Democracy and Freedom Index II (CLOSED)

by **Plaetopia** » Fri Feb 07, 2020 12:51 pm

Updated.

by **Pulsroth** » Sat Feb 08, 2020 6:23 pm

How was the head of state (or other chief national authority) selected? What powers does the office exercise?
The Rangâtira is chosen from the 40 seat Noble's Committee upper house, and is only elected by the 39 other members of the house. The Rangâtira has the final decision in any attempt to dissolve Parliament or approve a new leadership candidate for any given party, and ultimately is answerable only to the Noble's Committee.
How was the head of government selected? What powers does the office exercise?
The Supreme Minister is nominated by the MP's of the lower house, but as mentioned previously, the Rangâtira is responsible for making it official.
How is the national legislature elected?
Every member of the Parêmata lower house (except for the Supreme Minister) is elected every six years by citizens using the first-past-the-post system. It works in an identical way for the upper house.
Are elections considered free and fair? Are irregularities serious enough that they alter the results significantly?
Yes, they are widely seen as both free and fair, as well as free of voting irregularities.
Does the opposition have a realistic chance of gaining support and power through elections?
No. PM-21 have dominated politics in the country for more than 25 years, with limited power left for all opposition parties.
Is voting voluntary? If so, which was the average turnout in recent elections?
Voting is mandatory for all citizens over the age of 18, unless they are serving prison or corporal punishment sentences.

In case national representatives were freely elected, are they able to successfully develop and implement new policies? Does government authority extend over the full national territory?
Yes and yes.
Do foreign powers (democratic or not), or unelected entities (the military, religious or economic oligarchies...) exercise undue influence over the government?
No, although the country's defence minister is not a civilian, and is a serving military officer.
Does the legislature have the legislative initiative? What restrictions are placed on its ability to pass laws, including constitutional amendments?
Yes. Passing any constitutional amendment or laws that would have a profound effect on the entire country requires at least 75% backing from the members of the lower house, as well as the approval of the Rangâtira.
Is the executive able to subvert the legislature through legal or extralegal means (such as arbitrary dissolutions, lack of an adequate budget, or vetoes)?
Yes, although all of these subversion techniques can only occur with approval from the independent judiciary branch, even if the Rangâtira is behind it.
From 0-10 (0 = clean, 10 = most corrupt), how pervasive is corruption (in government, business, etc.)?
2. Corruption in the upper house is not particularly common, but is often ignored when it occurs. Outside of the upper house, corruption is taken extremely seriously, and can result in life imprisonment in the event of conviction.
From 0-10 (0 = completely opaque, 10 = completely transparent), how transparent is government activity?
8. All except the most highly sensitive governmental information is public domain on media operating within Pulsroth.
Is there an independent judiciary, or is it subject to political pressure?
Yes, the judiciary is entirely independent, and government interference in the judiciary branch is punished severely.

Is there an independent media?
Yes, and a reasonable diversity of opinions are allowed to be expressed. However, they are generally far less prominent than state-run media outlets.
Is there freedom of religion, including non-belief?
Outside of Christianity and Atheism, religious belief is tightly controlled. While other religions are not outwardly banned, there is frequent harassment against minority religious groups.
Is education free of political interference or indoctrination?
For the most part, yes. However, cultural norms in Pulsroth, such as the promotion of the nuclear family and heterosexuality are common in most educational establishments.
Are citizens able to express dissent in practice, without fearing retribution? How pervasive is surveillance?
Yes, assuming that dissent doesn't lead to damage and destruction to government or private property. As for surveillance, all citizens and visitors to the country can be tracked outdoors at all times, as a result of their implanted RFID tags.
Is there freedom of assembly? Are peaceful protests allowed, and are they able to proceed in practice?
Protests of any kind are only allowed in a Speaker's corner. In such a case, protests are allowed to proceed, albeit with relatively heavy police presence. Any protests outside of these designated areas are rapidly dispersed in a non-lethal manner.
Are there basic guarantees of due process (in civil and criminal matters), and are they upheld in practice?
Yes.
Are independent trade unions and NGOs able to operate freely?
Independent trade unions, yes. NGOs, mostly no, due to the reputation they have in many of our neighbouring countries.
Do individuals enjoy freedom of movement inside the country and of international travel, including in education, residence or employment?
Yes.
Do individuals enjoy basic social freedoms (do they have control over appearance? are they able to freely choose marriage partners and size of family? how common is domestic and sexual violence?)
Yes. Although there are definitely more socially acceptable ways in Pulsrothi culture to dress and to live, no option is outright banned. Sexual violence is relatively rare, and domestic violence even more so.
Are individuals able to freely set up their own business? Are property rights adequately protected?
Due to the government's commitment to free market enterprise, individuals are allowed to found their own businesses and property rights across the country are robust. In fact, private enterprise is encouraged over traditional employment as a method of economic growth.

