DISEC
The training session plan
What is the UN?
The United Nations (UN) is an international organization founded in 1945 after World War II to promote
peace, security, and cooperation among nations. It provides a platform where countries come together
to discuss and address global challenges, including conflicts, poverty, climate change, and human rights.
The UN has 193 member states and is headquartered in New York City. It operates through various
bodies such as the General Assembly, Security Council, and specialized agencies like UNICEF and WHO.
The UN is essentially a space where the world works towards solutions for common problems, guided by
principles of equality, sovereignty, and human rights. It’s like a global parliament where nations discuss
how to create a better and more peaceful world.
What is MUN?
Model United Nations (MUN) is a simulation of the United Nations where students take on the roles of
diplomats, representing countries in different UN committees. The goal of MUN is to debate real-world
issues, draft resolutions, and negotiate solutions—all while following the rules and procedures of the
UN. In MUN, you’ll research your assigned country’s stance, write position papers, deliver speeches, and
work with other delegates to solve problems. It’s a mix of public speaking, teamwork, and critical
thinking, and it helps you develop diplomacy and leadership skills. Think of MUN as a hands-on learning
experience where you act as world leaders to find solutions for the most pressing global challenges.
What is DISEC and Its Mandate?
DISEC stands for the Disarmament and International Security Committee, and it is the First Committee
of the UN General Assembly. It deals with issues related to global peace, disarmament, and security
threats. This committee focuses on reducing arms, preventing wars, and addressing threats like nuclear
weapons, terrorism, and illicit arms trade.
DISEC’s mandate includes:
1. Disarmament: Promoting the reduction of weapons globally, including nuclear, biological,
chemical, and conventional arms.
2. Conflict Prevention: Addressing issues that may lead to armed conflict or threaten global
stability.
3. Security Cooperation: Strengthening international frameworks like treaties and agreements to
enhance collective security.
4. Combatting Illicit Arms Trade: Preventing the illegal trafficking and use of weapons.
5. Peaceful Uses of Outer Space: Ensuring that space is used for peaceful purposes and not for
militarization.
-Definition of Illicit Arms Trade: Illicit arms trade refers to the unauthorized production, transfer, and
possession of arms, including small arms, light weapons, and explosives. This trade often involves illegal
activities, such as smuggling, trafficking, and corruption. The illicit arms trade is a significant threat to
global peace and security, as it can fuel conflicts, perpetuate violence, and undermine state authority.
-Types of Illicit Arms: Illicit arms can include small arms, such as handguns, rifles, and machine guns, as
well as light weapons, such as mortars, grenade launchers, and anti-tank missiles. Explosives, including
bombs, grenades, and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), are also considered illicit arms. Ammunition,
such as bullets, shells, and other types of ammunition, can also be traded illicitly.
-Sources of Illicit Arms: Illicit arms can come from various sources, including diversion from state
stockpiles, production by non-state actors, importation from other countries, and recycling of old arms.
Diversion from state stockpiles can occur through corruption or poor management, while non-state
actors, such as terrorist organizations or insurgent groups, can produce their own arms using improvised
methods. Arms can also be smuggled or trafficked from other countries, often through organized crime
networks or corrupt officials.
-Methods of Illicit Arms Trade: Illicit arms trade can occur through various methods, including smuggling,
trafficking, corruption, and online platforms. Smuggling involves hiding arms in cargo or transporting
them through clandestine routes to avoid detection. Trafficking involves transporting arms through
networks of traffickers, often using fake or altered documentation. Corruption can facilitate the illicit
trade by issuing false permits, ignoring regulations, or accepting bribes. Online platforms, such as social
media or dark web marketplaces, can also be used to advertise and sell illicit arms.
-Impact on Global Security: The illicit arms trade has significant implications for global security. It can fuel
conflicts and instability, particularly in regions with weak governance or ongoing conflicts. Illicit arms can
also be used by terrorist organizations to carry out attacks and perpetuate violence. Furthermore, the
illicit arms trade can contribute to higher levels of crime and violence, particularly in urban areas.
Ultimately, the illicit arms trade can undermine the authority of states and governments, particularly if
they are unable to control the flow of arms.
-Role of International Organizations: International organizations play a crucial role in combating the illicit
arms trade. The United Nations has implemented various initiatives, including the Programme of Action
to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects.
