Ever feel strongly about an issue but unsure how to make your voice heard effectively? Policy change rarely happens by accident. More often than not, it's the result of carefully crafted arguments and well-defined proposals that galvanize support and pave the way for action. Drafting a resolution is a powerful tool that allows you to formally propose a solution, influence decision-makers, and mobilize others to advocate for your cause.
Whether you're a student involved in Model UN, an activist working on a local campaign, or a concerned citizen passionate about a particular issue, understanding how to draft a resolution is an invaluable skill. A strong resolution can sway votes, initiate meaningful dialogue, and ultimately lead to real-world impact. It provides a clear roadmap for change and empowers you to become a more effective advocate for the things you believe in. A clearly written resolution is a critical step in taking action.
What are the key steps to drafting a successful resolution?
What's the best way to structure the clauses in a resolution?
The best way to structure the clauses in a resolution is to use a two-part approach: first, *preambulatory clauses* which set the context and justify the resolution, followed by *operative clauses* which outline the actions to be taken. This structure provides a clear and logical flow, moving from the reasons for the resolution to the specific steps being proposed.
Preambulatory clauses, often beginning with words like "Noting," "Recognizing," "Affirming," or "Aware of," introduce the problem and build the case for the resolution. These clauses cite past actions, relevant international laws or agreements, and important facts or statistics. They should create a sense of urgency and demonstrate the need for the operative clauses that follow. Strong preambulatory clauses are vital for persuading others to support the resolution, as they provide the rationale and context for the proposed actions.
Operative clauses, using action verbs like "Urges," "Requests," "Calls upon," or "Decides," clearly state the actions that the resolution intends to implement. These clauses are numbered and should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). Each operative clause should focus on a single action and be written in a way that is easy to understand and implement. The order of the operative clauses should reflect their importance and logical sequence, starting with the most critical actions and moving to supporting measures.
How do I write effective "resolved" clauses that are actionable?
Effective "resolved" clauses are the action items of your resolution, so they must be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). Use strong action verbs, clearly identify who is responsible for taking action, and specify the desired outcome or deliverable. Avoid vague language and ensure the clause is realistically achievable within the given timeframe and resources.
To ensure your "resolved" clauses are actionable, start by clearly defining the problem the resolution addresses. This provides context for the actions you're proposing. Then, brainstorm potential solutions and translate them into concrete steps. For each step, ask yourself: Who will do this? What exactly will they do? When will they do it by? How will we know if they've succeeded? The answers to these questions should form the basis of your "resolved" clause. For instance, instead of saying "Resolved, that we should improve communication," say "Resolved, that the Communications Committee shall develop and implement a social media strategy, including a content calendar and posting schedule, by December 31st, to increase engagement with members."
Consider the resources needed to implement each "resolved" clause. Does it require funding, personnel, or specific expertise? If so, explicitly mention how these resources will be allocated or acquired. It's also helpful to prioritize your "resolved" clauses, focusing on the most impactful actions first. If multiple actions depend on each other, sequence them logically. Finally, review your clauses to ensure they align with the overall goal of the resolution and are free of ambiguity. Well-crafted "resolved" clauses translate good intentions into tangible results.
What resources can help me research and find supporting evidence for your resolution?
A variety of resources can aid in researching and finding supporting evidence for your resolution, including academic databases, government reports, reputable news outlets, organizational websites, and expert interviews. The specific sources that will be most helpful depend on the topic of your resolution and the type of evidence you need to support your claims.
Expanding on this, when crafting a resolution, it’s crucial to ground your arguments in credible and verifiable information. Start with academic databases like JSTOR, ProQuest, and Google Scholar for scholarly articles and research papers that provide in-depth analysis and empirical data related to your resolution's subject matter. Government websites (e.g., the U.S. Government Printing Office (GPO), the United Nations website, or websites of relevant ministries) often contain valuable statistics, reports, and policy documents. Reputable news outlets, such as *The New York Times*, *The Wall Street Journal*, *Reuters*, and *Associated Press*, offer current and well-researched reporting on contemporary issues. Furthermore, explore the websites of organizations directly involved in or affected by the issue you're addressing. These could include non-governmental organizations (NGOs), advocacy groups, think tanks, and professional associations. These organizations often publish reports, position papers, and data relevant to their missions. Finally, don't underestimate the value of expert opinions. Consider conducting interviews with academics, practitioners, or individuals with firsthand experience related to the topic. While interviews don't provide citable evidence in the same way a published article does, they can offer valuable insights and perspectives that can inform your research and strengthen your arguments. Remember to critically evaluate all sources, considering their potential biases and the methodology used to generate the information.How can I tailor the language of a resolution for a specific audience or forum?
Tailoring the language of a resolution requires adapting your vocabulary, tone, level of formality, and supporting evidence to resonate with the specific audience and the norms of the forum where it will be presented. This involves understanding the audience's prior knowledge, biases, and preferred communication styles, as well as the forum's formal rules and precedents.
