Gothia Handels- og Sjøfartstidning :: News and Business from the North

[Jydsken-Østveg]

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COUNTING STARS
Wishing for more relevance the Government prioritizes foreign policy

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Foreign Minister Maren Tilde Hegerberg during her October election campaign (Social Liberal)[/DIV]​

[GØTHEHAVN] — It is just after four in the morning when Foreign Minister Hegerberg launches her newest dream organization through a diplomatic text for all the world to see. The text concerns the Government’s self-described, and self-analyzed errors of the Lord and Lady Peace Estate crisis to which what they have described as a Permanent Conference would help the ills of the world. She may be right.

Yet despite how right she might be, it is also entirely possible that it does not matter at all. Being correct does not necessarily mean that you will be followed. Far from, instead the psychotic nations which inhabit much of Europe will scurry away from the World Permanent Conference. No nation wishes to have to explain itself in front of diplomats from over 40 different nations. The recent crisis alone found Engellkin diplomats rushing about trying to explain away the world’s outrage. The imagery of that happening in real time in an auditorium in Gothenhagen would be embarrassing.

Despite the imagery of calamity, the Engellexic world would be doing the communists and dictators a favor by not signing up. This would be a clear indication to these states that the Engellexic world does not wish to take responsibly for the events of the world anymore than the communists and dictators do. In turn, the playing field of international politics would be level. What difference is Ivar explaining away an inconvenience from an ivory tower when every other nation in Europe would do the same?

The current diplomatic stance from Gothenhagen and from Miss Hegerberg is that eventually Europe will come to see the benefits of such a forum. Prime Minister Olsen is expected to speak at an as of yet to be announced opening ceremony, and Jysk-Austwegian diplomats and security will staff the campus and main building regardless of who shows up.

Government officials have not been available for comment however if Miss Hegerberg is wrong. If the errors of the prior crisis had nothing to do with diplomacy and everything to do with international inaction then collective inaction in person does not serve much purpose other than a fine country club for the international elite. Merely a backdrop of politics for the power hungry and money grubbing frauds and cheats of Europe. Perhaps a banking coup for the major banks based in Gothenhagen. Although it would not seem to be the intention of the Government to instigate such affairs.

Either way, a World Permanent Conference is something commendable. Jysk-Austwegian brilliance and daring all in one collective attempt. Clearly something impactful that Nords can wave their flags with in pride knowing that they put forward the ideas that attempt to make the world a better place. Even still, it is a good thing the Government did not make promises and campaign on such attempts. ■​

 

[Justosia]

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Lyon Industries
​

Proper Governmental Designate,

Greetings. I am Alvaro Castro. I am CEO of Lyon Industries. We are the largest arms corporation in the Great Southern Kingdom of Justosia.

It has come to our attention that your 2 Kingdoms is actively searching for an arms supplier. We just have began sales internationale. Our selection ranges from knives, to the recently decommissioned Talon Mach I fighter/bomber.

If interested please lodge a communique generale with our Avalon office. Thank you.

-End transmission-​

 

[Jydsken-Østveg]

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FEMINIST ADVANCES ON THE INTERNATIONAL SCENE
A Twatter posting craze and a life’s low point turned to int’l celebrity

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Freelance journalist Marit Austrheim Engeli[/DIV]​

[WALDEMARSUDDE, Østveg] — It started by chasing a story in Justosia and having one of the most terrifying experiences a woman can imagine. Her story of misfortune has now turned her into a celebrity. We interviewed Marit Austrheim Engeli after a “Women in Journalism” event in her current home city of Waldemarsudde.

GHS: “Hello, Marit! Thank you so much for visiting with us today. I know that you have worked for Gothia before, and unfortunately agreed to report a story for us when the unthinkable happened. Do you mind saying anything on the subject?”

Marit: “Thank you for having me. Yes, certainly. Well, I think this is what goes through the mind of every woman. We always have to some kind of mental imagery of what to do if a violent man appears. We clutch our keys, carry an illegally concealed weapon like bear mace in our purse, something, anything to try to defend ourselves. It’s a pity, we grow up ignorant and about the age of 13 or 14 the world changes. Some of us younger, and it’s such a tragedy to have your childhood taken you from that. —but that’s what happened to me in Avalon. I let my guard down, I was focused on a story. I packed my bag and wanted to leave a cafe and then it happened.”

GHS: “We’re sorry that it did. You mention the circumstance of being a woman in modern society, do you think it is different in Justosia than it is in say the Two Kingdoms?”

Marit: “I don’t want to make assumptions on any place. There are bad people everywhere, just as there are good people everywhere. I think Jysk-Austwegian culture lends itself to a belief in the abilities and freedoms of women more so than other places, but that does not mean you are safe from being assaulted. Rape occurs in the Two Kingdoms too. However, I do think we have more progressive laws on the subject. For example, my case in Avalon is likely to be dismissed as harassment, as there was no penetration, so to say. In the Two Kingdoms, my case is considered rape, and I make sure to let women know that even touching without consent is not ok.”

GHS: “There have been stories now with Miss Harris the Ambassador to Justosia even feeling threatened. Are you telling me there is not something wrong in Justosia?”

