Being a UMMUN Delegate

What does it take to be a UMMUN delegate, and what do delegates do at the conference?  In short, students at UMMUN will negotiate, write, and debate regarding world issues important to them. This activity does not require that a student be an excellent public speaker or writer, but it does require a willingness to work with others, to think quickly on one's feet and to prepare beforehand regarding a set topic.

What is the delegates' goal? 

The first and most important purpose of UMMUN is to help students experience negotiation and learn about international issues.  As a delegate, your goal should be to adhere as closely as possible to your country's position while helping pass a resolution that resolves or addresses the issue in a manner favorable to you.  Speaking clearly and regularly will help as well.  However, even if you do not feel that a best delegate award is in your sights, you can always try to move the process in your favor and influence the outcome of events to fit your (country's) idea of the best course of action.  This can be as much fun and just as satisfying as any certificate.

How should a delegate prepare?

The best thing a UMMUN delegate can do is prepare well beforehand.  This means thorough knowledge of the UMMUN rules of parliamentary procedure, prior research regarding your topic(s) and a good grasp of the stance that your country holds or would likely hold with regard to that topic.  If your committee takes place in the present day, try checking well-regarded newspapers or magazines, such as The Economist or The New York Times, for articles about your country that will help you understand national policies.  If your committee takes place in a historical time period, a good understanding of the events under discussion as well as your country's situation during that time period are a must.

It is a good idea to regard your committee's background guide as a starting point for research, not as the only source.  Remember to visit the delegate research resources page for excellent sources of information.

What about giving speeches?

Delegates at UMMUN will find that public speaking is a very important part of the conference, but not necessarily the most important to their success and productivity.  Certainly, statements from the various delegations will make up the majority of the conference and come in a variety of settings: formal statements of position, more casual moderated caucus debate, and even answering impromptu questions from other delegates.  Delegates should understand the rules of procedure well so that they can take advantage of all opportunities to speak, as well as question other speakers.  Keep in mind, however, that other forms of communication such as private notes and informal caucus (free discussion) may be the main avenues for resolution writing and coalition building.

 Will I need to know the other delegates?

You will certainly need to work with your fellow delegates to achieve favorable resolutions in your committee, although sometimes the role of the lone opposition voice is required as well.  Try to think of who your country's natural allies might be and which delegates appear to be active in your committee when choosing people to work with on resolutions, during debate and while voting. Keep in mind that you will also get a chance to meet other students during the delegate social events and breaks in committee.