1) What is the goal of a model United Nations?
Model United Nations conferences provide a structure for students to learn about the United Nations, international relations, and a variety of topics important to the global community through simulation. Delegates spend committee sessions discussing issues and deciding on ways to resolve them.
2) What is parliamentary procedure, and why is it used?
Parliamentary procedure is the method used by the United Nations and most other governing bodies to keep meetings organized and ensure that people understand how to take specific actions. These rules vary from body to body; the rules used at UCMUN can be found in the Conference Information section of this site.
3) How are delegates supposed to pick their positions?
Each delegate represents an independent state that is a part of the United Nations. The delegate is expected to present arguments and assess ideas from the viewpoint of the country they represent. This cannot be done without in depth knowledge of that nation's history, culture, and political stances, so research is necessary for the delegates to be fully engaged in the debate.
1) What is the focus of UConn Model United Nations?
UCMUN continually strives to position itself as a learning conference. While many offer a professional experience at the expense of education, UConn Model United Nations emphasizes both a professional atmosphere and an engaging experience where delegates are encouraged to ask questions and increase their understanding of the United Nations and their topics.
2) Can I have a friend as a partner during committee sessions?
Double delegations, or delegations where more than one delegate represents a country in a single committee, are prohibited at UCMUN. This is because they frequently hinder the learning process and interfere with each delegate's immersion in the simulation.
3) Where is UCMUN held?
UConn Model United Nations is held at the Storrs campus of the University of Connecticut. As a place of learning already, it has many resources which benefit our delegates. This year, the conference is being held in the Student Union, and directions can be found in the Conference Information section of the website.
4) Is there going to be a delegate activity?
More information on the subject will be provided as the conference draws nearer.
5) What do I need to wear?
Delegates are required to wear Western Business Attire at all UCMUN events except the delegate activity. This means that boys must wear dress shoes, slacks, a jacket, and a shirt and tie. Hats are not permitted. Girls should wear dress shoes, pants or a skirt no shorter than three inches above the knee, and a blouse that covers the shoulders and is not low-cut. During the delegate activity, dress is casual but general rules of decency and respect should still be observed in choice of wardrobe.
6) What happens if I don't know what kind of motion I am allowed to make under certain circumstances?
Fortunately, UCMUN Directors are there to help! Due to the conference's focus on learning, our staff embraces the knowledge that nobody knows how to react every time. Therefore, do not hesitate to ask your Director or Assistant Director for aid in understanding how the rules of procedure apply to your intended action.
7) Do delegates need to complete position papers?
An important part of the simulation is the position paper. Details regarding the subject of the position papers can be found in each committee's topic guide.
8) What is the policy on laptops at UCMUN?
Delegates may bring and use laptops. However, there are restrictions on their use. Computers may not be used during committee sessions with the following exceptions:
a) Laptops may be used during unmoderated caucuses;
b) Laptops may be used outside of committee rooms.
Directors may prohibit the use of electronic devices should they become a distraction or interfere with decorum.
9) Who can I contact if I need assistance with research?
Your Director is a wealth of information for matters of procedure and substance; they will be willing to help should you require aid. You may also find the links provided in the Resources section of this site useful.