Marit: “No, no, I don’t wish to make it seem like the experience of Miss Harris is acceptable, or just normal in Justosia either. There is a problem there, so much so that this question comes up in relation to their country again in such a short span of time. I don’t wish to speculate on what may have made Miss Harris feel uncomfortable, but I do believe there is a certain problem within Justosian culture with regards to respect towards the body of other women. I wouldn’t speculate on what creates this problem though. I’m sure ladies like Alice Makeba have their own theories, but I don’t find that particularly good for me to recklessly spout theories. I’m a journalist, I need to respect a degree of impartiality for my career.”

GHS: “Of course, and this type of professional integrity is appreciated by Gothia. You mentioned, Alice Makeba. You and her have been invited to Ostmark to speak on the issue of feminism. Do you plan to go to Ostmark? Despite the stories that have come in the AP and EPA about the conditions there? Is that acceptable?”

Marit: “Well, again I can’t say one thing or another about Ostmark. I have never been there, and I don’t feel qualified to critique their country. I’m honored that they have invited me to their conference and it’s an important topic. If I can serve as some sort of ambassador to help women around the world I’d be honored.”

GHS: “Despite the claims of human rights abuses there?”

Marit: “I believe that’s also an important issue, but I can’t help or change that from where I’m sitting. I’ll be the best ambassador I can for the Two Kingdoms and hope that with further dialogue a lot of our problems around the world can be solved.”

GHS: “So you’ll accept the invitation?”

Marit: “Yes, I plan to accept the invitation.”

GHS: “Well, thank you for your time Marit, I certainly hope you enjoy your time in Ostmark and please stay safe.”

Marit: “Thank you so much for speaking with me.” ■​

 

[Jydsken-Østveg]

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Christmas Demonstration
Protesters brave -1°C temperatures to argue for more representation

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Lotta Folkesson speaks to the Protestors[/DIV]​

[WALDEMARSUDDE, Østveg] — While it has not been a bad year, economically it has not been a great year either. Nowhere is this felt most than in Eastern Østveg, where peaceful protests marches broke out among citizens in Waldemarsudde, well known as one of the largest hubs of the Gothic Sea. While temperatures are brisk at -1°C, a march began from the Gothic Sea, and another from the direction of the Lake. Meeting at city hall, speakers gave their demands.

Waldemarsudde is known to have a great deal of income inequality, with many who have gained a great deal of wealth from the trade that goes through the city, and others who often struggle to make payments for expensive rents and food.

While Western Østveg prospers on petroleum based products, and Jyskerige is the center of a great deal of the nation’s banking and international trade, Eastern Østveg has struggled to prosper with the Two Kingdoms’ liberal trading laws. Liberalism has opened up the Two Kingdoms’ to cheaper imports from many places, and although Jysk-Austwegian markets are not wholly open, this has put strain on the manufacturing industry in Eastern Østveg which struggles to compete at times with Marklandic imports, especially from Sylvania and Beautancus.

The protestors are not demanding their jobs back, but instead demanding better welfare, and better representation. They ask for their own individual national division, separating from Nidaros, the capital of Østveg.

One of the leaders of the Christmas March is Lotta Folkesson, who spoke towards the already existing divisions. “The Jarldoms already exist! East Austwegian Jarldoms are different from West Austwegian, we need our own Parliament, and we need better control of our own taxes, and our own expenditures!”

The Jarldoms are the last parts of the old nobility system that existed prior to the 1828 collapse of the Great Northern Empire. The smaller provinces of Østveg in that era had their Jarls represent them in Parliament. Today the Jarls are merely figureheads, or in some cases vacant, as Queen Katrine Frederikke, much like her father, Carl Frederick VI, has not appointed new Jarls. ■​

 

[Jydsken-Østveg]

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World Permanent Congress Faces First Hurdle
Initial membership questions hamper opening over World Zionist Congress

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Samuel Goldbaum of the World Zionist Congress greeting onlookers and supporters[/DIV]​

[NIDAROS, Østveg] — The World Permanent Conference (Den Faste Verdenskonference), known as FV within Jyskerige-Østveg, and the WPC around the world, is scheduled to open in the near future with estimates figuring that January is prime for its opening ceremony. Despite this, an initial problem has been found in how the WPC is scheduled to operate and admit members. The World Zionist Congress has applied for membership on the basis that it considers itself a nation. This has drawn a rebuke from Pelasgia, which struggles with what it calls Zionist terrorism on the basis that the city of Jerusalem exists within its territory. The conflict is strained enough that Pelasgia would refuse to join the WPC should the World Zionist Congress be admitted.

The basis of the application and the question lay within the terminology of the WPC’s charter document of sorts. The exact wording uses only the word nation, like such: “Due to the neutrality held by the Two Kingdoms of Jyskerige and Østveg, all nations and missions from around the world are allowed to be in attendance.”

GHS asked the office of Lars Møller the President of the WPC Committee why it was phrased so vaguely. He responded personally, “To be honest, the initial documentation was drafted vaguely because of two major reasons. First, we wanted to be able to include those who may deem themselves anti-states. Our feeling was that should we specifically utilize the term nation-state, we would bar a great deal of important political players across the globe. The Anti-State based in Touzen specifically was an entity that we did not want to exclude. Naturally this more or less included our neighbors in Pohjanmaa which might be sour on the term nation-state. Secondly, we felt transparency and inclusiveness would be paramount to the success of this body. We decided to keep the administration of the executive in our hands, and that will allow us to fairly work to solve this problem. Something that would gridlock an executive that would be political if composed of multiple nationals. That said, it is my sincerest hope that in the future the executive could take on nationals from countries that are willing to forget their nationalist tendencies, and embark on a more neutral stance of affairs.”

