Common Position Paper Mistakes
The most frequent errors delegates make in position papers — and how to avoid every one of them.
The 7 Deadly Position Paper Sins
After reviewing thousands of position papers across NMUN, HMUN, and WorldMUN, chairs consistently flag these errors:
1. Writing as Yourself, Not Your Country
Wrong: 'I believe nuclear weapons should be abolished.' Right: 'The Republic of the Marshall Islands, as the site of 67 US nuclear tests between 1946 and 1958, maintains that the total elimination of nuclear weapons is a moral and legal imperative.'
2. Restating the Background Guide
Chairs wrote the guide. They know what it says. Add original research.
3. Vague Solutions
'The international community should work together' is not a solution. Name the mechanism, funding, and timeline.
4. No Citations
Every claim needs evidence. 'Most countries support this treaty' — which countries? Show the voting record.
5. Ignoring Your Country's Actual Position
Don't project your personal views onto your country. Saudi Arabia does not support the same human rights framework as Sweden. Research what your country has actually said and voted for.
6. Only Covering One Topic
Many conferences assign two topics. Covering only one is an automatic downgrade at most conferences.
7. Missing the Deadline
A late position paper is often treated the same as no position paper. At NMUN, it disqualifies you from awards.