SWCHSMUN October 20-21, 2017

SWCHSMUN 2017 Delegate Preparation Guide

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Secretary-General’s Welcome ...........................................................Page 2

History of SWCHSMUN .....................................................................Page 3

SWCHSMUN 2017 Committee Topics ...............................................Page 4-5

Sir Winston Churchill High School Map …………………………………..Page 6

Research Methods ............................................................................Page 7-9

Writing Position Papers ....................................................................Page 10

Writing Resolutions ..........................................................................Page 11-15

Preambulatory Clauses .....................................................................Page 12

Operative Clauses .............................................................................Page 13

Sample Resolution ……………………………………………………………Page 14-15

Principled Negotiation ......................................................................Page 16

Speaking and Diplomacy…………………………………………………….Page 16-17

SWCHSMUN 2017 General Rules ......................................................Page 17-28 Model UN Parliamentary Procedures ………………………………........Page 29-30 Flow of Debate ……………………………………………………………….Page 31 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) .................................................Page 31-34 Awards Policy ...................................................................................Page 35-36 Glossary of Model UN Terms ............................................................Page 36-40

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SECRETARY GENERAL’S WELCOME Dear Delegates, Welcome to SWCHSMUN 2017! I would like to thank you all for attending our Model UN conference this year. This is the seventh year that Sir Winston Churchill High School has hosted a Model UN conference, and we hope that it serves as a model for other high schools to begin hosting conferences in Alberta. We would really like to inspire other high schools to follow our lead and organize their own Model UN conferences as well. Some of you are seasoned Model UN delegates; others are experiencing this amazing opportunity for the first time. No matter what your experience level is, preparation is the key to success and your enjoyment of SWCHSMUN. In this package you will find a variety of resources to help get you started- I hope that you will find them useful and enriching. The SWCHSMUN staff has worked hard to ensure that you have an exciting yet challenging experience this October. We would like to advise that delegates use the weeks leading up to the conference to educate themselves on the foreign policy of their countries and their allies, as well as rules of procedure of our conference. On September 1, 2017, the background guides for each committee and topic to be discussed at SWCHSMUN 2017 will be posted on the SWCHSMUN website. The majority of staff of the SWCHSMUN conference are full-time high school students who have participated in previous high school Model UN simulations. All of their hard work has been to ensure that you have the best possible experience this year. While it is essential that you read your committee background guide, each delegate is also responsible for researching and accurately representing the policies of his or her state. This may be a challenging task, but it is also an exciting learning experience in political research. Position papers also help delegates familiarize themselves with their country’s foreign policy and require them to look towards new approaches to these topics. Written position papers are not required of delegates that wish to attend SWCHSMUN, but it is highly recommended that you do write a position paper for the topics that will be under discussion in your committee. Delegates should also familiarize themselves with the rules and procedures of SWCHSMUN as well. Most importantly, remember that SWCHSMUN is your conference. Please do not hesitate to contact your Dais, members of the secretariat, or myself if you have any questions or concerns. The feedback that you provide to us allows us to make improvements to our conference every year. I look forward to meeting you in Calgary this October! Best Wishes, Kevin Gilchrist Sir Winston Churchill High School Social Studies Department/Model UN Faculty Advisor SWCHSMUN 2017 krgilchrist@cbe.ab.ca

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HISTORY OF SWCHSMUN

The Sir Winston Churchill Model United Nations conference is an annual event organized by the SWC Model UN Team along with the teacher sponsors of the team. This year is the seventh year of the SWCHSMUN conference. It will take place at the campus of Sir Winston Churchill High School in Calgary, and will simulate committees that represent a wide range of academic interests. The focus of SWCHSMUN is on providing high school students in Alberta another opportunity to hone their debate and negotiation skills using the Model UN system. At this year’s conference there will be an emphasis on providing accurate simulations of a large committee (GA 1 DISEC) as well as other smaller committees within the UN system, for example Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), as well as simulations of other international inter-governmental organizations such as the League of Arab States, and crisis committees such as the UN Security Council and the Japanese Cabinet of Naoto Kan dealing with the Tohoku earthquake. Additionally, SWCHSMUN is committed to providing students with an opportunity to work in small committees, where debate and discussion flow more freely. Much of the SWCHSMUN conference will be run and organized by Churchill students that work on a volunteer basis. These students have 2-3 years of HSMUN experience, and perhaps some recent graduates of Churchill who have decided to return and help run the conference. In order to experience developing pragmatic solutions to global issues, delegates come to SWCHSMUN to take on the role of member states of the United Nations and several other organizations. This is every student’s chance to influence global politics like they have always dreamed of.

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SWCHSMUN 2017 COMMITTEE TOPICS General Assembly 1st Committee: Disarmament and International Security (GA 1 DISEC)

1. Proliferation of SALW (small arms and light weapons) 2. Use of Autonomous Weapons in Warfare 3. Extremist Groups in Sub-Saharan Africa

League of Arab States

1. Enhancing Cyber Security 2. Combating the Illegal Arms Trade 3. Combating the growing threat of Extremist Groups

CCPCJ

1. Narcoterrorism 2. Human Trafficking 3. International Piracy and Maritime Crime

CSTD

1. Renewable Technology and Energy in the Developing World 2. Introducing GMO Crops to Developing Countries 3. Establishing Standards for Internet Use and Governance

FAO

1. Impact of Biotechnology on Food Security 2. Protecting and Securing Fisheries in Small Island Developing States 3. Tackling Global Soil Degradation

UN Women

1. The Empowerment of Women Through Education 2. Strengthening Women’s Political Participation 3. Women in Armed Conflict

UNDP

1. Improving Access to Water and Sanitation for Socioeconomic Development 2. Sustainable Poverty Reduction 3. Increasing Accessibility to Reproductive and Sexual Health Services in Developing

Countries

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UNESCAP 1. International Labor Migration 2. Foreign Direct Investment in Asia and the Pacific 3. Coral Reef Protection in Southeast Asia

WHO 1. Drugs: Crime or Health Issue? 2. Maternal Health 3. Combating Non-Communicable Diseases

UNHCR

1. Protecting Refugees from Human Trafficking 2. Rights of Internally Displaced People 3. Humanitarian Issues in Refugee Camps

UN Security Council (UNSC)*

Meltdown: the Cabinet of Naoto Kan and Tohoku Earthquake

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SIR WINSTON CHURCHILL HIGH SCHOOL MAP

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RESEARCH METHODS

We have included various methods and resources you can use to advance your knowledge of the topics, as well as the position your country or organization holds. For a comprehensive understanding of the topic, your research should include two parts. The first part is researching the position of your country, including your country’s foreign policy, its objectives, and the methods it chooses to achieve those goals. The second part is a little more complicated, and involves researching the positions of your closest allies and possible opponents. Merely concentrating on your country’s position is inadequate when negotiating with other members over crucial matters. The following are a few ideas that should point you in the right direction. It can be followed for researching your own country, as well as your adversary countries. 1. Research Methods: Knowing Your Nation A number of research avenues are available when researching your country’s foreign policy. If you are not well acquainted with the country you represent, then the best place to start is the CIA World Factbook, found at: http://www.cia.gov/cia/publications/factbook/index.html Here you will find a list of all the basic information pertaining to your country, including its GDP, population, literacy, defence spending, brief historical summary, and other important factors. It will also give you a list of all the international treaties and organizations the country is a party to, as well as a brief account of the several international disputes that the country is involved in. This briefing should serve as a starting point for your research. It is important to know the background of your country before you begin to research specific topics. Another step of research can be undertaken at the media level. There are some highly reputed media agencies throughout the world that can be an excellent resource to your research. The BBC website at www.bbc.co.uk is probably the best agency with its highly comprehensive news coverage. You will most likely find a lot of information pertaining to your topic and your country within the BBC news sites. The final step is to read independent articles about the topic, and the various treaties and organizations that are involved with it. For example, there is a great deal of academic literature dedicated to the causes and consequences of the civil war in Sierra Leone. This is definitely not the first place to begin, but after you have a good grip on your topic, reading scholarly literature greatly improves your knowledge and understanding of the topic, and also provides a starting point for developing tentative solutions to the issue at hand. 2. Research Methods: Knowing Your Nation’s Foreign Policy Beyond knowing the specifically stated foreign policy of a country with respect to the issues under discussion in each committee, delegates must be aware of the larger foreign policy goals of their countries relating to domestic and international interests.

