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XIII Annual AISMUN Conference - March 16 - 19 / 2017

Altamira International School - Barranquilla - Colombia


XIII Annual AISMUN Conference
Altamira International School
March 16 - 19 / 2017

COMMITTEES

SECURITY Topic A: Situation of the Republic of Turkey.


COUNCIL
Topic B: The Weaponization of Social Media.

Topic A: Proliferation of Small Arms - SALW. DISEC


Disarmament and
International Security
Topic B: Espionage as a Means of Intelligence Gathering. Committee

SOCHUM Topic A: Impact of Private Military Corporations on Human Rights.


Social, Humanitarian
and Cultural Topic B: Mainstreaming Youth in Post- 2015 Development Agenda.
Committee

Topic A: Islamic States threat to International Peace and Security.


Topic B: The Establishment and Disarmament of Cyber Warfare in International Terrorist CRISIS 2050
Attacks.

LEGAL Tema A: Reconsiderando la Responsabilidad de Proteger - R2P.


Foro de Asuntos
Legales de las
Naciones Unidas Tema B: Responsabilidad Penal de Personal de la ONU en Misiones.

Tema A: Combatiendo el Fraude y la Evasin Fiscal.


ECOFIN
Consejo de Asuntos
Econmicos y
Tema B: La Manipulacin de Divisas. Financieros

CONGRESO Tema A: Dilogos de Paz y Cooperacin con Grupos Rebeldes Colombianos.


DE LA
REPBLICA DE Tema B: Reforma Tributaria en Colombia.
COLOMBIA
XIII Annual AISMUN Conference
Altamira International School
March 16 - 19 / 2017

TO KEEP IN MIND
Committees in English

DISEC: Disarmament and International Security Committee.

SOCHUM: Social, Humanitarian and Cultural Committee.

SECURITY COUNCIL

CRISIS 2050

Committees in Spanish

ECOFIN: Consejo de Asuntos Econmicos y Financieros.

LEGAL: Foro de Asuntos Legales de las Naciones Unidas.

CONGRESO DE LA REPBLICA DE COLOMBIA

About Committee Work


Just one opening speech is required. It must contain information about the two topics.
Each opening speech should be read in a maximum time of one minute and a half.
A position paper is essential, following the guidelines already established.
PowerPoint presentations are permitted.
If you wish to use the term terrorism, it is imperative that you make a motion, that will be
considered as interruptible.
The term imperialism, does not belong to the parliamentary language; therefore, no
delegate may use it.
XIII Annual AISMUN Conference
Altamira International School
March 16 - 19 / 2017

AISMUN STAFF AND PARTICIPANTS ROLE


Secretary General:
Holds the maximum authority of the conference. Any rules and protocol that is subject to
change must be approved and clarified ONLY by him/her. The Secretary General has
coordinated collective work and cooperation within the AISMUN Staff. This position is subject to
clarifying any doubts that are presented, related to procedure, contents or protocol for the
different committees.

General Director (Vice-Secretary General):


The General Director or Vice Secretary General is in charge of the academic direction of the
Conference, he/she has the responsibility of supervising the work of Presidents and
Vice-Presidents of each committee and keep them informed of any decisions taken by the
Secretary General. He/she has the responsibility of supervising the work of security and logistics
for the optimal flow of the Conference.

President(s) (The Chair):


Holds the maximum authority inside his/her committee. His/her duties are to moderate
debates and direct the committee towards a rightful solution, according to what has been
instructed by the Secretary General and the handbook. The Chair must be an example of active
participation, investigation and punctuality to the conference. This position is responsible of
reporting any disciplinary or academic issue to the Secretary General.

Press Body:
This position holds the responsibility to inform all of the participants of AISMUN 2013 about the
development of the conference. This information must be related to the debates, conflicts,
crises, and the handling of these inside the committee. This committee will publish a daily
newspaper, give respectful superlatives at the end of the conference and also prepare
different materials such as videos.

Logistic Committee:
Are the ones directly responsible for the physical organization of the conference. Logistics is in
charge of all the equipment and technology aids. During coffee breaks and lunches, they are
in charge of the organization of all Delegates and the coordination of the whole process. They
will be always willing to help and guide whoever needs them. Logistics is also in charge of
registration of Delegates and Schools and of providing them with everything that is required for
the sessions.
XIII Annual AISMUN Conference
Altamira International School
March 16 - 19 / 2017

AISMUN STAFF AND PARTICIPANTS ROLE


Security:
They belong to the Logistics Committee in AISMUN and are in charge of the security of all
participants in the event. In addition, they have the authorization of restricting access to those
persons that do not carry their badges with them.

Delegates:
Each delegate represents a State, they assume and defend their countries position in all
committees and in the General Assembly. All interventions made by delegates need to be in
agreement with the UN Charter, its laws, treaties, conventions and protocols of the country they
are representing. They deliver an Opening Speech at the beginning of the Conference that
should not exceed 1 minute and 30 seconds, where they establish their countries position on
each of the topics to be discussed. Each delegate has the right to vote in each committee that
counts with its representation.

Faculty Advisors/ Sponsors:


These participants are granted the rights of an Observer during committee work.
Communication with delegates is only permitted during breaks and lunch.

Observers:
These participants have the possibility to observe any committee; however, these wont be
allowed to participate from discussion and/or decision-making.
XIII Annual AISMUN Conference
Altamira International School
March 16 - 19 / 2017

RULES OF PROCEDURE
Introductory Remarks

1. Powers of the Chair: The chair reserves the right to take whatever measures deemed
necessary in order to ensure decorum. The president and officers make all decisions regarding
motions, amendments, questions, etc. The Chair also has the right to impose warnings whenever
a delegate consistently violates the principles of diplomacy or good conduct.

2. Staff: The staff, consists mainly of the Press Committee, Logistics Committee (including Security
Body), Academic Committee and Executive branch of the Conference, is committed to the
well-being of the delegates and, apart from its own particular functions, assists all participants of
the conference in whichever need they might have.

