Quick and Easy Policy Statement Outline by Hope Coulter

What is a policy statement?

1.      A place for delegates to synthesize their research

2.      A tool to use during conference

3.      A measure of a delegate’s knowledge

What is a policy statement composed of?

·         A policy statement consists of a header and 3 paragraphs

·         Concise, factual language mixed with the names of resolution, conventions, and treaties

How does one format a policy statement?

·         The total length should be close to, but not exceed one page single-spaced

·         The header consists of the country’s official name, committee, and topic; each on a separate line

o   EX:      Kingdom of Denmark

            General Assembly

            Restructuring the Security Council

·         An additional space between the header and first paragraph and then each subsequent paragraph

·         Use a formal tone throughout your writing. Imagine as if you are presenting this as an official, circulated document to the United Nations.

What should the three paragraphs include?

1.      Present and define the problem as your country views it

a.       International history from your country’s perspective

b.      Historical action (and inaction) by the UN and International Community

c.       Summary of the issue book

2.      Illustrate how your country handled/remedied the problem in the past

a.       Current status and aspects of the issue

b.      Mention and explain 4-5 ways in which your country interacted with the issue

                                                              i.      How has your country dealt with the issue internally?

                                                            ii.      How has your country dealt with the issue globally?

c.       Longest paragraph

3.      Present the official policy of your country

a.       Proposed solution directed towards the international community (think resolution)

b.      Reasons your country supports this position

c.       Oftentimes, you will use your country’s internal policies and previous actions to generalize about its foreign policy

Where should my research come from?

·         UN Mission websites, government websites, bilateral agreements, internal policies, speeches, etc.

·         Actions taken by your government in regards to the issue

·         Conventions, Resolutions, and Treaties that your country is party to

·         UN Action that your country has supported (or opposed)