The Haraldsborg Times

Resuming Interviews in May

2007-04-22T17:24:00.000+05:00

This is just to notify those of you who have been waiting and waiting for something new, that we will resume posting interviews as of Friday, May 4th. Look forward to a lovely and somewhat brutal interview of Babkha's new leader: Rashid Shahanshah. Join me as we find out just where the hell Aradashir went off to!!

Interview With King Alexander I of Hanover

2006-08-11T10:00:00.000+05:00

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.

Commentary: Stormark's Foundation Day 2006

2006-08-08T17:56:00.000+05:00

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!!!

Interview With Prime Minister Christian Mackintosh of Riponia

2006-08-04T06:00:00.000+05:00

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!

Interview With Grand Czar Aleksander Wilhelm III of Landingberg

2006-07-28T08:00:00.000+05:00

This week's Interview was with the Grand Czar of Landingberg. As a relatively new nation, and a recent addition to the Micras Sector, it was felt that this Interview would bring an interesting perspective into view.

As I am guided through the Palace, I am overwhelmed by the sheer size of the place. The trip to th Czar's Office lasted what seemed to be an eternity. Suddenly, I was faced with two 9 foot tall solid oak doors, with golden door knobs. Upon entering through the huge doors, I was met with a beautiful burgundy red carpet, white walls with gold trim and a formidable desk sitting in the center of the room. There was a hole cut all the way up into the roof with a break proof glass dome over the hole. The desk had golden legs shaped like lions, and was made of the same wood as the doors. On the carpet around the desk is the Imperial seal embroidered into the carpet. On the wall is a big picture of the nation's greatest sovereign of all time - Grand Duchess Alexandra Marie I who reigned from 1404-1482.

I sat myself down, took a few deep breaths after calming down from the marathon trip to the office, and settled in for my interview with Grand Czar Aleksander Wilhelm III.

(HT = Haraldsborg Times, CA = Czar Aleksander)
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This first part reflects my talk with the man behind the Czar - these are "out of character" questions.

HT: Landingberg is one of the newest nations in our Sector. What has brought you to micronationalism, and how did you first come into contact with the Micras Sector?

CA: Well one day I was bored and I was just surfing the internet and I found a website by His Excelleny, President Kevin Baugh of Molossia. It talked about micronationalism and the rest is history. I founded Landingberg and built her to be what she is today.

Emperor Harald Thorstein I was really the first micras ruler that shaped my outlook on micronationalism. His influence has greatly shaped Landingberg. This would also be true for Emperor Edgard II of Alexandria.

HT: It has been well noted that you introduced yourself to the micro-world by basically ennobling anyone who had a heartbeat. What were the reasons behind this, and do you feel now, in retrospect, that you might have gone a little overboard?

CA: Yes I did go a bit over board with the title giving. But in retrospect it does make a bit of sense when you think of how Landingberg is divided into 2 Grand Dukedoms, 12 Duchies, 24 Baronies, 48 Principalities, and 96 Marquistates. So even with all of the title I gave there are many many still left to give.

HT: What period in history have you decided to model your nation after, and why?

CA: That would be simple. The Tsarist government of Imperial Russia. The grandeur of the Imperial Court; all of it really just caught my attention.

HT: Where do you realistically see Landingberg one year from now?

CA: I imagine Landingberg as being more active. A Stronger Imperial Navy (the jewel of our armed forces) and at peace. And of course much more citizens.
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This is the "in character" portion of the interview - the reporter and the Czar.

HT: Thank you for seeing me today, Your Majesty. I have to say that the Asheriana Imperial Palace is quite spectacular. Maybe you should think about installing some sort of transit system - the walk from the main parlor to your office must have been over two kilometers.

CA: You are quite welcome! I am flattered to have you here today; and as for the walk I am quite sorry about that. It is a tradition for every head of state to add atleast one room to the Imperial Palace. So it makes for a unbearbly long walk now - seeing as Landingberg has had so many sovereigns. And yes we are actually planning that now. It should be available to use within a year.

HT: I am happy to hear that, Majesty. Now - - on to the questions! Currently, your nation has very few citizens, yet you've allowed several non-natives key positions in your Senate and Military. What are the reasons behind this, and what advantages are there in having so many foreigners acting in such important positions?

CA: Well it makes for a strong hold between Landingberg and its allies. Its also a way of getting things done until more citizens become active in Landingberg.

HT: So do you plan to have these people removed from Office once Landingberg has a larger native citizen base?

CA: No, not at the moment. Most of them have become crucial and I couldnt dream of letting them go entirely.

HT: You recently ennobled Emperor Justin I as the Duke of East Barria, then stripped him of his Title - then returned the Title to him all within a couple of weeks. What's the story behind this bizarre chain of events?

CA: There was a simple misunderstanding between His Majesty and me. I took something the wrong way. It's as simple as that.

HT: What was the misunderstanding? You must know from reading the Haraldsborg Times that we don't settle for half-answers, Your Majesty. We want details!

CA: He was asking me a question, though the question I forgot, he sounded rude and insolent. So I stripped the title as I would do to anyone who would act as such.

HT: Very good. Yes, I can see where disrespect from another monarch should not be tolerated. Now - Landingberg has a booming Real Estate business. Where did the idea for selling land and homes come from, and do you see this becoming part of some larger scheme to build a national economy?

