Ben Chambers. Director-General
If you are like many delegates, one of the first things on your mind at a MUN conference will be “how can I win Best Delegate?” If you’re wondering this, or are just looking for some general MUN advice, then this is the blog post for you!
Let’s start with the basics. At Oxford Global, our awards policy considers the following areas:
Advocacy
Diplomacy
Knowledge of topics
Contribution to resolutions
Adherence to country policy
Leadership
Knowledge of broader themes in international relations, current affairs, and political thought
As you can see, this covers quite a wide range of attributes, and delegates will be better at some points than others. We don’t expect delegates to be perfect, and balancing all of these skills is a real challenge. The best way to set yourself up for success is making sure you are up to speed on current affairs and the history of your topics. Have a careful read of your Background Guide, which will be sent in advance of the conference. In particular, take a look at the “further readings” section, where you can find valuable places to enhance your awareness of the topics at hand.
Being well-informed is the best way to set yourself up for a conference at which you are comfortable negotiating according to your country’s policy, giving meaningful speeches, and contributing to resolutions. You can also practice talking about the topics to your friends and family – try to change someone’s mind on a big issue! Starting on this smaller scale is a great path to debating well in a larger group.
All of these skills, and all of the points in our awards policy, translate to attributes that will set you well for life. In an age of vitriol and anger, the ability to negotiate calmly, persuade effectively, and stand up boldly is vital. Language is key – in MUN, you need to be able to find the right words to convince your fellow delegates of the need to solve a pressing issue in an appropriate way.
None of this is easy! It takes courage to stand up and speak in front of your committee, especially if this is one of your first MUN conferences. But remember, everyone starts somewhere. The key is to take the plunge, and go for it. Your second speech is always easier than your first, and you will soon feel at home speaking to your fellow delegates.
This courage is important outside of committee sessions too. I can’t encourage you strongly enough to make the most of all the opportunities outside of your committee. At Oxford Global, we offer delegate socials, tours of Oxford, admissions panels, midnight committees chaired by the Secretariat, and much more. MUN conferences are much more than a few days of top-notch diplomacy, they’re an opportunity to expand your horizons and explore the world.
So, make connections, experience a new city, and be diplomatic!