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What is foreign policy and how is it determined? Foreign policy can be broadly defined as the set of goals that state officials pursue abroad; the values, interests, and concerns that underlie those goals, and the means or instruments used to pursue them. A significant aspect of foreign policy is an awareness of who your allies are, and how your country interacts with the other actors in the international community. In the process of negotiation, which occurs during the drafting of a resolution, the pursuit of foreign policy involves responding to different considerations, most important of which is to strike a balance between pursuing your interests and reaching consensus with your allies. Inherent in the relationship between your country and its allies is the fact that there are common interests. However, this does not mean all foreign policy interests coincide, thus when discrepancies occur, it is important to be strategic in pursuing your country’s particular interests and goals, but also in making concessions for the purpose of attaining an agreement. Who your allies are can be determined by a number of factors: 1. Regional Groups are brought together by geographic location. For example, African, European, and Latin American countries tend to side with their regional groups. 2. Political Groups are determined by political cooperation and (where applicable) security cooperation. These include bodies such as the EU, NATO, ASEAN, and the Arab League. 3. The third category of groups is based on formal international economic agreements, which often have rules requiring member states to coordinate their positions on economic issues. Examples of these groups are the EU, the OECD, and the ACP (African and Caribbean countries associated with the EU). Beyond groups and treaties that define your country’s relationships with its allies, a number of other factors also play a central role in determining foreign policy goals and decisions:

• The domestic political situation within your country; • The social composition of your country, including ethnicity, language, and

religion; • The geographical composition of your country, including size, arable land,

resource availability, etc.; • The state of your country's economy (major industries, trading partners,

relative wealth on a regional, national. and international level); • The history of your country, especially since 1945.

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Where can you find information pertaining to your country? Ministry of Foreign Affairs website To find information on your country’s foreign policy, the best place to start is the ministry of foreign affairs website. Often, this website will have extensive information pertaining both to the position of your country on various issues, and to the values and interests that shape that position. Embassy/Consulate of your country Another very useful resource, especially if your country does not have a ministry of foreign affairs website in English or any other language you are familiar with, is the embassy or consulate of the country you represent in your city or region. Your country’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations A further resource is the website of your country’s Permanent Mission to the UN, which will include statements made by your country’s representatives and details of the policies your country is pursuing within the context of the UN. You can access these sites at www.un.int/index-en/index.html. The UN Website – www.un.org If you are a Security Council or General Assembly delegate, the UN Documentation Centre, www.un.org/documents/, gives you access to resolutions that passed (to view your country’s voting pattern), as well as landmark UN documents and press releases. This pertains to other UN committees, as the UN website should be used as a cornerstone of all Model UN research.

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WRITING POSITION PAPERS The purpose of a position paper is to outline a country’s perspective on the assigned topics for each committee. Position papers are not mandatory at SWCHSMUN, but your Model UN teacher sponsor may require you to write them to help them to determine your readiness for SWCHSMUN. The process of writing position papers gives delegates an opportunity to research the foreign policy of their countries, particularly with respect to the issues being debated in their committees. As delegates must be familiar with both their country’s foreign policy and the issues being debated when they arrive at the conference, the process of writing position papers is an important aspect of delegate preparation. It is recommended that delegates submit a position paper, approximately one to two pages in length (single-spaced) for each committee to their Model UN team sponsor/teacher. Below are suggested questions for delegates to address in each position paper.

• What is your country’s perspective on the issue? • How big of a concern is this issue to your country? • How does this issue affect the domestic and/or international interests of your

country? • What (if any) actions has your country taken, so far, with regard to this issue?

(e.g. Which treaties/agreements has it signed? What programs has it implemented domestically? What international efforts has it participated in?)

• What (if any) actions or further actions does your country plan to pursue in the future with respect to this issue?

• What means of resolving the problem does your country propose?

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WRITING RESOLUTIONS The driving force behind MUN, and the real United Nations for that matter, is the resolution. This is a formal document used by the committee to spell out the action to be taken for the resolution of a particular problem. All resolutions put before the committees at SWCHSMUN must be written during the course of committee sessions. Pre-written resolutions are NOT allowed. The process of resolution writing is designed to teach delegates not only the concept of national interest, but also of debate, diplomacy, and concession. Pre-written resolutions do not adhere to the spirit of this goal, and thus are not permitted. Working Papers Working papers are informal documents that may be proposed by delegates for the consideration of the committee. Besides formal resolutions, working papers are the only other means for delegates to propose ideas, in writing, to the committee as a whole. Working papers are a way of breaking down an issue into more manageable units to help advance the committee’s work. They can address one or a number of specific aspects of the larger issue being debated, and should introduce new ideas or approaches to dealing with the specific aspects or the larger issue (i.e. they should not duplicate ideas that have already been debated). Working papers must meet the approval of the Dais, and may undergo many drafts before they are allowed to be distributed to the rest of the committee. Formatting Resolutions Resolutions must be composed using a very precise format, or the Chair of your Committee will not accept them. Resolutions consist of three sections: the heading, the preambulatory clauses, and the operative clauses.

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Heading The heading of all resolutions should read as follows: Committee: Name of the body where the resolution is being introduced Subject: Agenda topic under discussion Sponsored by: A list of sponsoring states, in alphabetical order Signatories: A list of signatory states, in alphabetical order Important Points to Remember: A Sponsor is a country that fully supports the resolution, and has played a role in drafting it. A Signatory does not necessarily support the resolution. By signing on to it, they are only expressing their desire to have the resolution introduced and debated. Being a signatory does not bind a country to voting in favour of a resolution. Preambulatory Clauses Pre-ambulatory clauses exist primarily for the purpose of establishing the spirit and intent behind the resolution, and of highlighting the problem that needs to be solved. They consist of statements recalling past actions (precedents of UN action, past UN resolutions, or other precedents of international law), and justifying future actions. They also contain references to appropriate sections of the UN Charter. Preambulatory clauses always begin with participles (in italics) and are followed by a comma. Following is an illustrative list of preambulatory clauses:

Affirming Alarmed by Approving Aware of Believing Bearing in mind Confident Considering also Contemplating Convinced Declaring Deeply concerned Deeply conscious Deeply convinced Deeply disturbed Deeply regretting Desiring Emphasizing Expecting

Expressing its satisfaction Expressing its wish Fulfilling Fully aware Fully alarmed Fully believing Further deploring Further recalling Guided by Having adopted Having considered Having considered further Having devoted attention Having examined Having studied Having heard Having received Keeping in mind Noting further

