Navigating double delegations can be difficult. Frequently, working with a partner in Model United Nations also means grappling with a 100+ person committee, where being recognized by the dais even once or twice proves to be a significant challenge. However, collaborating with another trusted delegate can make tackling these large General Assemblies more approachable. Here are four tips to make your next “double-del” committee run as smoothly as possible.
1. Collaborate early and collaborate often. A secure partnership is key to success in a crowded committee. Working together during the early conference preparation processes, like reading the background guide and brainstorming potential solutions to issues in conjunction, can help cultivate this partnership before the conference begins. Both members of the delegation, regardless of inside or outside positions, should possess a strong understanding of the topics. Although many double delegations are composed of an experienced delegate and a novice delegate, both individuals should be aware of each other’s goals for the committee and initial ideas.
2. Know your role. To the unfamiliar, the concept of two positions within double delegations may seem foreign. Typically, though, double delegations consist of an “inside” delegate and an “outside” delegate. While many partners in double delegations rotate positions during different sessions, recognizing what is demanded of each role and evaluating each delegate’s strengths and weaknesses can strengthen the team.
- Inside delegates are responsible for delivering speeches that explain the outside delegate’s progress on the resolution. For this delegate, appearing confident, well-spoken, and knowledgeable is crucial because the inside delegate is often the most visible to the dais while their partner writes and negotiates outside the committee room. Inside delegates should raise their placards for all motions, especially within larger committees where visibility is difficult. If this delegate can pass a moderated caucus topic, they can receive the opportunity to speak either first or last in debate without competing for a speaking slot.
- Outside delegates must be open to working with others. These delegates are tasked with writing clauses for the resolution outside of the committee room as debate ensues inside. The outside delegate’s work and negotiations within their bloc can determine whether that double delegation receives the opportunity to speak for their resolution during the presentation period. Successful outside delegates can present their ideas assertively while remaining open-minded to the contributions of others.
3. Communication, communication, communication. During a committee session, communication between partners is critical so that both parties are aware of what is happening. Committee sessions can move quickly, and many delegations face difficulty when bloc changes, modifications to clauses, or details of a merger are not clearly communicated before an inside delegate’s speech or an outside delegate’s negotiations. Thus, the inside delegate should strive to keep their partner privy to what is happening within the flow of debate. The outside delegate can use this information to edit clauses and read the status of the bloc to improve negotiations. On the other hand, the outside delegate must communicate what clauses are relevant to the resolution and negotiations occurring outside of the room so that the inside delegate can work with other inside delegates to best promote the resolution.
4. Stay resolute. Model UN conferences can feel all-consuming, especially when resolution writing moves outside of committee sessions to early mornings and late nights. One of the greatest benefits of having a partner in committee is having a shoulder to lean on. Endurance can make a dramatic difference in which delegations prevail at the end of the weekend. Checking up on and providing encouragement to each other after committee sessions can ensure that both individuals within a double delegation persist through the weekend.
