Resolution Writing By: Jovan Maric

What is a Resolution? A resolution is simply a formal paper adopted by the United Nations. They either address UN procedure (not common in MUN) or propose solutions to world issues. Resolutions are (usually) not considered to be binding, but are rather suggestions. Notable exceptions are Security Council resolutions.

Structure of a Resolution Resolutions are split into three parts: the heading, the preambulatory clauses, and the operative clauses. The heading tells the reader the resolution number (used for organization/administration), the title of the resolution, and the committee which proposed/passed the resolution. Preambulatory and operant clauses make up the bulk of the resolution.

Preambulatory Clauses Preambulatory clauses begin with a passive verb. These clauses cannot be amended, therefore all statements made must be accurate. Preambulatory clauses should achieve three things: I) outline the history of the problems, II) establish that the problem falls under the mandate and authority of the committee, and III) demonstrate the need for a resolution.

Common Passive Verbs Alarmed Approving Deeply disturbed Emphasizing Having considered Keeping in mind Noting with deep concern Recalling Taking into account A more comprehensive list can be found at rence- material/resolutions/ rence- material/resolutions/

Operative Clauses Operative clauses begin with an active verb. Operative clauses are the proposed solutions to the problem outlined in the preamble. The clauses may recommend, urge, condemn, encourage or request certain action regarding the existing situation. These clauses can be amended.

Operative Clauses Cont. Each operative clause may only call for one specific action. The action may be as vague as a denunciation of the situation or as concrete as a call for negotiations, cease- fire, or monetary commitment. Use creativity and knowledge to analyze the problem and then propose certain solutions and actions that can alleviate the situation.

Common First Words of Operative Clauses Affirms Calls for Condemns Emphasizes Notes Reaffirms Reminds Suggests Supports Urges Similarly to preambulatory clauses, a more comprehensive list can be found at erence- material/resolutions / erence- material/resolutions /

Operative Clauses Cont. The final operative clause is usually, if not always: Decides to remain actively seized of the matter. When sponsoring or seconding resolutions, delegates must act within their foreign policy. If they do not, they risk getting censured.

Amendments An amendment is a change or clarification of a draft resolution that incorporates additional interests or concerns. Amendments can only be made regarding the operative clauses. There are three types of amendments: (I) non-substantiative, (II) friendly (III) unfriendly.

Non-Substantiative Amendments Non substantiative amendments are corrects of grammar or spelling errors. These amendments are accepted immediately upon submission, without debate, provided that they do not change the intent of the draft resolution.

Friendly Amendments Friendly amendments are changes to the resolution accepted by the resolution’s submitter. These amendments are accepted by the committee without debate. A delegate submitting an amendment would ask the submitter (through the use of the paging system) whether an amendment is friendly or not. The submitter would then deem it friendly or unfriendly, and forward it to the Webmaster/Chair.

Unfriendly Amendments Unfriendly amendments are changes to the resolution not accepted by the resolution’s submitter. These amendments must be submitted to the Chair in writing and will be voted on separately before voting on the resolution as a whole.

Amendments Cont. An acceptable amendment may include: An unacceptable amendment may include: Addition/deletion of a word or phrase Addition/deletion of an operative clause Amendment of a preambulatory clause Amendments which change the intent of the resolution

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