Crisis committees are a dynamic and fast-paced variant of Model United Nations (MUN) that simulate real-time emergency situations. Unlike traditional General Assembly or Economic and Social Council committees, crisis committees require delegates to respond to evolving scenarios, issue directives, and communicate via crisis notes. Understanding the specific rules and procedures is essential for effective participation. This article provides a detailed overview of crisis committee rules, drawing on widely accepted practices from conferences such as NMUN, HMUN, and MUNUC.
What is a Crisis Committee?
A crisis committee is a small, often cabinet-style simulation where delegates represent specific individuals (e.g., ministers, advisors) rather than countries. The committee faces a series of fast-breaking events called “crises,” which are introduced by the crisis staff. Delegates must respond collaboratively through directives and personal actions. Common examples include historical cabinets (e.g., JFK’s Cabinet during the Cuban Missile Crisis), fictional scenarios (e.g., Westeros Council), or futuristic settings (e.g., UNSC 2050).
For a broader overview of MUN formats, see The Complete Guide to Model United Nations.
Core Differences from General Assembly
Crisis committees differ from traditional committees in several key ways:
- Smaller size: Typically 15–30 delegates, allowing for intense interaction.
- Individual roles: Each delegate has a specific portfolio with unique powers.
- Directives instead of resolutions: Actions are taken via directives, not formal resolutions.
- Crisis notes: Private communication with crisis staff to influence the scenario.
- Continuous flow: Debate is not strictly linear; crises interrupt proceedings.
These differences require a distinct set of skills, including quick thinking, negotiation, and writing concise directives. For tips on choosing a conference that offers strong crisis committees, read How to Choose an MUN Conference.
Flow of Debate
Roll Call and Opening
The committee begins with a roll call, followed by an opening statement from each delegate (usually 30–60 seconds). The chair then outlines the initial crisis scenario.
Moderated Caucus
Most debate occurs in moderated caucus, where delegates speak for a set time (e.g., 60 seconds) on a specific topic. The chair sets the speaking time and total caucus duration (e.g., 10 minutes). Delegates raise placards to be recognized.
Unmoderated Caucus
Unmoderated caucus (or “unmod”) allows delegates to move around, negotiate, and draft directives. This is crucial for building consensus and writing joint directives. A typical unmod lasts 10–20 minutes.
Crisis Updates
At any time, the crisis staff may deliver a crisis update—a new development that changes the situation. Delegates must respond immediately, often by drafting new directives or issuing personal orders.
Directives
Directives are the primary action documents in crisis committees. They can be joint (signed by multiple delegates) or individual (a “personal directive” or “portfolio power”).
Types of Directives
- Joint Directive: A collaborative action signed by two or more delegates. Example: “The Joint Chiefs of Staff authorize a naval blockade of Cuba.”
- Personal Directive: An action taken by a single delegate using their portfolio powers. Example: “The Secretary of Defense orders the deployment of additional troops to Guantanamo Bay.”
- Communiqué: A public statement or message to another entity (e.g., a press release, a letter to a foreign leader).
Directive Format
Most conferences require directives to follow a standard format:
- Sponsors: List of signatories.
- Action: Clear, concise statement of what is being done.
- Justification: Brief rationale (optional in some committees).
Directives must be submitted in writing to the chair. The chair reads them aloud and calls for objections. If none, the directive is adopted. If there are objections, the committee may vote (simple majority) or the chair may rule it out of order.
Portfolio Powers
Each delegate has a portfolio that defines their role and specific powers. For example, in a historical US cabinet, the Secretary of State can issue diplomatic notes, while the Secretary of Defense can move military assets. These powers are usually listed in the background guide or provided by crisis staff.
Delegates must use their portfolio powers responsibly. Overstepping (e.g., a Secretary of State ordering a military strike) may be ruled out of order. Understanding your portfolio is key; see Understanding Country Policy and Stances for guidance on research (even for non-country roles).
Crisis Notes
Crisis notes are private messages from a delegate to the crisis staff. They can be used to request information, propose personal actions, or influence the scenario. Notes are typically written on paper or via an online platform (e.g., MUNity, Best Delegate).
Example crisis note: “To: Crisis Staff. From: Secretary of State. Action: I request a meeting with the Soviet Ambassador to discuss a peaceful resolution. I will offer a public pledge not to invade Cuba.”
Crisis staff will respond in writing, often with new information or consequences. Effective crisis notes can shape the entire committee. However, notes should be used sparingly; excessive or frivolous notes may be ignored.
Voting Procedure
Voting in crisis committees is simpler than in GA committees. Most directives are adopted by acclamation (no objections). If a vote is needed, it is usually a simple majority (50% + 1). The chair may call for a roll call vote on contentious directives.
Some committees use precedential voting: once a directive is adopted, it sets a precedent for future actions. Delegates should be aware of this when voting.
Role of the Chair and Crisis Staff
The chair manages debate, recognizes speakers, rules on points of order, and ensures rules are followed. The crisis staff (often a separate team) creates and manages the crisis scenario, responds to notes, and introduces updates. Good communication with both is essential.
For example, at HMUN 2024, the crisis staff for the “JFK Cabinet” committee had a dedicated note-answering team that responded within 5 minutes. This pace requires delegates to think and write quickly.
Common Rules and Terms
- Point of Order: A question about procedure (e.g., “Is it in order to issue a personal directive on this?”).
- Point of Information: A question to the speaker (usually not used in crisis; instead, use moderated caucus).
- Point of Personal Privilege: A request for personal comfort (e.g., “Can we have a break?”).
- Right of Reply: A response to a personal attack (rarely granted in crisis).
- Motion to Adjourn: Ends the committee session.
- Motion to Table: Postpones discussion on a directive.
Most conferences follow a variant of the Robert’s Rules of Order adapted for MUN. Always check the conference-specific rules of procedure.
Tips for Success in Crisis Committees
- Know your portfolio: Research your role’s powers and limitations. For example, as Minister of Finance, you can authorize spending but not declare war.
- Write clear directives: Use active voice and specific details. “The committee authorizes $10 million in aid to Venezuela” is better than “We should help Venezuela.”
- Use crisis notes strategically: Send notes to coordinate with allies, gather intelligence, or propose behind-the-scenes moves.
- Stay engaged: Crisis committees move fast; if you’re silent, you’ll be left behind.
- Collaborate: Joint directives are powerful. Build alliances early.
- Anticipate crises: Think ahead. If you’re the Secretary of Defense, have contingency plans ready.
For more on preparing your committee work, see Position Paper Structure and Outline (though position papers are less common in crisis, the research skills apply).
Conclusion
Crisis committee rules differ significantly from traditional MUN, but they offer a rewarding experience that tests your ability to think on your feet and collaborate under pressure. By mastering directives, portfolio powers, and crisis notes, you can excel in any crisis scenario. Remember to always check the specific rules of your conference, as variations exist. Good luck, and may your directives always pass!