The WPC Committee, which was appointed by the Austwegian Parliament must now decide how to deal with the question of membership of nations, which may not be states, as a nation may constitute merely a community of people based on religion, language, culture, or customs. Politics and territory, do not always apply to a nation. That said, there are a great deal of controversial nations that exist across the globe. Many of which argue and fight with the states that govern them.

Lars Møller must now work hard to figure out how best to answer the question. In fact, this question has taken such precedence that no opening ceremony date has been scheduled yet, although it is widely expected to begin in January or February at the latest.

How might Møller and the WPC Committee determine what should be done? Various suggestions and theories have spread that a nation such as those which are represented within the World Zionist Congress may be admitted conditionally, without voting rights. How the WPC Committee would achieve this without arbitrary decision making on each application is important to consider, as a wrong choice could easily destroy the entire endeavor by removing the WPC’s neutral premise.

Many in Gøthehavn circles are not happy with this compromise though. They believe that all nations should be admitted regardless, and feel the Pelasgian ultimatum is another test of Jysk-Austwegian neutrality. In fact some rumors suggest that many in high government positions are rightfully angered by the Pelasgian stance. A minister of the Government saying anonymously, “The Pelasgians are merely trying to destroy the project before it gets off the ground. If they don’t want to speak at the FV (WPC), then they cede the premier voice to matters that concern Jerusalem to the Zionists. Pelasgia needs to be part of the FV more than the FV needs Pelasgia.”

Those in the Austwegian Parliament, which supervises the WPC Committee believe otherwise. “We cannot allow every rebel movement membership and full rights. There must be a system which dictates what is allowed. You can see there are many nations within the Two Kingdoms, and should we have each of them within the WPC there would be chaos, and perhaps a rigging of votes,” suggested Erik af Ugglas.

The WPC Committee hopes to reach a conclusion soon, but until then, more non-controversial members of the WPC continue to grow in rank, a positive sign for the project. ■​

 

[Jydsken-Østveg]

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Romance of the Three Kingdoms?
East Austwegian protesters urge the creation a third kingdom of the realm

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Lotta Folkesson hooked up on Austwegian Radio for questions during a Protest Town Hall meeting[/DIV]​

[WALDEMARSUDDE, Østveg] — Waldemarsudde has continued to hold sporadic protests and rallies throughout the Christmas season. While spending the morning at a protest, one can spend the afternoon or evening at a Christmas Market and sip a warm cup of gløgg. Protest leader Lotta Folkesson has taken center stage as a representative of the goals and ideals of the movement.

The movement itself is quite conservative and religious based. The idea is that Christian Democratic ideas had been ignored for far too long in Austwegian politics, and now that power has centralized with Austwegian politics now happening at the Folketing in Gøthehavn, their ideas are even further removed. Protesters before Christmas had channeled the idea of bringing back the importance of the Jarldoms, but with this idea largely ignored by both the Crown and the Folketing, the movement has now focused on the idea of adding a third kingdom, and thus removing the ‘Two’ in Two Kingdoms from the lexicon.

A third kingdom really would not amount to much specifically. It would reorganize local politics, much as the protesters desire. This would potentially complicate things as well, due to the nature of how the constitution was just recently completed. Ultimately, it is not in the interests of any of the regions to allow for this. Those from Finner or Queenslanders, would love to elevate themselves to a Kingdom as well, and while nothing really stops the number of crowns from adding up to five or six, there is a question of what use does it bring the realm, if not just brashly breaking with traditions.

East Austwegians are not likely to find an additional Kingdom, but they might be able to find alternative solutions. The notion of asking for more than you want, only to receive exactly what you wanted can be a sound negotiating tactic.

The good news is that none of the protests have been violent or distructive. Police escorts and monitoring has kept the protests in good spirits, and led it to be called as the Enlightened Revolution by many of the protest goers. Despite this, the protests are not easy on society either. Traffic jams and full trains cause logistical problems and with the Christmas shopping spirit, traffic can hardly be remembered as any worst than it has been this year.

Headaches continue for the Government, which only just solved the last constitutional headache in October. The Prime Minister keen to note that hardly anything can be done to accommodate the protestors demands because they should have been brought to the table when the Constitutional Committee was in session back in August. Although it is worth noting the Committee members in August did not all manage to find themselves easily reelected in October.

Growing pains are natural for any new reorganization. The question is now much must be given up in order to keep all parties to the realm content with the solution. ■​

 

[Jydsken-Østveg]

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ECONAMS CONFIDENTIAL?
Disorder in a press release forces government to clarify position

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Shipping and trade are vital to the Jysk-Austwegian economy[/DIV]​

[GØTHEHAVN] — Earlier this week, ECONAMS, formally, the Economic Cooperative Organization of Non-Aggression between Monarchist States, issued a statement that was found in total disarray. The release was seen as ill-timed within inner circles and suggested that a bloc had been built between the Eiffelland-Retalians and the Two Kingdoms within ECONAMS against hasty announcements.

