Diplomacy & Politics Glossary
Every term you need — from Model UN procedure to international law, economics, and political theory. Clear definitions, real examples, and cross-linked concepts.
2302 terms across 11 categories
Showing 31 terms matching your filters
A
1 termC
4 termsCaucus
A temporary break in formal debate allowing delegates to discuss issues informally, either moderated or unmoderated.
Caucus Speaker List
An ordered list of delegates who have requested the floor to speak during a moderated caucus or debate.
Chair's Privilege
The authority granted to the committee chair to make procedural decisions or rulings during debate without requiring a vote.
Committee Gavel
The symbolic tool used by the chair to maintain order and indicate the start or end of sessions.
F
2 termsG
1 termI
1 termL
2 termsLegislative Filibuster
A parliamentary procedure where a legislator speaks at length to delay or block a vote on a proposal. It is commonly used in the U.S. Senate to extend debate and prevent a bill's passage.
Legislative Quorum
The minimum number of members required to conduct official business in a legislative body.
M
6 termsModerated Caucus
A structured debate format where the chair calls on delegates to speak on a specific topic for a limited time.
Motion to Adjourn
A formal proposal to end the current meeting or session immediately, requiring a vote for approval.
Motion to Appeal
A procedural request to challenge the chair's ruling on a point of order or parliamentary inquiry, requiring a vote by the committee.
Motion to Recess
A parliamentary procedure allowing the committee to temporarily pause formal debate and resume later without adjourning the session entirely.
Motion to Reconsider
A procedural motion allowing delegates to reopen debate on a previously decided topic or resolution during a committee session.
Motion to Set the Agenda
A procedural motion proposing the order in which topics will be debated during the committee session.
P
6 termsPlacard
A sign displayed by delegates to identify their country during formal debate and voting procedures.
Point of Order
An interjection by a delegate to draw attention to a breach in parliamentary procedure requiring immediate correction.
Point of Parliamentary Inquiry
A question raised by a delegate to the chair seeking clarification on rules or procedures during a committee session.
Point of Personal Privilege
A procedural point raised when a delegate experiences personal discomfort affecting their participation.
Points of Personal Privilege
A point raised by a delegate when their ability to participate is impaired, such as hearing difficulties or discomfort.
Preambulatory Clause
A section in a resolution that provides background, context, and justification for the actions proposed in the operative clauses.
R
2 termsS
2 termsSubstantive Debate
The part of committee discussion focused on the content and merits of a topic, as opposed to procedural or administrative matters.
Suspension of the Meeting
A motion to temporarily halt committee sessions, allowing delegates to caucus or consult informally.
U
2 termsUnmoderated Caucus
A flexible debate period where delegates freely discuss and negotiate without formal speaking order or moderation.
Unmoderated Caucus Time Allocation
The process by which the chair determines the length of an unmoderated caucus based on delegate proposals and committee needs. It balances discussion freedom and time management.