Best Position Paper Format

A position paper is a pre-conference document submitted by each delegation that signals to the dais and fellow delegates how a country intends to approach the committee's agenda. While conferences vary in their exact requirements, the widely accepted "best" format follows a compact, evidence-driven structure that fits within one page per topic (single-spaced, 11–12 pt font, Times New Roman or Arial).

A strong position paper typically contains four components:

• Header block: delegation, committee, topic, and (often) delegate name or school. Many conferences—such as NMUN and HMUN—publish formatting rules requiring this exact ordering.
• Background / problem framing: 2–4 sentences defining the issue and citing the most relevant treaty, resolution, or UN body action (e.g., a specific UNGA or UNSC resolution, a Secretary-General report, or a relevant convention). Avoid generic history; focus on what shapes your country's stance.
• National position: the delegation's policy, voting record, and domestic context. This is the section dais members weigh most heavily when awarding Best Position Paper. Reference verifiable actions—ratifications, statements at the UN, bilateral agreements, foreign aid contributions.
• Proposed solutions: 2–4 concrete, actionable measures the delegation will push in committee. These should be specific enough to become operative clauses (mechanisms, funding sources, implementing agencies, timelines).

Best practice tips: write in third person ("The Republic of Kenya believes…"), avoid first-person voice, cite sources in footnotes or a brief works-cited block, and keep prose tight—dais members often skim. Some circuits (e.g., WorldMUN, NHSMUN) require APA or Chicago citations; always read the conference's specific background guide before drafting.

A polished position paper not only competes for the Best Position Paper award but also serves as the delegate's working script during opening speeches and unmoderated caucus negotiations.