New

Resolutions

Master the art of drafting, negotiating, and passing resolutions in committee.

Fundamentals

The Formal UN Resolution Format

As defined by the United Nations, every resolution follows a specific structure that has been standardized across all UN bodies:

Resolution as One Long Sentence

A resolution is grammatically one continuous sentence that begins with the organ name (e.g., 'The General Assembly'), followed by preambular clauses ending in commas, then operative clauses ending in semicolons, with a period only at the very end

Preambular Clauses

Begin with present participle verbs (e.g., 'Recalling', 'Recognizing') and provide context, background, and justification. They are not numbered and each ends with a comma

Operative Clauses

Begin with present tense verbs (e.g., 'Decides', 'Urges') and outline-solid specific actions. They are numbered sequentially and each ends with a semicolon (except the last, which ends with a period)

Header Information

Include committee name, agenda topic, sponsors (main authors), and signatories (supporters) at the top of the document

Document Formatting

Single-spaced, justified text with clear indentation for sub-clauses. Preambular clauses are italicized in some formats

Proper Clause Order

Reference the UN Charter first, then past resolutions, followed by general observations. Operative clauses should flow logically from most important to supporting actions

Resolution Components in Detail

Each component serves a specific purpose in building a comprehensive policy document:

Heading

Committee: [Name] | Topic: [Agenda Item] | Sponsors: [Countries] | Signatories: [Countries]

Preambular Section Purpose

Establishes legal and moral foundation, references previous UN actions, acknowledges current situation, and builds case for action

Operative Section Purpose

Proposes specific actions, assigns responsibilities, establishes timelines, allocates resources, and creates accountability mechanisms

Sub-clauses and Amendments

Use letters (a), (b), (c) for sub-points within operative clauses. Further subdivisions use roman numerals (i), (ii), (iii)

Language Precision

Use clear, unambiguous language. Avoid vague terms. Be specific about who does what, when, and how

Consensus Building Elements

Include compromise language, acknowledge different perspectives, and provide flexibility in implementation where appropriate

Preambular Clause Starters

The UN guide provides these commonly used verbs for beginning preambular paragraphs. Choose words that match your intended tone and purpose:

Acknowledging Context

  • Acknowledging
  • Affirming
  • Aware of
  • Bearing in mind
  • Believing
  • Cognizant of
  • Conscious of
  • Considering
  • Contemplating
  • Convinced

Expressing Concern

  • Alarmed by
  • Concerned
  • Deeply concerned
  • Deeply disturbed
  • Deeply regretting
  • Deploring
  • Desiring
  • Disturbed by
  • Expressing concern
  • Gravely concerned

Building on Past Actions

  • Guided by
  • Having adopted
  • Having considered
  • Having examined
  • Having heard
  • Having received
  • Having studied
  • Keeping in mind
  • Noting further
  • Noting with approval

Establishing Foundation

  • Observing
  • Reaffirming
  • Realizing
  • Recalling
  • Recognizing
  • Referring
  • Seeking
  • Taking into account
  • Taking note
  • Welcoming

Operative Clause Starters

Operative paragraphs use present tense verbs that indicate the level of action. The UN guide categorizes these by strength of language:

Strong Action

  • Condemns
  • Decides
  • Demands
  • Deplores
  • Determines
  • Insists
  • Proclaims
  • Rejects
  • Solemnly affirms
  • Strongly condemns

Recommendations

  • Calls upon
  • Encourages
  • Invites
  • Recommends
  • Requests
  • Suggests
  • Urges
  • Appeals
  • Implores
  • Proposes

Declarations

  • Accepts
  • Affirms
  • Approves
  • Authorizes
  • Confirms
  • Declares
  • Endorses
  • Expresses
  • Notes
  • Supports

Organizational Actions

  • Designates
  • Directs
  • Emphasizes
  • Establishes
  • Further invites
  • Further reminds
  • Instructs
  • Repeats
  • Transmits
  • Trusts

Using 'Further' and 'Also'

According to UN drafting conventions, when repeating verbs in consecutive clauses, use these modifiers:

Further

Use when the same verb appears in consecutive operative clauses (e.g., '3. Urges...', '4. Further urges...')

