A Model United Nations (MUN) is an academic exercise where participants take on the roles of diplomats to discuss global issues. MUN aims to educate participants about diplomacy, international relations, and policy-making. It provides an opportunity to explore challenging global subjects, improve communication skills, and gain a deeper understanding of diverse perspectives. Whether you are a first-time delegate or a returning participant, this guide will take you through the basics and importance of MUN and provide strategies to help you succeed in conferences.

In MUN, participants represent the interests of a nation and act as delegates in a committee that simulates the United Nations or similar organizations. The goal is to discuss current global problems and reach resolutions that address the concerns of the countries represented. The topics discussed in these conferences reflect real-world issues, such as global health emergencies and peacekeeping missions. Participants have the chance to navigate the intricacies of international relations and diplomacy, with a strong focus on dialogue and building consensus.

Delegates are responsible for representing their country’s foreign policies while collaborating to find common solutions. Most MUN conferences adhere to a standard format that emphasizes debate, public speaking, and drafting resolutions. Delegates’ primary responsibilities include giving speeches, engaging in moderated and unmoderated caucuses, writing position papers, and collaborating on draft resolutions to pass a resolution that embodies the collective interests of the participating countries.

Before the conference begins, delegates need to prepare and submit a position paper detailing their country’s viewpoint on the issue being discussed. An effective position paper should accurately represent the country’s historical position, propose actionable solutions, and identify areas for potential collaboration. It serves as the foundation for arguments made during the conference.

Once the conference starts, delegates follow a structured framework of parliamentary procedures. MUN typically begins with opening speeches where delegates present their countries' views on the subject and proposed solutions. After the opening speeches, formal debate begins with delegates signing up to present their country's positions and possible solutions. Public speaking is a critical part of MUN, and delegates need to be concise and persuasive due to limited speaking time.

During the debate, delegates can propose motions to change the course or format of the discussion, such as motions for extra speaking time, a caucus, or an introduction of a new topic. Success in MUN requires knowledge of different types of motions and how they should be used to steer the debate and create areas of negotiation.

Caucuses, both moderated and unmoderated, are where some of the richest debates take place. Moderated caucuses follow a predetermined order for delegates to speak, focusing on specific issues, while unmoderated caucuses allow for less formalized discussions and direct exchanges between delegates.

Drafting and debating resolutions form the final culmination of any MUN conference. Delegates collaborate to merge their ideas into comprehensive draft resolutions that reflect the policies and interests of various countries, requiring careful negotiation to accommodate the interests and limitations of each country.