WRITING RESOLUTIONS

• Sample Resolution
• Example of Preamble Phrases
• Example of Operative Phrases

During research of the issues, various positions should become apparent for each of the countries. These positions will be summarized into written resolutions which will be submitted for discussion during the Hope College Model United Nations. A resolution is a one-page proposal that calls for action to be taken by the United Nations. This action may be undertaken by the Secretariat, member states, or various UN organizations.

Each resolution should have three main elements, including the heading, the preamble, and the operative clauses. The heading serves three primary functions. It tells where the proposal is being submitted, the subject, and the primary sponsor.

The preamble is the second main element of an HCMUN resolution. This portion of the resolution sets up the statements that will be made with the operative clauses. It explains why the action that is called for in the operative clauses should be adopted, states past action taken, and clarifies the reasoning for recommending the resolution. The purpose of the resolution is stated in the preamble and is supported by statements gathered through research.

Each clause should begin with an appropriate "preamble phrase" (see above for link), followed by a comma. The last clause in the preamble should be followed by a colon (:).

The operative clauses of the resolution state the action that the committee should take. The majority of the discussion during the sessions takes place on the operative clauses. The first word of the clause should technically be a verb (see above for link) which indicates the action of the clause. The clauses should each be followed by a semicolon (;) with the last operative clause ending in a period.

We will begin accepting resolutions for Advanced General Assembly several weeks prior to the conference. Amendments to the Introductory General Assembly resolutions will also be requested by HCMUN prior to the conference as well. The delegates in Security Council and ECOSOC are encouraged to draft several resolutions for the conference but will not be asked to submit these before the conference.