MUN Rules of Procedure
A complete guide to parliamentary procedure in Model United Nations. Learn the flow of debate, motions, points, and voting — everything you need to navigate committee confidently.
Flow of Debate
Roll Call
The chair calls each country alphabetically. Delegates respond "Present" (may abstain on votes) or "Present and Voting" (must vote yes or no). Roll call establishes quorum — typically a simple majority of member states.
Setting the Agenda
If multiple topics are assigned, delegates vote on which to discuss first. A delegate motions to set the agenda, another seconds, and the committee votes. Some conferences pre-set the agenda.
Opening Speeches (General Speakers List)
Each country delivers a 1-2 minute speech outlining their overall position. The General Speakers List (GSL) runs throughout the session — when it is exhausted, the committee moves to voting. Delegates may yield remaining time to another delegate, to questions (Points of Information), or to the chair.
Moderated Caucus
A delegate motions for a moderated caucus on a specific sub-topic (e.g., "10-minute moderated caucus with 1-minute speaking time on the topic of sanctions enforcement"). The chair calls on delegates one at a time. This is the most common debate format.
Unmoderated Caucus
Delegates leave their seats and negotiate informally. This is where coalitions form, working papers are drafted, and real diplomacy happens. A delegate motions for a specific duration (e.g., "15-minute unmoderated caucus").
Working Papers
Informal documents that outline potential solutions. Not yet in resolution format. Delegates circulate working papers to build support before formalizing them as draft resolutions. Working papers need a certain number of signatories (not sponsors) to be introduced.
Draft Resolutions
Formal documents following UN resolution format with preambulatory and operative clauses. Need sponsors (countries that wrote it) and signatories (countries willing to discuss it, not necessarily support it). Must be approved by the chair before introduction.
Amendments
Proposed changes to draft resolutions. Friendly amendments are accepted by all sponsors and added automatically. Unfriendly amendments require a vote. Amendments can add, strike, or modify specific clauses.
Voting Procedure
When debate concludes, the committee enters voting procedure. Doors are closed — no one may enter or leave. Each draft resolution is voted on. Delegates vote Yes, No, or Abstain (unless they declared "Present and Voting" during roll call). A simple majority passes most resolutions; the Security Council requires 9 of 15 with no P5 veto.
Points and Motions
Point of Order
A delegate believes the chair has made a procedural error
Can interrupt a speakerPoint of Inquiry / Parliamentary Inquiry
A delegate has a question about the rules of procedure
Cannot interrupt a speakerPoint of Personal Privilege
A delegate cannot hear a speaker, needs a room adjustment, etc.
Can interrupt a speakerPoint of Information / POI
A delegate wants to ask a question to the current speaker (only if speaker yields to questions)
Cannot interrupt a speakerRight of Reply
A delegate's country has been directly and egregiously insulted
Cannot interrupt a speakerCommon Motions
| Motion | Vote Required | Debatable? |
|---|---|---|
| Motion to open debate | Simple majority | No |
| Motion for moderated caucus | Simple majority | No |
| Motion for unmoderated caucus | Simple majority | No |
| Motion to close debate | Two-thirds majority | Yes (2 for, 2 against) |
| Motion to table the topic | Simple majority | No |
| Motion to adjourn the meeting | Simple majority | No |
| Motion to suspend the meeting | Simple majority | No |
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