Panther Model United Nations (PMUN) 

Official Conference Policies & Expectations

I. Introduction

The Panther Model United Nations Conference (PMUN), hosted by Burlingame High School, is committed to providing an inclusive, respectful, and academically rigorous environment. These policies are designed to uphold the standards of excellence and integrity that define both the Model United Nations community and the values of Burlingame High School.

II. Core Values and Conduct

All participants are expected to embody the following principles:

a) Respect: Treat all individuals with dignity, honoring diverse perspectives and backgrounds.

b) Responsibility: Be accountable for one's actions and contributions to the conference.

c) Empathy: Demonstrate understanding and compassion towards others.

d) Integrity: Uphold honesty and strong moral principles in all conference activities.

These align with BHS's Community Norms and the Panther Promise, emphasizing a connected, engaged, and caring community. 

III. Anti-Harassment and Discrimination Policy

PMUN maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards harassment and discrimination of any kind, including but not limited to race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, or disability. Such behavior is incompatible with the conference's educational mission and will result in immediate disciplinary action, which may include removal from the conference. 

IV. Academic Integrity

A. Plagiarism

All work submitted must be the original effort of the delegate. Plagiarism, including the use of AI-generated content without proper attribution, is strictly prohibited. Detected instances will lead to disqualification from awards and potential notification to the delegate's educational institution. 

B. Pre-Written Resolutions

Delegates are expected to draft resolutions during committee sessions to promote collaboration and real-time problem-solving. Pre-written resolutions are not permitted and will be rejected by the committee chairs. 

V. Technology and AI Usage

To foster active participation and ensure equity:

• In-Committee Technology Use: The use of electronic devices during committee sessions is prohibited unless explicitly allowed by the committee chair.

• AI Tools: The utilization of artificial intelligence tools (e.g., ChatGPT) for drafting speeches, resolutions, or position papers is not allowed. Violations will result in disciplinary measures, including potential disqualification from awards.

VI. Dress Code

Delegates are expected to adhere to Western Business Attire to maintain a professional atmosphere:

Acceptable Attire: Dress shirts, ties, blazers, dress pants, skirts (knee-length or longer), and formal dresses

Unacceptable Attire: Jeans, t-shirts, sneakers, shorts, and hats.

Committee chairs reserve the right to enforce the dress code and may ask delegates not in compliance to change attire before participating.

VII. Attendance and Participation

Full attendance is mandatory for all scheduled committee sessions and conference events. Delegates are expected to arrive on time and actively participate. Unexcused absences or tardiness may impact eligibility for awards and could lead to further disciplinary action.

VIII. Enforcement and Disciplinary Actions

Violations of PMUN policies will be addressed promptly and may result in:

• Verbal or Written Warnings: Issued for minor infractions.

• Suspension of Privileges: Temporary loss of speaking rights or participation in sessions.

• Disqualification from Awards: Ineligibility for any conference recognitions

• Removal from Conference: Immediate expulsion from the event for severe or repeated violations.

All disciplinary actions will be documented, and relevant parties, including sponsor teachers and school administrators, will be notified as appropriate.

IX. Reporting Mechanisms

Delegates who experience or witness any form of misconduct are encouraged to report the incident to conference staff or faculty advisors. Reports will be handled confidentially and investigated thoroughly to ensure a safe and respectful environment for all participants.

By participating in PMUN, delegates agree to abide by these policies and contribute to a conference environment that reflects the highest standards of conduct and academic excellence.

X. Special Access and Peculiar Procedure 

To enhance the educational experience and promote innovative diplomatic engagement, the PMUN Secretariat and Committee Chairs are granted discretionary authority to implement special procedures and grant exceptional access during conference sessions. This includes, but not solely, the ability to:

• Grant Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) or special interest groups voting privileges on specific resolutions

• Modify observer status to allow temporary speaking or voting rights

• Introduce unexpected crisis scenarios, emergency sessions, or time-sensitive developments to simulate real-world diplomatic challenges

Committee Chairs may also implement non-traditional debate formats, voting mechanisms, or collaborative exercises that deviate from standard Rules of Procedure when such modifications serve clear educational objectives.

All special procedures and access modifications must serve PMUN's educational purposes, be announced clearly to all affected delegates, maintain fairness and respect for all participants, and align with the conference's core values. These provisions do not supersede fundamental conference policies regarding harassment, discrimination, academic integrity, or basic standards of conduct, and remain subject to the overall supervision of conference faculty advisors and applicable school policies.