Table of Contents

I. Welcome ...................................................................................................................................................... 3
II. General Information ................................................................................................................................... 4
2.1 Dress Code ......................................................................................................................................... 4
2.2 Rules of Conduct................................................................................................................................ 4
2.3 Awards for Performance .................................................................................................................... 5
III. Preparing for the BLIMUN Conference ................................................................................................... 5
3.1 Writing and Speaking ........................................................................................................................ 5
3.2 Draft Resolutions: .............................................................................................................................. 6
3.3 Preambulatory Clauses....................................................................................................................... 6
3.4 Operative Clauses .............................................................................................................................. 7
3.5 Sponsor and Signatories ..................................................................................................................... 7
3.6 Amendments ...................................................................................................................................... 7
3.7 Resolution Submission Process ......................................................................................................... 8
3.8 Flow of debate.................................................................................................................................... 8
3.9 Points and Motions........................................................................................................................... 10
IV. BLIMUN 2016 Rules of Procedure ........................................................................................................ 12
4.1 General Provisions ........................................................................................................................... 12
4.2 Agenda ............................................................................................................................................. 14
4.3 Conduct of Business ........................................................................................................................ 15
4.4 Resolutions ....................................................................................................................................... 21
4.5 Amendments .................................................................................................................................... 22
4.6 Voting .............................................................................................................................................. 22
V. Samples .................................................................................................................................................... 25
5.1 Sample Resolution ........................................................................................................................... 25
5.2 Sample Amendments ....................................................................................................................... 26
VI. Useful Links ............................................................................................................................................ 26

I. Welcome

Model United Nations (hereafter MUN) is the most engaging simulation that takes place all over the globe.
The participants of MUN conferences are usually students with a desire to experience the functioning of an
international organization such as the United Nations, who are interested in universal problems and are willing
to use their innovative minds to find optimal and feasible solutions thereof.
During the simulation, each participant is assigned a certain country and he/she as a delegate represents the
countrys position towards the issue being discussed. Delegates confront different views about the problem
and by the end of the simulation a mutually acceptable solution is formulated and presented in a resolution.
Blagoevgrad International Model United Nations (BLIMUN) is the seventh United Nations simulation held in
Blagoevgrad, Bulgaria. This February, university students from all over the world will discuss a broad range
of international topics. We will have a simulation of the Security Council, the Economic and Social Council
and the Human Rights Council during this edition of BLIMUN.
This manual provides you with information about MUN in general and BLIMUN 2016, offers tips and advices
on how to prepare and be a successful delegate during the conference and, last but not least, introduces the
Rules of Procedures.
The BLIMUN organizers prepared this handbook in order to assist you before and during the conference. We
hope that you will find the information helpful not only for BLIMUN 2016 but also for your personal and
professional development.
We wish you a fruitful simulation!
Yours,
The BLIMUN 2016 team

II. General Information

2.1 Dress Code
All delegates at the BLIMUN 2016 conference must adhere to the dress code. Delegates must be attired in
Western business dress. Below are some guidelines.

Suits
Tops

Ladies
Gentlemen
A suit always looks professional and is the A suit always looks professional and is
most appropriate option.
the most appropriate option. Ties and
bow ties are optional.
No T-shirts. A blouse, sweater or button- No T-shirts. Men must wear a
down shirt of any kind is appropriate. collared/button-down shirt.
Dresses are also acceptable (follow the rules
set for skirt length).

Bottoms

No jeans or shorts. Slacks and suit-pants are No jeans or shorts. Slacks, preferably in
acceptable. Skirts should not be more than 5 dark colors, are appropriate.
cm above the knee.

Shoes

No sneakers or open-toe sandals.

No sneakers or open-toe sandals.

Religious pieces of clothing (i.e. hijab) are allowed during the conference.

2.2 Rules of Conduct

The BLIMUN team reserves the right to dismiss any participant from the conference due to violation of any
regulation. Blagoevgrad International Model United Nations will enforce the following Rules of Conduct:
Language
The official language of the BLIMUN conference is English. Usage of any other language during the sessions
is unwelcomed.
Laptop/tablet and cellphone policy
Delegates are permitted to use laptops or tablets during the BLIMUN conference. Cell phones must be turned
off at all times. BLIMUN team is not responsible for lost or stolen property.
Timeliness
Timetables are to be respected at all times. Delegates are required to attend all sessions in order to obtain the
Certificate of Participation.
Name badges and placards
Name badges must be kept visible at all times during the conference. Badges are the only identification
recognized by the BLIMUN team and building officials.
Placards are used for voting and identifying country that a delegate represents. Lost placards shall not be
replaced.
Smoking
Smoking is prohibited in all buildings of the American University in Bulgaria campus, thus, in all conference
venues.
Alcohol
Drinking alcoholic beverages is prohibited during the sessions.
4

Trash
Delegates are responsible for their own trash. After each session, each delegate has to clean his/her own area
before leaving the room.
Emergency
In case of an emergency, please inform the organizing team immediately.

2.3 Awards for Performance

The BLIMUN team acknowledges delegates who do a superb job when representing their country. Although
the BLIMUN team provides awards, this should not be the sole purpose of attending the Conference.
Awards will be based on the following criteria:
1. Represents assigned country, demonstrating a thorough understanding of the countrys policy,
2. Conducts oneself in a diplomatic manner during formal and informal debate,
3. Shows a willingness to negotiate through topics for the benefit of the council,
4. Conveys knowledge of United Nations structure and function,
5. Understands and follows the BLIMUN 2016 Rules of Procedure,
6. Displays the ability to verbally present policy, ideas and questions during sessions.
The type of awards will be announced prior to the conference.

