Model UN can be overwhelming with its formal language, rules, and procedures — if you are wondering “what is a point?” or “when can I raise one?”, this article is here to lend a helping hand!
How do I raise a point?
Raising a point is easy! During debate, delegates can raise points addressed either to the Chair or one of their fellow delegates. Just raise your placard and wait to be called on. Make sure you do not announce your point before being invited to speak. Once invited to do so, state which type of point you wish to raise (further explained below) and wait for the Chair to ask you to explain your point fully.
When am I allowed to raise a point?
A delegate may raise a point at any point during debate, so long as they do not interrupt the current speaker. The only time you are allowed to interrupt the speaker is if your point is a Point of Personal Privilege.
What is a Point of Personal Privilege?
Raising a Point of Personal Privilege is the only time a delegate is allowed to interrupt another speaker who is talking – but this must be done politely! This point is to be used if your ability to take part in the debate is being impaired. For example, if you cannot hear the speaker or the room is too warm.
What is a Point of Order?
A Point of Order is to be used if a delegate believes that the Rules of Procedure have not been followed. Remember that OxfordMUN’s procedures may be different to the ones you are used to at home!
What is a Point of Parliamentary Inquiry?
A Point of Parliamentary Inquiry is to be used if a delegate wishes to ask their Chair a question about the rules of procedure. Do raise this point if you have any questions at all! More often than not, there will be other delegates wondering the same question, so do not be afraid to raise a Point of Parliamentary Inquiry if you are confused by anything your Chair or other delegates are doing.
Could I see an example of how one could raise a point?
Absolutely.
Delegate of the United Kingdom: [Raises their placard during another delegate’s speech.]
Committee Chair: [Sees placard, waits for the other delegate to finish speaking before saying] Yes, Delegate of the United Kingdom, what is your point?
Delegate: [Stands to speak before saying] This delegate would like to raise a point of parliamentary inquiry.
Chair: Thank you, could the delegate expand on this point?
Delegate: Yes, this delegate would like to know if a point of personal privilege is allowed to interrupt another delegate while they are speaking?
Chair: Thank you for raising this point – a delegate may interrupt the speaker with a point of personal privilege, but this should be done politely and respectfully.
Delegate: Thank you. [Sits down again, debate resumes.]
We hope this blog post has helped clear up any confusion surrounding raising points! As always, let us know in the comments if you have any further questions.