It's Friday and you all know what that means!!! This week I had the honor of meeting with and interviewing His Majesty King Alexander I of Hanover. To date, the extremely well appointed office of His Majesty the King of Hanover is the finest I've ever set foot in. It is clear that His Majesty enjoys comfort, as it's impossible for anyone not to feel completely relaxed here. I was welcomed at the airport by a rather large entourage, who saw to my every need, even anticipating needs before I could express them verbally. I can't imagine anyone being able to top the treatment I've received in Hanover. All this comfort and fabulous treatment didn't stop me from asking the tough questions, though. I hope you all enjoy the interview of King Alexander I of Hanover.
(HT = Haraldsborg Times, KA = HM King Alexander I)
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This first part reflects my talk with the man behind the King - these are "out of character" questions.
HT: How old is Hanover, and how was it founded?
KA: Hanover was founded by Our Duke of Marchmain, who was then His Majesty King James I. Essentially Hanover was a sort of refugee nation composed of dissatisfied subjects from the now dormant nation of Morovia. There is some mystery as to the exact day, but we are sure it is in early December, 2002, most likely on the third or fourth.
HT: How were you approached to take over as the King of Hanover?
KA: That happened during a moment of great stress for the nation. His Majesty King James I had recently abdicated for personal reasons and His Majesty King Thomas I took the Throne, but was immediately unhappy with the situation. I, for reasons that Thomas will have to answer, looked like a good replacement and so I felt duty bound to take the Throne and try to return some stability and direction to the nation. But in all this I would not describe my reign as a "take over" because I try to always seek consensus.
HT: In retrospect, do you feel that you were well - or ill prepared to be the monarch?
KA: I was in completely over my head in many ways. I was actually very new to non-landed nations and, as many from American heritage, did not understand Royalty at all. I had a tremendous amount of help along the way.
At this point in the Interview, His Majesty was interrupted by a phone call from one of his Knights. It seems that sometimes even the King cannot escape from the world for even a moment. After about 5 minutes, the interview continued.
HT: Hanover is a fairly serious nation, as opposed to many others which are more like "hobby" nations. Was this always the case?
KA: I don't normally use the phrase "hobby nation" because some take offense to it, but I do here to echo your phrasing. Yes, Hanover has always been serious minded from the moment of its founding. In fact that was one of the specific reasons Hanover was founded, to add a place for serious nation builders to go. We've nothing against "hobby" nations, but if you're into community building and nation forming then Hanover has something for you beyond fancy titles and recwars or whatever else the "hobby" nations do.
HT: One of the reader-submitted questions will fall under this portion of the interview: Where did you get those sweet regal gowns and military uniforms and such that you and others are seen wearing in various pictures?
KA: From various sources. Some were made, some were commissioned or purchased, and the best ones, the very nicest of the lot, are in fact inherited from the previous King of Varennes, Louis I, when he abdicated the Throne. Louis, now Our Governor General (and yes, also the Duke of Marchmain), has a keen eye for such things and it can be said he truly knows how to make the Monarchy look good.
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This is the "in character" portion of the interview - the reporter and the King.
HT: Thank you so much for having me here today, Your Majesty.
KA: Welcome. We trust you're finding Hanoverian hospitality suits you?
HT: I may never leave, Your Majesty! Now - if you're ready, we'll begin, Sire. *deep breath* Your Secretary of State for Home Affairs, Christopher D. McQueeny, recently returned to Hanover - only to leave again after less than a week in Office. In his Resignation Speech posted in Hanover, he reveals his feeling that Hanover is less than what he feels it should be, having moved away from being a Constitutional Monarchy and more towards an Autocratic System. While respecting your desire to keep whatever personal argument you might have had private, can you comment on this event, and your feelings about Hanover's current System of Government?
KA: Straight for the big news. Good, lets tackle that right away. Yes, Our beloved friend Mr. McQueeny is in fact right, the nation has moved to a much more autocratic mode of governance, at least for the time being. The reason is, of course, simple. The Westminster system which Hanover had been trying so hard to implement failed utterly. This does not mean that the Crown has brought down the iron fist, but that the formal structure of popular government failed and the Crown is busy trying to build it up again. Frankly, being autocratic takes a whole lot more effort! I can't wait to have a properly formed parliament again when Hanover can sustain one. All of this is against the backdrop of a constitution, which is being worked on.
Something I'm personally embarrassed about is the failure of the previous two. I've stated very publicly that this is the last time in my reign we shall ever do another constitution. Whatever we finally draft we will live with.
HT: It's been noted by some that Hanover seems to run a little slower than most. The Empress Asa's citizenship application was apparently approved at least two days ago, yet there still has been no mention made in Hanover about this. Do you see such delays as a flaw in how the Government functions? Do you feel it's possible to be too thorough and methodical about such matters?
KA: Of course it's possible to be too methodical, but that is not the case here. In fact, I think only in the community of non-landed nations could such an observation be said about a two day delay. LOL, what respectable nation on earth would rush through an immigration request? Making matters worse, of course, is the specific timing. The application in question was submitted at the same time as the Secretary of State for Home Affairs was packing his office. In fact, on a broader scope, the Crown has sought to deliberately slow the nation down.