III. Preparing for the BLIMUN Conference

3.1 Writing and Speaking
Writing and delivering speeches is an important part of the UN simulation. Speeches help delegates express
the position of their countries, achieve consensus and create resolutions. The Chair will set the speaking time,
while a delegate can make a motion to change the speaking time.
Speechmaking is an integral part of the simulation, and even though many delegates are afraid of public
speaking, it is very important to practice it. It is important that the delegates come to the conference well
prepared. They should do prior research, know their countrys position and have framework objectives for the
resolution. Delegates should always consider the audience when composing a speech. They should be aware
of the listeners and their diversity.
There are no set guidelines for how to make speeches and therefore the delegates should decide how they feel
most comfortable addressing the Council. However, here are some useful tips:
1. Eliminate unnecessary speech fillers from your communication. Fillers are words and phrases such as
"umm," "well," "it is sort-a like," "it's kind-a like." These take away from the message you want to
convey. Some of the words and phrases to eliminate include: "you know," "We think," "Were sorry,"
"just," "but," "should," "like," "um," and, "a," etc.
2. Use the powerful pause. Do not be afraid to have a moment of silence between sentences. A pause after
a thought and prefacing a response to a question holds the attention of the listener.
3. Always use We or The republic of X believes Do not use I because you are never talking from
your personal point of view, but from the point of view of the country you are representing.
4. Pace yourself. Do not talk too fast or too slow.
5. Physically position yourself powerfully. Be aware of your posture when you speak. Slouching, tilting
your head and crossing your arms or legs diminish the message. Stand up straight, shoulders down, feet
firmly planted and knees unlocked.
5

6. Project your presence. Your voice is the herald that carries your message. Speak from your diaphragm
not your throat. Keep the sound in the low- to- medium range. This projects authority. Speak loudly
enough to be easily heard. Focus on speaking with enthusiasm and energy and create color with your
voice.

3.2 Draft Resolutions:

All resolutions that have not yet been voted on are called draft resolutions. They are written by one or more
delegates (called Sponsors), but must always gain support of a certain number of countries of the Council
(called Signatories) before they are submitted to the dais. The BLIMUN Rules of Procedure require one
sponsor and an adequate number of signatories, which will be set by the Chair and must equal to at least the
1/3 of the total number of members present at the Security Council or 1/5 of the total number of members
present at the Economic and Social Council or the Human Rights Council. The Chair has to formally accept
the document and assign it a number in order so it can be referred to in formal debate. Draft resolution has
three main parts: the heading, the preamble and the operative section. The heading displays the Council, the
topic, the resolution number and it lists the draft resolutions sponsors and signatories. Each draft resolution
is one long sentence with section separated by semicolons and commas. The subject of the sentence is the
body making the statement (Security Council in your case). The preamble and operative sections then describe
current situation and further actions that the council will take.

3.3 Preambulatory Clauses

The preamble of a draft resolution lists the reasons why the council is addressing the topic and underlines
relevant actions in the past. Each clause begins with a present participle (i.e. preambulatory phrase) and ends
with a comma. Preambulatory clauses can include:
-

References to the UN Charter;

Citations of the past UN resolutions on the topic under discussion,
Mentions of the statements made by the Secretary-General or a relevant UN body,
Recognition of the efforts of nongovernmental or regional organizations dealing with the issue,
General statement on the topic, its significance and impact.

Preambulatory Phrases:
Affirming
Alarmed by
Approving
Aware of
Bearing in mind
Believing
Confident
Contemplating
Convinced
Declaring
Deeply concerned
Deeply convinced
Deeply disturbed
Deeply regretting
Desiring
Emphasizing
Expressing its appreciation

Expecting
Expressing its satisfaction
Fulfilling
Fully alarmed
Fully aware
Fully believing
Further deploring
Further recalling
Guided by
Having adopted
Having considered
Having considered further
Having devoted attention
Having heard
Having received
Having studied
Keeping in mind

Noting with deep concern

Noting with regret
Noting with satisfaction
Noting further
Noting with approval
Observing
Reaffirming
Realizing
Recalling
Recognizing
Referring
Seeking
Taking into account
Taking into consideration
Taking note
Viewing with appreciation
Welcoming

3.4 Operative Clauses

They explain the actions or recommendations made in a resolution. Each operative clause begins with a verb
(this is called an operative phrase) and ends with a semicolon. They should be organized in a logical order,
with each containing a single idea or proposal and are always numbered. If there is a need for further
explanation of a clause, bulleted lists set off by letters of roman numerals can be used. After the last operative
clause, draft resolution ends with a period.
Operative Phrases:
Accepts
Affirms
Approves
Authorizes
Calls
Calls upon
Condemns
Confirms
Congratulates
Considers
Declares accordingly
Deplores
Designates

Draws the attention

Emphasizes
Encourages
Endorses
Expresses appreciation
Expresses its hope
Further invites
Further proclaims
Further reminds
Further recommends
Further requests
Further resolves
Has resolved

Notes
Proclaims
Reaffirms
Recommends
Regrets
Reminds
Requests
Solemnly affirms
Strongly condemns
Supports
Takes note of
Transmits
Trusts

3.5 Sponsor and Signatories

A Sponsor is recognized as the main writer of the Draft Resolution. There is a minimum of one Sponsor for
each Draft Resolution. The Sponsor must be present for a Working Paper to be introduced to the floor as a
Draft resolution. The Sponsor must agree to support a Resolution - i.e. to vote in favour - unless major changes
have been introduced through the amendment process.
Signatories are recognized as the supporters of the Draft Resolution. The required number of Signatories will
be set by the Chair being equal to at least the 1/3 of the total number of members present at the Security Council
or 1/5 of the total number of members present at the Economic and Social Council or the Human Rights
Council. Signatories are not required to support the Draft Resolution during voting procedure; they only agree
to put their names as those who are interested in seeing the Working Paper nominated as a Draft Resolution
for further debate.

3.6 Amendments
After draft resolutions have been accepted by the Chairs, they can be modified through amendments. An
amendment is a written statement that adds, deletes or revises an operative and/ or perambulatory clause in a
draft resolution. The amendment process is used to strengthen consensus on a resolution by allowing delegates
to change certain sections.
An amendment is a change that some or all of the draft resolution's sponsors do not support and must be voted
upon by the council. It requires a minimum of one Sponsor and a minimum of two Signatories. Prior to voting
on the draft resolution, the council votes on all amendments when in voting procedure.