Noting with approval Noting with deep concern Noting with regret Noting with satisfaction Noting with zest Observing Reaffirming Recalling Recognizing Referring Reiterating Seeking Taking into account Taking into consideration Taking note Viewing with appreciation Welcoming

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Operative Clauses Operative clauses constitute the main force of the resolution. They consist of prescriptions, recommendations, condemnations, demands, etc. They are numbered and begin with an underlined verb in the present tense. Each ends with a semi-colon, except the final clause, which is followed by a period. Each operative clause calls for a specific action. The General Assembly and Economic Social Council can only make recommendations. It is up to the power and authority of the committee to determine what may be included in a resolution. The following is a list of operative clauses:

(*Only the Security Council may “demand”) In Summary a Resolution’s layout should go in the following order: HEADING THE ADDRESS PREAMBULATORY CLAUSES OPERATIVE CLAUSES This is the contents of a Resolution

Accepts Affirms Approves Authorizes Calls Calls upon Condemns Confirms Considers Decides Declares accordingly Demands* Deplores Designates Draws attention Emphasizes

Encourages Endorses Expresses its appreciation Expresses its hope Further endorses Further invites Further proclaims Further reminds Further recommends Further resolves Further requests Has resolved Notes Offers

Proclaims Reaffirms Recommends Reminds Renews Requests Solemnly affirms Strongly condemns Supports Trust

Proclaims Reaffirms Recommends Reminds Renews Requests Solemnly affirms Strongly condemns Supports Trusts Takes note of Transmits Urges

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Here is a Sample Resolution (with layout labeled): General Assembly Third Committee Sponsors: Austria, Italy and the United States Signatories: Canada, Gabon, Greece, Japan, Mali, Netherlands, Tajikistan Topic: “Strengthening UN coordination of humanitarian assistance in complex emergencies”

The General Assembly,

Reminding all nations of the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which recognizes the inherent dignity, equality and inalienable rights of all global citizens, [use commas to separate preambulatory clauses]

Reaffirming its Resolution 33/1996 of 25 July 1996, which encourages Governments to work with UN bodies aimed at improving the coordination and effectiveness of humanitarian assistance,

Noting with satisfaction the past efforts of various relevant UN bodies and nongovernmental organizations,

Stressing the fact that the United Nations faces significant financial obstacles and is in need of reform, particularly in the humanitarian realm,

1. Encourages all relevant agencies of the United Nations to collaborate more closely with countries at the grassroots level to enhance the carrying out of relief efforts; [use semicolons to separate operative clauses]

2. Urges member states to comply with the goals of the UN Department of Humanitarian Affairs to streamline efforts of humanitarian aid;

3. Requests that all nations develop rapid deployment forces to better enhance the coordination of relief efforts of humanitarian assistance in complex emergencies;

4. Calls for the development of a United Nations Trust Fund that encourages voluntary donations from the private transnational sector to aid in funding the implementation of rapid deployment forces;

5. Stresses the continuing need for impartial and objective information on the political, economic and social situations and events of all countries;

Heading Countries should be alphabetized

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6. Calls upon states to respond quickly and generously to consolidated appeals for humanitarian assistance; and

7. Requests the expansion of preventive actions and assurance of post-conflict assistance through reconstruction and development. [end resolutions with a period]

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PRINCIPLED NEGOTIATION

SWCHSMUN will place an emphasis on professionalism and principled negotiation, rather than adversarial politics. We hope that the ideals established at the SWCHSMUN 2011 conference will continue on into the future, which we hope will generate more productive and rewarding committee sessions. The Delegate Awards recognize delegates who use diplomacy and principled negotiation, rather than positional bargaining to pass resolutions. Directors will be evaluating delegates during formal debate and caucusing. Principled negotiation focuses on interests, rather than positions, and therefore requires that delegates develop multiple options to satisfy their most pressing concerns, and compromise to achieve a mutually agreeable outcome. The goal is problem solving, and therefore it is important to listen to the ideas of other delegates, rather than fixating on your country’s position at the expense of a beneficial outcome. Principled negotiators must mentally separate the problem at hand from the people involved. Insistence on using objective criteria is vital. Delegates should yield to principle, rather than pressure, and in turn should not threaten other delegates. We hope to avoid positional bargaining, wherein delegates see themselves as adversaries seeking victory by demanding one-sided gains at the price of agreement. Delegates who demand concessions, make threats, apply pressure, and insist single-mindedly on their position, as conditions of relations with other delegates tend to hinder progress of any kind. We are looking for leadership in regional groups and across groups, diplomatic style, and the promotion of national interests over positions. Directors will also be looking for delegates that exemplify their country’s foreign policy realistically in the simulation.

Speaking and Diplomacy Formal Debate - Each committee will have four or more sessions, which will total approximately twenty hours of formal committee time. This time is divided between formal debates and caucusing. During formal debate the parliamentary rules of procedure are in force while delegates make speeches, take questions and comments, and introduce and debate resolutions and amendments. As such, knowledge of the rules of procedure and their use are mandatory in order for committee sessions to be productive. Caucus - When a recess is called during session, delegates can meet informally to discuss working papers, resolutions, amendments, and other relevant issues, but they must remain in the committee room. Delegates tend to use this time to meet with their various geographic blocs or other ideological groupings to strategize. Point of Order - delegates may raise Points of Order when the Director has failed to enforce a certain aspect of parliamentary procedure. For example, if a speaker addresses him/herself as ‘I’ and the Director does not correct them. Delegates must address themselves as ‘we’ or ‘[their country’s name]’ or ‘the delegation from [country X]’ because they represent their countries and not themselves. The delegate rising on the point should be able to state the specific rule that has been breached.

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Point of Inquiry - Points of Inquiry may be raised if delegates have a question about parliamentary procedure, such as, how a resolution is introduced, or if there is a question regarding some aspect of the topic under discussion (e.g. they would like clarification on certain facts about the issue).

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SWCHSMUN 2017 General Rules Scope of the Rules These rules are self-sufficient and shall be considered adopted in advance of the first session. No other rules or procedures are applicable. Language English will be the working language of all SWCHSMUN committees. Attire All delegates will be expected to wear Western professional business attire during committee sessions. Conduct Delegates are expected to maintain decorum during SWCHSMUN committee sessions. This includes respecting staff decisions at all times, being recognized before addressing the committee, standing when addressing the committee, and refraining from the use of undiplomatic language. The Chair will warn delegates if their conduct does not conform to these guidelines. If misconduct continues after this warning, the Chair may take action up to and including the revocation of voting rights. Laptops and Digital Devices Policy Delegates will be permitted to use laptops, iPads, iPods or smartphones during committee sessions during unmoderated caucus sessions. Churchill has a wireless network and delegates will be given a guest access code to the network once they are in committee session. Only delegates in crisis committees (UNSC and the Meltdown) will be given access to the wireless network. Delegates in all other committees will not be given access to the wireless network this year. Delegates should prepare their research in advance of the conference, and have materials printed it off prior to the start of the conference. The wireless network will slow down if there are a lot of users on it at once, so remember, when you don’t need to be online, turn off your wireless device. It is recommended that delegates have their notes in a digital format that DOES NOT require Internet access (i.e. files saved in Microsoft Word saved to the laptop’s hard drive). Topics for Debate A committee's topics for debate will be established by the Secretariat and communicated to the delegates prior to the opening of the Conference. The Secretariat, Dais, and General Procedure Secretariat The Secretariat is the main administrative body of SWCHSMUN and is responsible for the administration of the conference. It is led by the Secretary General. Committee

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The committee is an official meeting of delegates sanctioned to carry out select business of the United Nations General Assemblies. Delegate A delegate is an individual chosen to represent a member nation of the United Nations in one of its committees. Each delegate has one vote in his committee. Chair The Chair is the individual chosen by the Secretariat to administer the functions of a committee. The Chair opens and closes each committee session, enforces these rules, recognizes speakers, puts questions to a vote, and announces decisions. The Chair has the right to act at his own discretion to ensure the smooth operation of the committee. To this end, he has ultimate authority over the committee's proceedings and the maintenance of order. The Chair has the power to entertain, deny, or question the propriety of any motion. The Chair may not vote on any issue within the committee, whether procedural or substantive. Vice-Chair The Vice-Chair is an individual chosen by the Secretariat to assist the chairperson in their administrative duties and take on the responsibilities of the chairperson in the event of their absence. A Vice-Chair may not vote on any issue within the committee, whether procedural or substantive. Appeal of the Chair's Decision A delegate may motion to appeal the Chair's ruling on a discretionary matter.