3. Delegations: Each delegation will have a predetermined number of students, with one
representative in each committee in which they have a seat.

4. Courtesy: Along with respect for the authority of the chair, delegates must be courteous to
staff and other delegates.

5. Discipline: Three (3) warnings account for one temporary expulsion from the Room for a
determined amount of time. Two expulsions of the room account for an internal Suspension (the
delegate remains in the Conference but has his/her country lose voting rights and will just hold
observer status for one day, in which it is mandatory to attend). Three expulsions account for an
external suspension (expelled for one day) and if the delegate commits any fault on the day
after the suspension, he or she is immediately expelled from the Conference. This is concerning
minor infractions. In cases of a serious infraction, measures may vary. (See Discipline)

6. Dress Code: All delegates are expected to wear professional business attire during committee
sessions. (See Dress Code)
XIII Annual AISMUN Conference
Altamira International School
March 16 - 19 / 2017

RULES OF PROCEDURE
Committee as a Whole: Terms

1. Minute of Silence:
Before starting committee session, there must be a minute of silence established by the Chair in
order for the delegates to reflect and, depending on each nations beliefs, entrust themselves to
their Higher Power.

2. Roll Call:
After the minute of silence the Chair shall call the name of each delegation by alphabetical
order. If that delegation is present, it shall answer, Present or Present and Voting, the latter
meaning it will not abstain when voting a substantive matter.

3. Quorum:
Two-thirds of the expected members of a committee must be present for committee session to
be opened and for debate to proceed. A majority of the expected members (one half of them
plus one) must be present for any substantive votes to be taken.

4. Voting Rights:
Each member-state (nonobserver) of an AISMUN committee will have one vote in all matters.
Only when voting upon a substantive matter may a member-state abstain; that is, they may not
abstain on a procedural motion. Member-states that abstain from voting are considered as not
voting and shall not be counted. Observer states will have one vote in procedural matters only.
These nations are not allowed to vote on substantive matters.

5. Simple Majority:
A simple majority vote is herein defined as one in which there are more member-states voting in
favor of a motion than voting against. 50%+1

6. Two-Thirds Vote:
A two-thirds vote is herein defined as one in which there are more than twice as many
member-states voting in favor of a motion as voting against.

7. Substance and Procedure:


A substantive matter is herein defined as a resolution, convention, protocol or amendment. A
procedural vote is one which decides a procedural matter.
Substance and Procedure a substantive matter is herein defined as a resolution, convention,
protocol or amendment. A procedural vote is one which decides a procedural matter.
XIII Annual AISMUN Conference
Altamira International School
March 16 - 19 / 2017

RULES OF PROCEDURE
Speaking Rules

1. Speaker's List: Unless it is has been formally left aside, the speaker's list is open at all times for
countries wishing to speak about the issues at hand. To access the speaker's list, a nation must
submit a written request or raise their placard at the appropriate time.

2. Time Limit on Speeches: In the Moderated Caucus time, there is no limited time per speaker,
but time per debate. In a Speakers List in Favor and Against a Substantive Matter the time is
generally established per side and not per speaker. During a regular debate Speakers List, time
is limited per delegate and, when having enough time left, he or she may yield it. (See Point 3)
Opening Speeches will have a maximum time of 1:30 minutes to be delivered.

3. Yields: Assuming an imposed time limit, any delegate speaking on a substantive issue may
yield his/her time in any of the following ways:

Yield to another delegate - The speaker yields remaining time to another delegate; only
one such yield is permitted. There are no yields using already yielded time.

Yield to Points of Information - These points of information can be directed to the speaker after
he/she is finished speaking. They must be stated in a direct question fashion. Such yield is
subject to the max and min points of information established in the motion.

Yield to the chair - If the delegate does not wish to answer questions or yield time to another
delegate, he/she may yield the remaining time to the Chair. The Chair may use the time as it
bears necessary.

4. Right of Reply: A delegate whose personal or national integrity has been slandered or
misconstrued may request a written Right of Reply to the Chair. The granting of this right is at the
discretion of the Chair, which will establish the time for the delegate to explain how his/her
delegation has been offended. There shall not be Rights of Reply to a Right of Reply.
XIII Annual AISMUN Conference
Altamira International School
March 16 - 19 / 2017

RULES OF PROCEDURE
Points

Note: Whether points are interruptible or not is stated in a chart on Page 12. However, no point
may interrupt the Chair. The concept of Interruptible applies only to delegates speeches.

1. Point of Personal Privilege: If a delegate experiences personal discomfort that constitutes a


hindrance to following the proceedings, he/she may request a point of personal privilege. (This
might include items such as noise, distractions, etc.)

2. Point of Parliamentary Inquiry: This is designed to allow a delegate to call to the attention of
the chair as to correct or explain parliamentary procedure. This is merely a clarification point and
should be used as such.

3. Point of Order: Used to call the committee to immediate decorum. A delegate might make
such point when parliamentary procedure is not being followed.

4. Relevancy: A delegate may rise on a point of relevancy during a fellow delegate's speech if
the speaker's comments are not relevant to the proceedings. Whenever a delegate goes off the
tangent and is CONSISTENTLY and repeatedly touching matters that are out of topic in his
statements towards the topic in discussion, another delegate may use this point. Judgment is at
the discretion of the chair.

5. Caucusing: A delegate may move to enter a Moderated Caucus, Speakers List, Immoderate
Caucus or Lobby Time when the time is pertinent. They will be accepted into the floor according
to the discretion of the Chair.

6. Postponement and Resumption of Debate: In order to debate thoroughly a particular crisis or


to discuss other matters, a delegate may move to postpone debate. This is at the discretion of
the chair. Similarly, during a postponement, a delegate can move for the debate to resume on
the main topic.

7. Division of the Question: After closure of debate on a resolution or an amendment, a delegate


may move to have the operative clauses of the resolution or amendment voted upon
separately. A vote shall be called upon the way in which to divide the question after which the
operative clauses will be voted upon.
XIII Annual AISMUN Conference
Altamira International School
March 16 - 19 / 2017

RULES OF PROCEDURE
Voting

1. Voting: Each member nation shall have one (1) vote; if it is an observer, it shall not have vote.
A nation may either vote in favor, against, or abstain from a substantive matter.

