Winning the Outstanding Delegate Award (ODA) is a top goal for many Model United Nations participants. Unlike the Best Delegate award, which often goes to the most dominant speaker, the ODA recognizes consistent excellence across research, diplomacy, negotiation, and document drafting. This article outlines concrete strategies—from pre-conference preparation to final gavel—that can elevate your performance and impress the dais. For a broader overview of MUN success, see our complete guide to Model United Nations.
1. Master Pre-Conference Research
Thorough research is the foundation of any award-winning performance. Judges expect delegates to know their country’s policy, the committee agenda, and the key stakeholders. Begin at least three weeks before the conference.
1.1 Country Policy and Stances
Read your country’s official statements from the UN General Assembly, Security Council, and relevant treaties. For example, if you represent France, study its positions on climate change (Paris Agreement), nuclear non-proliferation, and EU integration. Use the country research template to organize findings.
1.2 Committee and Topic Analysis
Understand the committee’s mandate and past resolutions. For the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), review UNEP reports and resolutions on plastic pollution. Identify which countries are allies, opponents, and non-aligned. The guide to reliable sources can help you find UN documents, think tank analyses, and news articles.
1.3 Writing a Strong Position Paper
Many conferences require a position paper, which is often scored for awards. Follow the standard structure: background, country policy, proposed solutions, and references. Submit it on time—late papers may disqualify you. For concrete examples, see position paper examples and avoid common mistakes like vague language or lack of citations.
2. Effective Caucusing and Bloc Building
The ODA rewards delegates who collaborate and lead without dominating. Caucusing is where you build alliances and draft resolutions.
2.1 Formal vs. Informal Caucus
In moderated caucus, make short, substantive speeches (30-45 seconds). State your position and propose a concrete clause. In unmoderated caucus, move around the room, introduce yourself, and ask other delegates about their priorities. Aim to join or form a bloc of 5-8 countries with shared interests.
2.2 Listening and Note Passing
Active listening shows respect and helps you find compromise. Take notes on other delegates’ points. Pass notes to the dais only when necessary—excessive note-passing can be seen as disruptive. Use notes to coordinate with your bloc outside of caucus time.
2.3 Leadership Without Arrogance
Offer to merge clauses from different draft resolutions. If you become a main submitter, ensure your co-authors feel included. Acknowledge contributions publicly: “I’d like to thank the delegate of Germany for that excellent clause on technology transfer.”
3. Resolution Writing and Sponsorship
Resolutions are the core product of most committees. Outstanding delegates contribute substantially to the final document.
3.1 Drafting Operative Clauses
Operative clauses should be actionable, funded, and realistic. Use verbs like “calls upon,” “requests,” “establishes.” Avoid vague language. For example, instead of “encourages cooperation,” write “establishes a voluntary fund of $50 million, administered by UNDP, to support technology transfer to developing states.”
3.2 Merging and Amending
During caucus, merge your clauses with those of other blocs. Be flexible—accept changes that improve the resolution. If you disagree, propose a friendly amendment. If a bloc refuses to merge, consider writing a competing resolution, but aim for unity.
3.3 Becoming a Sponsor or Signatory
Being a sponsor (main submitter) carries more weight, but you must actively defend the resolution. Signatories only support debate. For the ODA, being a sponsor of a passed resolution is a strong plus. If your resolution fails, you can still earn points for your effort—judges note constructive participation.
4. Public Speaking and Diplomacy
ODA winners are articulate and persuasive, but not aggressive. Their tone is diplomatic, their arguments logical.
4.1 Speeches
In formal debate, open with a hook: “The Amazon is burning, and our committee must act.” State your country’s position, propose a solution, and invite collaboration. Use the three-part structure: problem, policy, proposal. Keep within time—running over annoys the dais.
4.2 Points and Motions
Use points of information to ask sharp, respectful questions. Example: “Does the delegate of China have evidence that their proposed technology fund will be voluntary, not mandatory?” Raise points of order only for genuine procedural errors. Use motions to set the agenda or extend caucus time—showing you understand procedure.
4.3 Handling Conflict
If another delegate attacks your country, respond with facts, not emotion. Say, “My delegation understands the concern, but our national circumstances require a phased approach.” Avoid personal insults. The dais penalizes unprofessional behavior.
5. Crisis Committees (If Applicable)
In crisis committees, the ODA criteria shift: quick thinking, adaptability, and directive writing are key. For specific rules, see our crisis committee guide.
5.1 Directives and Updates
Write directives that are specific and plausible. For example, “Direct the Joint Chiefs to deploy two carrier strike groups to the South China Sea within 48 hours.” Use the crisis note system to communicate with other delegates and the crisis staff.
5.2 Managing Multiple Fronts
Track the crisis updates and adjust your strategy. If a new crisis emerges (e.g., a terrorist attack), propose a rapid response. Stay active in both public and private channels.
6. The Final Stretch: Lobbying and Awards
In the last hour, focus on passing a resolution and making a final impression.
6.1 Closing Statements
Many conferences allow a closing speech. Summarize your committee’s achievements, thank allies, and highlight the importance of the topic. Avoid blaming opponents. Example: “We have built a consensus that balances development and environmental protection. I am proud of our work.”
6.2 Awards Criteria
Judges typically evaluate: research and preparation (25%), diplomacy and cooperation (25%), public speaking (20%), resolution writing (20%), and leadership (10%). The ODA often goes to delegates who excel in all areas without being the loudest. For more details, read what judges look for.
6.3 Networking After the Conference
Exchange contact information with other delegates and the dais. Many conferences have social events. Being remembered positively can help if awards are decided after the session.
7. Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Over-participation: Speaking too often can annoy the dais. Quality over quantity.
- Ignoring procedure: Failing to yield time or making out-of-order motions wastes time.
- Being inflexible: Refusing to compromise on clauses can isolate you.
- Poor time management: Not finishing your position paper or resolution on time.
- Neglecting dress code: Western business attire is standard; wrinkled suits or casual shoes hurt your image.
Remember, the ODA is not about winning at all costs—it’s about being a model diplomat. For beginners, start with conferences for beginners and gradually build your skills. With dedication and these strategies, you can earn that gavel.