To effectively tailor your language, first analyze your audience. Are they experts in the field, or are they a general audience? Use technical jargon sparingly if your audience is unfamiliar with the subject matter, and instead, opt for clear, accessible language. If addressing a group with known biases, carefully frame your arguments to anticipate and address their concerns. Consider the cultural background and values of your audience, and avoid language that could be offensive or misunderstood. For example, in a diplomatic setting, emphasize collaboration and mutual benefit, while in an activist setting, stronger, more assertive language may be appropriate. Next, research the specific forum's rules and precedents for resolutions. Some forums require highly formal language and strict adherence to parliamentary procedure, while others are more flexible. Review past resolutions passed in that forum to understand the prevailing style and tone. Certain forums may prioritize concise and direct language, whereas others value detailed explanations and extensive evidence. Pay attention to accepted terminology and phrasing within the forum. By adapting your language to fit the context, you increase the likelihood of your resolution being well-received and ultimately adopted. For example, if your resolution is being presented to a scientific organization, use precise, evidence-based language and cite relevant research. If it's being presented to a legislative body, understand the specific terminology of laws and regulations and refer to similar legislation that may have passed in the past.What's the difference between operative and preambulatory clauses, and when should I use each?
Operative clauses are the action-oriented part of a resolution, outlining what you want to *do* or what you are *requesting* to be done. Preambulatory clauses, on the other hand, provide the context and justification for those actions, explaining *why* the operative clauses are necessary by stating relevant facts, prior actions, and underlying principles.
Preambulatory clauses establish the rationale and set the stage for the operative clauses. Think of them as building the argument. Each "whereas" clause (as they are commonly introduced) provides a specific reason or piece of background information that supports the actions you are proposing. They can cite past resolutions, acknowledge relevant international agreements, highlight specific problems or concerns, or commend positive developments. Effective preambulatory clauses create a logical flow that makes the operative clauses seem both necessary and reasonable. They answer the question: "Why are we even discussing this?" Operative clauses are the core of the resolution. They clearly and concisely state what actions you are proposing the relevant body or organization should take. These clauses should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART), whenever possible. Avoid vague or ambiguous language that could lead to misinterpretation. Each clause should address a distinct action or request, building on the foundation laid by the preambulatory clauses. They directly answer the question: "What are we going to do about it?". Using strong action verbs is key to making your resolution compelling. In summary, preambulatory clauses explain *why* something needs to be done, while operative clauses dictate *what* needs to be done. Use preambulatory clauses to provide context, justification, and a sense of urgency. Use operative clauses to outline concrete, actionable steps. The preambulatory clauses lead logically to, and directly support, the operative clauses.How do I ensure a resolution is realistic and achievable given limited resources?
To ensure your resolution is realistic and achievable with limited resources, focus on setting specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals, thoroughly assess available resources and potential funding sources, prioritize the most impactful actions within your resource constraints, and clearly outline a practical implementation plan with realistic timelines and measurable outcomes.
Realism begins with a frank assessment of what's truly possible. Avoid grandiose ambitions that require significant funding or extensive infrastructure beyond your reach. Instead, break down the problem into smaller, manageable components. Ask yourself: What is the most pressing issue we can address right now with the resources we have or can reasonably acquire? For instance, instead of aiming to eradicate poverty, a more realistic resolution might focus on improving access to a specific job training program for a defined group within a particular timeframe. Thorough research into existing programs, partnerships, and funding opportunities is crucial. Explore collaborative efforts with other organizations or leveraging existing infrastructure to maximize impact without duplicating resources.
The implementation plan should detail precisely how the resolution will be put into action. This includes assigning responsibilities, outlining timelines, and establishing clear metrics for success. If funding is limited, consider phased implementation, prioritizing the most essential elements first. For example, if the resolution involves implementing a new educational program, the first phase might involve piloting the program in a single location to assess its effectiveness and identify areas for improvement before expanding it. This iterative approach allows you to adapt and refine the resolution based on real-world feedback and resource availability. Furthermore, the resolution should explicitly address how progress will be monitored and evaluated, using readily available data sources and cost-effective evaluation methods.
What are some strategies for gaining support and co-sponsors for my resolution?
Gaining support and co-sponsors for your resolution requires proactive engagement, persuasive communication, and strategic relationship building. Focus on identifying key stakeholders, clearly articulating the resolution's benefits, addressing potential concerns, and being open to collaboration and compromise.
To begin, thoroughly research the individuals or groups whose support is crucial for the resolution's success. Understand their priorities, concerns, and past positions on related issues. Tailor your communication to resonate with their specific perspectives, highlighting how the resolution aligns with their goals. Present your resolution as a solution to a shared problem and demonstrate the positive impact it will have on the broader community. Furthermore, schedule individual meetings with potential supporters and co-sponsors. Use these meetings to explain the resolution in detail, answer their questions, and address any reservations they may have. Be receptive to feedback and willing to modify the resolution to accommodate legitimate concerns. Building a coalition involves compromise and a willingness to find common ground. Finally, create a clear and concise summary of the resolution, including its key provisions and anticipated outcomes. Distribute this summary widely to inform and educate potential supporters. Follow up with individuals and groups to answer questions and reiterate your request for their support.And that's the gist of it! Drafting a resolution might seem a little daunting at first, but hopefully, this guide has made the process a bit clearer. Thanks for taking the time to read through it, and good luck with your future resolutions! We hope you'll come back and check out our other guides soon.