Position Paper Tips

 Hi delegates!


Just wanted to check in and offer a bit more guidance on your position papers.


As a reminder, 23rd will be using standard Position Paper format.


Besides the general format, we wanted to offer some tips on the research process and the formation of your paper. 


Research


The biggest favor you can do for yourself in the writing process is to really apply time and effort into understanding the topics beforehand. Luckily, your generous dias has written to key to beginning this process: your synopsis! Not only do we recommend reading this synopsis, but we hope that you will interact with it. Ask questions, make connections, reflect on what you learned. Familiarizing yourself with the synopsis is the key to a smooth research experience. 


After reading the synopsis, don’t stop there! This piece is just a stepping stone for the research we hope you will complete. Maybe read some additional case studies, look at some current events relating to your topic… ultimately, the sign of a well-researched paper is taking the information within the synopsis a step further.


For the 23rd committee, we have received feedback from delegates that they are unsure as to what potential solutions are available for Topic A. This is an understandable concern, seeing as the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons itself is not exactly a conventional topic for MUN. For this topic, we want delegates to focus on the larger context of nuclear weaponry and geopolitical conflict in 1968, with the NPT providing a framework for you to base solutions on. Resolutions for this topic do not necessarily have to correspond with the written words of the NPT, but should demonstrate a critical awareness of the role transnational organizations such as the UN play in regulating warfare and its subsequent consequences on human rights and the world system.


For more guidance on the research process, refer to this page on the BMUN website.


Writing


After researching, you should have a good sense of what you want to include in your paper. We suggest making an outline of this important information first, then adding commentary on why these points are important. A sign of a great position paper is one that not only contains important information, but elaborates on it and provides clear and effective commentary. 


Be sure to leave yourself enough time to write and revise (don’t hesitate to ask for help or an extension if needed)... and please make sure to properly cite your sources. 

For more guidance on the writing process, refer to this page on the BMUN website.


Reminder that Position Papers are due on February 12th to be considered for the Research Award, and February 19th to be considered for any committee award. Again, we’d be happy to grant an extension if necessary!


Feel free to reach out to us at 23rdbmunlxxi@bmun.org for any questions or concerns throughout your research and writing process AND interact with the blog if you’d like! 


We are so excited to see what you bring to committee, and are here to help you throughout this process!


Best,


Timothy Yue

23rd, BMUN 71

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