Le Moniteur Universel

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Op Ed: Eiffelland is either ignorant or crazy
By Guillame Bouleaux, Diplomacy Editor

The recent events have shown one thing that is very clear- Eiffelland is either ignorant of reality or is simply living in a fantasyland. The massive perceived failures of the Eiffellander government to cope and even respond to the actions of the Empire have forced many to re-evaluate the Trier government. We see time and again the failures of the government in Trier to offer a basic understanding or for that same government to accept the new realities. The world no longer sees Eiffelland as an altruistic "leader of the free world". Look no further than the ridiculous and, frankly, sad options given in Al Magrab in their referendum. Not only do we see that this referendum admit to Al Magrab's current colonial status, but it ridiculously offers it the supposed privilege of remaining one. Additionally, the options push Al Magrab into a near vassal status. WHAT DEMOCRACY IS THIS? Even the Queen Emma Isles are under full constituent rights. Yet, the Eiffellanders still view themselves as the harbingers of freedom.

The reaction to the Emperor's interview was sadly kneejerk. Mr. Schmelzer either does not understand the situation or is simply too emotional for his role. Yet, Trier allows him to remain in his post. Why? Is the amount of comprehension in Trier so low as to let him continue on his string of embarrassing failures? Schmelzer rails against the proposed aid packages. First, in his most recent statement, he seems to think that the money is coming out of thin air. Not only is the package created by a democratically elected body but it is also developed by experts. Is Minister Schmelzer so ignorant of the government structure of his own neighbor? How has this man maintained his post. He goes onto ask where this money is coming from? If one reads the proposal, it is from the Imperial Constituent Development Fund. Not only that, but perhaps the good Minister Schmelzer should ask some questions about his own budget. Where is YOUR money coming from for this aid package? Where? The Eiffelland military budget is clearly out of control. I suspect Eiffelland either is unable to do math or is unwilling. One or the other. Which is it?

Which, actually brings us to another point. Eiffelland's government seemingly lacks the basic decency to sympathize with the thousands of Eiffellander workers losing their jobs over a childish boycott. Sure, Eiffellander companies are picking up the slack. But they cannot possibly hope to pick up all of it. What of the pensions? The moves in seniority? All of them gone. And all Trier done has shrug. Which is a common theme. A finger is pointed and all that is done is a shrug and quick denial- even for the most plainly obvious things. One must simply conclude that Trier either is completely out of touch and ignorant or is living in their own heads. I think most around the world are over Eiffellander games. The world is not a game. These are people's lives. Wake up Trier!

 

[Rheinbund]

Auswärtiges Amt — Bureau étranger
Trier, Königreich Eiffelland — Trèves, Royaume d' Eiffellande

One of the last countries in the world that can teach a lesson on democracy to Eiffelland, is the HFE, a country where the Emperor can decide to send his people into an aggressive war without the parliament having the possibility to block the Emperor's plans. The same accounts for Le Moniteur Universel, which has laid down its role as an independent news source and has become the Emperor's mouthpiece.

The Emperor could also have discussed his concerns on the well-being of the Francophone Bourdignians with the Bourdignian government, and the presence of Eiffellandian troops in Bourdignie with us and the Bourdignian government. We would have been open to each and every solution then. But when the Emperor suddenly sends in his army and slings around baseless accusations against us, we are not willing to cooperate.

For the boycott on Imperial products, that was not a decision by the Eiffellandian government, and not something that we encourage. The HFE is still free to trade with Eiffelland. However, when the HFE suddenly starts to act like a bogeyman and sends its troops into each and every neighbourcountry, you can't expect that the Eiffellandians start to applaud.

For financing our aid package for Bourdignie, we were discussing about that with Eiffellandian companies, and were setting up long-term investment plans. You can count on it that those plans were financially safe and sound.

Dr. Norbert Schmelzer, Minister of Foreign Affairs

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

FrankBank wins landmark case against Standard Chartered

A lawsuit brought against Standard Chartered over the OstBank trademark has finally reached a conclusion. OstBank, one of the first private banks to pop up after Ostmark's transition, began to expand quickly- investing billions and creating thousands of jobs in Ostmark. "Our goal was to build a foundation for a new private bank that served a free nation" said FrankBank in a public statement. "We have seen that justice has prevailed and Ostmark has firmly restated that their legal system upholds the virtues and customs of laws. While we are the parent bank, OstBank is the real winner. It has put blood, sweat, and tears into making banking accessible for so many in Ostmark" concluded the statement.