A diplomat close to the situation stated, “A press release was being drafted, and after the first draft was seen well, an edit was suggested that it include free movement of the seas. How? It wasn’t discussed before the first draft was made public including a rather unprofessional Justosian-worded reference to free movement on seas international-le.”

The press release infuriated several within the Olsen Government, but after a day had past with no repercussions, it seemed as though everything would be smooth sailing.

It was the night when the Olsen Government reportedly had to wage a PR-campaign across Europe to reassure many what the press release actually would meant. With diplomats pressed hard into the night to assure the release did not imply hostilities or any misunderstandings, the Olsen Government had to have its own definition of the press release announced.

​

Original Release:

The Economic Cooperative Organization of Non-Aggression between Monarchal States (ECONAMS), Striving to a world of peace and stability. Realising that peace and stability can only emerge from the efforsts of all

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in Europe. Observing that peace and stability are currently under pressure, & realising that this is the result of problems in the interactions between

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, wishes to emphasize the importance of the sovereignty of

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and the respect for that sovereignty in achieving and maintaining peace. As well as total freedom of navigation on the high seas of waters internationale.
​

Two Kingdoms Clarifaction Release:

The Economic Cooperative Organization of Non-Aggression between Monarchal States (ECONAMS), Striving to a world of peace and stability. [sic - final draft was to change punctuality to commas] Realising that peace and stability can only emerge from the efforsts [sic] of all

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in Europe. [sic] Observing that peace and stability are currently under pressure, & realising that this is the result of problems in the interactions between

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, [there are not any problems which cannot be solved by dialogue, a central tenant of Jysk-Austwegian policy] wishes to emphasize the importance of the sovereignty of

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and the respect for that sovereignty in achieving and maintaining peace. [The sovereignty of nations is an accepted international norm] As well as total freedom of navigation on the high seas of waters internationale. [The right to freedom of navigation on the high seas, or international waters has been a key international norm for over 100 years. This is not to assume any right of nations to trespass into national waters without rebuke, certainly not Jysk-Austwegian waters such as the Skånesund.]​

The clarifaction release suggests that the divide is as large as suggested by GTS’s anonymous source, and that perhaps discussion at ECONAMS may not be going as swimmingly as initially thought.

A press officer for the Olsen Government, refused to suggest that but simply assured GTS that the conduct at ECONAMS merely has trouble between understandings of culture. Though it should be noted that cultural misunderstandings do not occur between the Two Kingdoms and their continental friends. The question of how things are going at ECONAMS will likely now dominate headlines, something that is advantageous to some, but may likely spark a diplomatic incident, as the questions even found their way to Twatter by the next morning.

A crisis for ECONAMS is not something that is good for the Olsen Government, which is already struggling with the Question of East Østveg. Opinion polls for the Conservative Party are in a tailspin as they campaigned on the promise of neutrality, and their stewardship of the last Continental War. With the question of a reformed Trier group, now as ECONAMS, a premise that is absolutely denied by the Two Kingdoms, the public has to wonder how well is the Conservative Party actually is navigating neutral politics. Ironically, as promoters of what is deemed “rightist ideology,” one could argue the entrance of Justosia to Continental and Scanian politics has done nothing but advance leftist parties in the Two Kingdoms. ■​

 

[Justosia]

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Office of the Foreign Minister
​

The government of the Great Southern Kingdom of Justosia is happy & proud to endorse this revision as it contains still the right to freedom of navigation on the high seas of waters internationale. A legal continental right. A right of the civilized world.

One could argue, falsely. Rightist governments are either in, or coming into power across Europe. The savage forces of the Red Menance, radical republics, & archaic 'empires' will fail to hinder the new European order. We should like to add we respect the staunch neutrality of the Two Kingdoms & their electoral process fully. Our cultures have much to learn from each other. We accept this humbly. Viva Justosia.

Fernando Torres
Foreign Minister

 

[Touzen]

Office of Revolutionary Defense and State Relations
Forever Free
​

The Anti-State considers the matters surrounding ECONAMS to be of such a nature that our previous reservations that have, while not uttered, prohibited the consideration of ascension into the 'World Permanent Conference' of either the Anti-State or some of its constituent parts, have been reinforced. Awareness of the doctrine of neutrality proclaimed by the Two Kingdoms contrasted with the unsolved matters of the nature of ECONAMS, which is apparent to be an object of ongoing negotiation between the state entities participating in it, stirs doubt and concern about the impartiality of aforementioned organization of international settlement hosted on Two Kingdoms soil; Indeed, recent public statements by said organization in general bring the many layers of concern regarding it and its relation to the state government it is entertained by to the forefront.

The world would be well served to know about the future of the Two Kingdoms' doctrine of neutrality vis a vis its membership in ECONAMS, and how it intends to negotiate a balance between its international ties and obligations as an aspiring host of an international organ announced as impartial.

The Anti-State also takes note of the Justosian Foreign Minister's statement pertaining to republican governments.

