Position Paper

What Is a Position Paper?

A position paper is a short, well-researched document that you write before the conference to explain your assigned country’s perspective on the topics your committee will discuss. Think of it as your country’s official statement—your chance to show what you know and set the stage for your performance in committee.

Why Are Position Papers Important?

  • Organize Your Research: Writing a position paper helps you pull together all your research and clarify your country’s views.

  • Guide Your Debate: Your paper acts as a roadmap during committee sessions, helping you stay on message and respond confidently to other delegates.

  • Showcase Your Preparation: Submitting a strong position paper proves you’re ready to participate, negotiate, and draft resolutions.

  • Helps Write Your Opening Speech: The opening speech is an important part of the MUN conference. Writing a good position paper helps to inform and create a good opening speech for the conference.
  • Draft Paragraphs for Resolutions: The position paper also plays a part in helping to draft the paragraphs that will be a part of your resolutions.

What Goes Into a Position Paper?

Most conferences ask for position papers to be about 1–2 pages per topic. While each event may have its own requirements, here’s a general outline you can follow:

1. Introduction: Briefly introduce the topic and explain why it matters to your country.

2. Background: Give some context. What’s the history behind this issue? Why is it important internationally?

3. Country’s Position: Clearly state your country’s stance. What has your country said or done about this issue in the past? What are its main concerns or goals?

4. Past International Action: Mention relevant treaties, UN resolutions, or international efforts your country has supported or opposed.

5. Proposed Solutions: Offer realistic ideas for what the committee or the UN should do next—solutions that fit your country’s interests.

6. Supporting Evidence: Back up your points with facts, quotes, or references to international law.

Tips for Writing

  • Write from your country’s perspective, not your own.

  • Be clear, concise, and persuasive.

  • Check your conference’s guidelines for formatting and submission deadlines.

A position paper is a concise document in which a delegate, representing a country or observer, outlines their assigned nation’s official stance on the topics to be discussed in their committee. It paper is typically written and submitted before the conference begins.