Frankbank says it is bracing for an appeal from Standard Chartered but remains confident that their decisions and trademark will stand. OstBank recently appointed a new board on which only one Frankish person sits. "They are a FrankBank representative. As our parent bank, we deeply respect their input" said an OstBank press release which noted that the new board is a step towards greater autonomy as part of the FrankBank family.


Moineau Aviation unveils Fallwind replacement

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Moineau Aviation has been building Eiffelland's front-line fighter for seemingly ages now and it seems the aviation firm has seen the writing on the wall as the license to produce them is nearing its end- with renewal extremely unlikely. Despite domestic changes to the aircraft, the license will ultimately stop procurement of the aircraft by Imperial Air Forces. Additionally, Moineau seems concerned about the license to produce spare parts which expires in 4 years. This morning, Moineau unveiled the replacement for the Fallwind. Coming in two versions, the Aigle en Or (or just Aigle), is a multirole fighter aircraft capable of mounting many platforms and is intended to offer high-tier dogfighting capabilities. The first version will be a reduced-radar block that will remain competitive with similar aircraft. The second version, estimated to fly in 2026, is a stealth version. The unveiling comes only weeks after Moineau unveiled its 6th generation fighter project. The Imperial Air Force has also reportedly concluded a deal for an undisclosed number of 5th generation fighters from an unnamed country. The first version of the Aigle is set to fly in 2025. Though Moineau has not confirmed either proposed flight date.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Sides scramble to secure votes as Bourdignie referendum approaches. Eiffelland guilty of "disinformation campaign" says Emperor
Versoix

Both pro-integration Patois and those against integration have been holding numerous rallies and protests over the last several days as the referendum approaches. Thousands took to the streets yester to chants of 'Vive l'Empereur'. The numbers at rallies have clearly shown that the path of Imperial Integration has more support than was first thought. Security has been more visible throughout cities, though it is clear they have little care for the peaceful protests. Both pro-integrationalists and those against integration have been vocal against any sort of violence surrounding the referendum. Police have largely ignored protestors and the Frankish military seems to have largely stepped away from major public areas. The government in Versoix has issued a call for a special voting holiday tomorrow. Millions are expected to cast their vote as most polls show that turnout will be high.

The Emperor spent much time campaigning in Bourdignie, meeting with officials, students, and citizens. This morning, the Agriculture Association announced that it would officially back integration as other bodies have voiced their own position. The Emperor has accused the Eiffellander goverment of disinformation this morning. The Emperor called out their Foreign Minister, Dr. Schmelzer, for what he called a complete "disinformation campaign". The Emperor railed against "repeated and blatant lies" being told to the Patois by Eiffelland. In the latest instance, university campuses visted by the Emperor were subsequently visited by Eiffelland's foreign minister. "Obviously, this is blatant. That or it is total incompetence. I do not know which, though I suspect even Eiffelland would understand the political system of a neighbor" said the Emperor. The statements come in response to Dr. Schmelzers campaign in which he seemingly lied about Frankish intentions. The Foreign Minister warned that civil liberties, gay rights, women's rights, and abortion laws would be in danger if integration occurred. "Obviously, this is tremendously false" the Emperor went on to say. "The good Dr. Schmelzer seems to believe the people of Bourdignie are so ignorant that they will believe this trash. The Imperial system allows for none of these things to occur" he said, pointing out the recent decisions by the democratically elected Imperial Assembly. "The referendum calls for integration as a full constituent nation of the Empeire. Which, as Dr. Schmelzer must know, means that as an integrated state; it would have full domestic controls over every single one of those issues. It is a bit sad to see such desperation on display" the Emperor concluded.