Interpol works to combat the illicit arms trade by providing training and assistance to member countries,
as well as facilitating the exchange of information and intelligence. The European Union has also
implemented various measures, including the EU Firearms Directive and the EU’s Strategy to Combat
Illicit Trafficking in Firearms and Their Ammunition.
-National Laws and Regulations: National laws and regulations play a critical role in preventing the illicit
arms trade. Firearms laws, including licensing requirements and background checks, can help prevent
the unauthorized possession and transfer of arms. Export controls can regulate the transfer of arms and
military equipment to other countries. Effective border controls can also help prevent the smuggling of
arms across international borders.
-Challenges in Combating Illicit Arms Trade: Combating the illicit arms trade poses several challenges.
Corruption among government officials and law enforcement agencies can hinder efforts to combat the
illicit arms trade. Many countries also lack the resources and capacity to effectively combat the illicit
arms trade. The complexity of illicit networks, which can involve multiple countries and actors, can also
make it difficult to disrupt the trade. Finally, insufficient international cooperation and coordination can
hinder efforts to combat the illicit arms trade.
-Consequences of Illicit Arms Trade: The illicit arms trade has severe consequences. It can lead to
increased conflict, violence, and human suffering, particularly in regions with weak governance or
ongoing conflicts. The illicit arms trade can also have significant economic costs, including the cost of
conflict, instability, and lost economic opportunities. Social costs, including the breakdown of social
cohesion and the perpetuation of cycles of violence, can also result from the illicit arms trade.
-Link to Terrorism and Organized Crime: The illicit arms trade is often linked to terrorism and organized
crime. Terrorist organizations can use illicit arms to carry out attacks and perpetuate violence. Organized
crime groups can also use illicit arms to further their criminal activities. The illicit arms trade can provide
a source of funding for terrorist organizations and organized crime groups, allowing them to continue
their activities.
-Regional Hotspots for Illicit Arms Trade: The illicit arms trade is a significant problem in various regions,
including the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America. In the Middle East, countries such as Syria, Iraq, and
Yemen have been affected by the illicit arms trade. In Africa, countries such as Somalia, South Sudan, and
the Democratic Republic of Congo have been impacted by the trade.
STARTING THE COMMITTEE (GUIDE)
Roll Call
A roll call is a procedural method used to formally record the presence of delegates within a
committee. Typically conducted at the beginning of a session or when determining the presence of a
quorum, the Chair calls out the names of each country or delegate. In response, delegates signify their
presence by stating "present" with raising their placard. The roll call ensures that all delegates are
accounted for and establishes the official attendance for the session. Additionally, 25 roll calls may be
used during voting procedures to verify each delegate’s position on a particular motion or resolution.
This method enhances transparency, accountability, and orderliness within the committee, facilitating
the effective conduct of business and decision-making processes.
General Speaker’s List
The General Speakers List (GSL) in a Model United Nations conference serves as a structured
mechanism for delegates to express their views on the agenda. Delegates request to be added to the
list to indicate their desire to speak, and the Chairperson recognizes speakers in the order they were
added. This list ensures that every delegate has an opportunity to contribute to the debate in an
organized manner. During their allotted speaking time, typically ranging from one to three minutes,
delegates can address any aspect of the agenda topics they wish, ranging from presenting their
country's stance, proposing solutions, offering insights, or responding to other delegates' points. It's
essential for delegates to remain relevant to the discussion at hand, maintain diplomatic language,
and provide constructive contributions that advance the debate and promote collaboration among
delegates. Additionally, the GSL should not expire; if the GSL were to run out of speakers, it would
indicate a lack of ongoing debate and participation. This would lead to the failure of resolutions and
the collapse of the committee's work. Therefore, maintaining an active and continuous GSL is crucial
for the productive and democratic functioning of the committee. How to Raise This Motion? To
establish the GSL, a delegate must make a formal motion to the Chair. This motion is essential to
initiate the debate and ensure that all delegates have the opportunity to speak in an orderly fashion.
Example "The Delegate of France would like to raise a motion to establish the General Speakers List,
individual time 45 seconds" Once this motion is made and seconded by other delegate, the Chair will
proceed to establish the GSL and begin adding delegates who wish to speak.
Yielding Time: If a delegate's speech ends before their allotted individual time, the delegate has the
option to yield the remaining time in one of the following ways:
Yield to the Floor: The remaining time is returned to the committee, and the Chair proceeds with the
next speaker on the list.
Yield to the Chair: The delegate gives the remaining time back to the Chair, who then decides how to
use it, usually by moving on to the next speaker.
