How to Write a Position Paper
Each nation-state is required to submit a position paper鈥攁n essay detailing the country's policies on the topic being discussed at the conference. Writing a position paper will help organize ideas that can share a country's position with the rest of the conference. Position Papers at MUN are read during Opening Ceremonies. After conducting extensive research on the topic the position paper should be easy to write.
Position papers are usually one page in length. It should include a brief introduction followed by a comprehensive breakdown of the country's position on the topic(s) that are being discussed by each of the committees. A good position paper will not only provide facts but also make proposals for resolutions.
A good position paper will include:
- A brief introduction to the country and its history concerning the topic and committees;
- How the topic affects the country;
- The country's policies with respect to the issue and the country's justification for these policies;
- Quotes from the country's leaders about the issue;
- Statistics to back up the country's position on the issue;
- Actions taken by the government with regard to the issue;
- Conventions and resolutions that the country has signed or ratified;
- UN actions that the country supported or opposed;
- What the country believes should be done to address the issue; and
- What the country would like to accomplish in each committee.