Bath University Model United Nations Society (BathMUN)  

2024-25 Sensitive Topics and ROP Policy 

Table of contents: 

1. Definition of a Sensitive Topic 

2. General Rules of Procedure 

3. Guidelines to Members 

Content of the Policy 

Definition of a Sensitive Topic: 

Sensitive topics are defined as the following but can encompass many topics. These include armed conflict, religious or governance-based issues, geographical occupation, or border disputes. At Model UN we pride ourselves on being a place for productive debate and feel we have a duty to tackle difficult topics. However, all participants are expected to engage in a sensitive manner with caution, recognising that members in the room could have been impacted, both directly and indirectly by these topics. Because of this they will be accompanied with a warning to delegates. 

General Rules of Procedure: 

BathMUN operates under the London International MUN 2024 Rules of Procedure, which can be found at the following link. 

Guidelines to members: 

Members should consider the following during their time at the society: 

1. Outside of debate, speaking rules to do not apply. Delegates should still take caution in discussing sensitive topics and consider the impact of their words. 

2. When discussing a sensitive topic, members are required to avoid speculation and stick to facts. This helps to avoid unnecessary escalation during debate, which can harm the atmosphere of the society. 

3. Delegates that feel uncomfortable due to statements made by another delegate can raise this to the committee through our Welfare and Inclusivity Policy. 

4. Speeches have a purpose, consider the following when adding to debate: 

   1. Will your statement encourage those whose views are supportive of their views to maintain their support and confidence? 

   2. Will your statement help win over the undecided? 

   3. Will it deter, discourage or win over those who are promoting different views? 

   4. Will it discourage people from speaking up? 

   5. Will it be seen as hostile in an undiplomatic manner. 

5. Delegates should not treat speeches as reflective of the views held by the delegate opposite, nor should they act as if they hold these views outside of debate, with the aim of disparaging them. 

6. Chairs have a responsibility to make judgement on what is an acceptable topic and what is a sensitive topic when introducing a topic for debate. They should act impartially and guide debate to ensure it is productive.  

7. Chairs should be familiar with the Welfare and Inclusivity Policy and act in accordance with it.