CA: Yes! I was quite surprised as to how quickly the Landish Real Estate took off. I got my idea from Archduchess Marie Valtraude of the now non-existent Archduchy of Lichtenbad. She had made a small real estate agency that seemed to of fallen through soon before the Lichtenbad crisis. And yes I do see it becoming a strong part of the Landish economy.

HT: Speaking of Lichtenbad. Your nation was in the middle of the Lichtenbad Crisis as it unfolded. Where did your loyalties lie during those events, and how did your nation react to the sudden burst of civil unrest and armed conflict?

CA: Well the whole thing was confusing. I was a good friend of Marie Valtraude, the then Archduchess. And in a treaty we both promised to protect each others nation. I had been on holiday when I got back to Lichtenbad (of which I was a citizen and a Knight). Automatically I sent the Imperial Navy to surround the capital city of Ostevik.

One of our destroyers where harmed by a bomb the Landish intelligence agency does not know the sorce of. However it didnt sink. In the end it was just a waste of Dautzens. Although I cant say i'd do it any different if it were to happen today.

HT: The Imperial Senate recently voted down a potential Treaty with the Royal Kingdom of Gotzborg. Seeing as how Gotzborg is one of the more influential nations in the Micras Sector - do you see this rejection by the Senate as causing any potential problems for Landingberg in the future? And what, as you see it, were the reasons for the Senate's rejection of the Treaty?

CA: No I dont see any problem in the future. I can only go on what the voters in the Imperial Senate said. That they were large and influential, yes, but that they didnt even register in Landingberg. I do see why they voted down the treaty. However, Landingberg and Gotzborg have remained on friendly terms.

HT: We have a couple of questions for you submitted by our readers. First we have:

Do you see Landingberg progressing down a more democratic route as the country continues its remarkable development, or do you believe that the strengthening of royal autocracy will serve to provide the Czardom with a distinctive flavour which will be key to preserving its new found vitality?

CA: Well as many know I still hold much power under the present constitution and I dont plan to change that. I want to keep the Imperial Family and the other nobles still in high regard. So, no we are as democratic as we will get.

HT: It's obvious that you have a close relationship with both Stormark and Alexandria. But why do you borrow elements such as the general theme, and even topics directly from these other nations, when you can use this opportunity to develop something new and original?

CA: Thats actually something that me and my advisors have been discussing. Although we will stay close to our friends in Stormark and Alexandria we are planning to make Landingberg more russian. And make the French half slowly deteriorate. Although some of the things like french architecture and stuff shall remain. Along with the russian architecture we've introduced just recently.

HT: Well, Your Majesty. This has been a very enlightening Interview. I am very thankful for this chance to meet with you and hold this open dialogue. Before we wrap this up, do you have any final words you'd like to add?

CA: You are most welcome! I am very happy to of had you in the Imperial Palace this evening. And yes, I just want to say for micras to keep an eye on my qauint little czardom. For it will be growing god willing. Who knows what surprises we have in store!

Interview With Speaker Olorix of Antica

2006-07-21T10:30:00.000+05:00

Warm greetings to all of my good friends. This week we look back on the interview I had with Speaker Olorix from The Republic of Antica.

In stark contrast to my visit with the Emperor of Alexandria just one week ago, Speaker Olorix's office was quite humble. It was a small room, with many books and papers. It seemed rather disorganized to me, but I am sure that the Speaker saw some order among the chaos. The office itself faced onto a street front, and for some reason, reminded me of how I'd always imagined 221B Baker Street to look like. As we sat next to each other for the interview, the environment certainly began to feel very intimate.

(HT = Haraldsborg Times, SO = Speaker Olorix)
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This first part reflects my talk with the man behind the Speaker - these are "out of character" questions.

HT: The split-up of the Dinarchy of Antica is one of the most interesting and, as some have said, brutal, division of a micronation in recent memory, if not ever. As for your part, why did the Dinarchy split and where did the idea for a Republic come from?

SO: I agree with you that the Dinarchy split was momentus in terms of wider micronational history, and from a personal point of view of many of the participants it was a pretty big event. To put it as simple as possible, I think the split in the Dinarchy was caused by Delphi becoming gradually more authoritarian, and indeed totalitarian, and the rest of us becoming more eager for reforms as his regime and activity in Antica gradually slid downwards.

The Republic emerged as an early alternative for those of us who wanted reform, but I was extremely wary of it personally, but nevertheless we all always did have it in the back of our minds that if the fight between us and Delphi destroyed the Dinarchy, we'd just have to move.

HT: Do you see Antica becoming the preeminent power of the sector in the near future, if not already? And how do you see your nation progressing in the near future, say the next 3-4 months?

SO: Well, I think Antica is currently the most powerful micronation in the sector in terms of activity continuously staying extremely high, us having a large citizenship base and MCS territory etc. With the breakdown of the old order of 'micronational superpowers' like the GC and Shireroth, which we had always predicted within the Non-Aligned Movement, I think Antica may be able to bring a new era of growth, peace and non-aggression to the decaying sector.

In terms of seeing our nation progressing, my dream is to turn Antica into a virtuous participant in diplomatic affairs by fostering tolerance and respect between nations, but more importantly, I want Antica internally to have 50 citizens, to have a clear and coherent political system, and to be a 'mutual knowledge society' where everyone is constantly helping each other to improve their skills (like programming and speaking languages) so that we can work and play "smarter."

