Around YMUN Korea 2014: Pre-conference Training Workshop
One
by one, enthusiastic delegates took their seats in the dimly lit auditorium for
a pre-conference training workshop. The frantic atmosphere calmed down when Miranda
Melcher, the Under Secretary General of Committees, called the called the
session to order. The training session was conducted to introduce YMUN Korea
2014’s unique conference style to the delegates.
The
training was very comprehensive. Miranda elaborated extensively on every aspect
of the conference – from the opening speeches to the Points of Information. Given
the unique conference style, a lot of delegates were not familiar with the debating
procedure and amendments. Miranda covered amendment procedures in depth, and also
advised delegates on some precautions that they should be aware of.
At
YMUN Korea 2014, the resolutions will be debated on clause-by-clause basis. In
addition, there will be an entire committee session for delegates to lobby each
other and write clauses together. Miranda explained that this set-up would
compel delegates to cooperate and work together to find common interests and
solutions.
One highlight of the training session was when Miranda asked the rookie delegates in the auditorium to raise their hands. She commented on her excitement on YMUN Korea 2014 being their first MUN conference and shared an anecdote from her first MUN conference some 8 years ago. She comforted new-timers by saying, “Everyone at some point has said something really silly.” She encouraged delegates to speak up, not be afraid what others might think and to be confident about what they are saying. She also gave the delegates some specific advice - “If you can’t answer a POI from another delegate,” she advised, “Be calm and just say, ‘The delegate will answer in note form.’”