• First, the appealing Member speaks in favour of overturning the Chair's decision. • Next, the Chair speaks in defense of the ruling. • Finally, the committee votes on overturning the decision. A two-thirds majority is

required to overturn the Chair's decision. Quorum A majority of the expected Members (one half of the total plus one) of a committee must be present for committee session to be opened, for debate to proceed, and for any substantive votes to be taken. The number of expected Members shall be communicated to the committee Chair by the Secretariat prior to the conference. Substantive vs. Procedural Matters

• Substantive matters are resolutions or amendments. • Procedural matters are any points or motions that are not substantive. • All delegations are required to vote on procedural matters.

Voting and Speaking

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Voting Rights In a Committee, Delegations represent either Member-states or Observer-states.

• Each Member-state will have one vote in all matters. • Observer-states may vote on procedural matters only. These delegations may not

vote on substantive matters (amendments or resolutions). On procedural matters, each Observer-state will have one vote.

Vote Passage

• Simple Majority: A simple majority is when more delegations vote in favour of passage than against passage.

• Two-Thirds Majority: A two-thirds majority is when twice as many delegations vote in favour of passage than against passage.

Abstention Delegations are permitted to "abstain" only when voting on substantive matters (resolutions or amendments). Delegates/Delegations may not "abstain" on procedural matters.

• Any delegation that chooses to "abstain" is by definition not voting. As such, these delegations are not counted when determining whether or not the substantive matter has passed. In other words, simple majorities and two-thirds majorities are based on the number of delegations voting in favour of or against passage; delegations that "abstain" are not included in this number.

• Any Member-states that respond as "present and voting" when the Chair calls roll at the beginning of the Conference may not abstain. (See "Calling Roll" under "Outline of the Order of Committee" for more information.)

See "Voting Procedures" below for more information. Speaking No Member may address a committee without being recognized by the Chair. The Chair may call a speaker to order if his remarks are not relevant to the topic being discussed.

• Yields: Speakers must announce yields before beginning to speak. Yields are not in order until after an agenda has been adopted by the committee, or during any procedural debate. A delegate speaking on a substantive matter may announce their desire to yield remaining time in one of the following manners: 1. To Comments (this is the default if no yield is specified, even if no time

remains; see "Comments" below for more information) 2. To the Chair 3. To Questions 4. To another delegation

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Yielded time may not be yielded. That is, if a speaker yields his time to another delegation, and if that delegation does not use all of the time, the remaining time is automatically yielded to the Chair.

5. Comments: Two 30-second comments are automatically in order when no yield is specified by a speaker. The Chair will recognize two delegations to make 30-second comments relevant to the speaker's remarks. Comments are in order only during debate of substantive matters. 6. Right of Reply: Delegations may request a Right of Reply only when they wish to respond to an objectionable remark regarding his personal integrity or that of his country. Requests for a Right of Reply must be submitted to the Chair in writing. Requests will be granted at the Chair's discretion. The Chair's decision on these requests are not subject to appeal. Rights of Reply to Rights of Reply are never in order.

Resolutions A couple of SWCHSMUN "house rules": a. Pre-written resolutions are not allowed. b. More than one resolution can pass for the same topic.

I. Structure: When writing resolutions, a strict format must be followed. A. A Working Paper is a draft resolution "in progress" that has not been formally introduced to the committee. B. Working paper headings should include the committee name and the topic. C. After the heading, the country names of all sponsors and signatories should be listed. Sponsors: Delegations who contributed to drafting the resolution.

Observer-states and NGO's may not sponsor resolutions. Signatories: Delegations who support introducing a working paper to

the committee for debate as a draft resolution. Observer-states and NGO's may be signatories on resolutions.

D. A resolution has two main parts: Preambulatory clauses: While these clauses are not the "meat" of a

resolution, they are important because they lay out the problem and the context, thereby underscoring the importance of the resolution and the issue it is addressing.

Preambulatory clauses establish precedence by citing existing resolutions, treaties, etc., and they explain what has and has not worked in the past.

Each preambulatory clause should end with a comma, and the last preambulatory clause should end with a colon.

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These clauses come after the sponsors and signatories (before Operative Clauses).

Operative clauses: These clauses outline what needs to be done and how it should be implemented.

While these clauses are frequently very detailed, at times they are vague for strategic reasons (to gain consensus, for example).

Each operative clause should end with a semicolon, and the last operative clause should end with a period.

These clauses come after the perambulatory clauses (at the end of the resolution).

II. Working Papers and Draft Resolutions: Working papers (proposed draft resolutions) must be submitted to the Chair in writing for approval.

A. Working papers must have a certain number of sponsors or signatories to be approved by the Chair for committee consideration. The required number is one-third of delegations that indicated their presence at the start of the conference (rounding up, if necessary). Whether or not a working paper meets this requirement is based on its combined number of sponsors and signatories.

B. If the Chair approves a working paper (proposed draft resolution) for Committee consideration, the Chair will assign it a number and a sponsor may formally introduce it to the committee as a draft resolution.

C. A sponsor can formally introduce a draft resolution by making a Motion to Introduce Draft Resolution [Chair-assigned number] and reading the operative clauses out loud to the committee. This motion is in order when the floor is open, and it requires a simple majority.

D. After a draft resolution is formally introduced, the committee body may ask the sponsor(s) grammar, spelling, syntax, and other non-substantive questions.

E. At this point, a delegation can Motion for a [number]-minute Question and Answer Period, during which the sponsor(s) have the opportunity to answer questions from the committee body.

F. Draft resolutions may not be referred to as draft resolutions until: They have the necessary number of signatories They have been submitted to and approved by the Chair They have been read out loud to the committee

G. Question of Competence This motion is used when a delegate believes that a draft resolution, working paper, or amendment (that has been formally

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introduced) is not within the scope of the committee, and/or that it would attempt to authorize that which committee cannot authorize. A Motion to Question the Competence of the Committee must be seconded; the Chair will recognize one speaker for and one against; a simple majority vote is required for passage.

III. Amendments: Amendments must be submitted to the Chair in writing. There are two types of amendments:

A. Friendly Amendments: A friendly amendment has been approved by all sponsors of the draft resolution. It will be incorporated into the resolution immediately after being reviewed by the Chair and read out loud (usually by the Chair) to the committee.

B. Unfriendly Amendments: An unfriendly amendment has not been approved by all sponsors of the draft resolution. Unfriendly amendments must be voted on by the entire committee during voting procedures before voting on the entire resolution. Similar to draft resolutions, unfriendly amendments must be submitted to the Chair in writing with sponsors and signatories.

