SMUN'25

Conference
handbook
 Secretary
General's address
With immense pride and heartfelt gratitude, I welcome you all to the first edition of the
Sahamaanaa Model United Nations — SMUN 2025.
This moment marks more than the commencement of a conference; it signifies the birth of
a vision — one that seeks to nurture voices, foster understanding, and celebrate the power
of dialogue in an increasingly divided world.

The name Sahamaanaa embodies courage — the courage to question, to dissent, and to
discover unity through difference. Guided by our theme, “Sandhau Balam, Vibhede Jayah”
— Strength in Doubt, Victory in Division — SMUN 2025 stands as a tribute to the idea that
progress emerges not from uniformity, but from the bold exchange of perspectives.

This inaugural edition brings together four distinguished committees:

The United Nations General Assembly – DISEC,
The Lok Sabha,
Churchill’s War Cabinet, and
The International Press Corps.

Each has been curated to challenge intellect, encourage critical engagement, and cultivate
the true essence of diplomacy — where debate is not conflict, but conversation refined
through respect and reason.
To me, SMUN is more than an event; it is the beginning of a legacy. A space where young
leaders rise to the occasion, where ideas evolve into conviction, and where dialogue
becomes a force for change. Standing here as the first Secretary-General of Sahamaanaa
MUN, I feel deeply honored to carry forward this vision alongside an exceptional team
whose dedication has transformed a dream into reality.

To every delegate, I urge you to embrace these two days with openness and courage.
Challenge your assumptions, respect differing opinions, and remember that the greatest
diplomats are not those who speak the loudest, but those who listen the hardest.

Welcome to Sahamaanaa Model United Nations 2025 — where courage begins in

conversation, and victory is found in understanding.
Regards,
Samrat Pratap Singh,
Secretaty General, SMUN.
 Deputy Secretary
general's address
With immense pride, we welcome you all to the maiden edition of SMUN. This conference
marks the beginning of a platform built for meaningful dialogue, decisive leadership, and
the exchange of real ideas.

Over the past months, we have worked to create a space where every delegate has a voice
and every discussion has impact. Each committee has been selected to reflect a distinct
dimension of governance and diplomacy. The Lok Sabha, UNGA DISEC, IPC, and Churchill’s
War Cabinet each demand critical thinking, discipline, and a clear sense of purpose.

We have both been in your place before. We know the nerves before the first speech, the
energy in a heated debate, and the satisfaction of leaving a committee with something
learned. SMUN is not about hierarchy or titles. It is about showing initiative, taking
responsibility, and speaking with intent.

We believe diplomacy is built on three principles: preparation, respect, and consistency.

Every motion, clause, or report you present is an opportunity to apply these values. The goal
is not to win arguments but to create understanding that moves the discussion forward.

To the first-time delegates, take this as your introduction to leadership. To the experienced
ones, take this as your opportunity to set a higher standard. To all of you, make these three
days count.

SMUN is a beginning. Let it remind us that clarity in thought and respect in dialogue will
always define real diplomacy.

Regards,
Shadan Husham,
Ashmit Seal,
Deputy Secretary General, SMUN.
 The
Secretariat
UNGA DISEC
CHAIRS: Ayush Majumdar & Akashdeep Sen.
VICE-CHAIRS: Samrat Pratap Singh & Ritankar Mondal.
DIRECTOR: Akshat Jaiswal.

Lok sabha
SPEAKER: Shivans Bhura.
DEPUTY SPEAKER: Jashojeet Bannerjee.
PARLIAMENTARY REPORTER: Ashmit Seal.

Churchill's war cabinet

CHAIRS: Adrish Hossain & Shadan Husham.
VICE-CHAIR: Sananya Chakraborty.
DIRECTOR: Rahil Hussain

International Perss Corps

CHAIRS: Sweta Sahoo & Arindam Mukherjee
VICE CHAIR: Koushiki Das & Rishika Manna
 Particulars
The Conference will be held at ICCR, Kolkata, on the 8th and 9th of November
2025. Delegates must arrive on time each day to ensure the smooth and
uninterrupted conduct of all proceedings. The Organising Committee, will not be
responsible for the loss or damage of any personal belongings. Delegates are
advised to take full responsibility for their possessions throughout the Conference.

use of electronic devices

1. The use of the internet during committee sessions is strictly prohibited.
Delegates may access online resources only during unmoderated caucuses or at
times explicitly permitted by the Executive Board. Any violation of this rule may
lead to reprimand.

2. Delegates must bring their devices fully charged to the Conference. Power
outlets will be available only as resources permit, and the Secretariat does not
guarantee continuous access to charging facilities.

