Debate

It is sometimes helpful to think of a Model UN conference as if it were a play in which delegates are the actors and Secretariat members are the directors. The storyline of a stage show is similar to what Model UNers call the "flow of debate" – the order in which events proceed during a Model UN conference. Just like scenes in a theatrical performance, debate unfolds in several different parts. The chart below shows the various stages of debate that take place during a Model UN simulation. Being familiar with how the action will proceed, from the first "scene" to the last, is an important way to prepare yourself for a Model UN conference.

Rollcall

The Chairperson will announce each country's name. After delegates hear their country, they should answer "present" or "present and voting". If you say that you are present and voting, you must vote on all resolutions. Only say that you are present and voting if the issue at hand is a deep concern for your nation (Ex: The Refugee Crisis would be very important for a country like Germany). If you simply say that you are present, you have the right to abstain when voting on resolutions.

Primary Speakers

When Model UN committees have more than one topic available, the body must set the agenda to begin working on one of these issues. When called by the chair, raise your placard if you wish to be part of the primary speakers. When it is your turn to speak, state the order of the topics you want. In addition, you must also give reasoning as to why you want that specific order of agenda. After all primary speakers have spoken, delegates must motion for specific orders of agenda which are later voted on by the committee.

Secondary Speakers

Once the order of agenda is set, delegates may choose to be added to the secondary speakers list. In this, delegates will give speeches stating what their countries positions are. Note that anytime later on, if the committee doesn't agree on any of the motions, we will return to the secondary speakers list.

Debate

Delegates must motion for specific topics to be discussed. When proposing topics, please follow this format : The delegation of [Country] would like to propose for a [Time Limit] moderated caucus with a [Set Speaking Limit] speaking time on the topic of [Topic]. Once all motions are made, we will proceed to vote in the order presented. If a majority of delegates vote for your motion, your topic will be discussed. You will be asked to either do the first or last speech. Other delegates may speak by simply raising their placards when asked to do so. Once that topic has been exhausted (once the time is up) we will once again take motions. You can motion for an extension to the current topic, propose new topics or motion for an unmoderated caucus. An unmoderated caucus isn't a formal debate but rather a chance for all delegates to talk with each other or get work done on resolutions.