Outline of the Order of Committee I. Calling Roll

• All country names will be read out loud by the Chair. • Delegates must respond "present" or "present and voting." Any delegate who

responds "present and voting" may not "abstain" during Voting Procedures. • If a delegate is late or does not indicate their presence for any reason, he must

send a note to the Chair in order to be counted as "present" or "present and voting." Delegates must indicate their presence to participate in Committee.

II. Adopting the Agenda • Motion to Open the Primary Speakers' List

(a) This is the Primary Speakers' List. It will be referred to again after the first topic of discussion is finished.

(b) Chair will verbally select countries and create a formal speaking order. If a delegate is not selected, he should send a note to the chair that he would like to be put on the speakers list.

(c) Delegates will then discuss agenda possibilities. (d) This motion requires a simple majority vote.

• Motion to Set the Speakers' Time at ____min/sec (a) This allows delegates to set the amount of time the speaker may have to

discuss agenda possibilities. (b) This requires 2 speakers for and 2 against, or 1 and 1 if you are changing the

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speaking time, and a simple majority vote. • Motion to Set the Agenda

(a) Whenever the floor is open (when there is no speaker and when the Chair says "Are there any points or motions on the floor?"), a delegate may make a Motion to Set the Agenda.

(b) After being recognized by the Chair, the delegate should say, "[Country Name] moves to set the agenda at [desired topic order]."

(c) A Motion to Set the Agenda requires a simple majority vote. • Motion to Adopt an Agenda

(a) After all Agenda variations have been proposed, a delegate should make a Motion to Adopt an Agenda. This motion is for the committee to vote on an agenda to follow for the remainder of the Conference.

(b) After being recognized by the chair, the delegate should say, "[Country Name] moves to adopt the agenda [state the desired agenda proposal]."

(c) This requires a simple majority vote.

III. Post-Agenda Adoption • Motion to Open the General Speakers' List

(a) This motion would open the General Speakers' List. This Speakers' List is for debating the agenda topic being . (As previously mentioned, the Primary Speakers' List is used only to set the agenda.) (c) A Motion to Open the General Speakers' List requires a simple majority

vote. • Motion to Set the Speakers' Time

(a) The speakers' time set for the Primary Speakers' List will be the default speakers' time for the General Speakers' List.

(b) The speakers' time can be changed at any time when the floor is open. (c) This requires 2 speakers for and 2 against and a simple majority vote.

• A delegation may only be on a speakers' list once at any given time. After speaking, delegations may send a note to the Chair to request that they be added to the speakers' list again.

• Motion for a [number]-minute Moderated/Unmoderated Caucus for the purpose of [desired purpose] (a) Caucus time can be used to facilitate debate, lobby for ideas, form

coalitions, and write resolutions. A great deal of the real work occurs during caucuses.

(b) There is no discussion; a simple majority vote is required. (c) The Chair may rule this motion out of order. This ruling is not subject to appeal. (d) Moderated caucus: allows a more informal level of debate at critical points

in the discussion. However, decorum is still maintained. (i) This motion is in order at any time before the closing of debate.

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(ii) When making a Motion for a Moderated Caucus, delegates must specify speaking time. (Therefore, a Motion for a Moderated Caucus would be, "Motion for a [number]-minute Moderated Caucus with [number of seconds or minutes] speaking time for the purpose of [desired purpose].") (iii) If a motion for moderated caucus passes, the Chair will depart from the speakers' list and call on delegates at his discretion.

(e) Unmoderated caucus: allows for delegates to informally discuss topics, work on working papers, and build coalitions.

(i) This motion is in order at any time before closing debate. (ii) The time limit specified is subject to the Chair's approval. (iii) If a motion for an unmoderated caucus passes, there are no set speakers and all rules are suspended. Delegates may move about and discuss matters in groups until the unmoderated caucus expires.

IV. Voting Procedures

• Moving into Voting Procedures: (a) Motion to Close Debate: This motion ends all discussion. Once this passes, the body moves directly into voting procedures. See "Conduct During Voting Procedures" for more information.

• A Motion to Close Debate requires 2 speakers against and a 2/3-majority vote. • If there are no speakers against, this motion automatically passes.

(b) Expiration of Speakers' List: (i) First, a Motion to Close the Speakers' List must pass. This requires a simple majority vote. If this motion passes, no additions may be made to the Speakers' List. (ii) Then, when the last speaker has finished, the committee automatically

enter into voting procedures. • During Voting Procedures

(a) When debate has been closed, Voting Procedures will begin. (b) Conduct During Voting Procedures

(i) No delegates may caucus in any way. This includes passing notes. (ii) Points of Order concerning the actual Voting Procedures and Points of Personal Privilege are the only interruptions permitted during Voting Procedures. (iii) No one may enter or exit the committee room during voting procedures. Immediately after closing debate, the committee room doors will be barred.

(b) Motion to Divide the Question: This motion calls for specific operative clauses to be voted on separately from the entire resolution.

(i) The delegate proposing this motion must name the clause(s) to be divided.

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(ii) The chair calls 2 speakers for and 2 against, and then, a simple majority vote is required. (iii) If a Motion to Divide the Question passes, the body votes on whether or not to include the individual clause(s) identified by the delegate who

made the motion in the final resolution. This also requires a simple majority. (iv) Thus, to Divide the Question, 2 votes take place, and both require a simple majority to pass:

1. A procedural vote (which also requires 2 speakers for and 2 speakers against) 2. (and, if the procedural vote passes) A substantive vote

• Roll Call Vote (a) Each country is called out loud. When called upon, delegations must respond in

one of four ways: 1. Yes 2. No 3. Abstain 4. Pass

(b) If any delegates "pass," the Chair will call on them again after reading through the entire list once. Any delegate who passes during the first round must vote in the second round, and they may not "abstain."

(i) A roll call vote is granted at the discretion of the chair. No vote is required.

(ii) Voting With Rights: During Roll Call Votes, delegates can vote "yes" or "no" "With Rights" when they feel clarification is necessary. (For example, to justify a vote contrary to normal country policy.)

(c) Requests to explain a vote must be submitted in writing to the Chair before the committee enters voting procedures. Requests will be granted at the discretion of the Chair. (d) Delegates whose requests have been approved will be called on by the Chair to make a brief statement after voting on the resolution in question.

• Order of Precedence for Voting Procedures

(a) Unfriendly Amendments (b) Division of the Question (c) Resolution as a whole

V. Other Motions and Points • Motion to Recess

(a) This motion is used to recess the committee for the purpose of planned meals or Until the next day's session.

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(b) This requires a simple majority vote. • Motion to Adjourn the Meeting

(a) After all voting has taken place, a Motion to Adjourn the Meeting would end the Conference until the next time it convenes. (b) This requires a simple majority vote.

• Point of Order (a) A Point of Order is used when a Member wishes to draw attention to a possible procedural error made by a Member or by the Chair. (b) This point must be raised at the time of the incident. The Chair will rule

immediately on the matter. Points of Order take precedence over substantive speeches and comments. A Member rising to a Point of Order may not speak on any substantive matters.

• Point of Parliamentary Inquiry (a) A Point of Parliamentary Procedure is a question to the Chair when a Member is uncertain of the procedural setting of the committee. (b) This motion may not interrupt a speaker.

