Open Speakers List

In Model UN procedure, the Open Speakers List (often called the General Speakers List or GSL) is the default speaking order for formal debate on a topic. Once a committee sets its agenda, the chair typically opens a speakers list, and delegates raise their placards to be added. Speakers address the topic broadly, signaling national positions, proposing solution frameworks, and building coalitions.

Key procedural features:

• Continuously open: Delegates can add themselves at any time by passing a note to the dais or raising their placard when the chair asks who wishes to be added. A delegate may generally be on the list only once at a time, re-adding themselves after speaking.
• Default fallback: When a moderated caucus, unmoderated caucus, or other motion ends, debate returns to the open speakers list unless another motion passes.
• Standard speaking time: Usually set at the start of debate (commonly 60 or 90 seconds, though this varies by conference and committee size).
• Yields: In many rulebooks based on THIMUN or NMUN-style procedure, after a GSL speech the delegate may yield remaining time to another delegate, to questions, to comments, or to the chair.
• Closure: The list remains open until a motion to close the speakers list passes (typically requiring a two-thirds vote). Once closed, debate ends after the remaining listed speakers finish, and the committee moves to voting procedure on draft resolutions.

Because the GSL runs in the background of all other debate, strategic delegates use it to deliver prepared remarks, signal bloc alignment, or rebut specific draft resolutions. Conferences differ on whether separate speakers lists are maintained for each topic or for amendments; delegates should consult the specific rules of procedure (e.g., NMUN Rules, Harvard WorldMUN Rules, or THIMUN Procedure) issued by their conference.