 

[Rheinbund]

Auswärtiges Amt — Bureau étranger
Trier, Königreich Eiffelland — Trèves, Royaume d' Eiffellande

The emperor has been on a course of defamation of Eiffelland's intentions in Bourdignie from long before the Imperial invasion. The accusation that I would have accused the Empire of intending to take gay rights, abortion rights and women's rights away is yet another blatant lie from the emperor. I know that many Bourdigniens have this fear, but I did not fuel it. The emperor should look for the cause of this fear in his own actions; the fact that he invaded Bourdignie out of the blue is the main reason for the Bourdigniens to fear for their civil rights.

Dr. Norbert Schmelzer, Minister of Foreign Affairs

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Bourdignie prepares for referendum votes following delay

Following the delay of a week, agreed upon by Versoix and Chagny authorities, the referendum is set to go ahead on Monday. The delay had been mutually agreed upon as analysis found that not enough voting stations had been employed and Bourdignie police cited very minor security concerns. Both sides have stressed that the referendum must be orderly and peaceful and that "intimidation, of any kind, was not to be tolerated". Among the biggest concerns was accessibility. The move to increase voting stations by 150 locations has been met with general positivity. While the people remain divided, polling still shows that the pro-integration camp holds a clear majority. According to police, preparations for post-referendum unrest are being made.

Police investigating mistreatment of racehorses

Police in Monterfil are investigating the mistreatment of several retired racehorses after anonymous tips led to an ongoing investigation into three stables that care for retired racehorses. Police say that have found evidence of systematic abuses that violate Burgundian and Imperial laws. The police spokeswoman stated that several arrests have been made and many are expected to follow. A crackdown on animal abuse over the last 20 years had led to harsher laws in the various nations and the introduction of the Imperial Animal Treatment Statute in 2007; which set a standard for all nations of the Empire to follow.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Voting begins in Bourdignie

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Voting opened up promptly at 830 in the morning, local time. Most polling stations recorded long queues and have reported high turnout. Police have reported little in the way of disturbances as millions of votes are expected to roll in. As of 3pm, polling stations reported a steady flow. Many are not expecting results to be tallied for a day or two as many ballots are hand ballots. Electronic voting has been the primary method but in many areas, local councils have opted for hand ballots. Authorities say that the long lines were helped along by the additional polling stations added over the past week. The Emperor said in a release that he is "hopeful that the people will speak their mind through the power of the vote".

Already, Patois political parties appear to jostling for the ear of the people. In many towns, local party members have held impromptu post-voting parties for those who have already voted. Observers say that intimidation in most places seems non-existent. However, police were forced to steer away a pro-independence rally which threatened to breach the "no campaigning zone" near a polling station in Versoix. An initial poll showed favorable numbers for integration, but few are speculating until numbers truly start to show.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Counting continues as ballot numbers overwhelm counters

With many local authorities opting for hand ballots instead of electronic voting, many local councils have failed to count at a consistent pace; much to the annoyance of the Franco-Patois referendum authorities. Despite urgings, local councils either refused to add to the counting team or reluctantly added a meager amount of staff. Police say that demonstrations are remaining peaceful as the nation awaits the outcome of the referendum. However, the Emperor remained confident. "The people of the Western region of Bourdignie know what the right choice is. I am confident they will make it. Regardless of the outcome, we know the people have spoken" he said.

Counting is being centralized in several locations as local mayors and other observers oversee the results. According to the Franco-Patois referendum authorities, they anticipate counting will be completed in the early morning hours. Despite debate, the referendum authorities have chosen to release the results all at once instead of canton by canton. "We will ensure clarity and transparency- as well as ensuring that there is little tension as there would be if we released partial results" said a National Referendum Authority (ARN).

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Frankish message resounds with Patois voters as 64% approve integration into Empire. Other cantons vote overwhelmingly for EiffExit.
33% of Patois vote against integration as massive celebrations hit the streets of Patois cities.

Voters spoke in resounding fashion as they packed voting booths across Bourdignie. Millions of votes across the country spoke for the people through sheer democratic will. The voters in Patois provinces overwhelmingly voted for integration, despite a solid third of voters voting against integration. Throughout Bourdignie, about 55% of voters voted for Eiffelland to withdraw its forces from Bourdignie. The voters also made it very clear that they had no desire for Frankish troops to match Eiffelland's in Bourdignie.

