When participating in MUN a formal lexicon is adopted contrary to the usual vocabulary used in day-to-day life. Some of these include “decorum” and “caucus”. To someone unfamiliar with the use of these words can distract from important conversations.
Within MUN there are two main groups. The chair and the delegates. The chair moderates the conversation and helps maintain order. The delegates are representatives of their assigned countries. Delegates allow for a wider population to be represented by an individual or by a group. Meaning they speak on behalf of the country they represent.
Conversations are the main event of MUN. These conversations are known as ‘caucus’ and are split into ‘moderated’ and ‘unmoderated’ caucuses. Moderated is a conversation that is kept within the order or chair whereas unmoderated caucus is an informal conversation that occurs between the delegates. A combination of these caucuses allows for a plethora of conversations in which each delegate can speak to another.
However, no conversations can be had without the proper discussion organisation. ‘Decorum’ is etiquette or behaviour that keeps in with good taste. This is said by a chair as a sort of reminder of the rules. If ‘decorum’ isn’t followed then a ‘punishment’ such as ‘Just Dance’ or singing a song may be issued. To further keep order in the discussion a ‘speakers list’ is the list in which the delegates are allowed to speak. This ensures that delegates who wish to speak may. When delegates are finished with their conversation they offer a ‘yield of time’ either to the chair or the floor. You will yield your time to whoever you borrowed time from. Finally, a motion is a decision that is made by any delegate that gets voted on. This can offer a new topic of discussion which prevents any stale quiet moments.
Delegates may offer a point of either personal interest or inquiry. A point of personal interest is simply a personal request to go to the bathroom, open a window, or get some water. A point of inquiry is a formal asking of a related question to the current conversation. Allowing delegates to ask questions that match the decorum.
