RCMUN2016 Conference Code of Conduct
1. Purpose
The Model United Nations Conference is an academic simulation of the United Nations designed to promote diplomacy, critical thinking, global awareness, and respectful dialogue. This Code of Conduct establishes the expectations for all participants to ensure a safe, professional, and productive environment.
2. Applicability
This Code of Conduct applies to all individuals participating in the conference, including:
-
Delegates
-
Chairs and committee staff
-
Secretariat members
-
Advisors and teachers
-
Observers and guests
-
Organizing staff and volunteers
All participants are expected to uphold these standards during committee sessions, social events, and all official conference activities.
3. Professional Behaviour
Participants must behave in a manner consistent with the spirit of diplomacy and international cooperation.
Delegates are expected to:
-
Treat all participants with respect, courtesy, and professionalism.
-
Engage in constructive and civil debate, even when disagreements occur.
-
Follow all committee procedures and chair instructions.
-
Maintain academic integrity in speeches, position papers, and negotiations.
-
Dress according to the conference dress code (typically business or Western business attire unless otherwise specified).
Disruptive, disrespectful, or inappropriate behavior will not be tolerated.
4. Respect and Inclusion
The conference is committed to fostering an environment that values diversity and inclusion.
Participants must not engage in:
-
Discrimination based on race, nationality, gender, gender identity, religion, disability, or sexual orientation
-
Harassment or bullying
-
Offensive or degrading language
-
Personal attacks during debate
All delegates must focus criticism on policies and ideas, not individuals or groups.
5. Harassment and Misconduct
Harassment, intimidation, or any form of abusive behaviour is strictly prohibited.
Examples include:
-
Verbal harassment or insults
-
Unwanted physical contact
-
Threatening or intimidating behaviour
-
Persistent disruption of committee proceedings
Any participant who experiences or witnesses misconduct should report it immediately to a committee chair, staff member, or the Secretariat.
All reports will be treated confidentially and taken seriously.
6. Academic Integrity
Participants must maintain high standards of honesty and academic responsibility.
Prohibited actions include:
-
Plagiarism in position papers or speeches
-
Misrepresentation of sources
-
Cheating in awards processes or committee work
All research and written materials should properly acknowledge sources where applicable.
7. Compliance with Rules and Staff
Delegates must comply with:
-
The conference Rules of Procedure
-
Instructions from Chairs and Secretariat
-
Venue regulations and safety policies
Failure to follow these rules may result in disciplinary action.
8. Social Events and Safety
Participants must behave responsibly at all conference-related events.
The following are prohibited:
-
Possession or use of illegal substances
-
Underage alcohol consumption
-
Unsafe or disruptive conduct
-
Damage to conference venues or property
Participants are responsible for following local laws and venue regulations.
9. Disciplinary Measures
Violations of this Code of Conduct may result in one or more of the following actions:
-
Verbal warning
-
Removal from a committee session
-
Disqualification from awards
-
Removal from the conference
-
Notification of school advisors or institutions
Serious violations may lead to immediate dismissal from the conference.
10. Reporting Violations
Participants may report concerns to:
-
Committee Chairs
-
Crisis Directors
-
Secretariat Members
-
Conference Organising Team
Reports should include as much information as possible so the issue can be addressed promptly.
Retaliation against individuals who report violations is strictly prohibited.
11. Devices
Runnymede College is a smartphone-free school. Whilst delegates will, as is conventional, use devices for research and note taking purposes, we ask that this is on a laptop or tablet, or another such device befitting of a professional environment. Devices should not be used for recreational purposes during the course of the conference.
12. Agreement
By participating in the conference, all attendees agree to follow this Code of Conduct and contribute to a respectful and productive Model United Nations experience.
