Secretary

Before the conference

During the preparation phase, the Secretaries will assist the chairpersons as required on an ad hoc basis. This may include research and updates for study guides and country positions for the delegates of their respective committee. If required by the circumstances, Secretaries will be called upon to liaise between the Chairpersons and the Geneva-based organizational team. 

Secretaries will take part during the preparation sessions which are addressed to them one week prior to the conference. There, they make themselves familiar with the organization of the secretariat and their work as secretaries.

During the conference

Secretaries are part of the Secretariat which consists of the Chief of Staff, six secretaries (one for each committee) and the team of translators and interpreters. The secretaries assist the chairpersons of the committees that they are appointed to, especially by helping with resolutions, and in general, the conduct and logistical support of the committee. Moreover, they keep the Chief of Staff informed about the work and the progress of resolutions in committees.

The Secretaries might also be asked to assist one of the Secretaries-General or to temporarily replace an absent delegate or chairperson in a committee. The Secretariat organises press conferences and makes sure that everything is working properly "behind the scenes". Secretaries therefore take care of the well-being of delegates and interpreters. A proficient communication with the Secretariat is crucial for the good functioning of the model. In order to carry out their work efficiently, the Secretaries must be at ease with English and French and have a strong grasp of the Rules of Procedure and the topics under discussion in their committee.