2. Roll Call Votes: The chair calls upon each country and allows each nation to either vote in
favor, against, abstain, or pass. Any nation that passes is asked again after the first round of
voting. Particularly when their vote seems inconsistent with their foreign policy, a country may
request the right to explain their vote. Voting with this rights is done by adding the words with
reasons after saying in favor, against or abstain. Countries that are absent will have their
votes be counted as abstentions.

3. Reconsideration: Only votes on substantive matters may be reconsidered. A reconsideration


motion must be made by a nation that voted on the majority side of the issue.

4. Change in Vote: If for any reason a delegate must change his or her vote after he or she has
already declared it in roll call, he or she must wait until the end of the call and wait until the chair
makes the final call. If the delegate has not changed his or her vote by the time the presidents
declare the voting results, he or she loses the opportunity and may not do it at any other time.
At this point, no radical changes from in favor to against or vice versa will be accepted.
XIII Annual AISMUN Conference
Altamira International School
March 16 - 19 / 2017

RULES OF PROCEDURE
Important Motions

1. Recess or Adjournment: If the floor is open, a delegate may move to recess or adjourn. The
delegates should use their own judgment when asking for a recess or an adjournment.

2. Challenge to the Competence: A delegate may move to challenge the competence of


another delegate whenever he or she considers the delegation in question is in constant and
significant violation of the countrys national policies. This violation can be expressed in regular
committee debate statements and/or votes in substantive matters. The objective is to have a
questionably competent delegation lose its voting privileges, through voting procedures when
delegations approve or disapprove the Challenge.

The following is the regular conduct:


The Challenge must be expressed in the FIRST place to the Chair in a written form. The Chair
will give it an initial approval if it considers it is valid and pertinent.

The delegate being accused will be informed prior to the presentation of the Challenge to
the Committee so that the Chair can give him/her an appropriate amount of time to prepare.

Prior to voting, both delegations involved (more than 1 may place the Challenge maximum
2) have 1.5 minutes to explain their proofs and arguments.

If after voting procedure this delegations incompetence is false according to the committee,
then the delegate who made the Challenge loses his/her voting privileges.

Special Considerations
The Chair may consider a Challenge out of order when there is lack of proof or when the
delegate that made the motion has violated in some way the regular conduct stated above.
If a delegate is found plotting to obtain other delegates votes prior to official voting, his
Challenge will be considered void due to unethical conduct. Also, if any delegate leaves the
session to search for proofs against another, this delegations pledge will not be in order, the
proofs must be in his/her possession beforehand or searched for in his/her spare time.

3. Tabling a Resolution: When a Working Paper is considered to be vague, pointless, or in some


way mediocre or not worth spending the Committees time in, it may be tabled through a
motion. The motion is voted and the resolution either remains or is left aside of the Agenda.
XIII Annual AISMUN Conference
Altamira International School
March 16 - 19 / 2017

RULES OF PROCEDURE
4. Dividing the Question: Sometimes it is needed that the operative phrases in a working paper
be voted separately. When this is the case, a delegate may make a motion to divide the
question in which he or she must state the way the clauses will be divided. Then, an immediate
placards vote will be taken on each point or points, depending on how they are arranged.
Finally, following protocol, the resolution will be voted entirely, including pre-ambulatory phrases,
through a roll call vote stated in a motion.

5. Considering an Important Question: A resolution may be deemed an important question,


thereby requiring a two-thirds vote to pass. This request is made of the Chair immediately prior to
voting on the resolution. Included in the request must be an explanation of how the resolution fits
into one of the following categories required of an important question:

Recommendations with respect to the maintenance of international peace and security.

The admission of a new member to the United Nations.

The suspension of the rights and privileges of membership.

The expulsion of a member.

Budgetary questions.

If the Chair determines that the resolution does fall within one or more of the categories, the
body shall vote to label the resolution an important question. This vote requires a simple majority.
XIII Annual AISMUN Conference
Altamira International School
March 16 - 19 / 2017

RULES OF PROCEDURE
Flow of Debate- The Order of Things

It is sometimes helpful to think of a Model UN conference as if it were a play in which delegates


are the actors and Secretariat members are the directors. The storyline of a stage show is similar
to what MUNers (see Facciola) call the flow of debate the order in which events proceed
during a Model UN conference. Just like scenes in a theatrical performance, debate unfolds in
several different parts. The chart below shows the various stages of debate that take place
during a Model UN simulation. Being familiar with how the action will proceed, from the first
scene to the last, is an important way to prepare yourself for a Model UN conference.

Roll Call
The Chairperson will announce each countrys name. After delegates hear their country, they
should answer present.

Setting the Agenda


When Model UN committees have more than one topic they can discuss, the body must set the
agenda to begin working on one of these issues first. At this time, delegate typically makes a
motion, stating The country of [country name] motions to place [topic area A] first on the
agenda. Some conferences will simply take a vote on this measure, but others will request
delegates to speak in favor of and against the motion. The list of these speakers is called a
provisional speakers list. Once all delegates on this list have addressed the committee, a vote
is taken. Setting the agenda usually requires a simple majority vote.

Formal Debate
Formal debate revolves around the speakers list. The Chair begins by asking all delegates who
would like to speak to raise their placards. The Chair then chooses delegates to be placed on
the speakers list. A country can only be on the speakers list once, but delegates may add their
country again after they have addressed the committee.

1a. When the session begins, speeches focus on stating country positions and offering
recommendations for action.

2a. After blocs have met, speeches focus on describing bloc positions to the entire body.

3a. Delegates now make statements describing their ideas to the committee.

4a. Delegates try to garner more support through formal speeches and invite other
XIII Annual AISMUN Conference
Altamira International School
March 16 - 19 / 2017

RULES OF PROCEDURE
Informal Debate
Informal debate is divided into moderated and immoderate caucuses. During moderated
caucuses, the Chair calls on delegates one-by-one so that each can address the committee in
short speeches. During immoderate caucuses, the committee breaks for a temporary recess so
that delegates can meet with each other and discuss ideas.