 

[Jydsken-Østveg]

Office of Revolutionary Defense and State Relations
Forever Free
​

The Anti-State considers the matters surrounding ECONAMS to be of such a nature that our previous reservations that have, while not uttered, prohibited the consideration of ascension into the 'World Permanent Conference' of either the Anti-State or some of its constituent parts, have been reinforced. Awareness of the doctrine of neutrality proclaimed by the Two Kingdoms contrasted with the unsolved matters of the nature of ECONAMS, which is apparent to be an object of ongoing negotiation between the state entities participating in it, stirs doubt and concern about the impartiality of aforementioned organization of international settlement hosted on Two Kingdoms soil; Indeed, recent public statements by said organization in general bring the many layers of concern regarding it and its relation to the state government it is entertained by to the forefront.

The world would be well served to know about the future of the Two Kingdoms' doctrine of neutrality vis a vis its membership in ECONAMS, and how it intends to negotiate a balance between its international ties and obligations as an aspiring host of an international organ announced as impartial.

The Anti-State also takes note of the Justosian Foreign Minister's statement pertaining to republican governments.

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RIGSFÆLLESSKABET
DETTE HJØRNE AF JORDEN SMILER FOR MIG MERE END NOGET ANDET
​

Departementet for de Udenlandske Anliggender
(Udenrigsministeriet): Ingen begrænsning - (No restrictions)

The Two Kingdoms of Jyskerige and Østveg believe in ECONAMS to mainly play a role in the strengthening of the institutions of trade. With this in mind, the announcements of ECONAMS do not pretend to anything aggressive, militaristic, or enforced. This mean you will not have a world policeman waiting to find violators, but will certainly find advocates for free trade, and freedom of travel.

Our approach to the World Permanent Conference is similar, and we urge our friends within the non-state actor bounds of the Anti-State to join the World Permanent Conference to have voice in discussions held within their halls. If anything, in so that the voice of statists do not silence the millions who wish for no world governments to sprout within the halls of the World Permanent Conference.

Her Majesty’s Government regrets that there is a misunderstanding as view that holds our commitment, or perceived lackthereof to neutrality is a misunderstanding that must be immediately extinguished. Our commit to neutrality is paramount, and our resolve is resolute. Towards that end we can only ask if the peoples of the Anti-State, those who seek non-citizenship wish to enter an agreement, that while statist in the nature of having an agreement take place, will allow future definition for the Two Kingdoms and our commitment to not only non-aggression with the peoples of the Anti-State, but also tranquility between the Nords and those who have sought statelessness, be they those stateless in Himyar, Touyou, or even our neighbors Pohjanmaa.

Med vennlig hilsen,
Maren Tilde Hegerberg
Utanriksministeren

 

[Jydsken-Østveg]

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Welcome to SNP Politics
The East Austwegian movement takes on ECONAMS and more

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Lotta Folkesson in debate on TV4[/DIV]​

[WALDEMARSUDDE, Østveg] — The cause of the East Austwegian protest has expanded, and the establishment of the Scanian Nationalist Party has been noted. The region of Sørmland, which is the central county within East Østveg, and home of the capital Waldemarsudde, has found itself at the center of debate which was now aired on TV4, an Austwegian TV channel based there. A program which aired known as “Søndags Debatten” had the newly pronounced SNP speaking with Conservative, Social Liberal, and Socialist Party members. They spoke about the situation in East Østveg and politics in general, with a special focus on the question of ECONAMS and neutrality.

Lotta Folkesson spoke about how important it was that East Østveg find political independence; although, she did not necessarily believe in an independent nation-state. “East Østveg, which we aim to now call Skåne (Scania) here at the SNP, does not require full independence, only the right to decide on its own politics and programs! If this can happen as a third kingdom, or within the jarl system, or even some other solution, I’m happy to listen to it.”

While none of this information was new other than the terminology of the SNP, the formal opposition of the other parties was not. Aside of course from the Socialist Party, which aligned with the SNP.

However the star of this segment, and the discussion that has now gone viral was the conversation held about foreign politics and ECONAMS. Miss Folkesson’s arguments have earned her supporters outside of East Østveg or Skåne as they call it. “ECONAMS threatens the neutrality of this nation more so than any since our colonial disagreements near Azraq back in the 19th century. War because we put ECONAMS and a growing economy first, is a mistake that we will not be able to erase, and a legacy we will never be able to explain to our children.” She spoke to cheers from the studio audience.

Continuing after their brief interruption, “I don’t understand why we throw in our lot with these other monarchists. Our reputation is tarnished by the Justosians in this agreement. Just for some stronger trade ties? Surely there is a better way! I’m a devout Christian woman and nationals from this country defiled a Nord woman. We let them off the hook. I don’t care if those responsible are in jail now, any one of those other Justosians would’ve done it too. They are probably heroes down there, likely writing a manifesto to take revenge on another blonde Nord woman. Have you seen their news recently? They even make up stories about Natalians beating the disabled. We already know that the Justosians expelled all the Natalians not too long ago, and many foreign nationals know its not safe there. How is this even a remotely possible story?”

