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MUN Overview and Preparation

Jul 31, 2025

Overview

This lecture series offers a comprehensive introduction to Model United Nations (MUN), covering its background, structure, essential terms, preparation steps, and key skills for successful participation. Each episode provides practical explanations and guidance to help viewers understand and excel in MUN.

Introduction to Model United Nations (MUN)

  • MUN is an educational activity where students simulate United Nations meetings by representing different countries.
  • Participants debate and negotiate to address global issues, following real UN procedures.
  • MUN helps students develop skills in diplomacy, public speaking, research, and international relations.

History and Structure of MUN

  • MUN was created to teach students about diplomacy and the workings of the United Nations.
  • Conferences are modeled after real UN committees, with defined roles and formal procedures.
  • Typical events include opening ceremonies, committee sessions, debates, and drafting resolutions.

Essential MUN Terms and Rules

  • Key terms include delegate (country representative), motion (proposal for action), resolution (document with solutions), caucus (informal discussion), and position paper (summary of a country’s stance).
  • Understanding the rules of procedure is crucial, as they guide debates and decision-making during conferences.

MUN Preparation and Dress Code

  • Preparation involves researching your assigned country and the topics to be discussed.
  • Participants are expected to wear formal attire to maintain professionalism and respect for the event.
  • Learning to write operative clauses is important, as these are the actionable parts of resolutions.

Key Skills for MUN

  • Essential skills include research, public speaking, negotiation, and teamwork.
  • Position papers outline a country’s stance and proposed solutions, supported by research.
  • Writing clear operative clauses is necessary for effective resolutions.

Research and Source Selection

  • Use reliable sources such as official UN websites, government documents, and academic publications for preparation.
  • Organizing and analyzing research helps participants understand topics and contribute meaningfully.

Practical Tips and Essential Items

  • Bring notepads, pens, research materials, and identification to stay organized.
  • Practice public speaking and debate to build confidence.
  • First-time participants should focus on preparation and active engagement.

Key Terms & Definitions

  • Delegate: Represents a country in the simulation.
  • Motion: Suggests a specific action or change in procedure.
  • Resolution: Proposes solutions to the issues being discussed.
  • Caucus: Allows for informal discussion and negotiation.
  • Position Paper: Summarizes a country’s policy and proposed solutions.

Action Items / Next Steps

  • Review MUN terminology and rules of procedure.
  • Research your assigned country and topics thoroughly.
  • Write a position paper presenting your country’s stance and solutions.
  • Gather all necessary materials before your next MUN session.

Episode Summaries

Episode 1: What is MUN?

Introduces the basics of Model United Nations, where students act as delegates representing countries in UN-style meetings. Explains how MUN develops skills in diplomacy, negotiation, and public speaking.

Episode 2: A Short History of MUN

Covers the origins of MUN as an educational tool for teaching international relations and diplomacy, and describes its growth into a global program.

Episode 3: What Does a MUN Conference Look Like?

Describes the structure of a typical MUN conference, including opening ceremonies, committee sessions, debates, and the process of writing resolutions. Explains what participants can expect during the event.

Episode 4: 10 Basic MUN Terms in 1 Minute!

Defines ten essential MUN terms to help viewers quickly learn the vocabulary needed for committee sessions.

Episode 5: 10 MORE Basic MUN Terms in 1 Minute!

Introduces ten additional MUN terms, expanding viewers’ understanding of the language used during conferences.

Episode 6: MUN Dress Code

Explains the importance of formal attire at MUN conferences, detailing what is considered appropriate and how professional dress supports the event’s atmosphere.

Episode 7: HOW Does it Work?

Describes the step-by-step process of how MUN conferences operate, including debate structure, negotiations, and drafting resolutions. Clarifies delegate roles and committee workflow.

Episode 8: Getting Started (What to Prepare)

Outlines what participants need to do before attending a MUN conference, such as researching their assigned country and topics, organizing materials, and understanding the agenda.

Episode 9: 4 Skills That You NEED

Identifies research, public speaking, negotiation, and teamwork as the four key skills for MUN, and explains how each skill supports effective participation.

Episode 10: How to Research

Provides a step-by-step guide to researching MUN topics, including finding credible information, organizing research, and analyzing issues from different perspectives.

Episode 11: 6 BEST Sources to Prepare for MUN

Recommends six reliable sources for MUN preparation, such as official UN websites and academic publications, and explains the importance of using trustworthy sources.

Episode 12: Tips & Tricks for YOUR First MUN

Shares practical advice for first-time participants, including preparation strategies, managing nerves, participating in debates, and making the most of networking.

Episode 13: How to Make a Position Paper

Explains how to write a position paper, outlining its structure and showing how to present your country’s stance, support arguments with research, and propose solutions.

Episode 14: How to SPEECH

Offers techniques for delivering effective speeches at MUN, including organizing content, speaking confidently, and engaging the audience.

Episode 15: What is Rules of Procedure?

Explains the rules that govern MUN debates and committee sessions, and why these rules are important for structuring discussions and making decisions.

Episode 16: How to Make Operative Clause

Describes how to write operative clauses for resolutions, focusing on making statements that are clear, specific, and actionable.

Episode 17: 4 ESSENTIAL Items to Bring to MUN!

Lists four important items to bring to a MUN conference—such as notepads, pens, research documents, and identification—and explains why each is necessary.

Episode 18: Public Speaking TIPS!

Provides advice for improving public speaking, including managing anxiety, structuring speeches, and keeping the audience engaged.

Episode 19: How to PREPARE

Covers all aspects of preparing for MUN, from conducting research and organizing materials to mental preparation and time management.

Episode 20: How to RESEARCH for MUN (The Topics)

Explains how to research specific MUN topics, including methods for gathering relevant information, analyzing issues, and organizing research to support your country’s position.