1b. After several countries state their positions, the committee breaks for caucuses (often in
blocs for now) to develop regional or group positions.

2b. Writing begins as countries work together to compose draft resolutions.

3b. Countries and groups meet to gather support for specific ideas.

4b. Delegates finalize draft resolutions

Close of Debate
Once the speakers list is exhausted, the committee automatically moves to voting. Also, once a
delegate feels that his or her countrys position is clear to others and that there are enough draft
resolutions on the floor, he or she may make a motion to go into voting procedure by moving for
the closure of debate.

Voting Procedures
Once a motion to close debate has been approved, the committee moves into voting
procedure. Amendments are voted on first, then resolutions. Once all of the resolutions are
voted on, the committee moves to the next topic on the agenda.
XIII Annual AISMUN Conference
Altamira International School
March 16 - 19 / 2017

RULES OF PROCEDURE
Needs Can Debate: Vote
Item
Second? Interrupt? Pro/Con Needed
Point of Order None Chair

Point of Personal Privilege None Chair


Point of Parliamentary Inquiry None Chair
Point of Information None Chair
Challenge to the Competence None 2/3
Motion to Adjourn None Majority
Motion to Recess None Majority
Motion to open debate
None Majority
(any kind)
Motion to Close Speaker's List None 2/3
Motion to Table 2-2 2/3
Motion to Postpone Debate
1-1 Majority
(in case of crisis)
Motion to Close Moderated
1-1 Majority
Caucus
Point of Relevancy None Chair
Motion to Close Debate on a
1-1 Majority
Resolution
Motion to Reconsider 1-1 Majority
Motion to Resume Debate
None Majority
(after crisis is solved)
Motion to Divide the Question None Majority
Motion to introduce Working Paper None Majority
Motion to Consider Substantive
None Majority
Matter
Majority
Working Paper None
(GA Committees)
Majority
Amendment None
(GA Committees)
XIII Annual AISMUN Conference
Altamira International School
March 16 - 19 / 2017

RULES OF PROCEDURE
Making Resolutions and Amendments

Resolutions must be written by 2 or more (6 maximum) countries. These countries are called
Sponsors because they are the ones that propose the solutions stated in the working paper as
the most viable. In consequence, they can not vote against it or abstain. If for some reason their
opinion changes, they must remove from the Sponsor category anytime during debate. If
wanting to ADD as a sponsor during debate, a delegation must send a signed authorization by
the sponsors to be included. For the working paper to be presented to the Chair, 1/3 of the
Committee must act as Signatory. These countries do not necessarily support the working paper,
but rather would like it to be debated and voted. The resolution follows a format like that below.

Two delegates are recognized by the chair to read and explain their working paper in front of
the Committee. If there are any amendments or changes proposed by the Committee, they
must be sent written to the Chair following format 2. When an amendment is read by the Chair,
it is voted upon by the Sponsoring countries, and if they support it unanimously it becomes a
friendly amendment and thus is immediately part of the working paper. If not, it goes through the
vote of the entire committee and (in the case of the SC without veto powers) if approved by the
majority of the committee (50% plus one) it becomes a non-friendly amendment and thus part
of the working paper. If any sponsoring country feels the non-friendly amendment makes the
working paper a statement that his country may no longer support, he or she may remove from
the category of Sponsor at THIS time, before the resolution is submitted to vote through an
accepted motion. The delegation that sponsors the last amendment to a working paper must
vote in favor of the resolution or abstain. Amendments must include such words like (ELIMINATES,
CHANGES TO, DELETES, INSTEAD OF, etc).

Preambulatory Clauses introduce and foreshadow the solutions that will be proposed later in the
resolution. They are a chance to state previous considerations and truths that led to the
concrete solutions. The Operative Clauses include the concrete actions that the resolution calls
for, how they will be sponsored and detailed explanations on how they will be applied.

Amendement

Delegate(s): Germany ande France

ELIMINATES Operative Clause 1. Format 1

CHANGES Clause 3A "diplomatic sanctions" INSTEAD OF "economic


sanctions."
XIII Annual AISMUN Conference
Altamira International School
March 16 - 19 / 2017

RULES OF PROCEDURE
Format 2

Working Paper 1.1


Disarmament and International Security Committee

Delegate(s): France, United Kingdom, Spain.

Signatories: Cameroon, Sudan, United States, Germany, Japan, Italy, Ireland,


Netherlands, Colombia, Chile, Argentina, Sierra Leone, China, Canada, Panama,
Venezuela, Cuba.

The DISEC committee,

Contemplating the chaotic effects of the use of nuclear and biological weapons
worldwide,

Emphasizing on the need to cooperate fully with the NPT;



Resolves,

1. Decides to set up a oversight committee within DISEC to ensure compliance with
nuclear NPT rules.

2. Declares that the oversight committee will consist of the countries of the
Committee on Disarmament and selected non-governmental members.
XIII Annual AISMUN Conference
Altamira International School
March 16 - 19 / 2017

RESOLUTION CLAUSES
PREAMBULATORY CAUSES OPERATIVE CLAUSES

Affirming Having Accepts Regrets


Alarmed by devoted Affirms Reminds
Approving attention Approves Requests
Aware of Having Authorizes Solemnly
Bearing in mind examined Calls affirms
Believing Having heard Calls upon Strongly
Confident Having Condemns condemns
Contemplating received Confirms Supports
Convinced Having studied Congratulates Takes note of
Declaring Keeping in Considers Transmits
Deeply mind Declares Trusts
concerned Noting with accordingly
Deeply regret Deplores
conscious Noting with Designates
Deeply deep concern Draws the
convinced Noting with attention
Deeply satisfaction Emphasizes
disturbed Noting further Encourages
Deeply Noting with Endorses
regretting approval Expresses its
Desiring Observing appreciation
Emphasizing Reaffirming Expresses its
Expecting Realizing hope
Expressing its Recalling Further invites
appreciation Recognizing Further
Expressing its Referring proclaims
satisfaction Seeking Further reminds
Fulfilling Taking into Further
Fully alarmed account recommends
Fully aware Taking into Further requests
Fully believing consideration Further resolves
Further Taking note Has resolved
deploring Viewing with Notes
Further appreciation Proclaims
recalling Welcoming Reaffirms
Guided by Recommends
Having
adopted
Having
considered
Having
XIII Annual AISMUN Conference
Altamira International School
March 16 - 19 / 2017

PARLIAMENTARY LANGUAGE

DONT SAY INSTEAD SAY

I think... My delegation considers...

