Resolutions

What is a resolution and how do we vote on them?

A Model UN resolution is a formal document that outlines the actions or policies proposed by a country or committee to address the Scenario, drafted and debated by delegations in the Model United Nations conference.

UN actions are expressed in resolutions submitted in draft form under the sponsorship of one or more delegations. Resolutions may simply register an opinion or may recommend action to be taken by a UN organ or related agency. They are concise, clear, well researched, and reflect the character and interests of the sponsoring countries. Each resolution follows the common format of heading (committee/topic, signatories, sponsors), preamble (general statements on the topic and references to relevant existing UN actions/treaties), and operative clauses (policy proposals).

After resolutions are finalized in committees, delegations message the Secretariat to get on the speaker list to present their proposal for consideration by the entire General Assembly. After the resolution debate period concludes, the Secretariat motions for a voting period, wherein one member of each delegation scans a QR code to indicate the delegation’s vote on the proposed resolution (yes, no, or abstain). If a delegation votes more than once, its vote is disqualified.

Resolutions should be written using diplomatic language. Click here for resources.