Resolutions passed by the council represent a great deal of debate and compromise. They are the tangible
results of hours if not days of a Model UN debate. As a result, it is important to become familiar with the
resolution process and practice drafting resolutions using the proper structure and wording.

3.7 Resolution Submission Process

Step 1
One delegate writes a draft resolution. The author of the draft, also known as the Sponsor, must then get the
designated number of Signatures of support.
Step 2
The Sponsor takes the draft resolution to the Chairs who approve the draft resolution only if:
1.
2.
3.
4.

It is in the proper format and does not contain a substantial number of mistakes,
It is in character for the sponsors,
Its subject matter and proposed actions are within the power of the council, and
There are no other draft resolutions circulating which are similar in substance.

If any of those conditions are not met, the Chairs return the draft resolution to the sponsor explaining his or
her reasons.
Step 3
If the conditions outlined under step two are met and the Chairs approve the document and assign it a number
and a priority. At this point, the document can now be referred to in speeches as a draft resolution.
Step 4
Sponsor is given the floor to introduce the document as a draft resolution. After the sponsor introduces the
draft resolution, the Chair will entertain points of information.
Sponsor may also get on the speakers list and/or have time yielded to him/her in order to answer questions
about the draft resolution.
Final refinement of the draft resolution in regular debate occurs through an amendment which is submitted by
the sponsor and automatically incorporated into the text. Substantive amendments which the drafts sponsors
do not accept require a signature of seven delegates as well as a simple majority in order to be incorporated
into the draft resolution.
Voting
After the debate is closed, amendments and draft resolutions are voted upon. Amendments are voted upon first
before a vote is held on the draft resolution as possibly amended. Draft resolutions will be voted upon in their
order of submission to the Chairs.

3.8 Flow of debate

Voting
Roll call is used to establish delegates presence at the beginning of the simulation and as a mean of voting.

Formal debate
Formal debate revolves around the speakers list. The Chair asks all delegates who would like to speak to raise
their placards. The Chair then chooses delegates to be placed on the speakers list. A country can only be on
the speakers list once, but delegates may add their country again after they had addressed the council.
1. In the beginning of the session, speeches focus on stating countrys positions and offering
recommendations for action,
2. After blocs are formed, speeches focus on describing bloc positions to the council,
3. Delegates now make statements describing their ideas to the council,
4. Delegates try to Gain more support through formal speeches and invite others to offer their ideas,
5. Delegates make statements supporting or disagreeing with specific draft resolutions,
6. Delegates state amendments they have created.
Informal Debate
Informal debate is divided into moderated and unmoderated caucuses. During moderated caucuses, the Chair
calls on delegates one by one to address the body in short speeches. During unmoderated caucuses, the council
breaks for a temporary recess so that the delegates can meet with each other or discuss ideas.
1. After several countries have stated their positions, the council breaks for caucuses to develop
regional or group positions,
2. Countries work together to compose draft resolutions,
3. Countries and groups meet to gather support for specific ideas,
4. Delegates finalize draft resolutions,
5. Draft resolutions sponsor builds greater support for his/hers resolutions or incorporate other ideas
through amendments.
Closure of Debate
When the speakers list is exhausted, the body moves to voting. Also, once a delegate feels that his or her
countrys positions is clear and there are enough draft resolutions on the floor, he or she may make a motion
to proceed to voting procedure by moving for the closure of debate.
Voting Procedures
Once a motion to close debate has been approved, the body moves into voting procedure. Amendments are
voted on first then draft resolutions. When all the draft resolutions are voted on, the body moves to the next
topic on the agenda.
Prior to the start of the voting process, a Delegate request through a Motion to Divide the Question to vote on
an individual or group of operative clauses or clause by clause. If the Motion fails, the remaining Motions
made will be considered in accordance with the above procedure. The divided section that fails during voting
will be taken out of the final Draft Resolution; only those sections that have been passed will remain. The
Security Council will then proceed to vote on the new final Draft Resolution as a whole after all the divisions
have been voted on.
In addition, the Delegate has the right of explanation after voting. Upon completion of voting, the Delegate
will be permitted to explain the reasons as to why he/she has chosen to vote a certain way. The Chair may limit
the speaking time at his/her discretion.

3.9 Points and Motions

Any point or motion can be ruled out by the Chairs unless otherwise stated.

Point/Motion

Why

When
After the closure of
debate, or when
having a substantive
vote during the
debate

Requirements

MOTION TO VOTE BY
ROLL-CALL

To vote in alphabetical
order, allowing
abstentions and passes
when voting.

Example:

Honorable Chair, Macedonia moves to vote by roll-call...

MOTION FOR
UNMODERATED
CAUCUS

To pass to the informal

mode of the debate and
negotiations.

Example:

Honorable Chair, India moves to suspend the meeting for an unmoderated caucus for 60 minutes
to discuss the disarmament issue.

MOTION FOR
MODERATED CAUCUS

To pass to the formal

mode of the debate and
negotiations, moderated
by the Chairs.

Example:

Honorable Chair, Pakistan moves to suspend the meeting for a moderated caucus for 30 minutes
with a 1-minute speaking time.

Anytime when the

floor is open, but not
during the speeches.

Anytime when the

floor is open, but not
during the speeches.

No.

Vote

Requires the support

of a second delegate.

Requires the support

of a second delegate

No, the Chairs

decide.

Simple majority

Simple majority

Note: A delegate can also raise a Motion to Extend the Moderated Caucus or a Motion to Extend the Unmoderated Caucus.
A delegate may move to extend the caucuses if he/she feels that additional time benefits councils work. The delegate must
suggest a length for the extension, which must be voted upon. This Motion to Extend requires a second.
MOTION FOR THE
VERIFICATION OF
QUORUM

To verify the presence

of delegates

No later than 30
minutes after the
session has started.

Example:

Honorable Chair, Albania moves for the verification of the quorum.

MOTION TO CHANGE
THE SPEAKING TIME

To decrease or increase
the speaking time.

Example:

Honorable Chair, Georgia moves to decrease the speaking time to 30 seconds.

MOTION TO SPLIT THE

TOPIC AREA

To discuss separately
two or more sections of
the same topic.