Also

Use when the same verb appears but not in consecutive clauses (e.g., '3. Requests...', '5. Also requests...')

Combination Usage

Can combine both when appropriate (e.g., 'Further also requests' if both conditions apply)

Drafting & Negotiation

Pre-Drafting Research

Before writing, conduct thorough research to ensure your resolution is grounded in reality:

Review Past Resolutions

Study successful resolutions on similar topics from your committee and others. Note effective language and structure

Understand Committee Powers

Know what your committee can and cannot do. Security Council can authorize force; GA can only recommend

Research Current Situation

Gather recent data, understand all stakeholders, identify root causes and obstacles to previous solutions

Identify Key Players

Know which countries have influence, resources, or special interest in your topic area

Consider Implementation

Think through how proposals would actually work: funding sources, oversight mechanisms, and realistic timelines

Anticipate Opposition

Understand concerns of countries likely to oppose and prepare compromise language

Writing Your First Draft

Follow this systematic approach to create a strong initial draft:

DRAFT RESOLUTION 1.1

Committee: [Your Committee Name]
Topic: [Agenda Topic]
Sponsors: [Your Country, Allied Countries]

The [Committee Name],

Recalling [relevant past resolutions with document numbers],

Reaffirming [fundamental principles from UN Charter],

Recognizing [current situation and challenges],

Deeply concerned by [specific problems requiring action],

Noting with appreciation [positive developments or efforts],

Convinced that [why action is necessary now],

1. Calls upon all member states to [primary action];

2. Encourages [specific actor] to [specific action] by [timeline];

3. Requests the Secretary-General to [administrative action];

4. Establishes [new mechanism/body/fund] with the mandate to:
   (a) [First responsibility],
   (b) [Second responsibility],
   (c) [Third responsibility];

5. Invites [relevant organizations] to [collaborative action];

6. Decides to remain actively seized of the matter.

Clarity and Brevity Guidelines

The UN emphasizes that operative paragraphs should be concise and use precise language for maximum political impact:

One Action Per Clause

Each operative clause should contain a single clear action. Break complex proposals into multiple numbered clauses

Avoid Redundancy

Don't repeat information between preambular and operative sections. Each clause should add new information

Specific Over General

Replace 'appropriate measures' with specific actions. Define 'regularly' with actual timeframes

Active Voice

Use active construction: 'Requests the Secretary-General to report' not 'Reports should be submitted by'

Plain Language

While maintaining formal tone, use clear language that translates well across all UN languages

Logical Flow

Order clauses from most important to supporting actions. Group related actions together

The Negotiation Process

According to UN drafting guidance, negotiations can occur before or after tabling a draft. Consensus is often reached through informal consultations:

Pre-Draft Consultations

Meet with key delegations before writing to understand positions, identify common ground, and build initial support

Working Paper Stage

Share initial ideas as working papers to gather feedback without formal commitment. Be open to major revisions

Draft Resolution Stage

Once submitted, negotiations focus on specific language. Track all proposed amendments carefully

Informal Negotiations

Most consensus building happens in unmoderated caucuses, corridors, and working meals. Be prepared for these moments

Formal Amendments

Understand your committee's amendment procedures. Friendly amendments require sponsor approval; unfriendly need voting

Compromise Strategies

Offer alternative language, phased implementation, review clauses, or voluntary rather than mandatory language

Building Winning Coalitions

Success requires strategic alliance building throughout the conference:

Identify Natural Allies

Start with countries sharing similar positions, regional partners, or those with aligned interests

Engage the Middle Ground

Focus efforts on undecided delegations who could swing either way. Address their specific concerns

Neutralize Opposition

Understand why countries oppose and offer compromises that address core concerns without weakening your resolution

Use Regional Blocs

Work through regional groups (African Union, EU, etc.) to build broader support efficiently

Leverage Expertise

Partner with countries having technical expertise or special knowledge to strengthen credibility

Maintain Flexibility

Be willing to accept amendments that don't compromise core objectives. Perfect is the enemy of good

Common Negotiation Challenges

Anticipate and prepare for these frequent obstacles:

Competing Resolutions

When multiple drafts exist, seek merger opportunities or differentiate your approach clearly

Sovereignty Concerns

Address fears about interference by emphasizing voluntary compliance and respect for domestic jurisdiction

Funding Disputes

Propose diverse funding sources, voluntary contributions, or phased implementation to reduce cost concerns

Implementation Mechanisms

Balance effectiveness with acceptability. Sometimes reporting requirements are easier to pass than enforcement

Regional Tensions

Be sensitive to historical conflicts and current disputes that may affect coalition building

Last-Minute Changes

Maintain composure when facing surprise amendments. Quick caucuses can often resolve issues

Samples & Advanced

Security Council Resolution Template

This template follows the format for Security Council resolutions addressing international peace and security:

DRAFT RESOLUTION SC/1.1

Committee: Security Council
Topic: The Situation in [Country/Region]
Sponsors: [Country 1, Country 2, Country 3]

The Security Council,

Recalling its resolutions [numbers] and the statements of its President concerning [topic],

Reaffirming its strong commitment to the sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity and national unity of [country],

Expressing grave concern at the deteriorating humanitarian situation, including [specific issues],

Determining that the situation in [country/region] continues to constitute a threat to international peace and security,

Acting under Chapter VII of the Charter of the United Nations,

1. Demands that all parties immediately cease hostilities and engage in dialogue without preconditions;

2. Decides to establish a peacekeeping operation, to be known as [UNMISSION], for an initial period of twelve months, with a mandate to:
   (a) Monitor the ceasefire and report violations,
   (b) Facilitate humanitarian assistance delivery,
   (c) Support political dialogue between parties;

3. Authorizes [UNMISSION] to use all necessary means to carry out its mandate;

4. Calls upon all Member States to contribute personnel, equipment and other resources;

5. Requests the Secretary-General to report every 90 days on implementation;

6. Decides to remain actively seized of the matter.

General Assembly Resolution Template

This template demonstrates the GA's recommendatory powers on development issues:

DRAFT RESOLUTION GA/1.1

Committee: General Assembly Third Committee
Topic: Promoting Sustainable Development Through Education
Sponsors: [Countries]

The General Assembly,

Recalling its resolution 70/1 of 25 September 2015, entitled "Transforming our world: the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development",

Reaffirming the right to education as enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights,

Recognizing that 244 million children and youth are out of school globally,

Deeply concerned by the impact of COVID-19 on educational systems worldwide,

Acknowledging the critical role of education in achieving all Sustainable Development Goals,

1. Urges all Member States to increase investment in education to at least 6% of GDP;

2. Encourages the development of digital learning platforms accessible to marginalized communities;

3. Invites UNESCO to expand technical assistance programs for curriculum development;

4. Recommends the establishment of a voluntary fund to support education in crisis situations;

5. Requests the Secretary-General to convene a high-level meeting on education financing;

6. Decides to include in the provisional agenda of its seventy-ninth session the item entitled "Education for Sustainable Development".

ECOSOC Resolution Template

This template shows ECOSOC's coordination role in economic and social matters:

DRAFT RESOLUTION ECOSOC/1.1

Committee: Economic and Social Council
Topic: Addressing Global Food Security and Nutrition
Sponsors: [Countries]

The Economic and Social Council,

Recalling General Assembly resolution 76/264 on the global food security crisis,

Noting with concern that up to 828 million people faced acute hunger in 2022,

Recognizing the multiple causes including conflict, climate change, and economic shocks,

Emphasizing the need for coordinated action across the UN system,

1. Establishes a Task Force on Food Security comprising FAO, WFP, IFAD, and WHO to:
   (a) Coordinate emergency response efforts,
   (b) Develop early warning systems,
   (c) Provide technical assistance to affected states;

2. Recommends that the General Assembly consider establishing a special fund;

3. Invites the Bretton Woods institutions to expand concessional financing;

4. Encourages regional commissions to facilitate South-South cooperation;

5. Requests subsidiary bodies to mainstream food security considerations;

6. Decides to convene a special session on this matter in six months.

Strategic Language Choices

Master the nuances of diplomatic language to build consensus:

