Joining your first Model United Nations (MUN) conference can be exciting, but it can also be a little confusing. One of the first things you may need to prepare is a MUN position paper.
If you have never written one before, don’t worry. A position paper is basically a short document that explains how the country you represent views the topic and what solutions it supports.
It can also become your guide during the conference. The research you do for your position paper can help you prepare speeches, join discussions, and negotiate with other delegates.
So, how do you write a good MUN position paper?
What Is a MUN Position Paper?
A MUN position paper explains your assigned country’s stance on the topic being discussed in your committee. It usually answers three simple questions:
- What is the problem?
- What has your country done about it?
- What does your country want to do next?
Your personal opinion may be different from your country’s official position, and that’s okay. Your arguments should be based on your country’s policies, interests, and previous actions.
1. Understand the Topic
Before writing anything, make sure you understand the issue. Start by reading your committee’s study guide or background guide. Find out what the problem is, why it matters, and what the United Nations has already done about it.
For example, if your topic is climate change, don’t just write that climate change is a global problem. Once you understand the topic, it will be much easier to explain your country’s position.
2. Research Your Country
Next, find out what your country thinks about the issue. Look for information from reliable sources such as:
- Government websites
- United Nations websites
- Official government statements
- International organizations
- Previous UN resolutions
- Relevant treaties or agreements
Try to find out what your country has actually done, not just what you think it would support.
For example, has your country introduced a related policy? Has it supported a UN resolution? Has it worked with other countries on the issue? These details can make your position paper much stronger.
3. Explain Your Country’s Position
Now it’s time to connect your research to the topic.
Explain:
- Why the issue matters to your country
- What your country has already done
- What your country supports or opposes
- What your country believes should happen next
Try to be specific. This helps other delegates understand what your country actually wants.
4. Suggest Realistic Solutions
A position paper should not only explain the problem. You also need to suggest possible solutions. Think about what your country could realistically support.
For example, your proposal could involve:
- International funding
- Education or training programs
- Technology sharing
- Cooperation between countries
- Monitoring systems
- Support for developing countries
Avoid solutions that are too broad. Instead, explain who should do what and how it could work.
5. Keep It Clear and Concise
You don’t need complicated vocabulary to write a good position paper. Use simple and clear language. Make sure every paragraph has a purpose and avoid repeating the same point.
A basic structure could look like this:
Topic Background: Briefly explain the issue and why it matters.
Country’s Position: Explain your country’s perspective, policies, and previous actions.
Proposed Solutions: Explain what your country wants the committee to do.
The exact MUN position paper format can vary between conferences, so always check the official guidelines. Some conferences have specific requirements for page length, font, citations, or structure.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Before submitting your paper, watch out for these common mistakes:
Writing your personal opinion. Remember that you are representing your country.
Using unreliable sources. Use official and trustworthy sources whenever possible.
Making vague solutions. Be specific about what should be done.
Ignoring your country’s policies. Your proposals should make sense for the country you represent.
Writing too much. A longer paper isn’t necessarily a better paper. Focus on the most important information.
Turn Your Position Paper Into Real MUN Experience
Your position paper shouldn’t be just another assignment you need to submit before the conference. Use it as your starting point for the actual committee.
The arguments you write can help you prepare your speeches. Your proposed solutions can become ideas for draft resolutions. And your research can help you negotiate with other delegates.
The more you understand your country’s position, the more confident you will feel when the debate begins.
Ready to Experience MUN?
Join GM MUN 22nd Edition 2026 on October 16–18, 2026, at Grand Sahid Jaya, Jakarta Pusat and experience what it’s like to research, speak, negotiate, and collaborate with other delegates in a real MUN conference.
Read more article about tips for MUN here!
