How to write Position Papers Sussex Model United

2. Position Papers The purpose • Organize and outline your viewpoint on an issue

2. Position Papers The structure Ø Don‘t write more than 2 pages Ø Don‘t

2. Position Papers The structure • Introduction: Introduce your topic and your country’s general

2. Position Papers The conclusion • Summarize, then conclude, your argument • Refer to

2. Position Papers Keep in mind: • Include topic, date, purpose, committee, country •

2. Position Papers Before sending it to the Chair: • Revise, spell-check, and succeed

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How to write Position Papers Sussex Model United Nations

2. Position Papers The purpose • Organize and outline your viewpoint on an issue • Formally inform others of your position • Present a unique, though biased, solution or a unique approach to solving a problem • Frame the discussion in order to define the "playing field. " This can put you in an advantageous position with those who may not be so well prepared as regards the issues behind their positions • Establish your credibility Here you are demonstrating that you have a command of the issues and the research behind them, and can present them clearly • Let your passion be demonstrated in the force of your argument rather than in the use of emotional terms • Guide you in being consistent in maintaining your position in negotiation

2. Position Papers The structure Ø Don‘t write more than 2 pages Ø Don‘t write „I“ Ø Format should be consistent with given information in handbook of the conference Ø Develop supporting evidence for both sides including factual knowledge, statistical evidence, authoritative testimony Ø Identify the issues and prejudices keeping in mind your audience List these as appropriate and anticipate counterclaims Ø Assume familiarity with basic concepts but define unfamiliar terms/concepts or state meanings that define your point of departure Ø Refer to those who agree with your position to assist you in developing your argument Ø Familiarize yourself with those who disagree with you to prepare your defense. Ø Summarize their argument and evidence, then refute

2. Position Papers The structure • Introduction: Introduce your topic and your country’s general position on the matter • Body A: Historical Background of the issue in the world and in your country more specifically (are you affected? how? ) • Body B: The Key Problems within the issue • Body C: What has been done to solve the problem • Body D: The Possible Solutions your country envisions • Conclusion: What your country hopes from the debate in the committee and summarize

2. Position Papers The conclusion • Summarize, then conclude, your argument • Refer to the first paragraph/opening statements as well as the main points • does the conclusion restate the main ideas? • reflect the succession and importance of the arguments • logically conclude their development?

2. Position Papers Keep in mind: • Include topic, date, purpose, committee, country • Keep your voice active • Quote sources to establish authority (give sources at the end) • Stay focused on your point of view throughout the essay • Focus on logical arguments • Don't lapse into summary in the main body - wait for the conclusion • Stick to the structure

2. Position Papers Before sending it to the Chair: • Revise, spell-check, and succeed in building your case. • Feel free to send Position Papers first to the head delegate of your delegation • You have to send it to the Chair of your committee until a deadline which you will be notified off