I have felt, and said many times, that part of the reason Hanover is often in turmoil is because we rush things. It's my job to help people realize this is not a race and that proper consideration needs to be given to matters of state. It's not like we're under attack and in dire straights, but for some reason the online community seems to act as if we are. This perspective is something the Crown and all the nobility are dedicated to changing. Rome wasn't built in a day, and things in Hanover are progressing.
HT: Very good points, Your Majesty. Now - Hanover is currently hosting an international Cultural Exchange. Can you please tell our readers what the goals for this Conference are, and how they might participate if interested?
KA: The cultural exchange is exactly that, a forum to express your ideas. One of the great benefits of diversity is looking at problems from a new perspective. The community of non-landed nations has a tremendously diverse population. We have people from all geographic locations, all spiritual faiths, all economic strata and so on, and Hanover wanted to have a place to discuss the various issues, specifically controversial issues, of the day, in a non-threatening environment. The only real rule is that no personal attacks are allowed. Otherwise you can express yourself freely.
We have a host of ideas for topics, such as the current middle east violence both in Iraq and in Lebanon and what may be brewing in Iran. We want to tackle abortion, same sex marriage and female leadership in the Christian church. On top of this, we are opening up the position of moderator to any Hanoverian in good standing. It's an excellent opportunity to serve the nation, and build some international ties. We really want everyone to participate. We all have opinions, so come on and express them!
HT: Your nation takes Foreign Affairs much more seriously than a bulk of other nations, resulting in longer periods of wait for Treaties, and sometimes in rifts forming - as happened between Hanover and Gotzborg over the past couple of years. Do you feel that Hanover perhaps suffers in the long run for making Treaties so hard to conclude with others?
KA: One last thing, I can't get the exchange out of my mind, forgive me, but if you have ideas for topics, we want those too!
As for serious being a problem, not at all. No, I really don't think Hanover suffers in this way. The treaties we do complete have more meaning to us, and we hope, to the other party.
The problems with Gotzborg I don't think had anything at all to do with being serious or taking our time, but were of a cultural nature. You'll have to ask His Majesty King Charles August of Gotzborg for his perspective of course, but ultimately the cause for failure was a very different understanding of function of an alliance. That's not an insult to anyone. In the end both nations did what was in their own best interest, and you can't expect more than that or it's dishonest.
HT: Recently, a new Immigration system was set into place. This system calls for new citizens to be placed on Probationary Status for a certain time before being granted full citizenship status. What do you see as the benefits, and potential defects of this new System?
KA: The benefit is, likely, mostly one of bookkeeping. Some people don't take immigration seriously. It is almost as if some people see immigrating to a new nation in the same way they would see getting a new collectable baseball card. It is something to have for a moment, read the stats, and then put away and let it collect dust. Hanover neither needs nor wants uncommitted citizens. Building a new nation is work, hard work even, but rewarding work. What we do here today will, assuming Hanover survives, become the history of Hanover which will be talked about in the same light as Queen Elizabeth or George Washington. We're the pioneers in Hanover.
And by having a probationary period it allows Hanover to stop working so hard to try to identify those with the drive ahead of time, and to simply weed out those who are collectors. Collectors pop in, get bored, and move along. No need for the traditional two census removal process, just cut them loose. They can always come back if they want. I'm not sure there is much of a down side, except in cases like right now where there is no Secretary of State to keep the process on track.
HT: Can you please tell us about the Royal Benevolence Society of Hanover? Where did the idea come from, how successful has it been, and how much money has the Society raised since it's inception?
KA: Now you're talking about something very dear to the Royal family. I'll try not to put you to sleep with a long dissertation. The Benevolence Society came about from the convergence of two forces in Hanover.
First is the force of being a real entity in the world. Hanover believes that to be a real nation we must stand up and act just as any other nation would, and this means being an actor on the world stage of humanity. There are problems in the world from AIDS to cancer to tsunamis, and we can be a part of the solution. We have no illusions that we're a micro part of the solution, but you tell me which dime cured polio? In that same light, what little we can do is something we should do.
Second is the force of Royalty. Modern Royalty is not about leading nations by force, and that is even more true in Hanover than any landed nations. Even the Queen of England still has military troops under her direct command and could, theoretically at least, assert her authority with their use. Hanover has no such apparatus, nor any desire for one. Thus, Hanoverian Royalty has to lead by example, and by getting the message out to people that you can make a difference. We believe that if everyone takes just one shovel of earth, then mountains will be moved. So, we decided to stop talking about it, and start doing it.
Finally, the society has not collected much. In fact, so far the only received donations have come form the Royal Family, although we do have pledges we expect will be fulfilled. We don't see this as a defeat, and in fact we predicted it would take a while. What fool would give up his money to an untested charity? We have to establish ourselves just like everyone else. But we have at least one advantage. 100% of the money you donate to the charity fund actually go to the beneficiaries. The Royal family pays for all operating expenses. Anyone can donate, Hanoverian or otherwise, and donating makes you more of the solution than just your money. The world is full of many worthy causes, and all donors have the right to vote on which cause shall be the receiver of the funds as they are periodically dispersed. So, when can I expect your donation?
