A UN resolution is a formal expression of the opinion or will of a UN body. Resolutions have a specific format and are published online once approved by the body to which they were submitted. Resolutions are often accompanied by decisions, which record procedural matters that have been agreed to by a given body without the need for a vote. Decisions are usually numbered and included in annual or sessional compilations of the body’s work.
Resolutions are divided into preambular clauses and operative clauses. The preambular clauses begin the resolution and are used to justify action, denote past authorizations for action, and/or describe a background context for the issue at hand. The operative clauses contain the actual policy statement, which is numbered and begins with a verb. The final operative clause ends with a period (full stop/period) and never starts with an adjective.
In addition to stating the policy of a particular body, resolutions can call for or suggest actions by member states. Security Council resolutions can also require action or sanctions by member states, but the Economic and Social Council and General Assembly resolutions may only call for or suggest action. Resolutions can also be amended through the use of proposed amendments.
While most Model UN conferences enshrine the value of voting over reaching consensus, it is essential that delegates learn about and navigate the process by which a resolution can be changed through the use of amendments. This way, delegates will understand that in the real world of the United Nations, the views of all Member States must be considered and compromises made to find common ground.