Under the terms of the Chagny Agreement, the Patois regions will become the Patois Republic. The proposed roadmap will have the Republic formed, at least officially, on January 1st. Elections will likely be scheduled for March as an interim government will take over. The Republic will be a parliamentary republic with a Prime Minister at its helm. While the head of state will be the Emperor, the Patois Republic is slated to have special status and will be guaranteed an “exceptional amount of autonomy”. Many are hoping the Emperor's ambitious investments in the new nation will help curb political opposition from integration detractors. With the investment coming from the Imperial Development Fund, many are keen to see the results. Some opposition from the Imperial Assembly has noted that a close watch on the Fund's Francs needs to be imposed.

A constitutional council is expected to meet in Versoix next week. No date for integration has been set, though it is expected to be soon. The Emperor is expected to travel to Versoix to speak in the coming days.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Pierre Bachelu named temporary Premier until Patois Constitutional convention and elections. Flag selected as integration process speeds up. Bachelu- "A new and bright future awaits"

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Versoix

Pierre Bachelu has been named by a council of Patois representatives, primarily made of mayors, to be the interim Premier until a constitutional convention for the Patois Republic can be summoned. Integration is officially to take place on the 20th of December; though it seems as it has already begun. Police and lawyers have begun to receive classes on the Imperial Criminal Code and Imperial observers have begun to prepare reports to the Imperial Assembly on various aspects of Patois infrastructure. The Patois Republic is set to receive large amounts of autonomy, but it will still be required to meet basic aspects of Imperial Code. Additionally, banks have begun to exchange currency at a quick rate. However, many are expecting the interim government to extend usage of the currency of Bourdignie.

Acting Premier Bachelu addressed the new nation on television this morning. In his short speech, Bachelu promised a constitution which "works for all" and that "promises a fresh and free start". He continued to comment on several issues and promised that a Patois identity will be central to the new constitution. Bachelu stated that "when we work together, we will find the success we have been desperate for. A new and bright future awaits". The Emperor is expected to address the congregation at the Versoix Cathederal during Sunday morning mass.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Emperor to Patois: "Have patience"
Emperor speaks to Patois nation following Sunday Mass at Versoix Cathederal
Versoix

After attending Mass Sunday morning, the Emperor addressed the congregation and Patois Republic. The Mass and speech, both televised live, featured the Emperor asking for unity and patience. The Emperor has attended several services in Versoix since the liberation. Among the guests were numerous religious leaders along with Cardinal Camus who arrived with the Emperor. About 1000 protestors waited outside to protest the integration. Police say the demonstration was mostly peaceful and led to only one arrest.

The Emperor's speech was short but resounded with many as it avoided many of the most sensitive issues and instead focused on the bigger picture. "What the Patois people have is a an opportunity. To seize that opportunity, requires much work. Yes, we may all know those who voted against integration. To those who did, I say have patience, not malice. Not scorn, but hope. Those who voted for integration, I say the same. Have patience with those you did not agree with. Forgiveness, charity, patience, and love. These are the values which both Patois and Frank love equally" said the Emperor. The Emperor continued on to discuss the endeavors ahead and the challenges. The Emperor thanked the Patois for their hospitality before concluding that "the Patois are coming through a bank of fog. Now we look to order, dignity, and freedom. The Patois will see a new dawn, more clear and beautiful than ever before". The Emperor has said he will not return to the Republic until after both integration and a new constitution have passed.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Tomorrow, the Patois Republic joins the Empire; officially.
Versoix

After a lengthy transition period, the Patois Republic is going to be joining the Empire tomorrow. The original date for integration on December 20th was pushed back following some resistance from local leaders who were concerned that not enough support systems were in place for economic and legal stability through the transition. After several weeks, it appears that these have largely been resolved. Among the most important sticking points was the implementation of the Imperial Franc. Despite the introduction and transition to the Franc starting on December 11th, it seems the process is still underway. Temporary Premier Pierre Bachelu stated that he expected this process to continue with a "level of smoothness". The Patois Republic will adopt its own Constitution on Monday, officially at least. Tomorrow, it will formally acknowledge Imperial Code and operate under its interim Constitution. The Republic is set to receive a large amount of autonomy from Chagny but will still be subject to much of the Imperial Code; which is largely standards by which the Republic will have to be guided by. Instead of laws, the Imperial Code offers "a lot of latitude in terms of what gaps are filled in. It is a framework that offers us a lot of wiggle room" said Bachelu.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Police seize secondary license plates, sparking questions on Imperial Law.