My delegation disagrees with the


I disagree with...
delegation of...

Poor countries... Developing countries

Money... Economic resources, or just resources

Rich countries... Developed Countries

Nations were involved in a struggle


Countries were fighting because...
because...

I believe... My delegation believes...

I would like to propose an informal debate... Motion to start a moderated caucus

My delegation would like to express its


I would like to say...
thoughts about

All the countries... The International Community

We/us... We, the international community...

REMEMBER:

1. Always speak in third person. 2. Try to speak with an elevated vocabulary.


3. Avoid colloquial expressions and sayings. 4. Avoid being vulgar or disrespectful with words.
XIII Annual AISMUN Conference
Altamira International School
March 16 - 19 / 2017

DISCIPLINE CODE
1. Delegates should follow instructions coming from The Chair and the Secretary Generals while
being inside and outside their committees.

A. The absence of parliamentary language will be considered a lack of respect to the


Chair and the committee.
B. Under any circumstance delegates can disrespect the Chair deliberately. Among the
various lacks of respect, we have:

I. Verbal aggressions to the III. Disobedience


Chair and fellow delegates.

II. Physical aggressions to the IV. Lack of respect to the


Chair and fellow delegates. Chairs authority.

2. Delegates should follow the Dressing Code.

3. Delegates are not allowed to be walking around the halls during Committee Work.

4. All delegates must remain in their respective rooms during Committee work and should not
leave the room without prior authorization by the Chair.

5. All delegates must carry their badges at all moments. This gives them access to the
conference, snacks and lunch tickets.

6. Delegates shall not disrespect

I. Secretary Generals V. Members of the Staff: Includes security, press,


and logistics members
II. Presidents
VI. Symbols belonging to the school or the event:
III. School Teachers Includes flags, school logos, etc

IV. Faculty Advisors/ Sponsors VII. School and hotel propriety

7. Delegates should always be punctual.

8. Cell phones should be turned off and kept away from sight during Committee Work.
adopted needed precautions, however, AISMUN is not responsible for lost or stolen objects.
XIII Annual AISMUN Conference
Altamira International School
March 16 - 19 / 2017

DISCIPLINE CODE
9. Laptops can only be used for research and educational purposes, those which contribute to
the development and progress of the committee. This, of course, does not include Messenger,
Facebook, Facebook Chat, Gmail Chat, Myspace, Twitter, etc.

10. Delegates are responsible for their valuables, including portable computers. We have
adopted needed precautions, however, AISMUN is not responsible for lost or stolen objects.

11. Any sorts of plagiarism or malpractice in a working paper, position paper or opening speech
that can be proven by the Chair and/or the Secretary General are subject to the immediate
dismissal of the conference

12 . The intake of alcohol and other drugs inside AISMUNs location is prohibited.
I. Thus, entering a committee in a state of drunkenness or intoxication is prohibited as well.

II. Smoking is also prohibited inside the AISMUNs location.

13. Delegates shall not eat or drink inside the committee, or during Committee Work.

14. Delegates should be tolerant towards races, religions and beliefs.

15. Robbery is illicit in AISMUN.

16. Keeping any type of arm or weapon is forbidden.

17. If it is approved by presidents and Secretary Generals, any severe act have consequences,
even if it is not enlisted above.

18. Any serious infraction, determined as such by the Presidents and approved by the
Secretariat, even if it is not included in the Code of Conduct, will be sanctioned.

19. The relapsing in faults by a delegate or assistant to the conference might be motif of
expulsion from AISMUN.

WARNING: Each of the previous points has its consequence and warning.
These are specified ahead.
XIII Annual AISMUN Conference
Altamira International School
March 16 - 19 / 2017

CONSEQUENCES OF CODE VIOLATION


SANCTION
TYPE OF VIOLATION TO CODE (Subject to the Discretion of the Chair,
who might consider further measures)

Consistent Lack of Use of Parliamentary Language Warning


Misconduct that causes the loss of order
Warning per Instance (can be General)
within the committee
Disrespectful questioning of the Chairs Authority Warning (s)
Lack of Respect between delegations Warning (s)

Use of foul language Warning (s)


Eat or Drink at inadequate time/place (Bubblegum) Warning (s)

Remain in Halls during Committee Work Warning (s)


Keep trash or excessive disorder in table or room Warning (can be General)

Hurt physically or verbally, threaten or intimidate Suspension or Expulsion


Religious, Philosophical or Political Intolerance Suspension or Expulsion

Late arrival to committee sessions Warning per Instance


Warning (Placards) and
Lack of Respect with Conference Symbols/ Elements
Suspension (other symbols)
Warning and delegate must leave
Misusing the dress code
until properly dressed
Cell Phone Disturbing Ring or Use in Committee Warning and cell phone must be turned off
Leaving Room without authorization of the Secretary
Suspension or Expulsion, depending on case
Generals, the Presidents, or faculty advisor
Alcohol, Cigarette or Drug Consumption Expulsion

Unexcused lack of assistance to AISMUN Expulsion


Lack of Respect against Presidents, Advisors,
Expulsion
Staff or Secretariat
Proven Robbery Expulsion
Assist the Conference under Alcoholic effects Expulsion

Commit Plagiarism in Resolution Drafting Expulsion


XIII Annual AISMUN Conference
Altamira International School
March 16 - 19 / 2017

POSITION PAPER
How to write a Position Paper

Most delegates underestimate the importance of a good position paper. The position paper, if
elaborated correctly, is the proof that the delegate understands his/her countrys internal policy
and will probably perform a good job during the debate, feeling confident and stating a clear
position. A position paper varies in length depending on the delegates decision, but it is usually
2 or 3 pages long. There is no universal format for the elaboration of this document, but the
following one might result useful:

Brief general information about your country: in a very synthetic way, present information
about your country. This includes geographical location, type of economy, type of government,
current political leader, religion, language, major trading partners, major exportation products,
and other information you might consider important.