HT: How did you discover micronations, and how long have you been an active participant?

SO: I guess it must've been late 2003, when via a link on a linguistics forum I used to be part of I signed up to the nation of 'Korhal' (that was subsequently merged into the Dinarchy of Antica). Delphi immediately contacted me after I signed up to the Korhal forums (which I had done a bit half-heartedly just out of interest) and managed to use some persuading powers to get me into Antica and I've been active since then!
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This is the "in character" portion of the interview - the reporter and the Speaker.

HT: It's great to be here in Antica today, Mister Speaker. Thank you for agreeing to this interview.

SO: Thank you too, comrade! It's hilarious to think that I am subject even worth interviewing.

HT: Even though you might not believe you are, I have been looking forward to this. I suspect you may turn out to be more interesting than you think.

HT: Now let's begin, shall we? First question: Some of my readers have said that Antica seems very free-spirited, even to the point of excess. With the birth of this "new" Antica, have you noticed any changes in the personalities of your comrades? Of course there are the politically-minded changes, but what about the way Anticans act and behave? Have some gone "over the top", in your opinion?

SO: I don't think that's the case at all. Antica values personal freedom a lot more than it used to, but we are not radical libertarians, though we do have a highly anti-authortarian streak that is very common to see around the forums. Anticans haven't really changed their behaviour much since the fall of the DInarchy, then again I guess politically we have become a lot more involved and a lot more innovative in our ideas, ones that we knew Delphi would have rejected and thus we never would have proposed them. Over the top? Early on, when people did not fully understand why we were founding our nation, some people did panic even at the slightest mention of any form of power or authority, but that's all gone now.

HT: There are people who see Antica as a sort of "club". While there are frequent visitors and such, you really haven't gained many new citizens. Those who carried over from the Dinarchy days have remained in power in one form or another, leaving anyone else out. Was there some sort of behind the scenes decision made at the formation of the Republic to stick together and only allow each other into positions of power?

SO: We have an extremely strong internal community, and are all good friends outside of micronations (with various meetups in real life frequently occuring in the United States), but we have gained great new citizens who have been fully integrated into the government, like Maggern, Vehendi, Baldwin, Yuri Zhivago, etc. We always said early on we wanted to have a more open society than the Dinarchy was, which resembled fascist italy in many ways with an INTERNAL spying agency that made sure citizens would follow Delphi's line, and thus we've always wanted to make Antica a great place for new and old micronationalists who want to be able to speak their mind and help create a free society and a strong community. I mean in my current cabinet, Aryez (who has been a citizen for a long time but never has been given any really powerful positions) has been appointed to Finance Officer, and Maggern (a migrant to the Republic) is Foreign Relations Officer, both hugely important parts of our government.

HT: Then how do you explain the very one-sided rule of Antica being placed in the hands of those who were once ranking members of the Dinarchy? While cabinet positions are nice, has there been one Speaker so far who wasn't a cross-over from the "old" Antica?

SO: Well Ruth wasn't really a ranking member of the Dinarchy and she has just finished her Speaker term. There are huge contests for elections, unlike in the Dinarchy where we used to rig them, as you all may have seen particularly with the second to last election, where there were four competitors and some major vote splitting. The Speaker position inherently requires for people to know your leadership and political skills, and it's the choice of the Antican people to elect the Speaker. If they decided that all of us old hands from the Dinarchy were bollocks, then they could get a new comrade into the the role, something I would love to see after my term is finished.

HT: You mentioned voting. Antica has several Political Parties. Hasn't the topic of such partisanship been heavily debated by Anticans since the inception of the Republic? Are you for or against Parties, and why?

SO: I'm slightly in favour of them, as long as they don't get too angry or unnecessarily partisan. I initially used the political parties to stimulate activity in the Republic and to get people creating new ideas for the nation, getting some innovation going on policy issues, etc. I think the current situation, where they are quite inactive but still there, is perhaps preferable at this time, as there isn't really a necessity for them in the current political situation where we have a highly innovative cabinet that plans on launching major reforms.

Parties should be allowed to form, but not to turn Antica into a partisan hack hole where people fight just because of the colour of their party flag and not because of their ideas. I think this is the general position on the issue of most Anticans.

HT: Do you feel that the Antican people take their Political Parties seriously, or is this an example of some using the chance at a public platform just to get their views out to a wider audience?

SO: Hmm. I think it's the latter, in that people have tried to use parties to get their own reputation up, and often they only become active during election time where people attempt to use the political parties to use the support base around the specific party to campaign/vote for them. I don't think Anticans, being quite independent, really take political parties that seriously, especially if they attempt to force them to vote along the lines dictated by the leadership! Part of our anti-authoritarian streak yet again.

HT: Recently, Antica has had a couple of chances to enter into rec-wars with allies. Unfortunately, your nation seems to come in at the very last moment, missing all the excitement. What were the reasons for Antica's delays in entering these rec-wars, and is this indicative of some fault in the Antican system which prevents you from reacting to hostilities in a more timely manner?

SO: I think that the current disorganisation of the military is to blame. This is one area I really want to improve, despite my own lack of support of recawarring, I believe it's really important to have a well-organised military structure that allows us to enter these conflicts a lot faster (if not when they begin/as co-organisers). But yes, these delays in my opinion are due to the lacklustre and highly disorganised 'citizen army' approach that we had been using until recently as our military policy.