HT: I will be happy to donate once that period of being "untested" passes. Now, your nation is currently working on the creation of an Army and Navy. Why were there no Uniformed Services prior to this, and what do you foresee as the role of the Military in the future of Hanover?
KA: From the very beginning Hanover has renounced all forms of aggressive war. Having an army or navy was thought to stand in opposition to that value. This was established by King James I, and was completely respected until he himself proposed that a ceremonial body would make good sense. After all, Hanover is loosely modeled after the Kingdom of Great Britton and they have such a strong military tradition that to ignore it is as silly as for Hanover to try to assert her own military power. We have none, and we want none, but the tradition and ceremony offered by such bodies are excellent ways to reward citizens for their efforts. So we're busy forming an purely ceremonial force.
HT: Now, Your Majesty, we have a few questions that were submitted by some of our faithful readers. The first one is: Do you intend to change Hanover's semi-isolationist foreign policy?
KA: We already have! The policy was a very strict no-hobby-nations-allowed approach for a long time. Now We have resumed communication with Gotzborg, and Morovia and I have been on a state visit to Cyberia, and we actively seek international participation in the cultural exchange. The question I'd have for that reader is "Are we making headway? Is Hanover putting those isolationist days behind her in your eyes? What could we do better?"
HT: How has Hanover changed since you became King?
KA: Probably the best way to answer this is to also look at what hasn't changed. Hanover has stepped up technologically from the free forums of ezboards to a hosted service, and yet strives to retain the look and feel of the previous services. Hanover has changed its form of governance from Westminster to Elizabethan, and yet both are models brought to us by the British. Hanover's nobility has stayed very much the same, and yet many citizens have come and gone. As we just mentioned the foreign policy has changed, and yet I think we still maintain very high standards.
And of course, we've broadened our understanding of a ceremonial military. Probably one of the biggest changes is the creation of a state church. That was a completely unthinkable concept when I took the Throne, so much so that it called what I term the Hanover civil war, and yet now it exists and Hanover seems to be doing just fine. One thing that has never changed is our goal to build a nation.
Our Prince just sent us a note in which he states "I never get interviewed", so you might consider adding him to your list. I don't know how you pick your subjects. It's just an idea.
HT: The current set of interviews are being conducted with Heads of State. I plan to then do interviews with others, so he may get his chance yet. Speaking of Princes, another question from a reader regards Prince Justin: Why was Prince Justin removed from his position as heir apparent, and is there any chance of him resuming that title in the future?
KA: Prince Justin actually abdicated as heir. He did it because he thought it was in the best interest of the nation. Is there any possibility of his return to that position, of course! He's been a loyal subject and defender of the Crown for years. Not many people in Hanover love Hanover as much as Our prince. But, and this is sort of ironic, in keeping with the tradition of the reign of Queen Elizabeth whom we attempt to model, she had no heir until the very end of her reign. I will likely not last so long, but for a long while I will hold to that model just for tradition.
HT: Hanover has a Queen, but why doesn't she participate in the nation?
KA: She does! Just not online as much as others. She's the governor of the Royal Benevolence Society of Hanover and a Privy Councilor and support system for the King. Trust me, I rely upon her heavily. She was instrumental in the recently concluded Royal tour and has generally be a "behind the scenes" force in Hanover from the first day of my citizenship.
HT: Having seen the pictures of your coronation as part of your tour of the Kingdom of Varennes do you have any tips for any of the less experienced micronational monarchs on how to tread the thin line between regal dignity and pomposity?
KA: You bet. The most important thing is to keep in mind your sacred calling. If you're a Monarch, and not a dictator, then you have a responsibility to defend and promote the nation and all her subjects to the best of your ability. Second, is that you're always in the public eye. The Monarchy never sleeps, ever. Third, keep your perspective about you. You don't have all the answers, but you will be responsible for all the decisions. Get good advisors, and use them. Don't act rashly or from either anger or exuberance. Fourth, keep learning. I can assure you that there is plenty more to understand and the better you are at your trade the more likely you are to maintain the previous three rules.
HT: That wraps up this Interview, Your Majesty. Thank you again for welcoming me to Hanover and giving me such fantastic treatment. Would you like to add anything before I catch my plane home?
KA: Yes, you should know that the Hanover Air Service (We just claimed all world air transport services for purposes of this statement) no longer allows liquids in the passenger cabin, so get to the airport properly packed for the tighter security. But seriously, thank you for this time to express some of the values of Hanover and I look forward to hearing what your readers have to say.
HT: It's been a most enjoyable interview, Your Majesty. Thank you again.
Commentaries and Interviews with today's Micronational Newsmakers.