Yield to Another Delegate: The delegate can yield the remaining time to another delegate, allowing
that delegate to speak for the remainder of the time. For example If the delegate of Canada finishes
speaking with 30 seconds remaining, they might say, "The Delegate of Canada would like to yield my
time to the Delegate of Germany." This allows the Delegate of Germany to use the remaining 30
seconds to add their input to the discussion.
Time Management by the Chair: If there are 10 seconds left in the delegate's speaking time, the
Chair will tap on the table once as a warning. As soon as the time ends, if the delegate has not finished
speaking, the Chair will tap twice and request the delegate to sit down to allow the next speaker to
take the floor. This ensures that time limits are respected and that the debate proceeds efficiently and
fairly.
Quorum
Quorum refers to the minimum number of delegates required to be present for the committee to
proceed with the committee sessions, debating, and voting on resolutions. Establishing quorum
ensures that there is adequate representation and participation from member states or entities,
making the proceedings legitimate and democratic. For example, if a committee has 50 delegates, the
quorum might be set at one-third, meaning at least 17 delegates must be present for the session to
commence and decisions to be made. If quorum is not met, the committee must wait until enough
delegates arrive to proceed with the agenda, ensuring that the actions taken reflect a representative
portion of the committee's members.
Motions:
The delegates are supposed to raise their placard if they want to raise a specific motion
1) Motion to open the floor for debate
2) Motion to establish gsl
3) Motion for moderated/unmoderated caucus
4) Motion to suspend the debate
5) Motion to resume the debate
6) Motion to adjourn the debate
Points of Procedure in Model United Nations
Point of Personal Privilege: A Point of Personal Privilege refers to a mechanism by which delegates can
address issues that directly affect their ability to participate in the committee proceedings. This may
include concerns such as difficulty hearing, discomfort due to room temperature, or any other
personal matter that impedes their engagement in the debate. Additionally, delegates may raise a
Point of Personal Privilege to request permission to briefly step away from the committee, such as to
attend to a phone call or use the restroom. To do so, delegates typically write a note on a chit pad,
which is then discreetly passed to the Chairperson, who will address the request accordingly, ensuring
that the delegate's needs are accommodated while minimizing disruption to the proceedings.
Point of Order: Point of Order are raised by delegates to address violations of procedural rules or to
seek clarification on matters related to parliamentary procedure. When a delegate believes that the
rules of procedure are not being followed correctly, they can raise a point of order to alert the Chairs.
The Chairs then addresses the concern raised by the delegate and takes appropriate action to rectify
any procedural errors or provide clarification to ensure the smooth functioning of the committee.
Point of Parliamentary Inquiry: A Point of Parliamentary Inquiry enables delegates to seek clarification
on matters related to parliamentary procedure or the rules governing the committee. Delegates may
raise this point to inquire about specific procedural aspects of the debate, such as how much time
remains for a certain motion or what the name of the upcoming moderated caucus is. By raising a
Point of Parliamentary Inquiry, delegates can ensure they have a clear understanding of the rules and
procedures governing the committee, enabling them to effectively navigate the debate and participate
in a meaningful manner. The Chairs then provides the necessary information or explanation to address
the delegate's inquiry, promoting transparency and fairness in the conduct of the committee
proceedings.
Right to Reply: Right to Reply allows delegates to respond to personal attacks or misrepresentations
made against them during the debate. If a delegate feels that they have been unfairly criticized or
misrepresented by another delegate's speech, they can request the right to reply from the
Chairperson. To do so, the delegate must write their request on a chit pad and pass it to the Chair. The
Chair then decides whether to grant the right to reply and allows the delegate a brief opportunity to
address the accusations or clarify any misunderstandings, ensuring that all delegates are given a fair
opportunity to defend themselves and present their arguments. This process helps maintain decorum
and fairness in the debate, allowing for respectful and accurate discourse.
Caucus:
A caucus is a structured period of time during which delegates engage in discussions, negotiations, and
strategizing on the subtopics related to the committee's agenda. Caucuses provide delegates with
opportunities to collaborate, build alliances, and draft resolutions outside the formal debate setting.