And now for some questions from our readers. I admit that I am somewhat disappointed that only two Anticans submitted questions for you, but that's something you can feel free to berate them for once we're finished.

HT: This first question comes from an Antican who wishes to remain anonymous - but I am sure you will guess his or her identity anyway. The question: While it is common knowledge that you are from New Zealand, it is not common knowledge that you are a sexual deviant of the most disgusting type, an erotic traveller of the food chain. How do you respond to allegations from several highly placed micronational sources, that you have on more than one occassion had dealings with sheep and possibly other wildlife, that were less than decent? Do you have anything to say at all about your head-first dive into the world of beastiality?

SO: I am disgusted by this claim by a certain Antican communist, who is nothing more than an non-revisionist Stalinist who works as a play school attendant and shows no desires for adult women.

HT: In Star Trek: The Next Generation, there was an episode which featured an alien species called the "Anticans". Is this where the name for your nation originated? If not, then where did the name come from?

SO: Hahaha! I didn't know that actually, I'll have to tell everyone about that in Antica! It actually originated, according to Chris, when he was trying to think of a name for his con-world (Don't hit me Chris if I have this wrong) and crossed out the 'arct' in Antarctica.

HT: What is the most enjoyable position you've ever held in Antica?

SO: Probably Chancellor back in the Dinarchy during the golden age during late 2004, which gave me a huge amount of scope for policy development. These days I am enjoying the Speakership more or less thes ame though, just a little less power and ego gratification haha!

HT: Do you have a best or worst memory involving micronations?

SO: Hmm, probably my worst memory was the total breakdown of the Dinarchy, particularly when Delphi called me a traitor and a threat to Antican security etc. It was ridiculous, really, and it made me realise I had basically put a load of work into what had become one man's total dictatorship.

My best memory? Perhaps during the Dinarchial 'Golden Age' when the economy first started, when citizenship was really high, when we were basically all on a high from our own success, it was great and anyone else who was around at that time will remember the triumphalist speeches I was making, and I'm sure the general happiness of the period.

HT: During the upheaval of the revolution, etc - did you ever personally feel that the attempt to create a Republic would fail?

SO: Yes, most definitely. I thought it would fail, that Delphi would backdown and we'd all live happily ever after in a unified Antica. I realised after a couple of weeks that this situation was probably not going to happen, but I remained a dual citizen of both the Dinarchy and the Republic, I think the only person to have ever held both citizenships simultaneously.

HT: If most of the Antican citizenry is predominantly lefist, how come Antica is a liberal democracy, and the laws aren't particularly socialist or communist?

SO: Well I think a lot of Antica is on the anti-authoritarian left, and none of us (apart from myself) are actually active in real life left wing politics (my own politics are perhaps more centrist than people see online). It's a very good question though, and a question I sometimes ponder myself. I think a lot of us realise that socialism and other leftist ideologies are good in situations where there exists major poverty and social exclusion (as happens in the real world), whereas in Antica, there isn't really a need for socialism as there is not really an economic ruling class and a proletariat/mass working class.

Additionally, as many people will know, I define 'American Left' very differently to 'Rest of the World' left!

HT: Not too long ago you posted an essay on Micronational economies. While it is held by most that micronational economies are impossible - how do you feel personally? Is the idea of a functioning micronational economy doomed to failure?

SO: Not at all. The idea of a functioning micronational economy is perfectly plausible, and the Republic has one right now, if one merely looks at the work I started doing in my role last term as Finance Officer. We have the Government stimulating much of the economic development, true, which I think is necessary early on, but soon, I think everyone will begin to understand the fact that our economy (that uses a PHPbank) can offer so much, like standardising the exchange of images, essays, signatures, newspapers, etc. I honestly think that those who doubt that a micronational economy can exist need to have a talk to me, and I'll show them some evidence to prove that while micornational economies cannot buy as real life cars or get us real life American dollars, they CAN even help us outside of our micronational lives.

Thank you so much for seeing me today, Mister Speaker. I've enjoyed our talk very much, and hope to return again sometime to interview your successor.

Thank you very much, Comrade! I too have enjoyed the discussion, a bit of a trip down memory lane as it were, and hopefully your readers will find interesting facts within my comments. My successor? Well, that may never happen, if you know what I mean [laughs], but seriously, thank you again, and good luck with your journalistic endeavours!

Commentary: Death of a Nation pt. 1

2006-07-17T18:59:00.000+05:00

(notice: please dont message, email me, etc about how biased this article might be. It's a commentary - it's supposed to be subjective. This is part 1 in a series to follow about nations that have fallen off for whatever reason.)

Today we explore the example of Novaya Zemlya.

Novaya Zemlya saw it's birth as a Socialist Republic of the USSR Micronation. Shortly after Zemlya gained SSR status, the USSR would dissolve due to overwhelming internal strife, leaving Zemlya out on it's own. The 4 men who began the nation would not allow their dream to die, and re-structured the SSR into it's own independent nation. Then began a flurry of activity as they created laws, instituted Foreign Policy, created a vodka distillery and economic foundation, and began a Football League - all in a matter of 8 weeks' time.

At it's peak, Zemlya saw quite a bit of activity. Posting levels hovered around 35+ per day (not bad for a nation with only 6 registered citizens), and their artistic contributions were unrivaled at the time. Nearly every Zemlyan citizen was a registered artist - putting forth original paintings, drawings, computer art, poetry, song lyrics, short stories - almost anything you can imagine. They even published two books: titled "Nuked" and "Balloons".

