If you are new to Model United Nations (MUN), you will probably hear the term unmoderated caucus quite often.
But what exactly happens during an unmoderated caucus? Who should you talk to, and what should you actually do? Don’t worry. Once you understand its purpose, it becomes much easier.
An unmoderated caucus is a session where delegates can discuss and negotiate more freely. Instead of speaking one by one through the Chair, delegates can usually move around the room, talk directly to other countries, and form groups. The exact procedure may vary between conferences, so always check the Rules of Procedure.
What Is the Purpose of an Unmoderated Caucus?
The main purpose of an unmoderated caucus is to help delegates communicate, negotiate, and find common ground.
For example, you may notice that several countries support the same solution during the earlier debate. When the unmoderated caucus starts, you can approach them and discuss how you can work together. This is often when delegates begin forming a bloc.
What Should You Do During an Unmoderated Caucus?
Don’t just walk around the room without a plan. Before the unmoderated caucus starts, think about which countries might have similar interests to yours. Then, approach them and start a simple conversation.
You can ask: “What is your country’s position on this issue?” or “What solution is your delegation proposing?”
Listen to their ideas and explain your country’s position as well. If your interests are similar, you can start working together.
How Do You Build a Bloc?
A bloc is a group of delegates who work together because they have similar goals or ideas. Once you find countries that share your position, you can discuss possible solutions and decide what your group wants to propose.
However, don’t focus only on creating the biggest bloc. A smaller group that communicates well and has a clear plan can be much more effective than a large group with no direction.
Don’t Forget to Negotiate
Not every delegate will agree with your ideas, and that’s completely normal. MUN is not about making everyone follow your proposal. It is about finding a solution that different countries can support.
For example, another delegate might disagree with one part of your proposal but support the main idea. Instead of rejecting their opinion, try to find a compromise.
Good negotiation means knowing when to defend your position and when to make adjustments.
From Discussion to Working Paper
An unmoderated caucus should eventually lead to something concrete. Once your bloc has agreed on its main ideas, you can start working on a working paper. This document brings together the solutions your group has discussed and can later be developed into a draft resolution, depending on the conference’s rules.
Everyone in the bloc should contribute. You can help with research, develop solutions, write clauses, or review the ideas being proposed.
How to Make the Most of Your Time
Unmoderated caucuses can go by very quickly. Before the session starts, have a simple goal. Maybe you want to find potential allies, agree on several solutions, or start your working paper.
You don’t need to talk to everyone in the room. Focus on having meaningful conversations that can lead to actual cooperation. And remember, unmoderated caucus is not a break. It’s where the real negotiation begins.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is coming into the unmoderated caucus without knowing your country’s position. Another is talking too much without listening to others.
You should also avoid forcing your ideas on the entire bloc. Be open to feedback and compromise. Most importantly, don’t let the whole session become a casual conversation. By the end of the unmoderated caucus, your group should ideally have made progress toward a working paper or draft resolution.
Ready for Your Next MUN?
Unmoderated caucus can feel chaotic at first, but it becomes much easier once you know what to do.
Want to feel more confident before entering your next committee?
With MUN Private Coaching, you can practice the skills you actually need before conference day, from GSL and unmoderated caucus to negotiation, public speaking, and resolution writing.
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