(It's Nothing Personal)
(It's Nothing Personal)
VIKING EMPIRE OF STORMARK
Empire of The Alexandrians
The Grand Commonwealth
Republic of Antica
United Counties of Riponia
Czardom of Landingberg
The Zatriarchate of Matbaa
Friday, August 11, 2006
Interview With King Alexander I of Hanover
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Tuesday, August 08, 2006
Commentary: Stormark's Foundation Day 2006
Happy Foundation Day, Stormarkers!!!
Today we recall with deep gratitude all the hard work and dedication it took to ensure that our great Viking Nation would live on well beyond the normal life-span for nations of our kind. Four years is nothing to sneeze at, and is indeed a great accomplishment for all of us to celebrate.
In the world we all share, it's increasingly easy to see how so many differences between races, religions, political ideologies, nationalities, and sexual orientations can cause such deep-seeded feelings as to cause death and devastation. In Stormark, we have risen above such petty differences.
Race: We are ALL Vikings!! Skin color doesn't matter to a true Stormarker, for he/she knows that we're all brothers and sisters under the same flag, and with the same goal in mind - the continued prosperity of our great nation.
Religion: Where else can we find a nation that is home to a Catholic Pope, a Hof for the study, worship, and further education of Asatru, and where the Empress is a Muslim - and where such diversity isn't feared, but embraced?? Only in Stormark!
Politics: Free speech - TRUE free speech, lives on in Stormark. We are, of course, an Empire, but opinions from all are welcome. We've never turned anyone away, or lessened another's views simply because he/she may be republican, communist, monarchist, etc. We in Stormark know that it's through such differences in ideology that true progress can be met - everyone has the right to speak up, provide an opinion, and change the course of our nation!
Nationality: Aside from the Emperor himself, I honestly cannot think of a single Stormarker who isn't also active in another nation. Such a fact makes the issue of nationality - well, not really an issue at all!!
Sexual Orientation: If someone can show me a place in Stormark where anyone has been persecuted for, or even questioned about, their sexual orientation, I'd love to hear about it. But I know that's never happened, and is very likely to never happen. Nobody in Stormark is so narrow-minded as to judge someone based on their sexual orientation - we're smarter and more compassionate than that.
There is a fantastic and unrivaled quality about the collective population of Stormark. Together, we've forged a nation that is intelligent, kind, noble, spiritual, and passionate - all without stepping on each other's toes, or insulting our brother and sister Stormarkers. The formula invented by our great Emperor has resulted in the beautiful and vibrant land we all call home.
So on this, our Foundation Day, as we celebrate 4 wonderful years as a nation, let us reflect on what it took to get here, and whom we have most to thank - our Emperor - and friend to everyone he meets - Harald Thorstein I, the Generous Giver. He is our leader, our faithful friend, an incomparable statesman, and truly one of the most kindhearted men ever to live.
LONG LIVE THE EMPEROR
LONG LIVE STORMARK!!!
Today we recall with deep gratitude all the hard work and dedication it took to ensure that our great Viking Nation would live on well beyond the normal life-span for nations of our kind. Four years is nothing to sneeze at, and is indeed a great accomplishment for all of us to celebrate.
In the world we all share, it's increasingly easy to see how so many differences between races, religions, political ideologies, nationalities, and sexual orientations can cause such deep-seeded feelings as to cause death and devastation. In Stormark, we have risen above such petty differences.
Race: We are ALL Vikings!! Skin color doesn't matter to a true Stormarker, for he/she knows that we're all brothers and sisters under the same flag, and with the same goal in mind - the continued prosperity of our great nation.
Religion: Where else can we find a nation that is home to a Catholic Pope, a Hof for the study, worship, and further education of Asatru, and where the Empress is a Muslim - and where such diversity isn't feared, but embraced?? Only in Stormark!
Politics: Free speech - TRUE free speech, lives on in Stormark. We are, of course, an Empire, but opinions from all are welcome. We've never turned anyone away, or lessened another's views simply because he/she may be republican, communist, monarchist, etc. We in Stormark know that it's through such differences in ideology that true progress can be met - everyone has the right to speak up, provide an opinion, and change the course of our nation!
Nationality: Aside from the Emperor himself, I honestly cannot think of a single Stormarker who isn't also active in another nation. Such a fact makes the issue of nationality - well, not really an issue at all!!
Sexual Orientation: If someone can show me a place in Stormark where anyone has been persecuted for, or even questioned about, their sexual orientation, I'd love to hear about it. But I know that's never happened, and is very likely to never happen. Nobody in Stormark is so narrow-minded as to judge someone based on their sexual orientation - we're smarter and more compassionate than that.
There is a fantastic and unrivaled quality about the collective population of Stormark. Together, we've forged a nation that is intelligent, kind, noble, spiritual, and passionate - all without stepping on each other's toes, or insulting our brother and sister Stormarkers. The formula invented by our great Emperor has resulted in the beautiful and vibrant land we all call home.