In addition to posting activity and art, Zemlyans were respected throughout the Sector - by monarchist and socialist alike. Instead of taking the hardline Trotsky-like communist stance against anything non-socialist, Zemlya were passive and neutral, not even raising up armed forces - just keeping a small police force to use in urban areas for civil order. There wasn't a respectable Micronation in the Sector who wasn't dealing with Zemlya, hoping to get their hands (and livers) on the renouned Zemlyan Vodka.

Speaking of the vodka, Zemlya will live on in history as the first Micronation to have a functioning economy based on bottles of vodka (no seriously). Citizens were paid with the stuff, they traded with it, and each one basically consumed it on a scale that would have killed several hundred asian elephants. Please see the image below of a banknote for 20 Bottles of Vodka (created for use outside of Zemlya).

The nation even had it's own set of vodka bottle emoticons - one for each of the 12 Zemlyan Vodkas produced. From that idea, several other nations (most notably Gotzborg) would create their own set of alcohol-inspired emoticons for use on their own fora. Here is an image of the emoticons once used in Zemlya:

Novaya Zemlya would also become a popular proponent of Micronational Radio, and "Radio Free Zemlya" went on-air in March of 2005. The station would bring regular news and updates to the Zemlyan people, as well as anyone else who wished to listen in - and kept a blog containing transcripts for those with really slow net access. Zemlya would win a FNORD in 2006 for Excellence in the Field of Journalism - much of the credit for this going to the popularity of RFZ as well as the various state-run entities.

Eventually, Zemlya was doing so well that someone came up with the clever idea of screwing it all up. So the nation made a move toward pure communism - a move that effectively killed the nation off for nearly half a year. This was helped along by the loss of 3/4ths of the founders just a few short weeks following the attempt at communism. So it came to pass that Novaya Zemlya, once the preeminent Socialist Micronation in our Sector, fell into severe inactivity. After existing for over a year, and thriving to the point where it was the most respected Socialist Micronation on the Micras map, the nation was handed over to the GC as a Proctectorate until such time as the Zemlyans decided they wanted it back.

Skip ahead those six months later. With the return of 2 founders, Zemlya saw a brief re-birth. The boards were revived, and activity began to pick back up as all 4 founders eventually came back and pitched in. There was a reversion back to the original socialist system, with only the enterprises being cooperatively owned. They re-claimed their independence from the GC, and were given back their land. Things were looking up - until one of the founders became seriously ill and passed away, causing the others to experience a period of mourning that would result in the complete death of the nation. Only one remained, the original founder himself - who tried to save Zemlya on his own. All was in vain, and the board suffered some sort of deletion no more than 10 days ago. Novaya Zemlya is truly gone - all that remains are our memories, some images, and a few publications.

Commentary: The Lichtenbad Crisis

2006-07-15T13:58:00.000+05:00

Some of our readers have been asking me, since the Interview with Emperor Edgard II of Alexandria, about the Lichtenbad Crisis, which was mentioned in the article. I felt it would be a good idea to present our first commentary on this most recent of Micronational enthrallments.

The Archduchy of Lichtenbad was a very short-lived micronation. I realize that's nothing new, since many projects fail rather quickly. What made Lichtenbad unique was that it's founder, Archduchess Marie-Valtraude, has been in micronations now for a few years, and has begun no less than 8 different micronational entities. That, in itself, isn't really too remarkable, but each project begun by her have faded away much sooner than they should have.

In order to help encourage participation by it's citizens, the Archduchess began elections for public office. The plan worked, as around half a dozen people began to campaign feverishly. At first, I was quite impressed and happy to see that the nation not only had a good base of interested people, but that the democratic process was going so well. There were banners, adverts, debates - everything you would expect from a healthy election period.

As the elections went on, I had a chat with the Archduchess. She mentioned to me that the elections were entirely controlled by her, with the results, etc going the way she wanted them. At first, I thought to myself - "This is a really clever idea. It brings about activity by way of 'campaigning', and gives everyone something constructive to do." What I didn't know, however, was that the people of Lichtenbad who were really real - you know - the ones who are actual people trying to build a country? Those people didn't know about the way the election was to be fixed. They were honestly trying (at least some - the ones I talked to) to get elected so they could do some good and move Lichtenbad along. When I found that out, I was bothered a bit.

Now we move on to post-election. There were some people whom the Archduchess professed not to like very much - yet she had no choice but to allow them some sort of governmental position. Even though she role-played the results, and determined the winner, those who lost still gained seats in Parliament. This was the result of few people, and many positions. In order to remove a couple of the more "agressive" political figures, the Archduchess staged a terrorist attack, which occurred during a Parade. Obviously there was no such attack, it was merely a tool for eliminating those she didn't want in government.

My biggest problem with this lies in the fact that terrorism is a very real, very frightening aspect of our macronational lives. It's a serious matter, not to be tossed about lightly in role-play. Being that the attacks were role-played, the people who were subsequently blamed were, of course, innocent of any wrongdoing. But that didn't stop the newly appointed Chancellor from pressing charges, and having people arrested. The Archduchess turned over full control of the government to the Chancellor, who wasted no time in abusing her new found powers.