Police in Arches have been seizing secondary license tags in an effort to enforce the national laws of Arches. The only problem being that the secondary tags are provided for in Imperial Law. The small circular tags, which affix to a primary tag, are meant to allow the vehicle to be registered in two constituent states of the Empire. Imperial license plates currently carry the HFE moniker followed by national codes such as BU, for Bourgogne, or PR for the Patois Republic. Arches has recently placed into its national laws its own plate system. While HFE will still be featured, AR will be the prominent device on the plate. Secondary plates, or tags, will not be accepted by Arches. This situation will once again test the limits of Imperial Law as the government of Arches refuses to budge. Many expect this to end up in the Imperial Courts and some have said that the case is a perfect example of the need for major reforms.

Emperor says that PDism is "not a threat". Speaks on foreign outlook

Liberals and Conservatives alike have repeatedly pointed to PDism as a threat to both the HFE and regional stability. The Emperor spoke today to several members of the media who brought forward questions and concerns about foreign policy. Despite recent foreign policy gambles, liberals have begun to challenge the Emperor and have stated that he is "gambling with the nation". A recent protest in Versoix saw police act aggressively ahead of the release of their national constitution. When asked, the Emperor stated that "PDism is not a threat. A concern, perhaps. We will work with any nation of any political channel. We offer our hand to the world. Sadly, some will slap it away" the Emperor said. His Majesty went on to discuss current plans for a new energy deal. "We simply cannot ignore the facts ahead. We have cultivated solid relationships. Our domestic policies have continued to push for a new path in energy production. But that path is yet to be paved" the Emperor concluded. The interview comes at the head of a long tour of the Empire. "The Emperor is to spend time among his people and will do his best to make real and lasting connections" said the Imperial Press Office.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Emperor: Gothic Sea situation "worrying"

The Emperor visited the port city of Lauchelle today and spoke to several citizens in shipyards and fish processing factories before making a surprise visit to schools. The Emperor fielded numerous questions about the the current state of affairs in the Gothic Sea. The Emperor admitted that "current and recent developments in the Gothic are worrying. It is clear that the overall situation could grow worse if tensions continue". The Emperor noted that the suspected recent missile test was being "reviewed" by Frankish intelligence. The Defense Ministry stated that it would not comment. The recent tensions have been exacerbated by naval expansion by several nations and some experts have labeled it as a "naval arms race". Le Moniteur defense analyst and former Air Force colonel, Peter Shrum, stated that he believed it to be "one of the more serious arms races in the last decades. There are 2 nations vying for dominance. The Empire must decide soon if it will join the race as well". Since the mid 1950's, the Imperial Navy has been viewed by many as being little more than a security force with most funding headed towards the army and air forces. His Majesty issued a memorandum today to the Defense Ministry. Sources have told Le Moniteur that the memo encouraged increased training but said that any significant increase in size or funding to Imperial Naval Forces was "unlikely". However, sources also tell Le Moniteur that air patrols over Frankish waters have increased by as much as 200%.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

EMPEROR SPEAKS TO EMPIRE IN EMERGENCY ADDRESS
Empire not yet "on war footing". 600,000 conscripts requested

I speak tonight to inform you, my people, of the most dire of situations. When we helped to liberate the Patois people from the clutches of a Germanic tyranny, we saw the true face of our enemy. Every de-escalation attempt by us was met with contempt and insults. Our Empire did its best to find an amicable conclusion. In fact, we were the last to mobilize our forces during the crisis; attempting throughout to find a solution diplomatically. Now, we face a nation that is so full of bitterness and perfidity, that they plot to aim missiles at our cities. They plot to send great plagues through out streets to murder our citizens- women, children, and the elderly. It is nothing short of a genocide that is being plotted. They practice for this genocide by testing their missiles. Boldly showing their own weakness and savagery for all to see. What is the Empire to do? To cower? To again let us sit back while the other grows in strength? These are questions that we are all asking. Yet, I have the honor and burden of a greater duty. As Emperor and servant, I am bound to pursue my duty to the utmost of my abilities.

