Voting Bloc Procedure

In Model UN, voting bloc procedure (sometimes called "voting procedure" or simply "voting bloc") is the formal stage that begins once debate on all draft resolutions has closed and ends when the chair announces the results of every substantive vote. During this period the dais typically enforces strict rules borrowed from UN General Assembly practice: the doors are sealed, no delegate may leave or enter the room, notes are suspended, and no caucusing or side conversations are permitted.

The sequence usually proceeds as follows:

• Amendments first. Friendly amendments are automatically incorporated; unfriendly amendments are voted on individually, in the order they were submitted or as the chair directs.
• Draft resolutions next. Each draft is voted on in the order it was introduced, unless a motion to reorder passes.
• Procedural motions available in bloc. Delegates may motion to divide the question (voting on operative clauses separately), to vote by roll call, or to require an important question two-thirds threshold (modeled on UN Charter Article 18(2) for matters such as peace and security or membership).
• Voting rights. Observer states (e.g., the Holy See, State of Palestine in most simulations) may not vote on substantive matters but may vote on procedural questions in some rulesets. Signatories to a draft are not bound to vote yes.

Roll call votes proceed in English alphabetical order. Delegates may answer yes, no, abstain, yes with rights, no with rights, or pass (once). Rights of explanation are granted only to those who voted with rights and are heard after the tally.

Voting bloc is procedurally distinct from voting on procedural motions during debate, which is conducted immediately, without doors closed, and where abstentions are not permitted.