In Model UN, the motion to move into voting procedure is the procedural step that ends substantive debate and transitions the committee into formal voting on the draft resolutions and amendments on the floor. Once the chair recognizes the motion and it passes (typically by a simple majority, though rules vary by conference), the committee enters a "closed" state: doors are sealed, no delegate may enter or exit, and all notes, electronics, and side conversations cease until voting concludes.
The motion is usually entertained only after the speakers list has been exhausted or after a successful motion to close debate. At many conferences these two motions are functionally combined; at others (notably those using stricter parliamentary rules modeled on the UN General Assembly's Rules of Procedure), closing debate and moving into voting are distinct steps. Delegates should check their conference's background guide or rules packet.
Once in voting procedure, the committee handles items in a set order: amendments first (friendly amendments are typically incorporated automatically; unfriendly amendments are voted on individually), then each draft resolution as a whole. Common in-voting motions include:
- Roll call vote — each delegation is called by name and votes yes, no, abstain, yes with rights, or no with rights.
- Division of the question — separating operative clauses to be voted on individually before the resolution as a whole.
- Reordering draft resolutions — changing the sequence in which drafts are voted on.
Abstentions are generally permitted on resolutions but not on procedural votes. In crisis committees and some specialized agencies, voting procedure may be shorter or modified because directives, not resolutions, are the working product.
A failed motion to move into voting procedure simply returns the committee to debate; delegates may reintroduce it later. The motion is one of the most consequential procedural tools because, once invoked successfully, lobbying and merger negotiations are effectively over.
Example
At NMUN New York 2023, the DISEC chair entertained a motion to move into voting procedure after the sponsors of three competing draft resolutions had completed final remarks, sealing the room for a roll call vote.
Frequently asked questions
Most conferences require a simple majority of members present and voting, but some require two-thirds. Always confirm in your committee's rules of procedure.
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