Model UN Comprehensive Glossary
Master the language of diplomacy with our comprehensive glossary of Model United Nations terms. From basic procedures to advanced diplomatic concepts, this glossary covers all the terminology you need to succeed in MUN conferences. Use the search function to quickly find specific terms or browse by category.
Session Management
Fundamental terms related to running MUN sessions and committee meetings.
- Roll Call
- Attendance procedure at the beginning of each session where delegates respond 'Present' or 'Present and Voting' to indicate their participation level.
- Context: Delegates who respond 'Present and Voting' cannot abstain from substantive votes.
- Quorum
- The minimum number of delegates required to be present to conduct official business, typically one-third of committee membership.
- Context: Without quorum, no substantive actions can be taken.
- Gavel
- The ceremonial hammer used by the chair to maintain order and signal the beginning/end of proceedings.
- Context: Three gavels typically signal the end of committee or a major procedural action.
- Chair
- The presiding officer who manages committee proceedings, recognizes speakers, and maintains order.
- Context: Also known as Chairperson or President in some committees.
- Secretariat
- The organizing body of a MUN conference, including chairs, directors, and administrative staff.
- Context: Named after the UN Secretariat, headed by the Secretary-General.
- Delegation
- A group of delegates representing the same country across multiple committees at a conference.
- Context: Individual delegates represent their country in specific committees.
Speaking & Recognition
Terms related to how delegates speak and participate in formal debate.
- Speakers List
- The formal order in which delegates will address the committee during debate.
- Context: Also called the General Speakers List (GSL). Delegates must be added to speak.
- Recognition
- Formal acknowledgment by the chair allowing a delegate to speak or make a motion.
- Context: Delegates must be recognized before speaking: 'The delegate of [country] has been recognized.'
- Yield
- Giving remaining speaking time to another delegate, questions, or back to the chair.
- Context: Common yields: to questions, to another delegate, to the chair, or yield time (end speech early).
- Right of Reply
- A delegate's right to respond when their country has been personally attacked or seriously misrepresented.
- Context: Must be requested in writing and is granted at the chair's discretion.
- Parliamentary Inquiry
- A question about rules of procedure or committee operations directed to the chair.
- Context: Used when delegates are unsure about procedural matters. Not in order during speech.
- Point of Personal Privilege
- A request to address physical comfort issues (temperature, hearing, etc.) that affect participation.
- Context: Can interrupt speakers if the issue prevents hearing. Used sparingly.
Master MUN Terminology
Understanding these terms is crucial for effective participation in Model United Nations. This glossary serves as your comprehensive reference guide—bookmark it for quick access during conferences. Remember, knowing the language of diplomacy is the first step toward becoming an effective delegate.
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