The people arrested were Lichtenbader patriots in the sense that they joined the nation, and participated quite heavily. Their viewpoints and such may not have been in line with the monarchy or those in the Archduchess' inner circle, but isn't that part of what makes a micronation more fun, and truly democratic? Varying points of view and opinions are neccessary in order to properly fuel the population into participating. The enjoyment of participation, however, was removed from these people by the actions of the nation's founder.

Enter complete and utter chaos. One of the shunned government officials formed up his own army to combat the Chancellor and the martial law she'd instated. Then other nations, some at the behest of the Lichtenbad government, and some just for the sheer fun that comes along with invading another nation, joined in the fray. Before the situation could be concluded though, the Archduchess basically took her nation and wiped it off the face of the internet, on her own, in one fell swoop. Just like that, The Archduchy of Lichtenbad, and all the hard work of her people was gone. No trace remains aside from some posts in other nations: in Alexandria about the Crisis: and a few posts in Stormark from the Archduchess. There may be others, but that's about it.

So ends the saga of Lichtenbad. I have little doubt that most will have forgotten this little piece of Micronational history before too long - but it was still an interesting story that bore repeating.

The views and opinions expressed in this commentary are those of the writer only, and are not indicative of any official position(s) held by the Emperor or Government of the Viking Empire of Stormark.

Interview with Emperor Edgard II of Alexandria

2006-07-14T10:00:00.000+05:00

Warm Greetings, my loyal and kind readers!! Today, I recount the visit I recently made to the Empire of the Alexandrians. There, I was permitted a tete-a-tete with the Emperor himself, Emperor Edgard II.

I arrived at the Palace early this morning, somewhat jet-lagged yet very excited for this chance to have a candid conversation with this rather well-known ruler. His office was well apportioned, but it was the desk that caught my eye. It is covered with intricate marquetry of a wide variety of fine woods. In an oval reserve at the center of the side facing away from the king himself (and toward me), is the marquetry Head of Silence, with forefinger to lips, a reminder of the discretion required in the Emperor's business. Gilt-bronze moldings of plaques, statuettes, miniature busts and vases, even intricate scrolling gilt-bronze candle stands, further adorn the surfaces of the desk. I admit it was somewhat intimidating!!

I was welcomed, and took a seat across from the Emperor - who, on the other side of his desk, seemed a mile away from myself. And now for the transcript of my interview with Emperor Edgard II of Alexandria.

(HT = Haraldsborg Times, EE = Emperor Edgard)
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This first part reflects my talk with the man behind the Emperor - these are "out of character" questions.

HT: Alexandria has been around for some time now. Didn't the project to build a nation originate with another, less popular micronation called... ... well, called "Kingdom of the Union of Madland", "Kingdom of the Union of Madland and its corresponding Empire", and finally "The Empire of the Madlandians"?

EE: Yes, Alexandria was formerly called Madland. In November 11th, 2004, a unanimous referendum endorsed the name change to Alexandria. After a disastrous war with Arminy, Alexandria briefly ceased to exist as the Empire's boards were taken over by the so-called "Islamic Republic of Sennar". After that, I left to create San Martin, which was wildly successful, and while in San Martin, I re-founded Alexandria, after noticing that the people from Sennar were pretty much gone.

HT: What makes Alexandria so different from what many see as the dismal failure that was Madland?

EE: There is a larger sense of seriousness, I presume. Alexandria sees itself as a serious micronation, and when I say "serious", I mainly say that we are much more serious than what Madland was. Madland was originally meant as a con-world, then it developed into a con-nation... with "con", I mean that it was a constructed thing, not meant to serve as a serious, working nation. It was the figment of my middle school/ early high school imagination... and before we even realized it, we were involved in Micras through Puritania and Northworthy. Our "con-world, con-nation" image never really left until we saw that it was time for us to move out of that phase. We are more determined to make Alexandria work and progress towards greatness.

HT: Your national forums were recently overhauled just before Flag Day. What brought about the drastic change, and how have the people of Alexandria responded?

EE: The change in the forum look for Flag Day was meant to convey Alexandrian patriotism - there is a lot of red, white and blue, which are the colors of our flag. This year, we failed to make any significant celebrations for our national anniversary due to the Circum-Raynor War and the Lovely incidents, so we picked Flag Day as a sort of "makeup" day to celebrate our nation. Our flag represents just that, our nation, so we thought it would make sense. Pretty much everyone in Alexandria so far have said that they like the new look of the forums. I quite enjoy the new look, its modern yet it reflects the tradition of the Alexandrian tri-color.

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This is the "in character" portion of the interview - the reporter and the Emperor.

HT: Your Majesty - thank you so much for seeing us today.

EE: Thank you for coming to Wesloderia. I'm happy to participate in this interview with you.

HT: Let's get down to it, shall we?

Your Majesty, quite recently, Alexandria has skewed off onto a tangent that some critics have claimed as "overly militaristic", "war mongering", etc. There was the Circum-Raynor War, then almost immediately the Lichtenbad Crisis, the creation of your own Rec-War Society along with a Civil War, and there are rumors that you planned to participate in the Nidaros-Hurmu War that's almost occurred in Stormark. Is Alexandria planning some sort of move to a more Stratocratic System?? If so, why? And if not, then why all the military actions of late?