So on this, our Foundation Day, as we celebrate 4 wonderful years as a nation, let us reflect on what it took to get here, and whom we have most to thank - our Emperor - and friend to everyone he meets - Harald Thorstein I, the Generous Giver. He is our leader, our faithful friend, an incomparable statesman, and truly one of the most kindhearted men ever to live.
LONG LIVE THE EMPEROR
LONG LIVE STORMARK!!!
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Friday, August 04, 2006
Interview With Prime Minister Christian Mackintosh of Riponia
This week's Interview was with the Prime Minister of Riponia. I have to admit that this has to be my personal favorite thus far in the Series. The Prime Minister is an endearing man, and is very well spoken. I hope you will all enjoy reading the Interview as much as I enjoyed making it happen.
(HT = Haraldsborg Times, PM = Prime Minister Mackintosh)
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This first part reflects my talk with the man behind the PM - these are "out of character" questions.
HT: To begin with today, it might be nice to get a little background on how Riponia came into being. Where did the idea for Riponia come from? I might add that this question is almost identical to a question submitted by one of Riponia’s citizens, Tatiana.
PM: Ah, you see, those of you from ‘over the pond’ (or elsewhere) might not have heard of ‘The Two Ronnies’, but they were quite a popular comedy double act here in Britain at one time. One day, I just so happened to be watching one sketch in which one of the aforementioned Ronnies was posing as a Viking laying claim to some territory in the Midlands which had apparently been granted to his ancestors.
Upon watching this, the idea of forming my own nation came to me. This was in 2003, if my memory serves me correctly.
The idea lay dormant for a while until the summer of 2005 when, whilst bored, I happened to search the internet for projects similar to my own ‘nation’. I found various webpages, including MNN, and wanted to be a part of this hobby.
The rest, as they say, is history.
HT: What aspects of Micronationalism appeal to you most, and which do you dread?
PM: For me, micronationalism is an opportunity to experience and be a part of something that i’ll most likely never experience in the real world. I adore intermicronational affairs and diplomacy, and would like to engage more in the role-playing aspect of micronationalism, but all in good time...
I can’t honestly say that I dread anything about micronationalism, save for the summer lull...!
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This is the "in character" portion of the interview - the reporter and the Prime Minister.
HT: Thank you for having me here today for this interview, Prime Minister.
PM: No no, thank you, madam. It is an honour to welcome you to this humble nation. Please, take a seat...
HT: Now for the interview. Are you ready? I promise not to be too hard on you!
PM: Ah, don’t worry about me, I’m a Northerner... I can handle anything you can throw at me!
HT: That's good to hear! Now - the biggest issue that’s been brought up recently among my readers involves the Circum-Raynor War. Could you please provide some personal, as well as national insight into the War as you and your people saw it?
PM: Well, for us the Circum Raynor war was primarily about two things. One, protecting the UCS, a nation too small to defend itself from what was an unprovoked and morally despicable attack. Secondly, we in Riponia wanted to honour our close friendship with Matbaa, and assist her in whatever way she required.
I value greatly Riponia’s friendship with nations like Matbaa. For us, a treaty is not just a scrap of paper, readily forgotten. For us a treaty is a bond between nations, and we will not break those bonds.
HT: After the War was concluded, it’s interesting to note that some of your “enemies” are on good terms with Riponia. How did this come about, and do you see Riponia participating in further conflicts (potential Babkha-Matbaa War comes to mind)?
PM: Riponia achieved her aims for the war. The UCS has not been attacked again, and we did our duty to Matbaa. Our war was with Woodstania alone. I am all too familiar of the messy web of alliances that brought so many nations into the war, and that is regrettable, but as i say, Riponia’s war was not with Antica, Natopia, Babkha, Stormark, Alexandria or New Oscland.
In fact, I hold a great deal of respect for all nations involved in the war, friend or foe. I talk of ‘bonds between nations’, and it’s worth noting that Riponia also shares treaties with many of our ‘enemies’, treaties which we shall stand by. Hence the continued good relations.
As for involvement in further conflicts, I simply cannot comment.
HT: Has anything of particular note occurred during this current session of Parliament?
PM: Well, this Parliament has been the first democratically elected one in Riponia’s short history. As such, all legislation passed is down to the work of this Parliament.
There are, however, two things i would like to draw your attention to. The first was the passing of the most recent constitution, which streamlined the Government and suited Riponia much better than its predecessor.
Secondly, the Parliament only recently passed the Electoral Reform Act, which I am proud to say finally allowed Riponia to become a direct democracy. This was something I had been wanting to implement for a long time, but I had to wait for the right moment. The bill has also had the desired effect, with citizens now submitting their own legislation rather than waiting for the Government to do it.
However, the best is yet to come.
HT: How long do you see yourself serving as PM of Riponia?
PM: Ooh... to take a stab in the dark... approximately a week? Maybe two?
You see, for a while now the Elder Council has been meeting to discuss much-touted ‘major reforms’. Riponia, pending the agreement of the Parliament, is to become a Republic. Riponia was never truly the Union that its name implied, the Governmental system has been flawed from the beginning, and citizens have not been given the necessary impetus to involve and advance themselves.
