Rules of Procedure
I. General Rules
- Official Language: English shall be the working language.
- Decorum: Delegates must maintain diplomatic conduct. The Chair may call delegates to order if behavior is inappropriate.
- Dress Code: Western business attire is required.
II. Participation & Role
- Delegates represent assigned countries or organizations and must defend their positions.
- Observers, if present, may speak at the Chair's discretion but may not vote.
III. Committee Flow
- Roll Call: At the beginning of each session, the Chair will conduct roll call. Delegates respond “Present” or “Present and Voting.”
- Setting the Agenda: If multiple topics are on the agenda, delegates propose and vote on the topic order.
- Debate Format:
- Formal Debate: Speeches follow the Speaker’s List.
- Moderated Caucus: Timed speeches on a specific sub-topic.
- Unmoderated Caucus: Informal discussions for negotiation and drafting resolutions.
IV. Points and Motions
- Point of Personal Privilege: For physical discomfort (e.g., unable to hear).
- Point of Order: For procedural error by Chair or delegate.
- Point of Parliamentary Inquiry: To ask about the Rules of Procedure.
- Motion to Set the Agenda: Initiates the debate topic.
- Motion to Move into Moderated/Unmoderated Caucus: Requires simple majority.
- Motion to Close Debate: Ends debate on the topic/resolution and moves to voting.
- Motion to Suspend/Adjourn Session: Suspends for a break or ends the committee.
V. Resolutions and Amendments
- Working Paper: Informal draft of a resolution.
- Draft Resolution: Requires a minimum number of sponsors and signatories to be introduced.
- Amendments:
- Friendly: Accepted by all sponsors, no vote needed.
- Unfriendly: Requires debate and vote.
VI. Voting Procedure
- Simple Majority: Most decisions (e.g., resolutions, amendments).
- Two-Thirds Majority: For major decisions if specified (e.g., closing debate).
- Roll-Call Vote: May be requested by any delegate.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- 1. Do I need prior MUN experience to participate?
- No! PyleaMUN welcomes both beginner and experienced delegates. Chairs will guide everyone through the rules.
- 2. What should I wear?
- Western business attire is mandatory for all sessions.
- 3. Can I use notes or bring research materials?
- Yes, you are encouraged to bring prepared notes, position papers, and research documents.
- 4. What is a Position Paper?
- It’s a short document outlining your country’s stance on the agenda topics. Some committees may require it for awards eligibility.
- 5. What happens if I miss a session?
- Attendance is strongly encouraged. Excessive absence may affect your eligibility for awards or speaking rights.
- 6. How do awards work?
- Committees grant awards like Best Delegate, Outstanding Delegate, Honorable Mention. Criteria include diplomacy, speaking, teamwork, and adherence to procedure.
- 7. Can I speak freely during unmoderated caucuses?
- Yes, but always remain respectful. Chairs may intervene if decorum breaks down.
- 8. Are there social events?
- Yes! Stay tuned for updates on the PyleaMUN 2026 Delegate Social.
- 9. How are country assignments decided?
- Assignments consider preferences, experience, and availability. You’ll receive your assignment via email before the conference.
- 10. What if I have a question during committee?
- Raise a Point of Parliamentary Inquiry to ask the Chair.