3. Misuse of digital devices may lead to confiscation. Such devices will be returned
only after the Secretariat has taken appropriate action.

4. Only laptops or tablets are permitted for use during committee sessions. The use
of headphones, earphones, or any in-ear or over-the-ear devices during sessions is
strictly prohibited.

5. Any act of harassment, discomfort, or misconduct toward another delegate

through digital means will be treated as a serious offense equivalent to bullying.
The Secretariat reserves full discretion to take disciplinary action against
offenders.
 Dress code
Delegates are required to follow the dress code below during the Conference:

Day 1: Indian Attire

Day 2: Western Formals

Inappropriate or non-compliant attire will not be permitted. The Secretariat

reserves the right to take appropriate action in cases of violation. Delegates must
dress respectfully and in accordance with the prescribed guidelines on both days
of the Conference.
Delegates of Lok Sabha may wear Indian Traditionals on both the days.

Courtesy anc decency

All delegates must maintain proper decorum and display courtesy toward the
Board, the Secretariat, and fellow participants. Every individual present at the
Conference, including members of the Organizing Committee and participants,
must be treated with dignity and respect at all times. Acts of indecency or
misconduct will not be tolerated under any circumstances. Delegates are
expected to observe basic etiquette throughout the sessions. Should any incident
or dispute occur, it must be immediately reported to the Chairperson(s) or the
Secretary-General. The Secretariat will review the issue and take the necessary
course of action.

Appeals and requests

Any appeal or request related to the Conference must be addressed to the
Secretariat or the Secretary-General, either in writing or via email. When
required, a clear explanation or justification for the request must be included.
The Secretariat retains full discretion in responding to and deciding on such
appeals.
All complaints and appeals submitted to the Secretariat will be dealt with
promptly, and action will be taken as considered appropriate.
 Functions and powers of the
press
1. Members of the Press are responsible for reporting significant events and
discussions taking place within their assigned committees. They may also submit
editorials and opinion pieces expressing their perspectives on topics under
deliberation.

2. Press members must not publish any content that is offensive, defamatory, or
disrespectful toward the agenda, delegates, or any participant.

3. The Press is entitled to conduct unobstructed questioning during Press

Conferences. However, if questions or responses become irrelevant, incoherent,
or disruptive to committee order, the questioning may be halted.

4. Press members may interview delegates from their assigned committees with
the delegate’s explicit consent and may submit corresponding reports to their
committee.

5. During Press Conferences, the Chairpersons of the International Press Corps

shall preside over moderation and all proceedings. Their decisions in such
contexts will be final and binding.

LANGUAGE
The official language for all communication during bogh the days of the
conference is English, which must be appropriate and respectful. The use of
vernacular languages is permitted solely in the Lok Sabha
sessions, in accordance with the Executive Board’s guidelines.
 General Powers of the
Secretariat and Committee Staff
1. All decisions made by the Secretariat are final, absolute, and non-negotiable.

2. Matters not covered within the scope of the Conference Handbook will be
resolved by the Secretariat as deemed appropriate.

3. Any oral or written statement issued by the Secretariat concerning committee

flow or procedure is binding upon all participants.

4. The Executive Board is responsible for managing and moderating debate

within the committee. The Chairperson’s decisions regarding all procedural or
substantive matters are final.

5. The Chairperson may temporarily delegate responsibilities to another member

of the Executive Board when necessary.

6. The Executive Board may recommend or discuss with the committee the future
course of action whenever required.

7. The Executive Board answers to the Secretary-General, whose

decisions are final if there is a disagreement. The Executive Board can
change procedures when necessary to help meetings run smoothly.

Miscelleneous rules
1. Any changes to delegation composition or delegate details must be promptly
communicated to the Secretariat via email.

2. Delegates are not allowed to remain or loiter within or around the venue
premises after the committee has been adjourned for the day. Any violation will
invite disciplinary action.

3. Instances of bullying, harassment, or use of derogatory language will result in

strict action. Delegates must immediately report such incidents to a member of
the Secretariat.
4. Possession, use, or consumption of any prohibited substances, including vapes,
e-cigarettes, or alcohol, is strictly forbidden for all students, faculty, staff, and
visitors during the Conference.

5. Any delegate who observes a breach of the above rules or code of conduct must
report it immediately to their Chairperson(s) or the Secretariat for appropriate
action.

Security Regulations
Please be informed that bag checks and frisking will be conducted by the Security
Team during registration. Delegates found in possession of vape pens, e-
cigarettes, cigarettes, lighters, or any other illicit substances will have them
confiscated permanently.