• Point of Information (a) A Point of Information is a question to a speaker. (b) When a speaker yields to questions, the Chair shall recognize, in turn, those Members of the committee who have questions, as time allows. (c) Once recognized by the Chair, the Member shall rise and ask one concise

question directed to the speaker. The Member will then remain standing while the speaker answers the question, and then return to his seat. Only the speaker's response will be counted against his time limit. If the speaker needs the question clarified he shall ask the Chair, and the Chair shall have the Member clarify his question.

(d) At no time shall the Member asking the question and the speaker enter into dialogue. (d) This motion is not to be used to ask the Chair questions. Should a delegate

have a question for the Chair, besides a Point of Order, Point of Parliamentary Inquiry, or a Point of Personal Privilege, they should send a note to the Dais.

• Point of Personal Privilege (a) A delegate may rise to a Point of Personal Privilege during discussion of any

matter when his ability to participate in the proceedings is in anyway impaired. (For example, if the delegate is experiencing difficulty hearing speakers, or if the

committee room is uncomfortably cold.) The Chair shall attempt to address the cause of the impairment. (b) This point may interrupt a speaker.

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• Motion to [Adjourn Debate/Table a Topic] (a) This motion tables the topic without further discussion or substantive

debate/questions. (b) This requires 2 speakers for and 2 against, and then a simple majority vote.

• Motion to Reconsider a [Topic/Resolution/Proposal] (a) This motion is used to go back to a suspended topic. Alternatively, this motion is used during voting procedures to reconsider a failed resolution. (b) This motion must originate from a Member who originally voted to table the

topic or against the resolution, and the Member making this motion must provide a good explanation for doing so.

(c) This requires 2 speakers against and then a two-thirds majority vote.

Order of Precedence of Points and Motions I. Parliamentary Points 1. Point of Personal Privilege (this is the only point that may interrupt a speaker) 2. Appeal Decision of Chair (this is in order at the time of the incident) 3. Point of Order (this is in order any time the floor is open) 4. Point of Parliamentary Inquiry (this is in order any time the floor is open) 5. Motion to Recess II. Procedural motions that are not debatable 1. Motion for an Unmoderated Caucus 2. Motion for a Moderated Caucus III. Procedural motions that apply to an agenda item, a resolution, or an amendment 1. Motion to Set the Agenda 2. Motion to Introduce Draft Resolution 3. Motion to Introduce Amendment 4. Motion to Close Debate 5. Motion to Adjourn Debate/Table Topic IV. Substantive motions

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Model UN Parliamentary Procedure Summary Chart Please note that parliamentary procedure varies a little at each MUN conference. If you use these procedures, though, you’ll be clearly understood and the chair will usually be kind in helping you learn the details for the conference of the day.

Type Explanation Second Required

Interrupt Speaker

Debate: Pro/Con

Vote Required

Point of Order Enforce the rules because they are being broken

No Yes None Chair

Point of Personal Privilege Complain of speaker’s volume, room temp, etc.

No Yes None Chair

Point of Parliamentary Inquiry

Ask for information about parliamentary procedure

No No None Chair

Point of Information Ask a question to the speaker

No No None Chair

Appeal the Decision of Chair

Have body vote on whether chair properly followed procedure

No No 1-Chair 2/3

Motion to Adjourn Quit the day’s debate Yes No None Majority

Motion to Recess Take a break Yes No None Majority

Motion for a Caucus Provide time for informal discussions, either moderated or not moderated

Yes No None Majority

Motion to Close Speaker's List

Cap list of speakers Yes No None 2/3

Motion to Table Temporarily put resolution or amendment to the side for more pressing matters

Yes No None 2/3

Motion to Postpone Debate

Postpone debate Yes No 1-1 Majority

Motion to Close Debate Close debate (and likely move to vote)

Yes No 1-2 2/3

Motion to Resume Debate Continue debating a postponed or tabled resolution

Yes No 1-1 Majority

Motion to Divide the Question

Separate the resolution into parts for separate votes

Yes No 1-1 Majority

Previous Question Vote on resolution Yes No Yes 2/3

Amendment Introduce amendment

Yes No Yes Majority

Motion to Alter the Agenda

Change already agreed upon agenda

Yes No 1-1 Majority

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Primary Speaker’s List

Always open

Set the Agenda

Secondary Speaker’s List Opens once agenda is set

Points and Motions

Chair allows delegates to rise on Set the speaking time

Speech Speech by next delegate on list

Yields Speakers can yield to Comments, Questions, the Chair, or another

Delegate

YIELDS

To Comments: Two 30-second comments after the speech is finished To Questions: During left-over speaking time, speaker may answer questions posed by other delegates To the Chair: Left-over speaking time is discarded, no comments, move immediately to next speaker To Another Delegate: Speaker chooses another delegate to speak during his/her left-over time

Points and Motions

Chair allows delegates to rise on

Debate Closed/Speaker’s List Closed

A delegate motions to close debate, or a delegate motions to close the speaker’s list and there are no speakers left

Moderated Caucus Speaker’s list suspended, delegates chosen by Chair to speak for a specific amount of time

Unmoderated Caucus

Rules suspended, delegates move about and discuss freely

PARLIAMENTARY POINTS

Point of Order: To complain of improper procedure, may interrupt a speaker Point of Personal Privilege: To complain that a delegate’s ability to participate is impaired may interrupt a speaker Point of Parliamentary Inquiry: To ask about the rules of procedure, may not interrupt a speaker Right of Reply: To complain that a delegate’s person/country has been insulted, may not interrupt a speaker

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SWCHSMUN 2017

FLOW OF DEBATE: GA 1 DISEC, CCPCJ, CSTD, FAO, WHO, UNDP, UN Women, UNESCAP, UNHCR, League of Arab States

Chair takes roll call and determines

quorum

Delegate motions to open debate and open

Speakers’ List

Delegates motion to order the agenda and

set topic to Topic X

Speakers List opens to discuss this topic

Delegate motions for a moderated caucus,

stating length, speaking time, and

purpose

After significant debate, delegate may

motion for unmoderated caucus

with set time limit

Once typed up, the working paper can be

presented to the committee as a

possible resolution

Sponsors of the resolution present it, after which there can

be a motion for a 5 minute Q & A

Amendments may be submitted, and

additional resolutions may be presented

Debate continues on the resolutions

When sufficient debate has taken place, there is a motion to close

debate

Resolutions are voted upon by the committee

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT SWCHSMUN

Q: What is SWCHSMUN? A: SWCHSMUN, the Sir Winston Churchill Model UN conference, is a two-day, high school Model UN conference hosted annually in late October by Sir Winston Churchill High School in Calgary, Alberta. This year is the sixth year of this conference.

Q: When will SWCHSMUN 2017 be held? A: SWCHSMUN 2017 will run from Friday, October 20 to Saturday, October 21, 2017.

Q: Where is SWCHSMUN 2017 held? A: SWCHSMUN 2017 is taking place on the Sir Winston Churchill High School campus.

Q: What is MUN? A: MUN is short for Model United Nations. Model United Nations simulations are designed to teach participants about all the dynamics of international affairs, diplomacy and international organizations that cannot be learned by simply reading a book or through traditional academic study. MUN conferences include all the aspects of debate, learning and interaction with a diverse group of people you’d expect, yet it is so much more.

Q: What are blocs? A: Certain nations in the United Nations have policies that correspond more closely with others in the same region. These nations usually form policy groups to draft resolution known as blocs.

