessary to use these verbs or similar ones because they are the ones officially used in UN resolutions.
Verbs OC.pdfHow to make a good resolution and come up with ideas.
How to make a good resolution and come up with ideas.
Once we have understood the format of a Working Paper, it is important to focus on the content.
How to come up with ideas for preambulatory clauses
How to come up with ideas for preambulatory clauses
When writing preambulatory clauses, you can:
Reference important documents or treaties.
State your intentions.
Mention relevant data you have found.
Emphasize the urgency of addressing the issue
How to come up with ideas for operative clauses
How to come up with ideas for operative clauses
Operative clauses should only express actions and measures that would be implemented internationally.
There are different strategies you can follow (you don’t need to choose just one; you can use all of them) to write operative clauses:
1. Break down the topic into smaller issues that cause it or need to be addressed. Once you have a list, try to find a solution for each of these points. Each solution should be a clause. When writing the solutions, keep in mind the “W” words: Who, What, When, How, and Why.
2. Read previous resolutions and treaties. Find inspiration in those documents, although plagiarism is, of course, forbidden. Write a list of solutions they have implemented and rewrite them in your own words, while also keeping in mind the “W” words.
3. If you represent a controversial country, read internal laws to understand how they write official documents, and try to follow that style. Remember that during the conference, you should avoid appearing biased, even if you are.
4. Check what non-governmental organizations (NGOs) suggest for tackling the issue.
5. Other things you can include: dedicating a clause to talk about funds (making sure all countries can implement the proposed measures, specifying how much money, its source, and the currency); providing legal assistance; sharing information; providing shelter; and suggesting signing previous agreements.
Delegate debating at IMUNBP 2023
Delegate debating at MUNBP 2024
Delegate debating at IMUNBP 2023
Things to Keep in Mind While Writing the Resolution
Things to Keep in Mind While Writing the Resolution
In operative clauses, be general in the first part of the clause (saying things that everyone will agree with) and provide details in the subclauses (leaving room for other countries to amend). It is okay not to please everyone; if you do, it means you are not being specific enough.
Make sure you propose achievable and realistic commitments.
Write as concisely as possible. This doesn’t mean short, but without unnecessary words. Include as much information as you can, but use only the necessary words.
Use diplomatic language.
Try to be as clear as possible (if that aligns with your country’s goals) and avoid appearing biased (even if you are).
Strategies to Follow
Strategies to Follow
Plan ahead by making a list of bullet points and ideas you want to include in the resolution. Bring this list to the unmoderated caucus, and focus on convincing countries about the content while being flexible with the format. Ensure everyone feels heard and that everyone’s ideas are included (as long as they align with your country’s policy).
During the unmoderated caucus, spend time with countries that are more likely to agree with you, since time is limited and you need as many signatories as possible.
Finally, make sure to persuade everyone during speeches by explaining why a particular clause or the resolution should pass.
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