EE: Alexandria is not moving towards a Stratocratic system at all. Until recently, Alexandria has paid almost no attention to its military - and now that we have begun to work towards establishing the Alexandrian military as a better and improved fighting force, we feel that we have to... well, use it to keep the peace in Micras and to protect our allies and friends as well as our interests. Alexandria is not a tiny Cibolan nation anymore, we have expanded into We were drawn to the Circum-Raynor War first as a peacekeeping force, but the attack on Babhkan forces drew us into full out war through certain treaty commitments we have with the Grand Commonwealth. Certain parts of the Lichtenbad Crisis were stains in our record - we never were able to fully conclude operations as we wished since the country collapsed before we could really do anything.

In regards to the new Rec-War society, we just want to be able to have a true Alexandrian organization to foster some friendly and healthy competition amongst our citizens and foreigners as well. The Civil War currently going on has no effect on the reality of Alexandria, and its meant to be completely for fun.

Regarding the Nidaros-Hurmu War, I cannot specifically state anything other than we are not necessarily ruling out an involvement. However, we have not reached a decision.

HT: Speaking of decision - Elections are coming up in Alexandria again. It seems that there are elections in your nation almost continuously. Do you feel this is healthy, or counter-productive? Some might say that it destabilizes the government to have so many changes so often. Has anyone in Alexandria considered the potential for lengthening the terms of office?

EE: A lot of people throughout Micras insist that Alexandria might not be a democracy, but the fact that we have elections continuously and that we have a fair amount of turnout in them should reflect that we are indeed a working democracy. However, the current election schedule makes things rather hectic, and it can have destabilizing consequences for the government. Prime Minister Jose Frias hopes to come up with several constitutional amendments to fix this issue. I have been in contact with him often regarding the matter, as I feel that keeping a steady and easy schedule of elections could indeed benefit the nation.

HT: Your nation certainly has been doing rather well lately. There are a few core citizens who participate rather heavily, keeping Alexandria active and thriving. What, in your opinion, are some of the main reasons for your nation's appeal to others?

EE: I think that what keeps Alexandria going is the political activity. Despite being a monarchy, Alexandria has an active Parliament elected directly by the citizens of the Empire's provinces. Also, the diversity found in Alexandria - both French and Spanish themes are proudly conveyed - does more to attract people that enjoy participating in either one or maybe even both of the cultural sectors of Alexandria. Also, despite the instability of the past, Alexandria has shown that it is here to stay - and that shows that Alexandria is worth joining and participating in.

HT: Alexandria is a member of the Novasolum Traty; a Pact of sorts among the nations occupying the continent on which your nation has some land. What do you feel are the benefits of being in this Partnership? Does Alexandria have solid relationships with all of the Members? And do you see any potential pitfalls of belonging to this group?

EE: Novasolum has been both welcomed and criticized in Alexandria. However, I can say that through Novasolum we have been able to reinforce relationships with friends such as Gotzborg and Natopia. Novasolum also has gotten Alexandria to be involved in common law enforcement efforts that have worked efficiently in preventing those who are reputed to be troublemakers from premeditatedly triggering trouble within our nations. The Pact has also opened Alexandria as a free market to all Novasolan companies, primarily those from Gotzborg. However, there is a dark side to everything - and Novasolum is no exception.

HT: Could you please elaborate on what you mean by a "dark side", Your Majesty?

EE: The critics of Novasolum in Alexandria continue to state that the Pact is merely a vehicle for Anthelia to dominate the continent, since to them it seems that Anthelia is "controlling" Novasolum. I guess one can see their point of view if one quotes the time Alexandria wished to place a rainforest in what was then Nubinar, which is East Baudrix today. They were working on a ecological simulation that obviously Alexandria wasn't even participating in, and they came over to the MCS demanding that Alexandria remove the rainforest... from its own lands! I can see how people can take the impression that Anthelia is using the Pact to extend its influence over all Novasolan nations.

The critics of Novasolum within Alexandria have also quoted the incident with Lovely - the spy scandals that so much rocked relations between Alexandria and Lovely. It was obvious that they had stepped out of bounds, the SNARL Charter specifically stated that spying was out of the question, and that recwars were meant to be friendly. When we tried to make our case before the nations of Novasolum, they even went on to support Lovely in its spying of Alexandria! I'm not so sure whether that's the behavior of an "ally". Anthelia and Paulovia practically endorsed Lovely's actions, while Gotzborg merely ignored it. Natopia was probably the only nation in the continent which whom Alexandria has a very close relationship with and can count on to support us if needed. They know that Alexandria is also willing to do the same, hell, their Prime Minister Tasneem doesn't live too far from my house in Grand Rapids, MI. I can probably even walk there if I wanted to one day.

We also wished for Novasolum to support us in the recwar against Lovely and all we got was a massive cold shoulder for the region except for again, Natopia.

It's interesting. The other day, while speaking to the Prime Minister (Jose Frias), he made it clear that he thought that Novasolum looked down upon Alexandria and constantly made it the butt of the region's jokes. The sham "peace conference" that the Anthelians set up to supposedly mediate eventually turned into an Alexandrian hate fest, even from the hosts themselves. I was deeply disappointed, since I wasn't even contacted by Anthelia about this. It just got downright nasty in there... I just had everyone withdraw from it. It had turned into a joke.

*As he spoke, I could see the Emperor beginning to anger. His face and neck had turned red, and his countenance began to twist somewhat. I felt it was best to leave this topic be, and move on.*

HT: Alexandria was planning to join the Inter-Micronational Economic Community which your Novasolum Partners are using. Why was the project abandoned by your nation, and do you see a potential re-try in the future?

