So Conference is in 5 Days.... what is it going to look like??

As Conference approaches we wanted to give you all an idea of what it is going to look like in the hopes that this post answers some of your questions/concerns. 

Zoom

We ask that you turn your cameras on for the duration of Committee Sessions. If you are unable to do so, we ask that you let us know as soon as possible so that we may take note of this and not call on you to turn your cameras on.

Side-note: You may turn your camera off at your discretion, you do not have to ask to go to the restroom, and if you need to turn your camera off that is fine. However, if your camera is off for extended periods of time and you have not let us know we will ask you to turn the camera on.

We also ask you to make sure that your microphone is muted. We are a very large committee and having multiple microphones on will most likely be very distracting. 

Topics

We have four committee sessions spanning the three days. BMUN is a Conference where both topics are engaged, and resolutions are presented for both. We will be trying to split the time equally between topics, however, we may run over on one of them, and this is alright. We want to assure you that all the work you have put in to preparing will be put to use, and we have enjoyed reading all your position papers.

Dual Delegations 

ECOFIN is a Committee that is run with dual delegations. In person you would come up to the front to speak, on zoom we will be looking at you through a screen. We are not going to restrict nor constrain how you as a team decide to use your allocated speaking time. You may both speak, alternate, only one person speaks, what you think will work best for you. Something to keep in mind is that at BMUN we do value teamwork and equal participation among dual delegations. 

Speakers List and Moderated Caucuses

Once debate has been opened, BMUN reverts back to the Speakers List when there is no other motion on the floor. Throughout debate, there will be a projection of the Speakers List along with a timer. Due to the nature of virtual interactions, gavel tapping will not be happening as it would be very disruptive. We hope that by having the time on screen this allows you to self-pace and monitor your speaking time. 

Moderated Caucuses will also be conducted in the main room, and the list and order of speakers will be projected on your screens. 

Unmods

Unmoderated Caucuses are going to be conducted through Breakout rooms, so make sure you have the latest version of Zoom! We will have breakout rooms opened for the duration of unmods and you will be expected to self select yourself into a room, almost like you would in person. As a dual delegation, you are able to split up and visit different rooms, however, please note that you may only be a Sponsor on one resolution. 

If you have made it this far in the post,  Congrats and thank you! We hope that it has answered some of your questions. This is the first year we are conducting Conference online, and there is going to be a learning curve to get everything running optimally. We are going to be relying on you guys to let us know what is working and what is not. There will be a general feedback form made available to you throughout debate, and we ask that you share your thoughts so that we can improve and have the very best Conference we can!

We are very excited to see you all on Friday!