19-Aug-2020

When you sign up for a conference, you will get your committee, your country assignment, and the various topics related to it. Many of the conferences also offer a Background Guide or Topic Synopsis to give a brief introduction. So, you must read that guide first to get familiar.

The Position Paper, the Opening Speech, and the Research Binder are the three things which you need to prepare for.

Position Paper

This is a document of 1-2 pages which is to get to know your knowledge about the particular topic. It also helps to know about the position your country plans to take after entering the committee. It comprises Background of Topic, Country Policy, Past International Actions, and Possible Solutions.

• Background of topic: This is the collection of knowledge about the topic from the conference, Google, the news, and Wikipedia.
• Country policy: This comprises CIA World Factbook, domestic programs within your country, your country’s foreign ministry website, and the voting record of your country on resolutions.
• Past international actions: This consists of the UN website, the website of your committee, key treaties or resolutions which are mentioned in your background guide, and UN reports
• Possible Solutions: In this section, you will get think tank policy recommendations and some past UN resolutions which you wish to change. Here, you can add your own creativity.

Opening Speech

Lasts for approximately 1 minute 30 seconds, the Opening Speech is the very first speech you give to the committee. This is your best opportunity where you can express and place your opinions regarding the country policy and the key sub-issues which you would like the committee to focus on. This is your one of the major ways which let countries determine who they want to work with. Therefore, you must prepare for an impactful and genuine opening speech.

Research Binder

Many conferences prohibit the use of technology in committee, so this section is also very important. A well-organized Research Binder is your go-to resource during the conference which comprises the new terms and acronyms, possible solutions, and previous resolutions and treaties.

How to Write a Resolution

Get to know the resolution format and phrases. Many conferences prohibit pre-written resolutions because they need countries to collaborate together during the committee.

Country Profile

Most of the information which is required to fill out a Country Profile can be found in the CIA World Factbook. Country Profiles are usually due at the same time as the Position Paper, if needed.For more details about MUN Preparation please visit our website.