TMF Guides · Model UN
Moderated Caucus: The Format That Decides Most MUN Committees
A moderated caucus is a structured debate block where the chair calls on delegates one at a time on a specific sub-topic, for a fixed speaking time, over a fixed total duration. More committee time is spent in moderated caucus than in any other format, which makes it the single highest-leverage skill for a delegate.
How a moderated caucus is raised
A delegate raises a motion for a moderated caucus by stating three things: the total time, the individual speaking time, and the topic. For example: "Motion for a moderated caucus of 10 minutes, with an individual speaking time of 60 seconds, on the topic of enforcement mechanisms."
Total time must divide cleanly by speaking time. If two motions are on the floor, the committee votes and the longer or more disruptive motion is usually voted on first, depending on the rules of procedure in use.
How to actually win a moderated caucus
The delegate who sets the topic controls the debate. If your motion passes, the entire committee spends the next ten minutes arguing on ground you chose — that alone is worth more than three well-delivered speeches.
Inside the caucus, name other delegations. Referencing a specific country's earlier point and either building on it or dismantling it signals to the chair that you are listening, not reciting.
- Raise motions early and often — chairs remember who moves committee forward.
- Keep a 45-second and a 90-second version of every argument ready.
- End each speech with a concrete proposal, not a summary.
- Yield remaining time to questions only when your position is strong.
Common mistakes
Delegates repeat their opening statement in every caucus. By the third block the chair has stopped hearing you.
The other frequent error is proposing topics that are too broad. "On the topic of the agenda" wastes a motion; "on the topic of funding the verification body" wins one.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a moderated and unmoderated caucus?
In a moderated caucus the chair recognises speakers one at a time on a set sub-topic. In an unmoderated caucus the formal rules are suspended and delegates move around the room to negotiate and draft freely.
How long is a typical moderated caucus?
Most run between 8 and 15 minutes total, with 45 to 90 seconds of individual speaking time.
Can you raise a moderated caucus at any time?
Only when the floor is open — usually after a speech from the general speakers' list concludes or after a previous caucus ends.
Keep reading
Unmoderated Caucus: Where MUN Committees Are Really Decided
How unmoderated caucus works in a MUN committee, how blocs form, how working papers get drafted, and how to avoid wasting the most important twenty minutes of committee.
MUN Rules of Procedure, In the Order You'll Use Them
The complete MUN rules of procedure in order of use — roll call, speakers' list, motions, points of order and inquiry, yields, and voting procedure.
The MUN Opening Speech
How to write and deliver a MUN opening speech — the 60 and 90 second structures, how to open, what to include, and how to end so the committee remembers you.
Put it into practice
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