Committee FAQs

Question: What is the best way to prepare for committee?

Answer: Each committee’s chair has spent weeks diligently preparing a topic guide that extensively covers the topics at hand. Delegates should begin by thoroughly reading through their topic guide. As they read, it is recommended to take notes and begin to think about how this topic pertains to their country or position. Then, use these notes and the questions listed in the topic guide to begin online research. We recommend mixing scholarly sources with articles and other popular media. A successful delegate will have done a wide spread of research and evaluated the validity of multiple sources. Delegates that assume this research path will be the best prepared for committee.

Question: Is there a dress code?

Answer: While in committee sessions, delegates must be dressed in Western Business Attire (WBA). For some good examples of WBA, refer to this website.

Question: Am I allowed to bring props and other items for my speeches?

Answer: No. For the sake of equity, we ask that you only bring your personal electric device, notes, and a writing utensil to committee. No props or other items should be brought to committee and will be confiscated if found.

Question: Can I have my phone out during committee?

Answer: Electronic devices are never permitted in crisis and specialized committees. They are only permitted while writing working papers and draft resolutions in GA and ECOSOC committees. Otherwise, they should be away. Chairs reserve the right to contact advisors if a delegate is using their personal electronic device. For more information, please refer to our Technology Policy.

Question: Can I use artificial intelligence (AI) to prepare for committee?

Answer: We discourage AI use in all forms. One of the benefits of Model UN is teaching you how to think independently and analyze different sources, and AI clearly decreases your ability to develop those skills. AI should not be used in research. AI use is BANNED for position paper writing, working paper and draft resolution writing, and speech writing. Any delegates found in violation of this policy may be removed from committee. For more information, please refer to our Technology Policy.

Question: Can I speak Portuguese in an English-speaking committee?

Answer: No. You may only speak the official language of a committee. This means if you are in a Portuguese-speaking committee, you may only speak Portuguese.

If you have any additional questions about our committees, please do not hesitate to contact the Director-General of Committees, Suren Clark, at dg.committees@ymunb.org. Your question is appreciated and is likely applicable to many delegations.