Additionally, food items, deodorants, and similar belongings will be collected

during checking and may be returned at the end of the day. The Secretariat will
not be responsible for the loss or misplacement of such items, so delegates are
strongly advised not to carry them to the venue.

All CWC delegates are required to present their school ID cards during the
security check.

Please note that any form of disrespect or rude behavior toward members of the
Security Team will not be tolerated and will result in strict disciplinary action.
 Rules of procedure
Flow of Committee
The formal commencement of committee proceedings begins with the setting of
the agenda. Once the agenda is established, the committee moves into the
General Speakers’ List (GSL), which serves as the primary form of formal debate.
Each delegate is provided with a placard for identification. Delegates wishing to
speak in the General Speakers’ List must raise their placards to be recognised.
Committee discussions are conducted through both formal and informal debate
formats as outlined below:

Formal Debate

1. General Speakers’ List

2. General Discussion on Paperwork

Informal Debate

1. Moderated Caucus
2. Unmoderated Caucus
3. Special Speakers’ List
4. Round Robin
5. Open Floor

These formats ensure productive and structured deliberations. While the

General Speakers’ List constitutes the formal framework of debate, most
discussions occur through informal debate. The Special Speakers’ List (SSL) is
used primarily to address immediate crises or pressing updates.

Roll Call

Roll Call is taken at the beginning of each committee session. Delegates must
respond with either present or present and voting. A delegate marked as present
and voting cannot change their status later in the committee. This status
indicates that the delegate is required to vote on all final documents and cannot
abstain. Non-members cannot respond with present and voting.
Opening Debate
For the committee to begin formal proceedings and pass the agenda, debate must
first be opened. Only after the agenda is passed can substantive discussions
commence.
Verbatim:
“The delegate of [your country] would like to raise the motion to open debate.”

Agenda
The agenda serves as the foundation for discussion within the committee.
Delegates are expected to deliberate upon it and work toward a resolution by the
end of the session. Since agendas are typically broad and multi-dimensional,
setting the agenda is the first procedural step in committee.
Verbatim:
“The delegate of [your country] would like to raise the motion to set the agenda,
the agenda being [agenda].”

Debate and Motions

General Speakers’ List (GSL)

The General Speakers’ List is the primary and only formal mode of debate in
committee. Its purpose is to allow delegates to express their country’s stance and
policy regarding the set agenda. The GSL remains active throughout the
committee and serves as the default form of debate when others conclude. It
typically begins with a per-speaker time of 90 or 120 seconds, with no total time
limit.
Informal debate formats cannot exceed the GSL per-speaker time. The total time
for any informal debate must be divisible by the per-speaker time to yield a whole
number of speakers.
Verbatim:
“The delegate of [your country] would like to raise the motion to enter into the
General Speakers’ List, per speaker time being [time in seconds].”
(Note: usually 90s or 120s)

Special Speakers’ List (SSL)

The Special Speakers’ List, though outside formal debate, is distinct from
caucuses. It is used primarily during crises or updates requiring immediate
discussion. The per-speaker time is shorter than that of the GSL, and there is no
total time limit. Once completed, the committee returns to the GSL.
Verbatim:
“The delegate of [your country] would like to raise the motion to suspend
formal debate and move into a Special Speakers’ List, per speaker time being
[time in seconds].”
Moderated Caucus
The Moderated Caucus is used to discuss specific subtopics or updates in greater
depth. The topic is decided by the committee, with the motion receiving the most
votes proceeding. The delegate whose motion passes may choose to speak first or
reserve their right to speak.
Verbatim:
“The delegate of [your country] would like to raise the motion to suspend
formal debate and move into a moderated caucus, total time being [time], per
speaker time being [time in seconds], discussing [topic].”

Unmoderated Caucus
The Unmoderated Caucus allows delegates to engage in informal discussions
without moderation to build consensus or negotiate solutions. It is typically used
when formal debate fails to yield agreement. There is no per-speaker time.
Verbatim:
“The delegate of [your country] would like to raise the motion to suspend
formal debate and move into an unmoderated caucus, total time being [time in
minutes].”

Round Robin
In a Round Robin, delegates deliver speeches sequentially in alphabetical order,
usually in response to a new crisis. Participation is optional, though rights to
speak cannot be reserved. The proposer decides the per-speaker time, which
cannot exceed that of the GSL. There is no total time limit.
Verbatim:
“The delegate of [your country] would like to raise the motion to suspend
formal debate and move into a Round Robin, per speaker time being [time in
seconds], discussing [topic].”

