M.U.N. Committees

The ECOSOC is great committee for Model UN beginners to start in, as the rules of procedure and mandate are easy to understand for new delegates. This committee is also great for students interested in sustainable development, economics and global social issues. ECOSOC, under the overall authority of the General Assembly, coordinates the economic and social work of the United Nations and the UN family of organisations. As the central forum for discussing international economic and social issues and for formulating policy recommendations, the Council plays a key role in fostering international cooperation for development. It also consults with non-governmental organisations (NGOs), thereby maintaining a vital link between the United Nations and civil society. The Council has 54 members, elected by the General Assembly for three (3) year terms. It meets throughout the year and holds a major session in July, during which a high-level meeting of Ministers discusses major economic, social and humanitarian issues. While the Security Council's primary responsibility is maintaining peace, ECOSOC focuses on promoting social progress and better standards of living.

The UNSC is a high-stakes committee for experienced Model UN delegates. The UN Charter gives the UNSC primary responsibility for maintaining international peace and security. The Council may convene at any time, whenever peace is threatened. In contrast to the decisions made by the General Assembly, all Member States are obligated under the UN Charter to carry out the UNSC's decisions. When the Council considers a threat to international peace, it first explores ways to settle the dispute peacefully. It may suggest principles to the parties for a peaceful settlement, appoint special representatives or undertake investigation and mediation. It has developed and refined the use of non-military measures including arms embargoes, travel banks, and restrictions to guard against the exploitation of natural resources to fuel conflicts, as well as taking a lead role in the coordination of international counter-terrorism efforts. In the event that a dispute has erupted into armed conflict, the Council tries to secure a ceasefire. It may send a peacekeeping mission to help the parties maintain the truce and to keep opposing forces apart. The Council may, in some cases, authorise the utilisation of military force by a coalition of member states or a regional organisation/arrangement. This can only be carried out as a last resort when all possible peaceful means of settling a dispute have been exhausted, or after a threat to the peace, a breach of the peace or an act of aggression have been determined to exist. Decisions of the Council require nine Yes votes. Except in votes on procedural questions, a decision cannot be made if there is a No vote, or Veto, by a permanent member. Council members can vote for, against or abstain from voting. Any member of the Permanent five (5) members (P-5) can veto a resolution.