Example:

Honorable Chair, Ukraine moves to split the topic area regarding the conflict in Syria.

MOTION TO TABLE THE

DEBATE

To postpone the debate.

Example:

Honorable Chair, China moves to table the debate for two hours.

Anytime when the

floor is open, but not
during the speeches.

Anytime when the

floor is open, but not
during the speeches.

Anytime when the

floor is open, but not
during the speeches.

10

Requires the support

of a second delegate

No.

Requires the support

of a second delegate

Requires the support

of a second delegate.
One (1) delegate in
favour and one (1)
delegate against.

Simple majority.

No, the Chairs

decide.

Simple majority.

Simple majority.

Point/Motion
MOTION FOR THE
CLOSURE OF THE
DEBATE

Why
To close the debate and
move to voting.

When
Anytime when the
floor is open, but not
during the speeches.

Requirements

Vote

Requires the
support of a
second delegate;
the Chairs
decision may be
ruled out by the
two-thirds
majority.

Two-thirds
majority

Requires the
support of a
second delegate;
two (2) delegates
in favour and two
(2) delegates
against

Two-thirds
majority

Example:

Honorable Chair, Italy moves to close the debate.

MOTION FOR THE

ADJOURNMENT OF
THE MEETING

To suspend a
meeting.

Example:

Honorable Chair, New Zealand moves to adjourn the meeting.

MOTION TO
DECLARE THE
VOTE SUBSTANTIAL

To declare a
procedural vote to
a substantial one.

Example:

Honorable Chair, Bulgaria moves to declare this procedural vote to a substantial one...

MOTION FOR A
QUESTION AND
ANSWER PERIOD

To make questions
to a nonCommittee
member present at
the time

Example:

Honorable Chair, Serbia moves for a question and answer period in order to get from
Palestine the information regarding...

MOTION TO
DECLARE A STATE
PARTY TO THE
DISPUTE

A vote of a state
party to the dispute
is considered as an
abstention

Example:

Honorable Chair, Russia moves to declare Iran a state party to the dispute.

MOTION FOR A
MINUTE OF SILENT
PRAYER OR
MEDITATION

Silent prayer or
meditation for a
major issue.

Anytime when
the floor is open,
but not during the
speeches.

Anytime when
the floor is open,
but not during
the speeches.

Anytime when
the floor is open,
but not during
the speeches.

In the voting
stage.

Anytime when
the floor is open,
but not during the
speeches.

Requires the
support of a
second delegate

Requires the
support of a
second delegate

Requires the
support of a
second delegate.
One (1) delegate
in favour and one
(1) delegate
against.

SC: 9 (permanent
5 + 4). Other
committees: 1/2
of members

Simple majority.

SC: 9
(permanent 5 +
4). Other
committees: 1/2
of members

The Chairs
should present a
reason to rule out
the motion.

No, the Chairs

decide.

Example:

Honorable Chair, the United States ask for a minute of silence because of

POINT OF
PERSONAL
PRIVELEGE.

To remove a
personal
discomfort.

Example:

Point of Personal Privilege. Honorable Chair, we cannot hear the speaker/the room is too
cold

Anytime.

11

No.

No, the Chairs

decide.

Point/Motion

Why

When
Anytime, but not
during the
execution of
another Point of
Order.

Requirements

POINT OF ORDER

To correct a
procedural error/ a
disregard of the
diplomatic
conduct.

Example:

Point of Order. Honorable Chair, is it in order that the delegate of Germany is talking
during a speech?

POINT OF
PARLIAMENTARY
INQUIRY

To clarify a
technical point
regarding the
BLIMUN Rules of
Procedure.

Example:

Honorable Chair, France has a Point of Inquiry. What time is it left till the end of the
Moderated Caucus?

RIGHT OF REPLY

When a Delegate
feels that his/her
national integrity
has been infringed
by another

Example:

Honorable Chair, Sweden has a Right of Reply.

Anytime when
the floor is open,
but not during the
speeches.

At the end of a
speech
considered
offensive.

No.

Vote

The Chairs
should present a
reason to rule out
the motion.

Not during a
Moderated
Caucus; only
when on the
General
Speaker's list

No, the Chairs

decide.

No, the Chairs

decide.

No, the Chairs

decide.

IV. BLIMUN 2016 Rules of Procedure

4.1 General Provisions
RULE 1: Rules of Procedure
1. The BLIMUN Rules of Procedure (hereinafter the BLIMUN Rules) will be considered adopted in
advance of the session. No other rules of procedure are applicable.
2. In the committees, Chairs are responsible for determining rules that are in order to facilitate debate
and discussion. In case of conflict of interpretation, the Secretary-General has the final authority for
determining the applicability of the Rules of Procedure.

RULE 2: Languages
English is the official language of the conference.

RULE 3: Credentials
12

The credentials of all delegations have been accepted upon registration. Actions relating to the modification
of rights, privileges or credentials of any member may exclusively be initiated by the Secretary-General.

RULE 4: Delegates
1. Each Member State of the committee shall be represented by one Delegate.
2. Members. The Security Council shall consist of fifteen members of the United Nations. The Peoples
Republic of China, the French Republic, the Russian Federation, the United Kingdom of Great Britain
and Northern Ireland and the United States of America shall be the Permanent Members of the Security
Council. The General Assembly consists of representatives of all UN member countries.
3. Non-Council Members. When an issue before the Security Council involves a non-council UN
member state or observer, the Chairs reserve the right to invite the delegation to be present during the
council sessions in which the issue is being discussed. One non-council member state will also be
present.
4. Debating Privileges. A non-council member is given debating rights. This will allow the delegation
to be recognized by the Chair during debate, to submit draft resolutions or amendments, but not to
move these to the floor or vote at any time.
5. Each Delegate has one vote. In the SC, the Permanent members have the discretion of using veto
power.
6. Motion for a Question and Answer Period. A formal Question and Answer period may be
instituted by the Chair, upon the request of a committee member, for the purposes of questioning the
Representative(s) on the issue at hand. The Question and Answer period shall be monitored by the
Chair and conducted by the committee as a whole. This motion is considered a substantial one.
7. Permission to Approach the Bench. In the Security Council, any delegate wishing to contact the
Chair for a very delicate matter may ask for permission to approach the Bench. This is a last resort in
case of emergency.
8. Delegates should act accordingly to ensure that they are reproducing the foreign policy of their country
of representation within the realms of acceptable conduct, as expressed within BLIMUN Rules.
9. During the committee session, delegates are expected to exercise diplomatic courtesy when addressing
members of the committee and the Chairs. The Chairs have the authority to address diplomatic
warnings to delegates who obviously violate the diplomatic courtesy. In case that the delegates
conduct seriously hampers the process within the Security Council, the Chair reserves the right to expel
the delegate from the conference room.

