Public speaking

Giving good speeches is a key skill at Model UNs. Speeches are the most important way of convincing members of your committee to support your points of view and proposed solutions. Those who speak frequently and articulately are most likely to steer the course of discussions in their favour.

Feeling some nervousness before giving a speech is natural and healthy. It shows you care about doing well. But too much nervousness can work against you. To see how you can control your nervousness and make effective, memorable speeches click here.

The most important thing is to seek and grab opportunities for speaking. Remember that practice makes perfect, and this experience builds confidence, which is the key to effective speaking.

You must also be aware that at different times during a Model UN simulation you will be expected to make different types of speeches:

As the committee begins, you will normally be asked to make an opening speech. These speeches generally provide broad overviews of your country’s views on the topic. You should cite national policy and highlight the facets of the problem you feel are most important. Other delegates will be outlining their national policy as well, so it is important to listen attentively and recognise countries that may agree or disagree with your position.

After the first hour or two, you should begin to make more substantive speeches, focusing on specific ways in which to handle a problem. Remarks at this time should also be geared toward formulating working papers, or informal documents that suggest solutions to the problem. Click here for more details on making a substantive speech.

Once working papers have been approved and can be discussed, tailor your speech to discussing the merits of the various documents before the committee. Also, look to suggest revisions or wording for draft resolutions, which should be created at this time.

Once draft resolutions are approved and handed out, focus your formal remarks on individual resolutions, supporting those you feel are appropriate and explaining why you may disagree with others. At this time, delegates may be creating amendments to draft resolutions, so your speeches should also cover any specific clauses you feel should be inserted into the draft resolutions on the floor.

As the committee moves closer to voting procedure, use your speaking time to explain why you are supporting one or more draft resolutions and why the committee should vote with you.

Finally, remember that when you are in formal debate (using the speakers list) if you finish before your time is up, you can yield the remainder of your time to another delegate or to points of informaiton (questions from other delegates on what you have just said). Opening yourself to questions is a very effective way of dealing with other delegates’ concerns, but can be tricky as you have to think on the spot.