Resolutions
The result of hours of debating
A resolution is the solution to the problem at hand. Different resolutions written by different delegates that participated in the writing, called Sponsors (or Main Submitters), take various actions. Do your best to make your resolution pass, but keep in mind that you shouldn’t try to vote down other resolutions simply because you didn’t write them.
If your resolution does not pass don’t stop participating in the debate. There may be other resolutions that had similar solutions those your delegation supports, so find these and argue in their favor. Alternatively, if no other resolution is aligned with your delegation’s views, continue participating by arguing how the opposing resolutions are flawed.
The structure of a resolution is the following:
Heading: The heading includes the committee, issue at hand, Sponsors (or Main Submitters) and Signatories. The difference between a Sponsor and Signatory is that a Sponsor actively participated in writing the resolution and supports the resolution, while a Signatory wants to see the resolution be discussed but does not necessarily agree with its contents.
Pre-ambulatory Clauses: Pre-ambulatory clauses are facts and previous actions taken or involving the topic at hand. They begin with a pre-ambulatory verb, which normally ends in a “-ing”, such as “affirming” or “recognizing”. Some conferences provide a list of the pre-ambulatory clauses that can be used for that conference. Although style varies from conference to conference, the first verb of a pre-ambulatory clause usually should be italicized and the clause should end with a comma. These clauses are not numbered. Keep in mind that although pre-ambulatory clauses may not be read out loud in committee session, they are still part of a document that your delegation endorses. For this reason, be biased! When writing these clauses, be selective of what information you want to include and what you want to omit.
Operative Clauses: Operative clauses are the bulk and most important part of the resolution. These clauses are the actual solution to the problem and are what is debated for the majority of the conference. They begin with an action verb, such as “decides” or “affirms”. Usually, these actions verbs should be underlined and operative clauses are numbered. Some conferences provide a list of the operative clauses that can be used for that conference. Each operative clause ends with a semi-colon. Since these clauses serve as a committee’s action plan, it is important to be specific about everything! If you create a new program, make sure to specify how it will be funded, when and where it will meet, its core objectives, etc. Be certain that the clauses you write are strong, as opposing delegations will attempt to find any holes in your solution. For this reason, remember: quality over quantity! It is better for you to start off with five really strong, well written clauses than 15 short and ambiguous ones.
Writing a Resolution
- Don’t mention your delegation in a resolution unless your delegation is directly related to the topic.
- Cite facts.
- Be realistic; remember, you are modeling real life!
- Check for spelling and grammar, you don’t want to lose credibility because of a few silly mistakes.
Sample Resolution:
Your Guide to Succeeding in Model United Nations 