Gradations of Obligation

From strongest to weakest: 'Decides' (binding in SC), 'Urges', 'Calls upon', 'Encourages', 'Invites', 'Suggests'

Constructive Ambiguity

Sometimes precise vagueness helps build consensus: 'appropriate measures', 'in due course', 'as necessary'

Face-Saving Language

Allow countries to change position gracefully: 'Noting evolution of circumstances' rather than highlighting past errors

Conditional Phrasing

Use 'upon request', 'with consent of', 'voluntary basis' to address sovereignty concerns

Progressive Implementation

Phase obligations over time: 'initially', 'as a first step', 'with a view to eventually'

Review Mechanisms

Include sunset clauses or review dates to secure support from hesitant delegations

Complex Resolution Structures

Advanced resolutions may require sophisticated organizational structures:

Multi-Part Operative Sections

Group related clauses under thematic headings using Roman numerals: I. Immediate Measures, II. Long-term Solutions

Annexes and Appendices

Attach detailed implementation plans, terms of reference, or technical specifications as annexes

Cross-References

Link related clauses: 'Pursuant to paragraph 3 above' or 'Without prejudice to paragraph 7'

Institutional Mechanisms

Create working groups, special representatives, or monitoring bodies with clear mandates and reporting lines

Financial Provisions

Detail funding sources, burden-sharing formulas, and financial oversight mechanisms

Legal Safeguards

Include savings clauses: 'Nothing in this resolution shall be construed as...' to prevent misinterpretation

Parliamentary Tactics

Understand procedural strategies for resolution success:

Order of Voting

Influence which resolution is voted on first through strategic use of motions and chair relationships

Division of the Question

Separate controversial clauses for individual voting to save the rest of your resolution

Killer Amendments

Recognize and defend against amendments designed to make your resolution unacceptable to supporters

Roll Call Strategy

Request roll call votes to pressure delegations through public position-taking

Timing Tactics

Submit resolutions at strategic moments when opposition is unprepared or momentum favors passage

Bloc Politics

Understand when to compromise within your bloc versus when to build cross-bloc coalitions

FAQ

How many sponsors do I need for a resolution?

This varies by conference, but typically 3-5 sponsors (main authors) and 10-20% of committee as signatories (supporters). Check your conference rules for specific requirements. Focus on quality of support over quantity.

What's the difference between sponsors and signatories?

Sponsors are the main authors who draft and champion the resolution. They control friendly amendments. Signatories simply support bringing the resolution to debate but may vote against it. Think of sponsors as co-authors and signatories as those saying 'this deserves discussion.'

Can I submit multiple resolutions on the same topic?

Yes, but it's often strategic to merge similar resolutions. If your resolutions address different aspects, ensure they're compatible. Competing resolutions split support, so collaboration usually yields better results than competition.

How do I handle hostile amendments?

First, try negotiating compromise language during unmoderated caucus. If the amendment would gut your resolution, mobilize your coalition to vote it down. Consider accepting minor changes to maintain broader support. Sometimes splitting contentious clauses for separate voting helps.

What if my resolution fails?

Don't give up! Analyze why it failed, address those concerns, and try again. Many successful resolutions pass on second or third attempts after revisions. You can also salvage good ideas by proposing them as amendments to other resolutions.

How detailed should operative clauses be?

Detailed enough to be actionable but flexible enough for implementation. Include specific actors, general timeframes, and clear objectives. Avoid micromanaging implementation details unless crucial. Think 'what, who, when' but leave some 'how' to implementing bodies.

Should I use sub-clauses?

Use sub-clauses when you need to list multiple related actions under one main directive. They're helpful for detailing mandates of new bodies or listing specific measures. Don't overuse them – if sub-clauses become too complex, consider separate operative clauses instead.

How do I reference real UN documents?

Use official document numbers when citing real resolutions (e.g., 'A/RES/70/1'). For Model UN, you can reference actual UN documents to strengthen arguments, but follow your committee's rules about simulated versus real UN continuity.

Keep exploring

Opening Speeches GuidePosition Papers GuideBeginner's Guide to MUN