Q: What are the committees? A: The committees for SWCHSMUN 2017 are listed on the SWCHSMUN website (under the “Committees” tab). Your Model UN advisor or whomever is submitting your registration forms also should have a list of committees. Be sure to indicate your committee preferences when registering for SWCHSMUN 2017. We have carefully selected seven different committees for SWCHSMUN 2017. As part of SWCHSMUN 2017 we will have several non-UN bodies that will be simulated at the conference, including the OAS and the Chinese Civil War joint crisis committees.

Q: How do I prepare for SWCHSMUN? A: In order to get into the role of the representative a delegate is playing, preparation, especially research, is necessary. The United Nations website and various other websites are of much help for research. In addition, each committee will have background guides to introduce committee members to the topics they will discuss during SWCHSMUN. Each committee background guides will include links and other suggestions for research.

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Q: What is so special about SWCHSMUN? A: SWCHSMUN is scheduled to occur early in the Model UN season for a reason: it allows students to gain experience with Model UN prior to attending other conferences. At least one of the committees at SWCHSMUN will have a primary “learning committee” function. With other committees at SWCHSMUN there is a greater emphasis on smaller committee sizes to afford delegates a greater opportunity to speak and participate. In addition to having small-sized committees we also hope to have Edmonton and area schools compete with Calgary area schools in Model UN which is something that normally hasn’t occurred in Model UN in the province up until this point.

Q: How do I get in touch with SWCHSMUN 2017 Secretariat? A: In early September, we will be creating a Secretariat page for the various committees at SWCHSMUN 2017. The Secretariat page will have contact information for all SWCHSMUN 2017 Secretariat members. You can contact SWCHSMUN 2017 Secretary General/Churchill Model UN Team Sponsor Kevin Gilchrist via e-mail any time.

Q: How does SWCHSMUN assign countries? A: There will be a country selection meeting held at Churchill on Wednesday, September 21st at 4:30 p.m. in Room 111. At the country draw representatives of the high schools participating at SWCHSMUN will draw lots, and “draft” countries. Due to the nature of some of the committees at SWCHSMUN 2017, teachers will also be picking individuals that are part of the cabinet of South Korea for example. It is recommended that representatives at the country selection meeting consult with the background guides and the country matrix to determine the number of delegates required to properly represent the selected country in all the committees. If your school is unable to attend the country selection meeting, then please notify the Secretary General by e-mail (krgilchrist@cbe.ab.ca) with a list of requested countries or individuals in the various crisis cabinets, and the number of delegates that you plan to bring to SWCHSMUN. Q: What are the fees for SWCHSMUN 2017? A: This year, each delegate must pay $25, additionally each participating school will be charged a $25 team fee. For example, if you have 10 students attending SWCHSMUN, the fees would be $275 (10x$25=$250 + $25 school team fee=$275 total). Q. What if I have to withdraw my registration? Will I get my money back? A. We have a strict NO refund policy for individual delegate fees. If an individual member drops out, the onus is on the head delegate to find a replacement and notify the Secretary General in writing and give the subsequent details of the new delegate including name, email, position, and previous MUN experience. Should an entire delegation decide not to participate, 50% of the delegation fee will be refunded provided that the Secretary General is notified before October 7, 2017, thus allowing the country to

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be reassigned. Delegates that are not part of a delegation, i.e. individual delegates, qualify for the 50% refund before October 7, 2017. Q: Can we have two people assigned for the same committee seat? A: No, each committee seat is reserved for an individual delegate (unless it is specified as a double delegation committee, for example in the UN Security Council). Q: What if I’ve never participated in a Model UN before? What are some of the skills I need to have in order to participate in the conference? A: Previous experience is not a prerequisite to participate in SWCHSMUN and neither is a background in politics or international relations. If you are interested and willing to put in time to research your country’s foreign policy, please join us! However, if you have little experience, please choose your country carefully and do not pick a country that is likely to be the centre of debate. The more you prepare in terms of research, and learning procedural protocol, the easier participation will be, and the better your experience will be. Other useful skills are the ability to write clear and succinct resolution papers, confidence in public speaking, negotiation skills, networking, and clear reasoning. However, play to your own strengths. ...................................................................... Q: Will there be Internet access at the conference? A: Yes. Churchill does have a wireless network, and at this year’s conference we will be arranging a general guest access code for delegates in crisis committees. Students in committees other than the Chinese Civil War JCC and the UNSC will not have access to the wireless network this year. Students are encouraged to put together a research binder in advance of the conference. Q: Will I be able to use a laptop at SWCHSMUN? A: Yes. All delegates will be allowed to use laptops and other digital devices (iPods, iPhones or other smartphones) at SWCHSMUN. Please note that you will not be given access to the wireless network this year (please see the answer above). Q: I am from a school that’s registering for more than one country. Do we count as one delegation? A: No, each country is a delegation. If your school is sending many people, it is most likely sending more than one delegation. However, you are welcome to use the same Head Delegate for each delegation! In the United States National Security Council you will be representing an individual in that committee. Q: What do I wear at the conference? A: The dress code for SWCHSMUN is formal Western business attire. This includes suits,

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button-up shirts and ties for men, and skirts of a reasonable length, nylons, dress pants and blouses for women. This year SWCHSMUN is adhering to a strict dress code. All delegates wearing inappropriate clothes will be asked to leave their committee session and return when they are properly dressed. The following garments are prohibited within the conference: jeans, short skirts, runners, revealing clothing (including bare legs) and t-shirts. A sample of appropriate dress is demonstrated in the photo above.

AWARDS POLICY At the end of the SWCHSMUN 2017 conference, delegates who have shown particular talent and ability throughout the conference will be recognized during the closing ceremonies. All awards will be based on a delegate’s ability to remain in character, create innovative resolutions, caucus and debate both skillfully and persuasively, and to provide insightful resolutions. Additionally, delegates will be judged on the quality, not the quantity of their contributions and their ability to work cooperatively with other delegations. Delegates must also adhere accurately to their country’s foreign policy as well, in other words, the Dais should not see any resolutions written by Iran sponsored by Israel. Particularly aggressive or confrontational delegates are unlikely to be considered. The awards are as followed: Best Delegate Awards - One delegate from each committee will be selected by the Dais of that committee. They will be chosen for their overall performance, including their ability to persuade other delegates, their knowledge of their country’s positions, their abilities to express those positions clearly and their participation in the writing of resolutions. 1st place in committee. Honorable Mention Award - One delegate from each committee will be selected by the Dais. They will be chosen for their excellent diplomatic skills, willingness to negotiate with other delegates and ability to achieve compromise. 2nd place in committee. Best Delegation Award - One delegation will be selected by the Secretariat as a whole. They will be judged on their overall performance as a team. 1st place delegation. Outstanding Delegation Award- One delegation will be selected by the Secretariat as a whole. They will be judged on their overall performance as a team. 2nd place delegation. Verbal Commendation Awards - As there are frequently more than one or two exceptional delegates per committee, verbal commendations may be awarded based on the discretion of the Dais with approval of the Secretary-General.

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At SWCHSMUN, we use the awards rubric that is utilized at the University of Alberta High School Model UN conference for UN-based committees. We will be posting a version of this rubric on the SWCHSMUN website in the weeks leading up to SWCHSMUN 2017.

Glossary of Model UN Terms

Abstain - During a vote on a substantive matter, delegates may abstain rather than vote yes or no. This generally signals that a state does not support the resolution being voted on, but does not oppose it enough to vote no.

Adjourn - All UN or Model UN sessions end with a vote to adjourn. This means that the debate is suspended until the next meeting. This can be a short time (e.g., overnight) or a long time (until next year's conference).