RULE 5: Chairs
1. Chairs shall preside over the Security Council and General Assembly. The Chairs shall declare the
opening and closure of each session, compose the speakers list, propose the limitation of the speaking
time, accord the right to speak and announce decisions.
2. The Chairs act objectively, have the complete control of all the procedures and maintain peace and
order during sessions. The Chairs shall have the right to rule out points and motions put forward
by the Delegates if they are not in accordance with the BLIMUN Rules. The Chairs may advise the
Delegates on substantive and procedural matters in order to enable the good functioning of the
committee.
3. The competence of the Chairs may not be questioned by delegates.

13

4. The Chairs reserve the right to halt the working process within the committee in order to take 30
seconds of caucus.

RULE 6: Secretariat
1. The Secretary-General shall have the rights described hereinafter in all meetings of the committees.
The Secretary-General may nominate a deputy to act in his place.
2. The Secretary-General may make oral or written statements in the Security Council or the General
Assembly at any time in order to clarify questions under consideration or to express his/her opinion
about the work of the committee.
3. The Secretary-Generals interpretation of the BLIMUN Rules shall prevail. The Secretary-General
may take other measures, not described here, if he/she finds them necessary.

RULE 7: Academic Council

1. Academic Council is a Council composed of experts in the field of the dispute.
2. Members of the Academic Council may observe the sessions, make oral or written statements to
express their opinion about the work of the Security Council and General Assembly and evaluate the
work of the Delegates.

4.2 Agenda
RULE 8: Adoption of the agenda
The Agenda shall be considered set before the beginning of the BLIMUN and shall not be voted upon.
However, the Agenda of an individual session reflects the order in which topic will be addressed by the
committee. This is the primary order of business to be considered by the council in the first session. At this
time, the Chair may entertain a motion to set the speaking time.

RULE 9. Motion to set the Agenda

1. Following the Motions put on the floor by delegates suggesting the order of topics on the Agenda, the
Chair will consider the Motions in the order in which they were made.
2. The Chair will take one (1) speaker in favour and one (1) speaker against the Motion and proceed with
a vote.
3. If the simple majority accepts the Motion, the Agenda will be set in the manner suggested by the
Motion.
4. If the Motion fails, the Chair shall consider the next Motion and repeat the process lay forward in the
above sections. If no Motion to set the Agenda receives the necessary majority, then the council will
discuss as first topic the one that gathered the most positive votes during the voting procedure.
5. Once the Agenda is set, the Chair will open the General Speakers' list, setting the speaker's time at a
time of his or her convenience.

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6. The Chair shall call for tabling of the debate, if the committee updates and news need to be considered
immediately by the delegates. The Security Council shall return to the regular Agenda once the given
updates and news have been addressed.

4.3 Conduct of Business

RULE 10: Quorum
1. To begin a Council session a majority of the members must be present. If quorum is not met 15 minutes
after the scheduled start time of the Council session, the Council shall nevertheless start off its
session with the number of delegates already present. Quorum shall be assumed when a Council
activity begins.
2. In order to establish presence at the beginning, the Chairs shall proceed with the roll call, in which
Delegates are called in the alphabetical order. Delegates may state themselves present or present
and voting. Delegates who decided to be present and voting may not abstain from voting on
substantive matters.

RULE 11: Speakers List

1. If not decided upon differently, formal debate rules apply. The Chairs shall keep a Speakers List,
which determines the order of speeches.
2. A delegate may request to have the name of his/her delegation added to the Speakers List by raising
his/her placard or sending a note to the Chairpersons.
3. If it is not clear enough, which delegate raised his/her placard first, the Chairs shall decide upon the
order.
4. A delegate, whose delegations name is already set forth on the Speakers List, shall not be added
again until he/she completes his/her speech.
5. Speakers must keep their remarks in accordance with the subject under discussion.

RULE 12: Speeches

1. No delegate may address the committee without the previous permission of the Chairs.
2. The Chairs limit the time for speeches. When the floor is open (but not during the speeches) any
delegate may introduce a Motion for Change the Speaking Time. This motion doesn't require a second
and is non-debatable, as it passes at the discretion of the Chairs. The decision of the Chairs is not
subject to appeal.
3. If a delegate addresses the Council without permission, violates the BLIMUN rules or makes irrelevant
or offensive statements, the Chairs may call him/her to order.

RULE 13: Yields

1. A Delegate who was granted the right to speak by the Chairs during formal debate can yield his/her
remaining speaking time to another Delegate.
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2. A Delegate may yield the floor back to the Chairs. The Chair will use the remaining time to entertain
questions for the Speaker from the committee. Delegates wishing to ask questions shall raise their
placards and wait to be recognized by the Chair. The Chair shall rule questions that are rhetorical,
leading or not relevant to the Speaker's speech out of order. Only the speaker's answer shall be
subtracted from the remaining speaking time.
3. The floor may be yielded only one time during a speech.

RULE 14: Point of Personal Privilege

A Delegate may at any time introduce a Point of Personal Privilege in order to remove a personal discomfort,
which impairs his/her ability to participate in the proceedings. The Chairs may rule out the Point of Personal
Privilege and it is not subject to appeal.

RULE 15: Point of Order

1. A Delegate may at any time (but not during the execution of another Point of Order) introduce a Point
of Order to complain about the improper parliamentary procedure. The Delegate shall rise when called
by the Chairs and explain his/her grievance. The Chairs may rule out a Point of Order. The decision
of the Chairs is not subject to appeal.
2. When introducing Point of Order the Representative may not talk about the substance of the matter
under discussion.

