TOPIC GUIDE
Use the following topic guide to help you prepare for the debate. You will be assigned a country, and must research and represent their stance on the following issue:
HERE: Trade and the Environment
RESEARCH
HERE: Use this organizer to assist your research
Use the following WTO Policy Brief to further assist your research!
dgo_ted_climate_change_sept22.pdfRules & Overview
This event will imitate the real World Trade Organization. The function of a WTO forum, as any other UN forum, is centered around creating a resolution about a global issue that your forum addresses. In the case of the WTO, representatives from each country will tackle problems related to trade worldwide. Each participant competing in this Forum will be assigned a country. You must take a side based on your country’s views on the topic. When researching your country and your topic, you will come across problems that your country and other countries may face. In this forum, you will meet with the representatives of other countries to draft a resolution, following the resolution guidelines, to those problems related to the topic of your Forum, while following Parliamentary Procedure.
Parliamentary procedure is a method of communication through set terms and vocabulary meant to spark discussion, debate, and collaboration. Motions for moderated caucuses, unmoderated caucuses, round robins, and the speaker’s list are amongst the most common motions you will see conducted by the moderator of your forum.
Every representative is encouraged to create a speech advertising their solution and availability to draft treaties and resolutions with other countries. Each speech will be at most 2 minutes long. When your time is up, the moderator will tap their gavel. This signals you to finish your current thought as quickly as possible and wrap your speech up.
Tips for Success
Always speak confidently
Incorporate evidence and statistics in your speeches
Prepare and get familiar with Parliamentary Procedure and vocabulary! You want to be able to lead caucuses and take charge so that your country’s goals are implemented.
Speak and act professionally- avoid casual language and profanity.
Include others in caucuses and resolution drafting. That shows you are a leader who wants to make an impact.
Don’t be afraid to take charge and be the first to speak or act.
Visit our page on How to Prepare for more information!
Speeches & Comments
Speech
As mentioned before, every representative is encouraged to give a speech. We suggest you follow this format for a concise but informative speech.
Your speech will likely be specific to the country you are representing. Your main argument will likely be what you want for your country, and your action might consist of asking to work with other countries to draft a resolution with the aspects you are most interested in including.
This speech will be done after opening the Speakers List and is your only chance to formally explain to all representatives at once what your country's stance is on the global issue.
Comment
Typically after speeches, chairs will accept around 3 comments by other countries. This is a good way to show your dedicated participation- great to help qualify you for an award!
Make sure to add your own idea and include a 'because' with your opinion. It is not beneficial at all to just say you agree but if you explain why, it makes you stand out!
