GUIDELINES FOR RESOLUTIONS

          A resolution is an expression of general consensus on an issue. It is a product of a series of negotiations and consensus building efforts between blocks of countries. A resolution typically expresses a level of concern or seriousness through the preambulatory clauses, and a suggested course of action through the operative clauses.

          During our CIHSMUN simulation, there are certain procedural points to remember relating to resolutions. In addition to using the appropriate rules of procedure (especially 4.4, 6.6, 6.8, 6.9), we have adopted some special rules.

          (A) Procedural points to remember relating to resolutions
Only two resolutions are permitted on the floor at one time. Only resolutions appearing on the prepared agenda will be considered. To qualify for consideration on the floor, a resolution must have the signatures of the five seconding delegations in addition to the primary sponsor. Tabling of resolutions under consideration will be allowed. Amendments from the floor will be accepted, but only if they have a written support (signatures) of one-third of the body and after they have been submitted to the Chair. Chairs should encourage the development of “friendly amendments” or those having the support of all the sponsors of the resolution. After closure of debate on a resolution the Chair should initiate voting procedure by asking if the resolution can be adopted by consensus, if not, the body will move into a majoritarian substantive vote.

(B) Points to remember in drafting a resolution.

1. It should be representative of your country’s government.
2. It should be clear and concise, mean exactly what the drafter wishes it to mean so that “representatives” of other governments can understand it and cast their votes accordingly.
3. Delegates should have background notes with them for the purpose of explaining and supporting their resolutions in case they are called upon for such an event.
4. It must be a proposal for action by the appropriate United Nations body involved, not a policy statement.
5. Make certain that the resolution would not violate the Charter.
6. Submit each resolution strictly in accordance with the format and method directed by the Secretariat and make sure all materials are sent so that they will be received by the deadline.
7. Keep a copy of all resolutions submitted for consideration.

(C) Proper resolution format

1. A two-inch top margin and a one-inch margin around the sides and bottom.
2. Single spacing throughout the resolution with double spaces between clauses.
3. All opening phrases in capital letters.
4. All lines including empty spaces numbered.
5. Preambulatory clauses concluded with commas and operative clauses concluded with semicolons.
6. Each operative clause numbered and indented and, a period at the conclusion of the last operative clause.
   

SAMPLE RESOLUTION

SUBJECT OF RESOLUTION: STRUCTURAL ADJUSTMENT AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

SUBMITTED TO: THE ECONOMIC AND FINANCE COMMITTEE

SUBMITTED BY: NETHERLANDS

THE ECONOMIC AND FINANCE COMMITTEE

ALARMED at the rate that markets in developing countries are fluctuating due to poor structure of the international financial system,
STRESSING that developing countries rely largely on domestically generated savings to finance development, instead of the international community meeting the investment needs of those countries,
REALIZING that to ensure the success of the financial markets of developing countries, actions have to be taken to reduce their instability including creating a sustainable economic environment and a sound financial system,
BELIEVING that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank should have a hand in the supplying of financial support to the less developed countries,

1. DECLARES that it should be a goal of this committee to focus on sustainable development and poverty reduction in developing countries ,and the best way to do so would be to regulate and improve their financial systems;
2. ACCEPTS that the rapid pace of change in global financial markets and instruments makes it important to keep national regulations transparent, up to date, and integrated;
3. DIRECTS that a subcommittee be formed to explore possibilities for greater cooperation relating to regulation of international investments and finance.