RULE 16: Point of Inquiry

A Delegate may at any time when the floor is open (but not during speeches) introduce a Point of Inquiry in
order to clarify a technical point regarding the BLIMUN Rules. The Chairs shall respond and clarify the matter.

RULE 17: Right of Reply

1. A delegate whose personal or national integrity has been infringed by another delegate may, at the end
of the latters speech, request the Right of Reply. The Chairs decide upon the Right of Reply
immediately and their decision is not subject to appeal.
2. A Right of Reply to a Right of Reply is not in order. No Right of Reply can be requested nor granted
during a Moderated or an Unmoderated Caucus.

RULE 18: Motion for Moderated Caucus

1. A Moderated Caucus interrupts a formal debate. No Speakers List shall be kept. A Delegate may
signal his/her desire to speak by raising his/her placard. The Chairs designate the speakers taking
into consideration equity and the good functioning of the committee. The decision of the Chairs is not
subject to appeal.
2. A Delegate may at any time when the floor is open (but not during speeches) introduce a Motion for
Moderated Caucus. When called by the Chairs, the Delegate has to explain the purpose of the motion
and propose the time for the duration of the motion and the individual speaking time. This motion
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requires a second. It is non-debatable and shall immediately be put to vote. A majority of Delegates
present and voting is required for the Motion for Moderated Caucus to pass.
3. The Chairs may rule the Motion for Moderated Caucus out of order. The decision of the Chairs is not
subject to appeal.

RULE 19: Motion to Extend the Moderated Caucus.

1. A Delegate may move to extend the Moderated Caucus if he/she feels that additional time benefits
Security Councils work.
2. The Delegate moving for an Extension of the Moderated Caucus must suggest a length for the
extension, which shall not exceed the duration of the original Moderated Caucus. This motion requires
a second.
3. The Chair may suggest a more appropriate caucus length or speaking time and put it to vote or may
rule the Motion out of order without possibility of appeal.

RULE 20: Motion for Unmoderated Caucus

1. An Unmoderated caucus interrupts a formal debate. It is used for informal debates and negotiations.
2. A Delegate may at any time when the floor is open (but not during speeches) introduce a Motion for
Unmoderated Caucus. When called by the Chairs, the Delegate shall explain the purpose of the motion
and proposes the time for the Caucus. The Motion for Unmoderated Caucus requires the support of a
second Delegate. It is non-debatable and shall immediately be put to vote. A majority of Delegates
present and voting is required for this motion to pass. The Chairs may rule the Motion for
Unmoderated Caucus out of order. The decision of the Chairs is not subject to appeal.

RULE 21: Motion to Extend the Unmoderated Caucus

1. A Delegate may move to extend the Unmoderated Caucus if he/she feels that additional time would
benefit the work of the Security Council. This motion requires a second.
2. The Delegate who moves for an Extension of Unmoderated Caucus must suggest a length for the
extension, which shall not exceed the duration of the original Unmoderated Caucus.
3. The Chair may suggest a more appropriate caucus length and put it to vote or may rule the Extension
of the Unmoderated Caucus out of order without the possibility of appeal.

RULE 22: Motion to Table the Debate on a Topic

1. A Delegate may move to Table the Debate in order to end debate on a substantive issue without voting
on any Draft Resolutions that may be on the floor. This motion requires a second.
2. If the Chair rules the Motion in order, one (1) delegate shall speak in favour and one (1) delegate shall
speak against before proceeding with a vote.
3. If the Motion passes, the Chair shall entertain a Motion to Return to a Dismissed Topic or a Motion
to Open Debate on an Unsettled Topic on the Agenda.

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RULE 23: Motion to Return to a Dismissed Topic

1. If a Motion to Table the Debate is passed, the Chair may entertain a Motion to go back to a Dismissed
Topic. This motion requires a second.
2. In that event, the Chair will entertain one (1) Speaker in favour and one (1) Speaker against.
3. If the Motion passes, debate on the dismissed topic resumes and a new Speakers List is established.

RULE 24: Motion to Split the Topic Area

1. A Delegate may move to split the Topic Area in order for the committee to come up with more than
one resolutions referring to the same topic. This motion requires a second.
2. The delegate who moves will have to provide sufficient justification for the proposed splitting of the
topic area.
3. A simple majority is needed to decide to split the topic area.

RULE 25: Motion for a Minute of Silent Prayer or Meditation

1. At the very beginning and at the very end of each annual session there is the opportunity for a minute
of silent prayer or meditation. This motion does not require a second.
2. Any nation may move for a minute of silent prayer or meditation before the first roll call takes place
or immediately after the session has been adjourned. The chair will allow at most one motion at the
start and one at the end of the session. It is possible to add a special reason to the request. Any decisions
concerning this motion are not subject to appeal.

RULE 26: Motion to Declare a State Party to the Dispute

1. A Representative of a Permanent Member of the Council may move to declare a state member of the
Security Council party to the dispute debated at the time in the Council. This motion requires a second.
2. The delegate who moves will have to provide sufficient justification. The Chair will recognize one (1)
speaker for and one (1) speaker against this motion.
3. A state which is party to the dispute shall not have any voting rights during the voting procedure on a
draft resolution. The vote on this motion is a substantial one.

RULE 27: Motion to Declare the Vote Substantial

1. This is a motion that may only be used by the Permanent Members of the Security Council. It may be
entertained on any procedural motion. This motion requires a second.
2. The aim of this motion is to change the required vote on the procedural motion into a substantial vote.
On a substantial vote, all delegates who are present may abstain, and, even more important, the
required majority for that motion to pass is nine including the five concurring votes of the Permanent
Members. This gives the Permanent Members the possibility to veto a normally procedural motion.
3. As soon as any permanent member introduces this motion, the other (procedural) motion is thereby
declared substantial. The chair will then ask, whether there is any objection to declare the motion
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substantial. If there is objection, the Council will vote on whether to re-declare the motion procedural.
The vote to re-declare the motion procedural is a substantial vote.