These reforms will allow us to address all of these issues and more. Details of the proposed reforms will emerge shortly in the Riponian Parliament.
Now, if you’re asking how long i shall remain Head of State, I think I shall stand for the first Presidential election, with a term of four months, and that’ll be my lot. I do not wish to serve a fourth term as Head of State just yet. Regarding the future though, who knows?
HT: Which nations do you personally consider to be Riponia’s closest allies, and why?
PM: Riponia’s closest allies, without a shadow of a doubt, would be our fellow NAM members, and Matbaa. The Non-Aligned Movement is very important to us in Riponia, we truly believe that it is a good cause, a noble cause, and one that we shall protect.
HT: I noticed that there is a Ministry of Economics Building in Ripon, which is apparently closed and has seen no activity for several months. Why was that building placed, and what’s happened to cause it’s activity level to cease?
PM: I’m afraid that the regrettable departure of our previous Economics Minister, and the lack of a suitable replacement, has rather left the Ministry gathering dust. In a few months time this will no longer be a problem, as we aim to have enough trained economists within our ranks by that point to be able to find someone who could do the job well.
HT: What is the purpose of the Elder Council, can you tell me who the members are, and why the forum for the Council is restricted?
PM: The Elder Council is primarily an advisory body to the Government, although it currently possesses some powers to stall legislation and in extreme cases, declare a General Election.
However, under the Republic, the stronger Judiciary means that the Elder Council can be reduced to simply an advisory body.
Members of the Elder Council are those that made up the first Cabinet of the United Counties of Riponia. That would be Myself, Nymphette, dan the man and Ardens. Of course, the Elder Council was never going to be effective until the next Parliament, which we should see in a matter of weeks.
HT: The GIC, while seeming rather ominous, looks more benign than anything. It doesn’t see much activity, and I can’t find any record of real power being exerted. Why is the GIC still there, and what do you see as the benefits and potential pitfalls of this organization?
PM: If the GIC hasn’t had to do much, that is surely good news, because it means that the current Government has done nothing unconstitutional, and that Riponian citizens have not complained about its actions! In fact, the longer it stays inactive, the better!
As with the Elder Council, the Republic’s strong Judiciary will mean that the GIC is no longer required in its present form, so will be dissolved.
To look, however, at the organisation as it was, it ensured that the Government acted constitutionally and aided citizens in all manner of problems. Most of its actions have since been consigned to the Archives though, so if you want to find them, you’ll have to look there.
There will always be pitfalls inherent in such a system, but I sincerely believe that it was a positive force in Riponia, and well-managed by Tatiana at that.
HT: Now we can get to some questions submitted by our readers. This first set comes from Nymphette, your Deputy PM in Riponia.
PM: Oh good. Please continue.
HT: How do you feel about what Riponia has become, after what it once was?
PM: A tough question, considering that what Riponia is and was is a very subjective and personal thing. To me, in the past year I have seen Riponia growing, evolving and maturing. From what was once more of a spam forum than a nation, something truly beautiful has emerged. I am proud of Riponia and all its citizens. We have a booming economy with a growing share of the international weapons trade... something any Prime Minister would be proud of... an active Parliament and Government, and have formed strong friendships that transcend all international boundaries.
HT: Why do you lie to me?
PM: I never lie...
HT: What does it feel like to be liked by people?
PM: Err... great?
HT: Why are you such a twat?
PM: I take it I can count on your vote in the next election?
HT: Now that those are out of the way, here are some less kindhearted questions from readers outside of Riponia.
Where did that flag design come from?
PM: The flag was made almost immediately after Riponia was established in the City of Ripon. Whilst not vexillologically beautiful, it is a part of our heritage.
I can’t really remember where the design came from, I was simply trying to create a flag and that’s what happened to come out. It isn’t perfect, but we Riponians adore it.
HT: Aside from Riponia, name the one micronation that you respect and admire most and tell us why you feel that way.
PM: Hmm... just one? That’s really quite tough, because I would much rather name two, or even more.
I truly respect the Republic of Antica, it is a truly fine nation that, having survived one of the most divisive... divisions... in recent history, has flourished and arguably has become one of today’s Superpowers.
Yet, I would also name the Zatriarchate of Matbaa as a nation I truly respect, if only for having taken a culture that most micronationalists know nothing about and bringing it out into the wider micronational world so successfully.
HT: How did you get all these women to join Riponia? It’s like the opposite of every other micronation around.
PM: Well... I’d like to say it was my devilish good looks, unparalleled wit and awe-inspiring mastery of the English language that did it, but I would be lying... The truth is, Riponia is a micronation that has something for everyone, male or female, young or old. The Women’s Institute has also been very effective at giving the Riponian Ladies a place to call their own, although it did have to close following clashes with the Men’s Institute.
Anyway, it is my firm belief that over the internet, gender, as with race or nationality, loses its meaning and value. After all, we’re all alike.
HT: That concludes our interview, Prime Minister. Do you have anything you’d like to mention to our readers before we close?
PM: We’re finished already? A crying shame!