Her rant attracted swaths of support for not only the SNP, but also sunk opinion polls of the Conservatives which couldn’t counter her Justosian claims, knowing that any such retort would look apologist and certainly put their party in possibly international trouble. Even still, the failure to retort did not look well to them either. The Conservatives need a coalition for government, and the SNP and Socialists are on the rise publicly. If coalition mates don’t want to remain on a sinking ship, they may opt to vote for no confidence or force a new Prime Minister. ■​

 

[Jydsken-Østveg]

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No Confident Vote Successful
New elections are planned for 1 February 2019

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Ballots from a polling center the October 2018 Election[/DIV]​

[GØTHEHAVN] — ECONAMS, Justosia, SNP-East Austwegian politics, and neutrality are all reasons for why the Folketing could not stay together. The first government of the newly shaped realm lasted less than a half year, and not one issue can take the blame for the entire parliament from falling apart.

The Socialist Party motioned for the vote of no confidence in the government, which was agreed to by the Social Liberal Party which was also in government. The writing was on the wall for the result of the vote after that, and both votes took place on the same day with little discussion between them. The swift motion of the vote and the result gave rise to the idea that negotiations between the parties may have taken place before Friday.

Dynamics between the political parties have changed since before the succession crisis. Parliament in that era was composed of only politicians from Jyskerige and the dominance of the Conservative Party was difficult to counteract. Leftist politics always positioned themselves stronger in Østveg and now that the entire realm was in one parliament, business as usual was no longer the type of politics that could keep the Conservative Party in power.

The Socialist Party has been chomping at the bit for a second election with how popular opinion has swung against the Conservatives over the past month. The Socialist Party is different from the Conservatives in that it unified with the Socialist Parties across the realm, while the Conservatives were still largely a Jysk based party. The Social Liberal party, which represented more conservative elements in Østveg was their natural partner, but this partner stabbed them in the back after seeing the shift the polls, and the hope that the Social Liberal party could better expand outside of Austwegian counties and municipalities.

A new player to consider is the East Austwegian based Scanian Nationalist Party which seeks to enter national politics for the first time after taking shape since Christmas. Led by Lotta Folkesson, the party has seen the potential to even pick up votes outside of East Østveg with her popularity.

Results seem quite clear, and the period of campaigning may merely be a formality. It’s unclear how Rasmus Olsen can pull the Conservative Party out of this situation. Likewise, the Socialist Party seems primed to take shape and control of government for the first time since the 1980s. ■​

 

[Serenierre]

Commissariat for External Relations
We are monitoring events in the Kingdom of Jyskerige-Ostveg and hope that whatever the outcome of the upcoming general elections, the continued economic and diplomatic relationship between our two countries continues to develop and strengthen.
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Classified
It is the sincere hope of the Government of Serenierre that the established relationship between our two states regarding cooperation in the fields of oil and gas shall remain unaffected in the future.

As peace has returned to Gallia, the demand for oil and its associated byproducts continues to accelerate in Serenierre, but also in the Protectorate of Occitania, and it is the intent of the Government in Villesen to engage its friends in the energy sector in the Honorable Kingdom of Jyskerige-Ostveg to be a strategic partner in the resurrection of the Protectorate of Occitania.

It is hoped that this outreach shall be received positively.

M. Bernard Lavosnier || COMMISSAR || EXTERNAL RELATIONS
GOUVERNEMENT DE REPUBLIQUE POPULAIRE DE SERENIERRE

 

[Jydsken-Østveg]

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THE FINAL COUNTDOWN
The last polls prior to the election show huge lead for leftist alliance

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Socialist Party Leader Birger Ola Hansson speaking at a rally[/DIV]​

[GØTHEHAVN] — The final polls have been released with only one day left of campaigning before Election Day. Election laws in the Two Kingdoms prevent polls from being released the day before elections.

The elections were spawned ultimately by declining faith in the Conservative Party. The crash came quickly, and due to the government being held together by a coalition, the Social Liberal Party sought to cut their losses before the damage would be too unbearable. Ultimately it appears that in a race for second place between the Conservatives and the Social Liberals, the Social Liberals guessed right. They hold a lead over the Conservatives in most polls.

When polls subsequently close on at 20:00 on 1 Feb, the results should be fairly clear. The Two Kingdoms will be selecting the Socialist Party in tandem with the Scanian Nationalist Party. The Socialist Party will be the clear victor and largest party in the Folketing. But what is unclear is if it will be enough to hold a majority. Most polls show that the leftist alliance will be around 46-52%. This means their control of parliament would be inconclusive, requiring either a kingmaker to reach over 50% or for an agreement for confidence and supply.

Unique to Jysk-Austwegian democracy is that the Prime Minister can be confirmed without a single vote being cast “yes.” The reason for this is because when the Speaker of the Parliament has put forward a candidate, according to rule, an absolute majority must vote “no,” in order for the nomination to be rejected. This allows parties to give passive support to the Government, and allows for an easier means to establish minority governments.

This may be required if the leftist bloc is unable to secure a majority, and the group giving passive support will likely have to be the post-delegationist party, “The Liberals” or the “Social Liberals” who were part of the government with the Conservatives. It’s unlikely that the Conservative will consent after just holding the government.

So far the election campaign has been relatively peaceful and easy going. Non-competitive polls have left the public with a general awareness that the leftist bloc will win, but the question has been by how much. Complacency may work against the leftist bloc because enthusiasm may be smaller knowing victory seems determined. Socialist Leader Birger Ola Hansson urged crowds to, “come vote even if you know we will win, because government is not assured!”