RULE 28: Motion for the Adjournment of the Meeting

1. The adjournment of the meeting suspends the meeting for the day.
2. Except during speeches, the Delegate may at any time when the floor is open introduce the Motion for
the Adjournment. This motion requires a second. The Chairs may rule out the Motion for
Adjournment. Their decision is not subject to appeal.
3. The Motion for Adjournment is debatable. Rules governing Moderated Caucus apply. The debate on
the Motion for the Adjournment shall not exceed three (3) minutes.
4. A majority of Delegates present and voting are required for the Motion for the Adjournment to pass.

RULE 29: Motion for the Closure of the Debate

1. A Motion for the Closure of the Debate immediately terminates all the discussions of the particular
item of the Agenda and brings all the Draft Resolutions and Amendments straight to a voting
procedure. This motion requires a second.
2. Except during speeches, a Delegate may at any time when the floor is open introduce a Motion for a
Closure of the Debate. The decision of the Chairs is subject to appeal and can be ruled out by two
thirds of Delegates present and voting.
3. The Motion for the Closure of the Debate is debatable, rules governing Moderated Caucus apply. The
debate on the Motion for Closure of the Debate shall not exceed three (3) minutes. The Chair may
recognize two speakers for and up to two speakers against the motion.
4. Two thirds of Delegates present and voting are required for the Motion for the Closure of the Debate
to pass.

RULE 30: Precedence of Points and Motions

The following order of preference for Points and Motions shall be considered:
1. Points that are in order any time, including during speeches and voting procedure:
1.1. Point of Personal Privilege (rule 14)
1.2. Point of Order (rule 15)
2. Points that are in order, when the floor is open:
2.1. Point of Inquiry (rule 16)
3. Non debatable Motions that are in order when the floor is open:
3.1. Motion for Unmoderated Caucus (rule 20)
3.2. Motion for Moderated Caucus (rule 18)
3.3. Motion to Change the Speaking Time (rule 12)
4. Debatable Motions that are in order when the floor is open:
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4.1. Motion for the Adjournment of the Meeting (rule 28)

4.2. Motion for the Closure of the Debate (rule 29)

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4.4 Resolutions
RULE 31: Working Papers
Working Papers are informal, unofficial documents that aid the Delegates in their discussion of the item at
hand. They need to be written in a resolution form. They must be approved by the Chairs to become Draft
Resolutions.

RULE 32: Draft Resolutions

1. The Chairs approve a document if it has the required format and the required number of Sponsors and
Signatories. An approved document is referred to as a Draft Resolution and may be introduced to the
committee.
2. A minimum of one Sponsor is required for the Draft Resolution to be discussed in the Security Council.
A sponsor is recognized as the writer of the Draft Resolution.
3. Signatories support discussion of the draft resolution and do not have further obligations. Signatories
are recognized as the supporters of the Draft Resolution. The required number of Signatories will be set
by the Chair being equal to at least the 1/3 of the total number of members present at the Security Council
or 1/5 of the total number of members present at the Economic and Social Council or the Human Rights
Council. The respective number of signatories must be present on a working paper to be introduced to
the floor as a draft resolution. Amendments to the draft resolution are not required to be approved by
signatories. Signatories are not required to support the draft resolution during voting procedure; they
only agree to put their names as those who are interested in seeing the working paper nominated as a
draft resolution for further debate.
4. Delegates may add to or remove their name from the list of signatories at any time during the debate,
but before the closure of debate. This request should be submitted in written form to the Chairs for
approval. Sponsorship of a resolution may never be withdrawn after entering voting procedure, even if
a vote has been taken on a contested amendment.
5. More than one Draft Resolution may be on the floor at any time.

RULE 33: Introducing Resolutions

If a Draft Resolution has been approved by the Chairs, the Secretariat assigns it a number. A Sponsor of the
Draft Resolution may introduce the Resolution when he/she has the floor. After the introduction, the sponsor
will have time to answer questions of clarification regarding the Draft Resolution. Substantive statements
regarding the Draft Resolution are not in order at this stage. The question session shall not exceed three (3)
minutes.

RULE 34: Withdrawal of Resolution

A Draft Resolution may be withdrawn by its Sponsor at any time before voting on it has commenced. This
request should be submitted in written form to the Chairs. A Draft Resolution may not be withdrawn if an
Amendment to the Draft Resolution is on the floor.

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RULE 35: Forms of the Resolutions

Delegates will write their own resolution regarding the first item on the Agenda.

4.5 Amendments
RULE 36: Amendments
1. Substantive Amendments approved by the Sponsor of the Draft Resolution are immediately incorporated
into the Draft Resolution without a vote.
2. Substantive Amendments to a Draft Resolution not approved by the Sponsor of a Draft Resolution
require approval from the Chair to be introduced. These amendments will require a minimum of one
Sponsor and a minimum of two Signatories. Amendments will be put to a vote prior to the vote on the
Draft Resolution as a whole. The Chair reserves the right to assign one (1) speaker for and one (1)
speaker against the Unfriendly Amendment.
3. Amendments to Amendments are out of order.

RULE 37: Withdrawal of Amendments

An Amendment may be withdrawn by its Sponsor at any time before voting on it has commenced. This request
should be submitted in written form to the Chairs.

4.6 Voting
RULE 38: Voting Procedure
1. In the case of exhaustion of the Speakers' List or when a Motion for the Closure of Debate passes, Draft
Resolutions and Amendments on the floor will be put to vote. If no Draft Resolution is on the floor, the
council shall move to the next Agenda item.
2. Each delegate of the Security Council and General Assembly has one vote and must demonstrate his/her
voting intentions by raising his/her placard at the Chair's request unless there is a Roll Call vote.
Delegates may vote either YES, NO, ABSTAIN, or PASS (only in SC). No delegate shall vote on behalf
of another delegate.
3. During voting procedure, delegates must strictly refrain from communicating with each other. The
voting procedure must not be interrupted except to raise a Point of Order or a Point of Personal Privilege.

