TMF Guides · Model UN
The MUN Agenda and How Committees Set It
The agenda is the topic a committee debates. When a committee is given two topics, the first substantive fight of the conference is over which one is debated first — and that fight is often decided in the first fifteen minutes.
What an agenda is
An agenda is a single question phrased for debate, usually starting with a gerund: "Addressing the militarisation of outer space" or "Deliberating upon electoral reform in India".
It is published in advance with a background guide so delegates can research before the conference.
Agenda setting procedure
Where two topics exist, a delegate motions to set the agenda to one of them. A speakers' list forms for and against, and the committee votes.
Winning the vote matters: the second topic frequently never gets debated at all.
The agenda-setting speech
Argue urgency and tractability, not importance. Every topic is important; you need to show yours is time-sensitive and solvable in this committee.
Speaking first in agenda setting is one of the cheapest ways to be noticed by the dais.
Frequently asked questions
What is an agenda in MUN?
The specific topic a committee debates, published in advance with a background guide.
How is the agenda set?
A delegate motions to set the agenda to one topic, a for-and-against speakers' list is heard, and the committee votes.
Does every committee vote on the agenda?
Only committees given two or more topics. Single-agenda committees skip straight to the general speakers' list.
Keep reading
MUN Topics and Agendas Worth Debating
Strong MUN agenda ideas across UN, Indian and crisis committees — with guidance on what makes an agenda debatable rather than one-sided.
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
The MUN Factory 3.0 — registrations open
Fifteen committees across UN, Indian, Special and Event formats. Individual and delegation tracks, with tiered discounts from five delegates.