Quick reference for motions, speakers, and voting requirements.
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How a standard GSUMUN committee session runs, from roll call to final vote.
Roll Call
The chair takes attendance. Delegates may respond "Present" or "Present and Voting." Those responding "Present and Voting" cannot abstain on substantive votes.
Setting the Agenda
The committee votes on which topic to discuss first. This requires a simple majority. Delegates may make brief speeches in favor of their preferred agenda item.
Opening General Speakers List
Formal debate begins. Delegates give opening speeches stating their country's position. Speaking time is typically 60-90 seconds per speech.
Moderated and Unmoderated Caucuses
Focused debate on specific aspects of the topic through moderated caucuses. Unmoderated caucuses allow for informal discussion and coalition building.
Introduction of Working Papers
Delegates present working papers - informal documents outlining potential solutions. These help gauge committee support before drafting formal resolutions.
Draft Resolution Introduction
Working papers evolve into draft resolutions with proper UN format. These require sponsors and signatories to be introduced.
Amendment Process
Delegates may propose amendments to modify draft resolutions. Friendly amendments are accepted by sponsors; unfriendly amendments are voted on.
Voting Procedure
Final votes on draft resolutions. Most substantive votes require a simple majority. No debate is allowed during voting procedure.
| Motion/Point | Purpose | Vote Required | Can Interrupt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Point of OrderPoint | Correct an error in procedure | None | Yes |
| Appeal the Decision of the ChairProcedural | Challenge a decision of the Chair | 2/3 Majority | No |
| Suspension of the Meeting for an Unmoderated CaucusDebate | Recess Meeting | Simple Majority | No |
| Suspension of the Rules for a Moderated CaucusDebate | Suspend Rules | 2/3 Majority | No |
| Adjournment of the MeetingProcedural | End Meeting | Simple Majority | No |
| Adjournment of the DebateProcedural | End debate without a substantive vote | 2/3 Majority | No |
| Closure of DebateProcedural | End debate and Move to voting | 2/3 Majority | No |
| Division of the QuestionProcedural | Vote to consider sections separately | Varies | No |
| Adopt by AcclamationResolution | Accept a Draft Resolution by consensus | No opposition | No |
| Roll Call VoteVoting | Vote by roll call | None | No |
| Set Speaker's TimeProcedural | Set or change speaker's time limit | Simple Majority | No |
| Close/Reopen Speaker's ListProcedural | No additional speakers added/to again permit additional speakers | Simple Majority | No |
| Point of Personal PrivilegePoint | Addresses matters of comfort, amplification, or safety | None | Yes (if urgent) |
| Adoption of AgendaProcedural | Approval of agenda order | Simple Majority | No |
When multiple motions are on the floor, they are considered in this order:
Header
Includes committee name, sponsors, signatories, and topic.
Committee: General Assembly Third Committee Topic: Combating Climate Change and Global Security Sponsors: France, Germany, Kenya Signatories: Canada, Japan, Brazil, South Africa
Preambulatory Clauses
Describe the problem, recall past actions, and explain the purpose. Each clause ends with a comma.
Common preambulatory phrases:
Operative Clauses
State the actions proposed by the resolution. Numbered and end with semicolons (except the last, which ends with a period).
Common operative phrases:
Friendly Amendments
Accepted by all sponsors of the resolution. Automatically incorporated without a vote. Must be minor changes that don't alter the fundamental purpose.
Unfriendly Amendments
Not accepted by sponsors. Require a vote by the committee. Must have a sponsor and can be debated before voting.
Motion to Close Debate
Requires 2/3 majority. If passed, committee moves to voting procedure. If failed, debate continues.
Committee in Formal Session
No debate allowed. Delegates cannot enter or leave. Only points of order and personal privilege may interrupt.
Vote on Amendments First
Unfriendly amendments are voted on before the main resolution. If passed, they become part of the resolution.
Vote on Draft Resolution
Final vote on the (possibly amended) draft resolution. Simple majority required to pass.
If a country is mentioned unfavorably during speeches, that country's delegate may request a right of reply. This is granted at the chair's discretion and allows for a brief response (typically 30 seconds).
Crisis committees simulate evolving situations and allow for more dynamic interaction between delegates and external events.
Balance Public and Private Actions
Use committee debate to build public support while using crisis notes for private actions that advance your agenda.
Adapt to Changing Circumstances
Crisis committees are dynamic. Be prepared to adjust your strategy based on crisis updates and other delegates' actions.
Use Your Portfolio Powers Wisely
Your unique abilities are limited resources. Use them strategically to achieve maximum impact at crucial moments.
Build Coalitions and Alliances
Work with other delegates both openly and through private communication to advance shared interests and counter opposing forces.
Don't worry! Committee chairs are there to guide you. If you make an error, the chair will politely correct you and explain the proper procedure. This is a learning experience for everyone.
No, once your vote has been recorded and announced by the chair, it cannot be changed. Make sure you understand what you're voting on before casting your vote.
You can yield your remaining speaking time to questions (allowing other delegates to ask you questions), to another delegate, or to the chair. This is optional and should be done before your time expires.
Sponsors are delegates who helped write and strongly support a resolution. Signatories support the resolution being discussed but may not necessarily vote for it. Both are required to introduce a draft resolution.
Yes, you can withdraw a motion before it's been seconded or before the chair opens debate on it. Once debate has begun or a vote has been called, the motion cannot be withdrawn.
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