There are typically two types of caucuses: Moderated Caucus In a Model United Nations (MUN)
conference, a moderated caucus is a structured period of time allocated for delegates to engage in
formal, regulated discussions regarding specific aspects of the committee’s agenda. Typically, the
Chairs sets the agenda for the moderate caucus, specifying the topics to be discussed and the time
allotted for each. During this caucus, delegates follow parliamentary procedure, raising points of order,
making motions, and delivering speeches within the prescribed time limits. The moderate caucus aims
to facilitate focused dialogue, encourage collaboration, and generate potential solutions to the issues
at hand, contributing to the advancement of the committee's objectives.
How to Raise This Motion? To initiate a moderated caucus, a delegate must make a formal motion to
the Chair. This includes specifying the topic for discussion, the total duration of the caucus, and the
speaking time for each delegate. Example: "The Delegate of Bangladesh would like to raise a motion
for a moderated caucus on[topic name], with a total time of 10 minutes and individual speaking time
of 45seconds."
No Yielding: In moderated caucuses, yielding time is not permitted.
Time Management by the Chair: If there are 10 seconds left in the delegate's speaking time, the Chair
will tap on the table once as a warning. As soon as the time ends, if the delegate has not finished
speaking, the Chair will tap twice and request the delegate to sit down to allow the next speaker to
take the floor. This ensures that time limits are respected and that the debate proceeds efficiently and
fairly. Once this motion is made and seconded by other delegates, the Chair will put it to a vote. If the
motion passes, the moderated caucus will commence under the specified terms.
1. Historical Mods
Purpose: Understand the origins and historical trends of the illicit arms trade.
Research Key Events and Conflicts:
Highlight historical events that contributed to the growth of illicit arms trade in the Middle East.
Example:
"During the Cold War, superpowers like the US and USSR funneled arms into the Middle East,
indirectly fueling black market activity. For instance, weapons supplied during the Soviet-Afghan War
in the 1980s eventually fell into illicit hands."
Look into Militia and Terrorist Organizations:
Study how groups like Hezbollah and al-Qaeda gained access to illegal weapons.
Example:
"In the 2000s, Hezbollah reportedly acquired weapons smuggled through Syria, which were initially
sourced from Eastern Europe. This demonstrates how arms flow through multiple channels before
reaching their final users."
Focus on Historical Treaties and Their Gaps:
Explore how international treaties have historically failed to curb the arms trade.
Example:
"The Arms Trade Treaty, adopted in 2013, has limitations due to weak enforcement mechanisms.
These gaps have allowed arms smuggling to persist."
Tip: "Use these examples to show the historical buildup of this problem. It will strengthen your stance
in debates."
2. Problem Mods
Purpose: Analyze the current impact of the issue in detail.
Focus on Conflicts Fueled by Illicit Arms:
Discuss how ongoing wars are sustained by illegal arms.
Example:
"In Yemen’s civil war, the Houthi rebels have acquired Iranian-made missiles and drones through
smuggling routes. This has intensified the conflict and caused mass civilian casualties."
Examine Cross-Border Smuggling Routes:
Highlight regions where arms smuggling is prevalent.
Example:
"The Sahel region and routes from Libya to Syria are hotspots for illegal arms trafficking. These routes
are often used by organized crime syndicates."
Explain Broader Consequences:
Look at how illicit arms trade destabilizes governance and security.
Example:
"In Iraq, the proliferation of illegal weapons has undermined the government’s monopoly on force,
leading to the rise of militia groups."
Tip: "Bring specific, recent examples to show the immediate relevance of the problem."
3. Solution Mods
Purpose: Propose actionable and innovative measures to address the issue.
Strengthening Border Controls:
Suggest ways to improve surveillance and cooperation.
Example:
"The use of technologies like AI and drones can help monitor smuggling routes in areas like the Syrian-
Turkish border."
Promoting Regional Cooperation:
Emphasize the importance of collaboration between Middle Eastern countries.
Example:
"The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) could create a shared intelligence database to track illegal arms
shipments."
Targeting Financial Networks:
Propose measures to cut off funding for illicit arms.
Example:
"Sanctions on entities involved in arms smuggling, such as shell companies in conflict zones, can
reduce the flow of funds fueling this trade."
Addressing Root Causes:
Advocate for broader conflict resolution and development initiatives.
Example:
"International aid for rebuilding war-torn areas like Syria can reduce the demand for illegal weapons
by stabilizing communities."
Tip: "Your solutions should be practical, well-researched, and adaptable to the complexities of the
Middle East."
Encourage delegates to link historical causes to current problems and propose realistic solutions. Say:
"Remember, a good argument in any mod connects the past to the present and provides a roadmap
for the future. Use specific examples to make your points stronger!"