Brief background information about your topic: summarize in a few words what is the issue you
will be discussing during the committee: its origins, effects, and global impact. (The delegate
should produce one position paper per topic)

Clear countrys position: this is the most important part of the document, for it shows whether
or not the delegate understands its countrys position. If a delegate is clear on the position, then
participation will be a piece of cake.

Countrys past actions: research and expose what things you country has done in the past in
order to contribute with the solving of the issue at hand.

Possible solutions: finally, present a draft of the solutions you have come up with to write the
working paper.
XIII Annual AISMUN Conference
Altamira International School
March 16 - 19 / 2017

DRESS CODE
Women Men
Prohibited! Prohibited!
Shirts without sleeves. Informal shirts. (V-neck, polo shirts, T-shirts,
for example).
Shirts or blouses that show back or
stomach. Shirts with vulgar or disrespectful
messages.
Informal shirts. (V-neck, polo shirts, T-shirts,
for example). Transparent shirts.

Shirts or blouses with vulgar or disrespectful Informal coats.


messages.
The lack of a tie.
Transparent shirts that show clearly too
much skin. Any type of jean (blue, red, yellow, White,
green, black or any other color jean).
Informal coats or cardigans.
Tennis shoes.
Skirts/dresses over the knees.
Informal pants.
Skirts with long slits that show too much skin.

Transparent skirts or pants.

Any type of jean (blue, red, yellow, White,


green, black or any other color jean).

Informal sandals.

Tennis shoes.

Flip flops.

Warning: If any delegate is dressed inappropriately, he or she will be sent


back home to change and will receive a warning.
XIII Annual AISMUN Conference
Altamira International School
March 16 - 19 / 2017

PREPARE YOURSELF
Honorable delegates, you are the essence of every Model United Nations; therefore, it is your
preparation what makes of it, either a remarkable or an unsuccessful activity. At this point, you
have in your hands the choice of seizing this fruitful opportunity. Are you ready to accept the
challenge? If you are willing to, below you will find a series of useful recommendations and
helpful guidelines that will accompany you in your journey towards becoming the ideal
delegate.

STEPS TO BECOME A WELL-ROUNDED DELEGATE

STEP 1: Knowing everything about YOUR COUNTRY.

Getting to know the background information on your assigned country sometimes involves
coming across a broad range of facts that obscure the truly necessary information for your
preparation. You should take into account the following questions; they will help you find specific
facts that are pertinent.

1. What kind of government does your country have?


2. What types of ideologies (political, religious or other) influence your countrys government?
3. By which domestic issues is your countrys foreign policy influenced?
4. What are some major events in your countrys history? Why are they important?
5. Which ethnicities, religions and languages can be found in your country?
6. Where is your country located and how does its geography affect its political relationships?
(Geopolitical importance)
7. Which countries share a border with your country?
8. Which are your countrys allies?
9. Which countries are your countrys enemies?
10. What are the characteristics of your countrys economy?
11. What is your countrys gross domestic product (GDP)? How does this compare to other
countries in the world?
12. When did your country become a member of the UN?
13. Does your country belong to any intergovernmental organization outside the UN system
such as the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) or the Organization of the Petroleum
Exporting Countries (OPEC)?
14. Does your country belong to any regional organizations such as the European Union (EU),
the African Union (AU) or the Organization of American States (OAS)?
15. Does your country belong to any trade organizations or agreements such as the North
American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) or the Organization for Economic Cooperation
and Development (OECD)?
XIII Annual AISMUN Conference
Altamira International School
March 16 - 19 / 2017

PREPARE YOURSELF
Do you usually get lost and do not know how to begin researching? Are you one of those
delegates who have trouble at the moment of knowing which word to put in the Google Bar?
Check this out.

STEP 1: Begin with this:

1. Look up your countrys permanent mission to the UN.


http://www.un.int/wcm/content/site/portal/lang/en/home/websites
2. Find your countrys voting records and read speeches on the United Nations
Bibliographic System Website.
http://unbisnet.un.org
3. Look at the CIA World Factbook for a general overview on your country, and for figures
and statistics as well.
https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/index.html
4. Check the NEWS. (Websites, TV, Newspapers)
5. Read the US State Department report on your country.
http://www.state.gov

STEP 2: Knowing everything about YOUR TOPIC.

For a satisfactory development in every committee, its strongly recommended that each
delegate knows enough about their country and topic in order to be able to identify the main
issues during the debate and propose viable solutions.

1. What is the main issue? How does it affect your country?


2. What has your country done to solve the issue?
3. What are the various sides in the debate?
4. Which aspects of the issue are most important to your country
5. How will your country attempt to shape the debate at the conference? What are the
key issues which your country will try to address and find solutions in the committee?
6. What arguments will other countries have?
7. What are the positions of the key actors in the issue?
8. How do the positions of other countries affect your countrys position?
9. If your country is associated with a regional bloc, what is the blocs position on the topic?
Are these policies in line with, or do they stand in opposition to, your national policies on
the problem?
10. Is there evidence or statistics that might help to back up your countrys position?

Take these tips into account too:


1. Look at the NEWS!
XIII Annual AISMUN Conference
Altamira International School
March 16 - 19 / 2017

PREPARE YOURSELF
2. Take a look at the UN Economic and Social Development page, which has an index to
some important issues as well as a list of UN agencies that work in various issue-areas. Also,
through the United Nations Documentation Center you can find resolutions and voting
records from the current and previous years.
http://www.un.org/en/documents/index.shtml
3. NGOs are an important part of the UN system, in part due to the valuable research and
information they generate. Look for NGOs that address your topic.
4. Read academic publications! Although they can be complex, they provide in-depth
information on many issues.