I want to reassure my people that the Empire is not now, nor do we foresee it being on a war footing. We believe we have not only the ability to negotiate with our neighbors; but the moral grounds to garner support for our cause. When a nation openly declares its genocidal intent and even practices missile drills; it is for the righteous to step in and talk sense. For a war would be ruinous. It would rob sons from mothers, mothers and fathers from children, and through it all the dignity of a generation would be tarnished. Though, I must stress,; if we are attacked, if one attempts genocide; it will be their ruin- not ours. We can only speculate what manner of thinking our neighbor employs. But. We can warn them. Any acts of military aggression towards the Empire will receive a complete and brutal response. If these warnings are ignored, it will do nothing but be the ruin of nations. Not ours. Indeed not. For if the Empire's peoples are attacked in the most cowardly and evil of ways, the Empire will respond with such rigor that devastation beyond their imagination will occur. It is not war we seek. No land. Nor lofty ideals. We wish a better future for ourselves and a better peace. As we are not on a war footing and the Government believes that there is no immediate cause for alarm; the Empire has not mobilized its army. Nor has it mobilized its reserves. However, seeing the scope of our neighbor's aims, it is prudent to consider the fact that they seemingly prepare to commit genocide against the Frankish peoples. As a result of this, I have tendered a letter to the Imperial Assembly asking them to approve the short-term conscription of 600,000 men and women. This short-term conscription will temporarily bolster our reserves. Which again, we have not taken steps to mobilize. This is not a threat, not an announcement of intent. But a warning. Nations of the world have done little to address this issue- the plotting of a genocide. Even in the European Forum, the great issue is treated with arbitrary discussion. The Empire will not be coerced nor will it have its citizens under the gun. Our neighbor must cease and dismantle their program. They must come to the negotiating table. For if they do not, the most critical days of our lives lay ahead.

I pray that God keeps you safe and that your days be filled with peace. May God bless you and may God bless the Empire.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

First Minister du Pont on Emperor's request: "we have questions"

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In a heated press interview, First Minister du Pont state that the Imperial Assembly would consider approving the Emperor's request to bolster the reserves. However, the First Minister expressed his concerns. "Frankly, we have questions. We are already pouring money into the Patois Republic. We have a large infrastructure program underway. Where is the money to come from?" prosed du Pont. The First Minister noted that he agreed with the expansion of reserve forces but stated that the Emperor's numbers were "sizeable and therefore, questionable". The relationship between the First Minister and Emperor has reportedly been heated with du Pont allegedly receiving a "dressing down" by the Emperor last month. While the Emperor's domestic working duties are few, apart from ceremonial, the Emperor reportedly was annoyed that education bills were stalling in the Assembly. du Pont has been described as an "independent and fair applicator of policy". Over the last year, du Pont has seen numerous program as well as the integration of the Patois Republic. Many have said that his leadership has helped to pass numerous bills and spending agreements. du Pont is expected to meet with the Emperor sometime on Friday.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Chances for peace "still there" says Emperor