EE: Alexandria values inter-micronational economic cooperation, but we abandoned the idea because of our difficulties in joining MX2, which we have never truly been able to work towards overcoming. Hopefully this will change in the future.

HT: Some time back, you re-organized the Alexandrian Nobility. What was the motivation behind the changes, and can you explain the system a little for us?

EE: The reorganization of the Alexandrian nobility was the brain child of the late Count of Poitou, Robert Davis. We had been discussing for ages the pressing need to reorganize the nobility in Alexandria, and he came up with a really cool two-tiered system. One tier is the classes of nobility and the other are the noble ranks themselves. Within the classes of nobility are four types of "noblesse" - Noblesse Ancienne, or ancient nobility; Noblesse de Chancellerie, or people ennobled as reward for long, faithful and/or meritorious service; Noblesse de Lettres, or those who are ennobled for service to a lesser degree than Chancellerie; and then there's noblesse chevalresque, for those who have been knighted but don't hold lands. It's a very interesting system.

HT: And now for questions submitted by our loyal readers. Are you ready for this, Your Majesty?

EE: Sure. Bombard me with the questions!

HT: What was the best day of your reign?

EE: I think the best day of my reign was the celebration of Alexandria's 3rd anniversary. Actually, every time we celebrate May 7th, it's a good day - Alexandria has stood for one more year, showing everyone who doubted us, wrong. It's a chance to let everyone know that it's not just me, but mainly the citizens of the Empire who serve as the heart of the Empire, pumping more life into it. Every time we celebrate our nation's birthday is definitely up there as the best - but out of all the ones we've celebrated, the 3rd anniversary is much more memorable.

HT: What was the worst day of your reign?

EE: The worst day, or days, of my reign has definitely been the days of Micro World War I, where everything in Alexandria was up in the air. The worst day of my reign definitely has to be when the Empire's forums were overtaken by the Islamic Republic of Sennar and pretty much deleted all of the work that our nation had achieved after we gained independence from Antica.

HT: Have you ever thought of abdicating?

EE: Actually, I have thought about it many times. Sometimes when things in Alexandria go wrong, I question whether I should continue on as leader. Also, macronational pressures such as school, work, relationships and family have prompted me to consider abdication. However, the thought of abandoning my work for the last four years is just too heart wrenching for me. I see Alexandria as if it were my "child" even!

HT: With which micronational monarch would you like to switch thrones with for one day?

EE: If my dearest Cousin from Stormark wouldn't mind, I'd definitely switch thrones with him for a day. I have always been fond of Stormark and its people, and out of all Micras, Alexandria and Stormark probably have one of the strongest alliances. It's such a wonderful micronation.

HT: If a country would declare war on Alexandria which three countries would you turn to for help?

EE: Most definitely, Alexandria knows it can count on the friendship of Stormark in case of need. Stormark would be definitely first in the list. Second would be the Grand Commonwealth, and third would most likely be Antica. Alexandria has a close relationship with all of them, especially with Stormark.

HT: What, in your opinion, are the main factors behind your ironclad friendship with Stormark?

EE: Besides the fact that we share a wonderful and hardworking woman as our Empress and Queen, I have developed a strong personal friendship with Harald. He is one of the few micronationalists in which I can speak with not only as a fellow head of state, but as a friend. Stormark and Alexandria also share citizens, such as my brother Enrique and the Archduke of Asuncion. That should be a testament to the enduring friendship of our nations - we share citizens, yet, we are perfectly content with it and we gladly accept each other with open arms. I know that I can count on Stormark's friendship, just like they know they can count on ours.

HT: What would be the profile of the ideal citizen for Alexandria?

EE: The ideal Alexandrian citizen is loyal to the Empire, proud to be an Alexandrian, and someone who believes strongly that there is always something to do for the progress and betterment of the nation. An ideal Alexandrian citizen is committed to Alexandria and committed to supporting its institutions of the monarchy, democracy and liberty.

HT: That wraps things up for this interview! Thank you so much for speaking with me today, Your Majesty. We at the Haraldsborg Times wish your nation a long life, and continued prosperity.

EE: Thank you, and I really enjoyed having this interview with you. Maybe we can meet again after the elections for a quick update.

We're BACK!

2006-07-13T04:29:00.000+05:00

It's with great pleasure that we announce the reinstatement of the Haraldsborg Times. It's been a little while, but we're back!! Here are some of the things that readers can expect to see in the near future:

In-Depth (and no holds barred) Interviews with Heads of State, and other prominent figures from various micronations.

Commentaries on current events in our micronational sector.

Special Announcements from our Emperor, as well as important notices from close allies.

As you can see, the Times is about to take a slight turn away from merely news. Instead of just reporting facts, we'll be providing commentary, and hard-hitting interviews with Heads of State; asking the hard questions and not flinching! It's our hope that this new format will be appealing to most.

Each week, we will try to feature a new prominent figure in micronationalism. There will be a post in Stormark on each Monday, asking people to submit their own questions to the interviewee of the week. You can email those questions, your name may remain anonymous if you wish - ask ANYTHING you want! We'd love to hear from some people who might not particularly like the person to be interviewed, to see what he/she has to say about the more difficult issues. At the end of the day, the Haraldsborg Times will grow to great success with YOUR participation!