STEP 3: Knowing everything about the UN.

You are in a simulation of the United Nations; therefore, it is utterly necessary to have an ample
knowledge on the system and its actions on the topic that will be discussed.
1. United Nations structure.
2. Members of the United Nations and its bodies.
3. Recent UN actions on the issue.
4. The factors that resulted in the success or failure of the previous actions of the UN.
5. Conferences and meetings held regarding the issue.

STEP 4: Knowing how to FIND IMPORTANT INFORMATION.

How to Find UN Documents in Five Steps or Less:


1. The UN Bibliographic Information System (UNBISnet), available at unbisnet.un.org, can be
used to find:
Resolutions passed by the Security Council, ECOSOC, and General Assembly (1946
onward);
Voting records for all resolutions which were adopted by the General Assembly (1983
onward) and the Security Council;
Speeches made in the General Assembly (1983 onward), the Security Council (1983
onward), the Economic and Social Council (1983 onward), and the Trusteeship
Council (1982 onward).
2. The UN News Centre, available at www.un.org/news, can be used to find press releases
from UN bodies and the Secretary General.
3. The International Court of Justice's website, available at www.icj-cij.org, can be used to
locate ICJ decisions.
4. For research, news and resources on specific topics, the UN's website has a section on
"Issues on the UN Agenda," available at www.un.org/issues.
XIII Annual AISMUN Conference
Altamira International School
March 16 - 19 / 2017

PREPARE YOURSELF
How to Find Resolutions Passed on Any Topic
1. Go to UNBISnet at unbisnet.un.org
2. Under the heading "Bibliographic Records," click on "New Keyword Search."
3. You are presented with four optional search fields.
Enter a topic or keyword next to "Subject (All)."
If you want to refine your search to one specific body, such as the Security Council,
select "UN Doc. Symbol / Sales No." in the second drop-down menu, and enter the
appropriate resolution code. For instance, all Security Council resolutions begin with
S/RES; all General Assembly resolutions begin with A/RES; all ECOSOC resolutions begin
with E/Year where year is the year in which the resolution passed. Enter any of these
codes in the second search field, or leave it blank to search all committees on the
topic. To limit the search results by date, scroll down to the "User Defined Limits" and
select "Year of Publication," the appropriate delimiter, and enter the year of the
resolution.
4. Click on the "Go" button.
5. All the resolutions passed by the UN on that subject will appear in a list. If available, a link to
the actual resolution will be provided in each of the official UN languages.

How to Find Voting Records for a General Assembly or Security Council Resolution
NOTE: GA resolutions passed before 1983 are not available. Go to UNBISnet at unbisnet.un.org
1. Under the heading "Voting Records," click on "New Keyword Search."
2. You are presented with four optional search fields. Enter the appropriate resolution number
next to the drop-down reading "UN Resolution Symbol."
3. Click on the "Go" button.
4. The resolution you want will come up. Under the resolution number is a link to the full text of
the resolution. Below that is the full voting history, with Y and N standing for yes and no votes.

How to Find Speeches on an Issue Delivered by Your Country's Representatives


NOTE: Speeches are only available if they were made in the General Assembly, Economic and
Social Council, Trusteeship Council, or Security Council since 1983; not all speeches made in this
time are yet online. Most speeches made in subsidiary bodies of these organs will not be
available.
1. Go to UNBISnet at unbisnet.un.org.
2. Under the heading "Index to Speeches," click on "New Keyword Search."
3. You are presented with four optional search fields.
Enter the country's name next to the drop-down reading "Country/Organization."
If you would like to limit the topic, enter a keyword next to the drop-down reading
"Topic."
To limit the UN body in which the speech was given, enter the appropriate code next
to the drop-down reading "Meeting Record Symbol." Enter A for the General Assembly,
S for the Security Council, E for ECOSOC or T for the Trusteeship Council.
XIII Annual AISMUN Conference
Altamira International School
March 16 - 19 / 2017

PREPARE YOURSELF
4. Click on the "Go" button.
5. All speeches given by your country on this topic will be listed. Click on the link to display the
full text of the speech if it is available.

How to Find All Press Releases on a Topic


NOTE: Only press releases issued in 1995 or later are available.
1. Go to the Press Release Series Symbols Index at
www.un.org/Depts/dhl/resguide/press1.htm. Scroll down until you see your committee.
Record the symbol listed to the right of it.
2. Go to the UN News Centre at www.un.org/news.
3. Under "Press Releases" on the sidebar on the left, click on "Search."
4. The Full Text search page will appear. In the box next to the word "Keywords," type your
topic or a one-word description of it, a space and the symbol you found in Step 2.
5. Click on the "Search" button.

How to Find an ICJ Decision on a Specific Topic


1. Go to the ICJ website at www.icj-cij.org.
2. Click on "Decisions" in the header.
If you know the year of your case, scroll down until you find it.
If you know just the topic of the case, or one of the parties, use the "find" function (Ctrl-F
on a PC) and enter the country name or keyword.
3. When you find the case, click on the appropriate link.
4. To see the full text of the decision, click on the "Judgment" link on the left of the page, if it is
available. If it is not available, the case has not yet been decided.
XIII Annual AISMUN Conference
Altamira International School
March 16 - 19 / 2017

GLOSSARY
Abstention: abstaining from a vote means to withdraw from voting on resolution instead of
giving a yes or no answer.

Amendments: are made to resolutions. Friendly amendments require the support of the
sponsors in order for changes to be made. Unfriendly amendments do not have the approval of
all the sponsors, and require the support of one quarter of the assembly and a majority vote.

Arab League: a body independent of the UN comprised of Arab states in Africa and the
Middle East. Some of its procedural rules differ (i.e. A resolution is non-binding to those who vote
against it).

BATNA (Best Alternative to a Negotiated Agreement): what if your preferred solution cannot
be accomplished or agreed upon by the committee? Each delegate should have a BATNA on
each issue that will be debated in order to promote compromise and cooperation.