Following a meeting yesterday with the First Minister, the Emperor fielded numerous questions about the current state of affairs in regard to the potential for war. The Emperor stressed that there has been no direct escalation in the last few days and that the chances for peace "though shrinking daily, are still there". The military has yet to raise its alert level and the Emperor noted that there was no immediate threat for conflict. "Instead, what we have, is a great beast that is clearly stalking its prey. It is growing closer and closer. The question really is, will this predator know to slink off before it becomes the hunted" said the Emperor. When asked in detail, the Emperor made it clear that discussions with the First Minister were very positive. "We had a good conversation. Minister du Pont and the assembly are still clearly reluctant. Yet, I made it clear that the very being of our nation is at risk. That is why I have stressed the need for increased numbers in our reserves and for other military funding" said the Emperor. He declined to discuss if Patois would be exempt from the conscription- if it goes through. In fact, the Patois Republic's special status may exempt it from any draft. One of the toughest obstacles will be the interpretation of the vague defense statutes within the Patois Status Accord. The Emperor concluded with a clear statement: "We will take things one step at a time. Bolstering our reserves remains a key point for the safety of our nation as well as acting as a general deterrent. One of the things that is most clear is that we cannot stand by while we are being threatened. It is not just the political institutions or our military. It is a genocidal threat we face. We face an event where our neighbor nation threatens to destroy our people. Overseas, others wolfishly view the Queen Emma Isles as if it is something we will easily surrender. If any nation believes that the Empire will allow these things, they have made the most grave of errors. For these reasons, it is necessary to bolster our reserves, increase our defense capabilities in the Isles, and perhaps most importantly; engage in the most serious of diplomatic discussions."

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Empire working "feverishly" to find diplomatic solutions

With news of a missile program aimed to destroy the urban civilian population and clear violations of the Chagny Treaty, Frankish diplomats are reportedly working "feverishly and in the interest of peace" to find a solution. The Foreign Ministry announced that negotiations in the European Forum were taking place and that the Empire would be open to "hearing any meaningful proposal". The Foreign Ministry stated that it would seek to obtain a lasting peace and that "our great region is simply starving for a peace. War would be utterly catastrophic and terminal" said a Foreign Ministry spokeswoman. The Emperor has said that he has full confidence in the avenues of diplomacy but cautioned that if efforts in the European Forum fail, "the Empire will be forced to use its own diplomatic tools to find a peaceful resolution".

Imperial Assembly mulls education shift. Making one year of university compulsory.

A bill before the Imperial Assembly would force the constituent Imperial nations to require education beyond secondary school. The bill would require the obtaining of a 1 Year University Education Certificate. The bill argues that "Secondary Education is simply not enough. Trade programs and basic education are excellent. Yet, these are simply not competitive in today's world". The bill would put the majority of burden of cost on the constituent nations. While the Imperial Education Fund would cover some costs, constituent states would be responsible for 90% of the costs. Detractors say that this would effectively create an additional grade and the financial burden on universities would be too large.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Patois Republic continues to face challenges

As integration into the Empire continues, the Patois Republic has largely returned to daily life. Though some Patois are still against the process. "We certainly shouldn't be under any flag but our own. You know, being out from under the Germanic yoke is certainly a step forward. For that, we do have some gratitude" begins 73 year old pensioner Jean Testu. "A majority of Patois did, in fact, vote to join the Empire. I am not mad at them for that. They voted freely. But we are on one hand told we are part of an Empire but also told we are totally free. Which is it?" said Testu. Many Patois seem to share the opinion. Yet, businesses have received hard support from others in the Empire. A grass roots campaign from many in the Empire to support Patois businesses has seen a hug uptick in customers. Though many are considering this to be a bubble. This week, the Patois Republic is set to send its first non-acting members to the Imperial Assembly to be sworn in. "Even with these problems, we were given a choice. A free one. A Patois one" concluded Testu. Other problems seem to stem from financial allocation and accusations of rampant corruption at local levels.

Education plan thwarted in Imperial Assembly

A proposed education plan that would require constituent nations of the Empire to ammend their education systems has been met with defeat in the Imperial Assembly. The plan called on all nations of the Empire to require students to attend one year of university learning to receive an Education Certificate. What wide support existed, quickly diminished as the costs for each constituent nation were laid out. The Duchy of Pillau's representatives proved to be most vocal in opposition the the plan. The education bill would have added a huge number of students to universities, requiring facility expansion and staff expansion. In one of the most lopsided votes in recent times, the once vaunted plan only received 17 votes.

 

[Serenierre]

Hugo Baudelaire Institute
Statement of the Board of Trustees

The current state of education in the Holy Frankish Empire is saddening. It remains the case that the Hugo Baudelaire Institute will continue to sponsor Frankish students deprived of educational opportunities in their home country. In collaboration with the University of Villesen and the University of Monserans, up to three hundred Frankish international scholarships will be allotted at an annual rate - an increase of thirty percent from current levels. ​