VUMUN Delegate Resources
Preparing for a Model UN conference is both challenging and rewarding.  During the process, not only will you become more knowledgeable about your country itself, but you will also be able to develop an informed opinion on one of the world’s most pressing issues.  When researching, some important questions to keep in mind are: “Why does my country/character have the opinion it does on the issue?”, “What other countries/characters might share similar views?”, and “What has been the impact of past action taken by both my country/character and the international community on the issue?”.  While this list of resources is by no means exhaustive, we believe it will help give you a strong foundation to build upon. Good luck and have fun with your research!  Please don’t hesitate to email your Chair, your Crisis Director, or a Secretariat member with any questions you might have!

Resources:

UN Charter
An extremely important document which outlines the purpose and authority of all major organs of the UN.  Without it, there would be no Model UN!

Universal Declaration of Human Rights
Another important document that describes the basic rights to which each and every human is entitled and nation-states must uphold.

UN Millennium Development Goals
Information about the UN’s 8 Millennium Development Goals which address education, environmental sustainability, and many other pressing social and humanitarian issues!  Check the progress which has been to achieving each of these goals by their deadline of 2015.  

UN General Assembly
Read about what the General Assembly is currently debating!  Also, learn the inner workings of the UN’s 6 main General Assembly committees on which every nation is represented equally with one vote.

Best Delegate
Everything you ever need to know about Model UN itself.  Learn strategies to use in all aspects of the conference including speaking, resolution writing, and fashion!

United Nations Association of USA
Read their comprehensive guide to delegate preparation which addresses nearly everything you will encounter at VUMUN.  Also, check out their glossary in case you are confused about Model UN terminology. 

CIA World Factbook
Contains useful background information about every nation, including its economy, government, and foreign relations.

Doing Business
Learn detailed economic information about your country including the extent of government regulation, historical trends, its standing relative to others, and future outlook.
CNN News
Don’t forget to keep up to date about what’s going on in the world!  This along with newspapers, television, and other media will help keep you informed on the latest developments in global politics.