Campaign posters around towns have all been seen from a wide variety of locations, and anti-Justosian posters have highlighted a lot of leftist backed posters in town. Online campaigns have seen IP traffic has been unusually high in some cases leaving many authorities left to believe that VPNs have been used to mask where traffic is coming from. While an anonymous source from the authorities with Politiets Etterretningstjeneste (PET), the Two Kingdom’s intelligence and security service (Known for the two ravens on the coat of arms representing Huginn and Muninn, the two ravens that bring information to the Norse god Odin), have suggested that a lot of the traffic comes from communist countries, Auraria, and perhaps even locations as far as Natal.

While it’s unlikely that such online activity will have much of an impact on the election with the polls as slanted as they are, it is reassuring to know that PET is involved in investigating such activity.

As for the editorial board for this newspaper, it has yet to decide on a candidate to endorse. GHS’ pro-business attitude naturally inclines a desire for a government which will keep free trade moving and naturally would normally endorse the Conservative Party considering their track record and alignment towards business friendly policy. The question of policies over the past six months has thrown such traditional endorsements into question, and GHS will not endorse a party for this election. ■​

 

[Serenierre]

COMMISSARIAT FOR EXTERNAL RELATIONS
We wish all political parties well in the exercise of the general election campaigning. While the doctrine of one-party democracy is a uniquely Serenien phenomena, we know well the excitement at election times. No matter the outcome of the election, the République Séraziniste is hopeful that bilateral ties shall continue to strengthen between our two nations.

Truly,
Bernard Lavosnier
COMMISSAR || EXTERNAL RELATIONS

 

[Jydsken-Østveg]

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THE WORLD THE NIGHT BEFORE
The day before the election we analyze how the world looks

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A destroyed bridge in Loago. Loago is the last major conflict still seeing active combat. The Conflict in Loago is expected to expand in the coming months.[/DIV]​

[GØTHEHAVN] — While the world appears to jump from one crisis to another, this is by far the most peaceful the world has been in over a year with the conclusion of the war in Occitania. Today the only major conflict still ongoing can be found in Loago.

With the lack of conflict means the world can return to a focus on trade. Today major capitalist economies work with each other in many ways, but the end of all remaining conflicts have also left a market situation where prices are outrageously high. Economic problems in Eiffelland after the conclusion of their war, and the conclusion of the Trier Accord have left the cost of imports higher than usual for the nation. While Eiffelland is traditional the location of premium automobiles, appliances, and pharmaceuticals, the cost to produce these products has gone up. While the economic situation in Eiffelland is not so bad, the savings to consumers in purchasing cheaper Unionsmarks hasn’t translated to cheaper products as well. In general, this has only meant smaller profits and occasional losses for Eiffellandian firms, the consequence of the Eiffellandian recession. Assuming the Eiffellandian Government does not incur anymore spending or additional debt, it can be expected that the recession should end in the next fiscal quarter with growth expected for the first time since last summer’s war.

We write this as the war in Occitania fully at a close, and this has left East Occitania in poor financial straits. Should Occitania’s traditional allies come to their aid, it may create delays in their own recovery, although some of the financial firms in Gothenhagen believe that this could be averted if more than one nation takes on the burden of aiding Occitania. This burden is estimated to take on nearly €15-20 billion to just get East Occitania on its feet. Similar figures have been spouted for the problems faced in West Occitania. Continued use of robust tariffs by nations on the Continent have stalled their recovery, and oriented their economies into protectionist schemes that will harm future growth. With the problems of war, starting for the ground up with freer markets could have reduced a great deal of suffering.

Meanwhile, in Markland (aka Westernesse), the economic behemoth that was thought to be born out of the Thaumantic region has not taken much shape. Free trade agreements with the Two Kingdoms never fully took shape, and have been placed on the back burner. The region has additionally retreated into a sort of isolationism, not providing the spark or guidance that was thought to have occurred after end of the Trier Accord. In search of such leadership in the “West” the ECONAMS agreement that was put forward by Prime Minister Rasmus Olsen was looked to as a renewed Trier Accord by many leaders, and placed his administration into a great deal of trouble, causing the elections that are being prepared for tomorrow. The search for leadership in the “West” continues.

The ECONAMS agreement has caused one thing however, this is an apparent hermitization of communism, as ties between many of the communist states and the “West” have slowed down after its founding. Much of this could be artibuted to the Justosian Kingdom in the south, which has bankrupted itself on military spending. Such spending has horrified neighbors and foes such as Natal, Pelasgia, and Auraria. This unlikely tripartite has been intrumental in keeping Justosian assets out of the Long Sea, and may prove to be one of the larger military blocs to develop as the year continues. Furthermore, this has kept East Occitania indirectly further isolated from Justosian aid. Although due to the poor financial position of Justosia, it is debatable if they could even administer aid without putting the final nail in the coffin of their financial recklessness. Such recklessness has positioned Azraq as a key place for investment in East Himyar, as safe investment regions can be hard to come by. Despite this, Byzantine laws have also given a reluctance for “Western” investors to place too much faith in the region.

Meanwhile, the Free Citizens of the world have continued to see huge amounts of economic growth. While post-delegationist thought is condemned around the world, they have produced the largest free trade zone in the world. Profits and standards of living have grown the fastest in the post-delegationist world. These facts have sparked desired imitators. Tomorrow’s election in the Liberal Party, which looks to win big in West Østveg, look to see the Two Kingdoms find a way interact with this free trade zone, and create more free trade zones in the future.

