Policies

Technology

BearMUN acknowledges technology's importance for research and learning but prohibits its improper use in committee to maintain fairness. Delegates must refrain from using technology for additional research and are encouraged to bring written notes. Cell phone usage is discouraged. Technology access varies by committee type:

1. GA Committees: Laptops are allowed for working papers and resolutions during unmoderated caucuses.

2. Crisis Committees and Specialized Bodies: No technology use; all research and documents must be physical.

Violations will result in penalties determined by the severity of the offense. Contact your committee chair with any concerns.

Position Papers

BearMUN does not require delegates to write position papers, nor will we accept them if written. For this reason, BearMUN also does not grant Best Research awards. However, delegates are still expected to thoroughly research their given allocation and topic in order to actively participate in debate, especially for General Assembly committees. This includes, but should not be limited to, the background guide posted for each committee.

Awards

BearMUN awards recognize exceptional diplomacy, creativity, and engagement in Model UN. Each committee grants Best Delegate, Outstanding Delegate, Honorable Mention, and Verbal Commendation awards based on size. Staffers assess delegates impartially, considering factors like collaboration, creativity, and contribution. Position papers are unnecessary. Delegation awards are given based on the cumulative performance of delegates, with distinctions between small and large delegations. Awards are permanent unless conference policy violations occur, leading to revocation.

Harassment

BearMUN maintains a safe environment by strictly prohibiting all forms of harassment and discrimination, including but not limited to race, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, religion, and disability. We are committed to fostering a respectful and inclusive environment for all delegates. This policy applies both in-character and out-of-character. Delegates can report concerns to their chair, crisis director, USG, or secretariat. Violators will face proportional reprimand or punishment determined by the BearMUN Secretariat. We thank all delegates for upholding our values and maintaining a commitment to professionalism and respect in order to make our conference an enriching experience for all.

Plagiarism

BearMUN strictly prohibits the use of pre-written clauses in committee sessions. Delegates must draft all substantive material during committee hours and may not delete clauses without the author's permission. Props are allowed but not considered for awards. To report suspected violations, contact your committee chair. BearMUN reserves the right to investigate claims and will penalize offenders based on the severity of the violation.

Clause Writing

BearMUN strictly prohibits the use of pre-written clauses in committee sessions. Delegates must draft all substantive material during committee hours and may not delete clauses without the author's permission. Props are allowed but not considered for awards. To report suspected violations, contact your committee chair. BearMUN reserves the right to investigate claims and will penalize offenders based on the severity of the violation.

Land Acknowledgment

We acknowledge that the land on which UC Berkeley, and our conference, stand is the territory of the Ohlone people, the successors of the sovereign Verona Band of Alameda County. This land was and continues to be of great importance to the Ohlone people, who have stewarded it throughout generations. We recognize that Berkeley occupies their ancestral and unceded territory, and we pay our respects to the Ohlone community and their elders both past and present. We affirm their ongoing connection to this land, which remains vital to their identity, culture, and community. To learn more about the Ohlone people please visit https://cejce.berkeley.edu/ohloneland or https://www.muwekma.org/.