HT: Yes, being with me has a way of making time fly. Anyway, Prime Minister - thank you so much for the invitation. And thank you for welcoming me here to beautiful Ripon. I’ve had a great time.
PM: It has been a pleasure. Feel free to stop by in Riponia anytime you’re in the neighbourhood!
(HT = Haraldsborg Times, PM = Prime Minister Mackintosh)
____________________
This first part reflects my talk with the man behind the PM - these are "out of character" questions.
HT: To begin with today, it might be nice to get a little background on how Riponia came into being. Where did the idea for Riponia come from? I might add that this question is almost identical to a question submitted by one of Riponia’s citizens, Tatiana.
PM: Ah, you see, those of you from ‘over the pond’ (or elsewhere) might not have heard of ‘The Two Ronnies’, but they were quite a popular comedy double act here in Britain at one time. One day, I just so happened to be watching one sketch in which one of the aforementioned Ronnies was posing as a Viking laying claim to some territory in the Midlands which had apparently been granted to his ancestors.
Upon watching this, the idea of forming my own nation came to me. This was in 2003, if my memory serves me correctly.
The idea lay dormant for a while until the summer of 2005 when, whilst bored, I happened to search the internet for projects similar to my own ‘nation’. I found various webpages, including MNN, and wanted to be a part of this hobby.
The rest, as they say, is history.
HT: What aspects of Micronationalism appeal to you most, and which do you dread?
PM: For me, micronationalism is an opportunity to experience and be a part of something that i’ll most likely never experience in the real world. I adore intermicronational affairs and diplomacy, and would like to engage more in the role-playing aspect of micronationalism, but all in good time...
I can’t honestly say that I dread anything about micronationalism, save for the summer lull...!
____________________
This is the "in character" portion of the interview - the reporter and the Prime Minister.
HT: Thank you for having me here today for this interview, Prime Minister.
PM: No no, thank you, madam. It is an honour to welcome you to this humble nation. Please, take a seat...
HT: Now for the interview. Are you ready? I promise not to be too hard on you!
PM: Ah, don’t worry about me, I’m a Northerner... I can handle anything you can throw at me!
HT: That's good to hear! Now - the biggest issue that’s been brought up recently among my readers involves the Circum-Raynor War. Could you please provide some personal, as well as national insight into the War as you and your people saw it?
PM: Well, for us the Circum Raynor war was primarily about two things. One, protecting the UCS, a nation too small to defend itself from what was an unprovoked and morally despicable attack. Secondly, we in Riponia wanted to honour our close friendship with Matbaa, and assist her in whatever way she required.
I value greatly Riponia’s friendship with nations like Matbaa. For us, a treaty is not just a scrap of paper, readily forgotten. For us a treaty is a bond between nations, and we will not break those bonds.
HT: After the War was concluded, it’s interesting to note that some of your “enemies” are on good terms with Riponia. How did this come about, and do you see Riponia participating in further conflicts (potential Babkha-Matbaa War comes to mind)?
PM: Riponia achieved her aims for the war. The UCS has not been attacked again, and we did our duty to Matbaa. Our war was with Woodstania alone. I am all too familiar of the messy web of alliances that brought so many nations into the war, and that is regrettable, but as i say, Riponia’s war was not with Antica, Natopia, Babkha, Stormark, Alexandria or New Oscland.
In fact, I hold a great deal of respect for all nations involved in the war, friend or foe. I talk of ‘bonds between nations’, and it’s worth noting that Riponia also shares treaties with many of our ‘enemies’, treaties which we shall stand by. Hence the continued good relations.
As for involvement in further conflicts, I simply cannot comment.
HT: Has anything of particular note occurred during this current session of Parliament?
PM: Well, this Parliament has been the first democratically elected one in Riponia’s short history. As such, all legislation passed is down to the work of this Parliament.
There are, however, two things i would like to draw your attention to. The first was the passing of the most recent constitution, which streamlined the Government and suited Riponia much better than its predecessor.
Secondly, the Parliament only recently passed the Electoral Reform Act, which I am proud to say finally allowed Riponia to become a direct democracy. This was something I had been wanting to implement for a long time, but I had to wait for the right moment. The bill has also had the desired effect, with citizens now submitting their own legislation rather than waiting for the Government to do it.
However, the best is yet to come.
HT: How long do you see yourself serving as PM of Riponia?
PM: Ooh... to take a stab in the dark... approximately a week? Maybe two?
You see, for a while now the Elder Council has been meeting to discuss much-touted ‘major reforms’. Riponia, pending the agreement of the Parliament, is to become a Republic. Riponia was never truly the Union that its name implied, the Governmental system has been flawed from the beginning, and citizens have not been given the necessary impetus to involve and advance themselves.
These reforms will allow us to address all of these issues and more. Details of the proposed reforms will emerge shortly in the Riponian Parliament.
Now, if you’re asking how long i shall remain Head of State, I think I shall stand for the first Presidential election, with a term of four months, and that’ll be my lot. I do not wish to serve a fourth term as Head of State just yet. Regarding the future though, who knows?