Bloc: a group of countries that from a logical combination because of geographical,


economic, or cultural considerations (African bloc, Arab League).

Dividing the Question: Once in voting procedure, a motion to divide the question means
splitting up operative clauses to be voted on separately. This is useful if you agree with one part
of a resolution but not the whole thing.

EU (European Union): an economic and political union created under the Maastricht Treaty in
1993, it comprises most of Western Europe and Germany, and is poised for future expansion into
Central and Eastern Europe. Most customs regulations in Europe have now been abolished and
single currency is now in place, the Euro. As a political unit it has formidable power vis--vis the
United States.

Foreign Aid: money given by one country to another for humanitarian or developmental
purposes. It plays a key role in shaping foreign policy.

Formal Debate: the committee follows a speakers list. Speakers are given a strict time limit
within to make their point. They must also formally yield the floor to question, the Chair, or another
delegate. Rules regarding motions, voting, and right of reply are enforceable only in formal
consideration.

Foreign Policy: the attitudes and interests of a country towards external issues. Foreign policy
can be influenced by a variety of factors, i.e. military strength, trading partners, history, and
domestic government.
XIII Annual AISMUN Conference
Altamira International School
March 16 - 19 / 2017

GLOSSARY
G8 (Group of Eight): a body comprised of eight of the worlds most powerful nations: Canada,
the U.S., U.K., France, Italy, Japan, Germany, and Russia.

ICJ (International Court of Justice): the ICJ is a body designed to resolve legal and territorial
disputes between counties.

Immoderate Caucus: A forum where the rules of debate are suspended and delegates are
able to gather in groups and freely discuss with and write to one another. Usually some of a
committees most productive work is accomplished during causes.

Informal Debate or Moderated Caucus: can be entered into by a simple motion and majority
vote. The Chair recognizes delegates wishing to speak, but there are no yields, time limits, or
opportunities to directly question one another. However, it offers the chance to proceed quicker
through various issues that arise during debate.

Information: question made by delegates to a speaker during the Speakers List.

Lobbying: refers to informal caucusing between small groups of delegates. One may wish to
lobby another delegate for support on a resolution or policy option.

Motions: Motions must be made to open, close, postpone, or adjourn debate, to set the
agenda, table topic, enact right of reply, and caucus.

NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization): security organization created in 1949 by western
powers to provide a collective force against the Soviet Union. In the post-Cold war era it has
taken on new responsibilities in peacekeeping and enforcement of international law (Bosnia,
Kosovo).

NGOs (Non governmental Corporations): are organizations or associations that are not
associated with a specific country or international political organization. Their aims can be
broad (World Vision International, Amnesty International, Greenpeace) or quite specific
(Doctors Without Borders) in the activities and goals. The United Nations has a history of working
closely with NGO`s on issues, especially relating to humanitarian projects.

Nom-Members: delegates who sit in a committee and are allowed to speak but don`t have
voting privileges.

OAS (Organization of American States): an international political organization comprised of


North and South American countries.
XIII Annual AISMUN Conference
Altamira International School
March 16 - 19 / 2017

GLOSSARY
Operative Clauses: Are written in resolutions and initiatives for the committee to undertake.

Parliamentary Inquiry: A question on the rules and procedure of debate.

Placard: Is your key prop al all times. Just be sure not to replace it with your own creation, or
to wave it hysterically while someone else is speaking.

Points: Can be raised in formal or informal debate. There are two points that can interrupt a
speech:
1. Personal Privilege: If theres too much noise, heal/cold, etc
2. Order: This point can be raised if a rule has been violated.

Position Paper: A written statement by a delegate on a particular agenda topic, outlining


ones foreign policy, proposed solutions and alternatives.

Preambulatory Clauses: These clauses go at the beginning of a resolution, and act to


introduce the issue (concerns, previous UN actions, etc..). They are not numbered.

Right of Reply: This can be asked for if a delegate feels another delegate has insulted and/or
slandered his/her personally. It is easily the most over attempted and misused motion in MUN
debating.

Roll Call: A motion made in voting procedure to individually call out each country`s name for
their vote. A delegate can vote in favor, against, abstain, or pass. A country that passes will be
asked again at the end of the list.

Security Council: The most powerful body within the UN, it is comprised of fifteen members,
five of whom are permanent (see Veto Powers). It is responsible for the UNs peace and security
policy, dealing with conflict through peacekeeping, sanctions, and other measures.

Signatories: Signatories are members who consent to the introduction of the resolution; they
have no further rights or obligations.

Speaker's List: In formal debate the chair follows the speakers list to recognize delegates.
Your country`s name cannot be on it more than once at a time.

Sponsor: Sponsors are those members who presented the resolution to the Chair.
XIII Annual AISMUN Conference
Altamira International School
March 16 - 19 / 2017

GLOSSARY
UN (United Nations): The international organization that was created in 1945 from the legacy
of World War II to promote and protect international peace and security, cooperation, and
human rights worldwide. Its legitimacy comes from the UN Charter, with its major bodies
including the security Council, the General Assembly, and the various committees that comprise
the Economic and Social Council.

Veto Powers: The five permanent members of the Security Council (U.S., U.K., France, Russia
and China) have the right to single-handedly veto a resolution by voting no.

Working Paper: Sometimes referred to as an idea paper, although working paper is the
preferred formal term. It is drawn up in the form of a resolution, but its status as a working
paper allows for easily made amendments that do not require the support of the entire
committee, only the sponsors themselves. Working papers are one step below being a resolution,
and many are often combined into one. Their overall purpose is to set out specific solutions or
policy stances on an issue that can be debated within the committee.

Yield: In formal debate the delegate must yield his/her time in one of three ways:
1. To the Chair: Once the speech is over the Chair takes the floor and moves on with the
Speakers List.
2. To question: Delegates can ask question to the speaker for his/her remaining time.
3. To another delegate: another speaker uses up the remaining time to give a speech,
but cannot yield to another delegate.

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