As ever the world is increasing complex, and the opening of the World Permanent Conference in Gothenhagen shortly after the elections should prove to be one of the biggest events for February. The WPC is able to prompt action on issues far and wide, and it has been rumored that the Two Kingdoms will have large announcements in the process of its openings, especially in the field of economics. ■​

 

[Jydsken-Østveg]

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WHERE THE CHIPS FELL
Election results see biggest change politically in over 30 years

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Birger Ola Hansson is primed to lead the Two Kingdoms in the middle of a period of turbulence[/DIV]​

[GØTHEHAVN] — The dust has settled and now change is in the air. The change being brought about is in direct conflict with face of politics for the last 20 years. Rasmus Olsen’s Conservative Party has experienced a huge loss, falling to the 3rd largest party and their biggest defeat in party history.

The results saw huge swings in where voters decided to place their votes as many Conservatives placed their votes in the Social Liberal Party, while some in the Social Liberal Party moved to the Liberals. Meanwhile the Scanian Nationalist Party poached huge numbers of Conservatives, Communists, and Environmentalists. The February Election has seen a huge shift, but no majority for the Left Alliance which now sits at 47% and needing support from one of three smaller parties. No doubt, finding a partner amount the Liberals, Communists, or Environmentals, should allow for a government to be made before the night is over. It should be expected that Queen Katrine Frederikke will ask the Alderman of the Folketing to hold a vote on Birger Ola Hansson to form government.

Meanwhile, Rasmus Olsen accepted his defeat and announced his plans to create a Centrist Party. This can only give off the possibility that the Conservative Party may fragment into two. Before that can happen, Olsen will also have to manage leaving the Prime Minister’s house.

Results:

▲ (⬤) Socialist Party: 33% (Left Alliance 47%)
— (⬤) Social Liberal Party: 18% (No gains, but now second largest)
▼ (⬤) Conservative Party: 17% (Dropped 20 points)
▲ (⬤) Scanian Nationalist Party: 14% (Left Alliance 47%)
▲ (⬤) Liberal Party: 6% (Post-Delegationist)
▼ (⬤) Communist Party: 5%
▼ (⬤) Environmental Party: 4%
▲ (⬤) Feminist Party: 2% (New Party)
​

The victory speech given by Birger Ola Hansson focused on unity and the importance of the democratic process. There is a great deal of discomfort in Jyskerige, which has held control of politics since the beginning of Union between Jyskerige and Østveg. The end of this domination is likely to give many in the capital a sense of unease, but ultimately there has not been reason to panic as the despite the fact that the majority in Jyskerige voted in favor of Conservatives or Social Liberals, the Socialists are in power. The Socialists have led Jyskerige before, but typically that was rare.

On top of this, the Scanian Nationalist Party is likely to campaign to change the internal structure of the Two Kingdoms in order to gain the coveted changes to East Østveg. Either way, a new Government shall take it’s positions this week and policies are expected to change soon. So long as the Scanian Nationalist Party gets what they are wanting, the Socialist Party should expect to maintain power for the length of their term. ■​

 

[Serenierre]

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[/div] SOPHIE MENARD from the Villesen Post || Commenting on election results
From Villesen's point of view, this is a good development, but there is some reserve in government corridors with just how far they can go with the incoming Hansson government. So, obviously, they are going to do their very best to win him over. It will be interesting to see the dynamic that emerges between Premier Martinique and Prime Minister Hansson... as we know the former has been in power for almost eleven years and the latter is fresh off his first victory. Those are two very different vantage points.

 

[Oneida]

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PRESIDENTE DE LA REPÚBLICA
LA REPÚBLICA AURARIANA

20 Ventumes CXCIX | 3 February 2019
​

The Honorable Birger Ola Hansson
Prime Minister-Elect of the two Kingdoms
Gøthehavn, Jyskerige
Two Kingdoms of Jyskerige-Østveg

Dear Prime Minister-Elect Hansson,

On behalf of the Aurarine Republic, I extend my congratulations to Birger Ola Hansson and the Left Alliance on the whole for their victory in the Two Kingdoms. Certainly, Mr. Hansson has outlined a legislative agenda that will serve to the great benefit of the people of the Kingdoms.

The path of the Left Alliance mimics the path that the Coalition for Change took in order to put a leftist government back in control of Auraria for the first time in twenty years. The peoples of our countries chose new leaders and hoped for a new direction. Every day I have worked diligently to capitalize the campaign promises that the people of Auraria entrusted to me.

I am approaching the completion of my second year in office. It is my hope that the elections of our governments will bring a closer bond between Auraria and the Two Kingdoms. I stand ready to offer whatever assistance I can in this time. Hopefully this is the start of a new era of relations and friendship between our countries.

Signed,
Manuel Sanabria

 

[Rheinbund]

Kanzleramt
Trier, Eiffelland-Retalia

Our congratulations to the Leftist Alliance with their victory in the elections. Also our congratulations to the Honorable Mr. Hansson. We look forward to a fruitful cooperation between our countries. I invite the future Prime-Minister of Jyskerige-Østveg for a visit in Trier to discuss the matters at hand.

Roland Rheinfeld, Chancellor