HT: Which nations do you personally consider to be Riponia’s closest allies, and why?
PM: Riponia’s closest allies, without a shadow of a doubt, would be our fellow NAM members, and Matbaa. The Non-Aligned Movement is very important to us in Riponia, we truly believe that it is a good cause, a noble cause, and one that we shall protect.
HT: I noticed that there is a Ministry of Economics Building in Ripon, which is apparently closed and has seen no activity for several months. Why was that building placed, and what’s happened to cause it’s activity level to cease?
PM: I’m afraid that the regrettable departure of our previous Economics Minister, and the lack of a suitable replacement, has rather left the Ministry gathering dust. In a few months time this will no longer be a problem, as we aim to have enough trained economists within our ranks by that point to be able to find someone who could do the job well.
HT: What is the purpose of the Elder Council, can you tell me who the members are, and why the forum for the Council is restricted?
PM: The Elder Council is primarily an advisory body to the Government, although it currently possesses some powers to stall legislation and in extreme cases, declare a General Election.
However, under the Republic, the stronger Judiciary means that the Elder Council can be reduced to simply an advisory body.
Members of the Elder Council are those that made up the first Cabinet of the United Counties of Riponia. That would be Myself, Nymphette, dan the man and Ardens. Of course, the Elder Council was never going to be effective until the next Parliament, which we should see in a matter of weeks.
HT: The GIC, while seeming rather ominous, looks more benign than anything. It doesn’t see much activity, and I can’t find any record of real power being exerted. Why is the GIC still there, and what do you see as the benefits and potential pitfalls of this organization?
PM: If the GIC hasn’t had to do much, that is surely good news, because it means that the current Government has done nothing unconstitutional, and that Riponian citizens have not complained about its actions! In fact, the longer it stays inactive, the better!
As with the Elder Council, the Republic’s strong Judiciary will mean that the GIC is no longer required in its present form, so will be dissolved.
To look, however, at the organisation as it was, it ensured that the Government acted constitutionally and aided citizens in all manner of problems. Most of its actions have since been consigned to the Archives though, so if you want to find them, you’ll have to look there.
There will always be pitfalls inherent in such a system, but I sincerely believe that it was a positive force in Riponia, and well-managed by Tatiana at that.
HT: Now we can get to some questions submitted by our readers. This first set comes from Nymphette, your Deputy PM in Riponia.
PM: Oh good. Please continue.
HT: How do you feel about what Riponia has become, after what it once was?
PM: A tough question, considering that what Riponia is and was is a very subjective and personal thing. To me, in the past year I have seen Riponia growing, evolving and maturing. From what was once more of a spam forum than a nation, something truly beautiful has emerged. I am proud of Riponia and all its citizens. We have a booming economy with a growing share of the international weapons trade... something any Prime Minister would be proud of... an active Parliament and Government, and have formed strong friendships that transcend all international boundaries.
HT: Why do you lie to me?
PM: I never lie...
HT: What does it feel like to be liked by people?
PM: Err... great?
HT: Why are you such a twat?
PM: I take it I can count on your vote in the next election?
HT: Now that those are out of the way, here are some less kindhearted questions from readers outside of Riponia.
Where did that flag design come from?
PM: The flag was made almost immediately after Riponia was established in the City of Ripon. Whilst not vexillologically beautiful, it is a part of our heritage.
I can’t really remember where the design came from, I was simply trying to create a flag and that’s what happened to come out. It isn’t perfect, but we Riponians adore it.
HT: Aside from Riponia, name the one micronation that you respect and admire most and tell us why you feel that way.
PM: Hmm... just one? That’s really quite tough, because I would much rather name two, or even more.
I truly respect the Republic of Antica, it is a truly fine nation that, having survived one of the most divisive... divisions... in recent history, has flourished and arguably has become one of today’s Superpowers.
Yet, I would also name the Zatriarchate of Matbaa as a nation I truly respect, if only for having taken a culture that most micronationalists know nothing about and bringing it out into the wider micronational world so successfully.
HT: How did you get all these women to join Riponia? It’s like the opposite of every other micronation around.
PM: Well... I’d like to say it was my devilish good looks, unparalleled wit and awe-inspiring mastery of the English language that did it, but I would be lying... The truth is, Riponia is a micronation that has something for everyone, male or female, young or old. The Women’s Institute has also been very effective at giving the Riponian Ladies a place to call their own, although it did have to close following clashes with the Men’s Institute.
Anyway, it is my firm belief that over the internet, gender, as with race or nationality, loses its meaning and value. After all, we’re all alike.
HT: That concludes our interview, Prime Minister. Do you have anything you’d like to mention to our readers before we close?
PM: We’re finished already? A crying shame!
HT: Yes, being with me has a way of making time fly. Anyway, Prime Minister - thank you so much for the invitation. And thank you for welcoming me here to beautiful Ripon. I’ve had a great time.
PM: It has been a pleasure. Feel free to stop by in Riponia anytime you’re in the neighbourhood!
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