Open Floor
An Open Floor facilitates spontaneous discussion, functioning similarly to an
Unmoderated Caucus but allowing freer participation. There is no per-speaker
time.
Verbatim:
“The delegate of [your country] would like to raise the motion to suspend
formal debate and move into an Open Floor, total time being [time in minutes],
discussing [topic].”
Extension of a Motion

When a form of debate (moderated or unmoderated) elapses without the

committee reaching its intended conclusion or outcome, the committee may
pass a motion to extend the duration of that debate.
The extension may not exceed 50% of the original duration.

Verbatim:
“The delegate of [your country] would like to raise the motion to extend the
[form of debate] by [50% or less than 50% of the time period of the original
motion].”

Suspension of Debate
Debate is suspended before breaks and resumed afterward.

Verbatim:
“The delegate of [your country] would like to raise the motion to suspend the
committee.”

Adjournment of Debate

Adjournment signifies the permanent closure of the committee session.

Verbatim:
“The delegate of [your country] would like to raise the motion to adjourn the
committee.”

Motion to Discuss Paperwork

The committee may move to discuss paperwork through various formats.

1. Question-Answer Session (QnA):

A question round with the authors, where delegates may ask a fixed number of
questions (declared while introducing the motion). Any author may respond.
Verbatim:

“The delegate of [your country] would like to raise the motion to move into a
Question-Answer Session of [x] questions on [name of document].”
 2. XvX Debate:
A fast-paced discussion between X speakers for and X speakers against the
document, alternating speeches. Authors may or may not participate. Questions
are not entertained unless allowed by the Executive Board.
Verbatim:
“The delegate of [your country] would like to raise the motion to move into an
[x] for [x] against, discussing [name of document].”

3. Clause-by-Clause Discussion:
Each clause of the document is discussed individually. The authors read each
clause, followed by questions from the committee. The number of questions per
clause is decided by the Executive Board. Points of Order and Information are
allowed.

Verbatim:
“The delegate of [your country] would like to raise a motion to move into a
clause-by-clause discussion on [name of document].”

Yields
When a delegate finishes their speech with time remaining, they may yield the remainder in
the following ways:

1. Yield to Points of Information: The Chair opens the floor for questions on the delegate’s
speech. Number of questions depends on remaining time and Chair’s discretion.

2. Yield to the Chair: Time elapses and control returns to the Chairperson(s).

3. Yield to Another Delegate: Remaining time is transferred to another delegate, who may
continue speaking.
 points
Points are the primary mode of communication with the Executive Board. In
order of precedence:

1. Point of Personal Privilege: Raised for personal discomfort or clarity requests.

Must be addressed immediately but not misused.
Example: “Point of Personal Privilege, could the Chair please adjust the
temperature?”

2. Point of Parliamentary Inquiry: Raised for procedural clarifications.

Example: “Point of Parliamentary Inquiry, which is the next allotment on the
list?”

3. Point of Order:
b) To identify procedural errors made by the Executive Board.
Example: If the Board recognises a motion which is not in order.
(NOTE-Point of Orders SHOULD NOT BE raised to correct factual inaccuracies in
a delegate’s speech).

4. Point of Information:
Used to ask questions on a delegate’s speech. Normally allowed only during the
General or Special Speakers’ List, unless otherwise permitted by the Chair.
Questions must be brief and relevant.

5. Right to Reply:
Raised when a delegate or their head of state is insulted. The delegate must
specify the statement being addressed. The Executive Board decides if the Right
to Reply is in order.

Quorum
The quorum is the minimum number of members required to commence formal
debate.
At SMUN, it is 1/5th of the total committee strength.

Example: For a committee of 30 delegates, at least 6 must be present.

In double-delegate committees, each delegation counts as one.
 Voting

Two primary types of voting exist:

1. Voting on Formal Paperwork

All nations have one vote. Possible responses: “yes,” “no,” “yes with rights,” “no
with rights,” “abstain,” or “pass.”
Delegates marked “present and voting” cannot abstain. Votes are roll-call based.
Observers cannot vote. Only Points of Personal Privilege may interrupt voting.

Special Votes:

Yes with rights: When voting for a document conflicts with national policy.
Example: Russia voting for a U.S. resolution.

No with rights: When voting against a document conflicts with policy. Example:
U.K. voting against a German resolution.

Note: Formal paperwork requires a two-thirds majority to pass.

2. Voting on Committee Proceedings

Used for motions and procedural matters.

A motion passes by simple majority (50% + 1 vote). Voting is conducted by raising
placards.
 Paperwork
DISEC will only be having draft resolutions, the format of which is to be conveyed
durimg committee.

Lok Sabha and International Press Corps will not be havimg any Paperwork.

The Rules of Procedure of Churchill's War Cabinet is given below:

Churchill's War Cabinet-Paperwork and Rules of Procedure