RULE 39: Motion to Split the Topic Area

1. Prior to the start of the voting process on a Draft Resolution, a Delegate may request through a Motion
to Split the Topic Area to vote on an individual or group of operative clauses or clause by clause. This
motion requires a second.
2. A Delegate must specify how he/she wishes to divide the operative clauses during his/her Motion.
Should there be more than one Motion to divide the question on the floor, the committee shall vote on
the Motions from the least to the most splitting of the draft resolution.
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3. The Chair shall take one (1) speaker in favour and one (1) speaker against the first Motion to to Split the
Topic Area for a speaking time of one (1) minute each. The Motion is considered a substantive one.
4. If the Motion passes, subsequent Motions to Split the Topic Area will be ruled dilatory and the
committee will proceed to voting procedure on the Draft Resolution in the manner suggested in the
Motion.
5. If the Motion fails, the remaining Motions made will be considered in accordance with the above
procedure. The divided section that fails during voting will be taken out of the final Draft Resolution;
only those sections that have been passed will remain. The council will then proceed to vote on the new
final Draft Resolution as a whole after all the divisions have been voted on. If all operative clauses fail
or there is no meaning coming from the remained clauses, the Draft Resolution, as a whole, fails.

RULE 40: Required Majority

1. Unless otherwise specified, no motions are debatable and all require a simple majority vote to pass.
2. Procedural matters are those matters relating to the structure of the Security Council and General
Assembly sessions as defined in the Rules of Procedure. They include, but are not limited to, voting on,
establishing a Speakers List, establishing speaking time, motions and adjournment of the Security
Council session. All Delegates must vote on procedural matters and no Delegate may abstain. Roll Call
vote is not in order for procedural matters. In accordance with Article 27 of the Charter of the United
Nations, all votes on procedural matters require a majority of votes in favor.
3. Substantive matters are defined as those matters relating to the specific topic at hand. All votes on
substantive matters require a majority of votes in favour, including the concurring votes of all Permanent
Members. If one Permanent Member votes against a draft resolution, amendment or on any other
substantive matter, the item that the Security Council has voted upon, fails. The abstention of a
Permanent Member does not block the approval of a motion.
4. In the Economic and Social Council and in the Human Rights Council, resolutions are passed by simple
majority of the members present and voting. If the question is declared to be substantial one, the 2/3
majority is required.

RULE 41: Modes of Voting

1. If not decided upon differently, delegates vote by raising their placards.
2. For substantive matters, a delegate may request a roll call vote. This request is automatically accepted
unless ruled out by the Chairs. The decision of the Chairs is not subject to appeal.
3. A roll-call vote takes place according to the English alphabetical order of the names of the states
represented in the committee, beginning with the State whose name is drawn by lot by the Chairs. The
Chairs shall subsequently call the name of each State. The Delegates shall reply In favour, Against
or Abstain.
4. During Roll Call, a Delegate may choose to pass. The Chair will place the Delegate at the bottom of the
voting list. A Delegate who has passed once during a voting sequence may not pass again but must
ascertain his vote.
5. Upon completion of voting, a Delegate may request the right to explain his/her vote provided the
substantive nature of the matter. The Chairs grant the right to explain the vote. The decision of the Chairs
is not subject to appeal. The speaking time shall not exceed two (2) minutes. The Delegates that reply
In favour, with rights and Against, with rights during roll call vote will automatically be granted the
right to explain their vote. The number of Delegates that will be able to exercise their right to explain
the vote remains at the discretion of the Chairs.
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RULE 42: Voting on amendments

1. When an Amendment is proposed to a Draft Resolution, the Amendments shall be voted on first.
2. If two or more Amendments to a Draft Resolution are proposed, the Chairs shall determine the order, in
which they are voted upon. If the adoption of one amendment necessarily implies the rejection of another
amendment, the latter shall not be put to the vote. Once all the Amendments relating to a draft resolution
have been voted on, the committee shall vote on the Draft Resolution as a whole after closure of the
debate on the Topic Area under discussion.

RULE 43: Order of Voting

If two or more Draft Resolutions relate to the same question, they shall be voted on in the order in which they
were submitted.

RULE 44: Motion for a roll-call vote

1. During the voting procedure or whenever a substantive vote is held during the debate itself, any delegate
can ask for a Motion to vote by roll-call. This means that delegates will be called up in alphabetical
order, starting with a random country, in order to cast their vote. This motion does not require a second.
2. In a roll-call vote delegates who have stated they're "present and voting" may only vote one of the
following: "yes", "yes with rights", "no", "no with rights" or "pass". A vote stating "with rights" brings
along the right to briefly explain the vote after the voting procedure has ended. A vote stating "pass"
means that the delegate will have to vote "yes" or "no" after all other votes have been heard.
3. In a roll-call vote delegates who have stated they're "present" may only vote one of the following: "yes",
"yes with rights", "no", "no with rights", "abstain" or "pass". A vote stating "with rights" brings along
the right to briefly explain the vote after the voting procedure has ended. A vote stating "pass" means
that the delegate will have to vote "yes" or "no" after all other votes have been heard: no abstentions are
possible after saying "pass".

RULE 45: Substantive votes and procedural votes

1. A substantive vote is a vote during which abstentions are possible, if there is a motion to vote by rollcall. In the Security Council a substantive vote also requires that no permanent members vote against
the proposal.
2. Only the following votes are substantive votes:

Motion to split the topic area

Motion to declare a state party to the dispute

A vote on amendments

A vote on draft resolutions

3. All other motions are to be considered as procedural. However, a procedural vote can be turned into a
substantive vote if a "Motion to declare the vote substantial" has passed beforehand.

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V. Samples
5.1 Sample Resolution

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5.2 Sample Amendments

VI. Useful Links

United Nations: http://www.un.org/
UN Charter: https://www.un.org/en/documents/charter/
CIA World Factbook: https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/
BBC Country Profiles: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/country_profiles/default.stm
World statistic (Worldometers): http://www.worldometers.info/
United Nations Statistic Division: http://unstats.un.org
How to get started with the Model UN: http://bestdelegate.com/mun-made-easy-how-to-get-started-withmodel-united-nations/
How to properly research for the Model UN: http://bestdelegate.com/research/

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