Agenda - The order in which the issues before a committee will be discussed. The first duty of a committee following the roll call is usually to set the agenda.

Amendment - A change to a draft resolution on the floor. Can be of two types: a "friendly amendment" is supported by the original draft resolution's sponsors, and is passed automatically, while an "unfriendly amendment" is not supported by the original sponsors and must be voted on by the committee as a whole.

Background guide - A guide to a topic being discussed in a Model UN committee usually written by conference organizers and distributed to delegates before the conference. The starting point for any research before a Model UN conference.

Binding - Having legal force in UN member states. Security Council resolutions are binding, as are decisions of the International Court of Justice; resolutions of the General Assembly and Economic and Social Council are not.

Bloc - A group of countries in a similar geographical region or with a similar opinion on a particular topic.

Caucus - A break in formal debate in which countries can more easily and informally discuss a topic. There are two types: moderated caucus and unmoderated caucus.

Chair - A member of the dais that moderates debate, keeps time, rules on points and motions, and enforces the rules of procedure. Also known as a Moderator.

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Dais - The group of people, usually high school or college students, in charge of a Model UN committee. It generally consists of a Chair, a Director, and a Rapporteur.

Decorum - The order and respect for others that all delegates at a Model UN conference must exhibit. The Chair will call for decorum when he or she feels that the committee is not being respectful of a speaker, of the dais, or of their roles as ambassadors.

Delegate - A student acting as a representative of a member state or observer in a Model UN committee for a weekend.

Delegation - The entire group of people representing a member state or observer in all committees at a particular Model UN conference.

Director - A member of the dais that oversees the creation of working papers and draft resolutions, acts as an expert on the topic, makes sure delegates accurately reflect the policy of their countries, and ensures that decorum is maintained during caucuses.

Division of the Question - During voting bloc, delegates may motion to vote on certain clauses of a resolution separately, so that only the clauses that are passed become part of the final resolution. This is known as division of the question.

Draft resolution - A document that seeks to fix the problems addressed by a Model UN committee. If passed by the committee, the draft resolution will become into a resolution.

Faculty Advisor - The faculty member in charge of a Model UN team, class or club. Also known as a Team Sponsor.

Flow of debate - The order in which events proceed during a Model UN conference.

Gavel - The tool, shaped like a small wooden hammer, that the Chair uses to keep order within a Model UN committee. Many conferences give the gavel used in a committee to the delegate recognized by the dais as the best in that committee; therefore, the term is frequently used to refer to the award given to the best delegate, even in cases where no actual gavel is given.

Formal debate - The "standard" type of debate at a Model UN conference, in which delegates speak for a certain time in an order based on a speakers' list.

Head Delegate - The student leader of a Model UN club or team.

Member State - A country that has ratified the Charter of the United Nations and whose application to join has been accepted by the General Assembly and Security Council.

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Currently, there are 191 member states. The only internationally recognized state that is not a member state is the Holy See.

Moderated Caucus - A type of caucus in which delegates remain seated and the Chair calls on them one at a time to speak for a short period of time, enabling a freer exchange of opinions than would be possible in formal debate.

Moderator - See Chair.

Motion - A request made by a delegate that the committee as a whole do something. Some motions might be to go into a caucus, to adjourn, to introduce a draft resolution, or to move into voting bloc.

Observer - A state, national organization, regional organization, or non-governmental organization that is not a member of the UN but participates in its debates. Observers can vote on procedural matters but not substantive matters. An example is the Holy See.

On the floor - At a Model UN conference, when a working paper or draft resolution is first written, it may not be discussed in debate. After it is approved by the Director and introduced by the committee, it is put "on the floor" and may be discussed.

Operative clause - The part of a resolution which describes how the UN will address a problem. It begins with an action verb (decides, establishes, recommends, etc.).

Page - A delegate in a Model UN committee that has volunteered to pass notes from one delegate to another, or from a delegate to the dais, for a short period of time.

Placard - A piece of cardstock with a country's name on it that a delegate raises in the air to signal to the Chair that he or she wishes to speak.

Point - A request raised by a delegate for information or for an action relating to that delegate. Examples include a point of order, a point of inquiry, and a point of personal privilege.

Position paper - A summary of a country's position on a topic, written by a delegate before a Model UN conference.

Preambulatory Clause - The part of a resolution that describes previous actions taken on the topic and reasons why the resolution is necessary. It begins with a participle or adjective (noting, concerned, regretting, aware of, recalling, etc.).

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Procedural - Having to do with the way a committee is run, as opposed to the topic being discussed. All delegates present must vote on procedural matters and may not abstain.

Quorum - The minimum number of delegates needed to be present for a committee to meet. In the General Assembly, a quorum consists of one third of the members to begin debate, and a majority of members to pass a resolution. In the Security Council, no quorum exists for the body to debate, but nine members must be present to pass a resolution.

Rapporteur - A member of the dais whose duties include keeping the speakers' list and taking the roll call.

Resolution - A document that has been passed by an organ of the UN that aims to address a particular problem or issue. The UN equivalent of a law.

Right of Reply - A right to speak in reply to a previous speaker's comment, invoked when a delegate feels personally insulted by another's speech. Generally requires a written note to the Chair to be invoked.

Roll Call - The first order of business in a Model UN committee, during which the Rapporteur reads aloud the names of each member state in the committee. When a delegate's country's name is called, he or she may respond "present" or "present and voting." A delegate responding "present and voting" may not abstain on a substantive vote.

Rules of Procedure - The rules by which a Model UN committee is run.

Second - To agree with a motion being proposed. Many motions must be seconded before they can be brought to a vote.

Secretariat - The most senior staff of a Model UN conference.

Secretary-General - The leader of a Model UN conference.

Signatory - A country that wishes a draft resolution to be put on the floor and signs the draft resolution to accomplish this. A signatory need not support a resolution; it only wants it to be discussed. Usually, Model UN conferences require some minimum number of sponsors and signatories for a draft resolution to be approved.

Simple majority - 50% plus one of the number of delegates in a committee. The amount needed to pass most votes.

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Speakers' List - A list that determines the order in which delegates will speak. Whenever a new topic is opened for discussion, the Chair will create a speakers' list by asking all delegates wishing to speak to raise their placards and calling on them one at a time. During debate, a delegate may indicate that he or she wishes to be added to the speakers' list by sending a note to the dais.

Sponsor - One of the writers of a draft resolution. A friendly amendment can only be created if all sponsors agree.

Substantive - Having to do with the topic being discussed. A substantive vote is a vote on a draft resolution or amendment already on the floor during voting bloc. Only member states (not observer states or non-governmental organizations) may vote on substantive issues.

Unmoderated Caucus - A type of caucus in which delegates leave their seats to mingle and speak freely. Enables the free sharing of ideas to an extent not possible in formal debate or even a moderated caucus. Frequently used to sort countries into blocs and to write working papers and draft resolutions.

Working Paper - A document in which the ideas of some delegates on how to resolve an issue are proposed. Frequently the precursor to a draft resolution.

Veto - The ability, held by China, France, the Russian Federation, the United Kingdom, and the United States to prevent any draft resolution in the Security Council from passing by voting no.

Vote - A time at which delegates indicate whether they do or do not support a proposed action for the committee. There are two types: procedural and substantive.

Voting bloc - The period at the end of a committee session during which delegates vote on proposed amendments and draft resolutions. Nobody may enter or leave the room during voting bloc.

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