How is citizenship determined? Include a brief overview of the naturalization process, if available.
Any children born to at least 1 Pulsrothi parent are automatically eligible for Pulsrothi citizenship.

Any foreigner who wishes to obtain Pulsrothi citizenship must have resided in Pulsroth for at least 5 continuous years, not have any criminal convictions to their name, be employed within the country, speak English fluently or very well, and be at least 19 years of age.
Who is able to vote in elections, if they exist at all?
Any citizen aged 18 or over is eligible to vote, unless they are serving a prison or corporal punishment sentence.
Are different segments of the population (men, women, the LGBT community, ethnic minorities...) treated equally in law and in practice?
Men and women, yes. LGBT citizens are not particularly common in Pulsroth, however they are well represented wherever possible. The Mahealani, Pulsroth's native minority population, have equal rights across the entire country to the majority Caucasian population. Other ethnic minorities are treated equally in law, but equal representation is non-existent.
Are the above groups well represented in government? In practice, yes. However, any potential government candidate is subject to a meritocratic candidacy system, regardless of gender, sexual orientation or ethnic group.
Do individuals have realistic opportunities for upward social mobility?
The entire culture of the country is built around meritocracy, and earning a high position in society through hard physical labour. In turn, anyone can reach such a standing.

by **Gerstilstan** » Sat Feb 08, 2020 8:35 pm

ELECTIONS
How was the head of state (or other chief national authority) selected? What powers does the office exercise? The Green President is selected via elections. Powers include appointing Senators to fill vacant seats, passing laws written by the Senate, enacting executive orders, and giving "inspiring speeches".
How was the head of government selected? What powers does the office exercise? See above. The head of state is also the head of government.
How is the national legislature selected? Senators are appointed by the Green President (the head of state).
Are elections considered free and fair? Are irregularities serious enough that they alter the results significantly? Depends on who you ask. The majority of eco-socialists and social democrats consider the elections free and fair, while most conservatives, classical liberals, and capitalists do not. Serious "irregularities" (which are regular in Gerstilstan), like fraud votes, do significantly alter the results (for example, once quite some time ago, the Logical Party would've had won, but after some fraud votes, "recounting" of ballots, and broken counters, the Green Party won the election).
Does the opposition have a realistic chance of gaining support and power through elections? It's possible, but it's difficult. The people have been convinced that the Green Party's ideology is the correct one, and many members of the opposition have been labelled as "Nazis" (in fact, the Logical Party has been implied to be "fascist" by the government more than the Gerstilstanian Fascist Party has).
Is voting voluntary? If so, which was the average turnout in recent elections? No. Voting is compulsory for all "citizens". However, while the turnout seems to be about 100%, many are fraudulent votes.

SEPARATION OF POWERS AND FUNCTIONING OF GOVERNMENT
In case national representatives were freely elected, are they able to succesfully develop and implement new policies? Does government authority extend over the full national territory? Yes. It does.
Do foreign powers (democratic or not), or unelected entities (the military, religious or economic oligarchies...) exercise undue influence over the government? Yes. There are lots of lobbying from environmentalist groups, abortion clinics, globalist bureaucracies, LGBTQ+ rights groups, solar panel factories, labor unions, etc. Some claim that terrorist groups have secretly provided support to the government in exchange for turning a blind eye from their crimes, although this claim has yet to be proven.
Does the legislature have the legislative initiative? What restrictions are placed on its ability to pass laws, including constitutional amendments? Yep, it does, though proposing a bill even remotely unpopular with the Green President's ideology is subject to lots of ridicule and claims of racism/sexism/etc. (unless if the Senator bribed the Green President or something). It cannot pass any laws that "harm the environment", "promote inequality", "deny scientific facts" (which are, of course, determined by the government), etc. There is no constitution, so no amendments to that are possible.
Is the executive able to subvert the legislature through legal or extralegal means (such as arbitrary dissolutions, lack of an adequate budget, or vetoes)? Yes, as long as he has a "reason" for doing so.
From 0-10 (0 = clean, 10 = most corrupt), how pervasive is corruption (in government, business, etc.)? (Small explanation appreciated) 7. Americans and Strahconians have practically no chance of bribing the government to free the markets, adopt a constitution, adopt traditional values, etc. However, environmental groups, abortion clinics, globalist bureaucracies, LGBTQ+ rights groups, solar panel factories, labor unions, and (allegedly) terrorist groups have lobbied for lots of special interests, significantly corrupting the government.
From 0-10 (0 = completely opaque, 10 = completely transparent), how transparent is government activity? (Small explanation appreciated) 4. It is transparent about some things (e.g. "Official A enacted this policy" or "Official B just said something racist" or "Military does some bad things in the war" or "Official C had an affair with this person"), but not about others (e.g. special interest groups secretly lobbying for legislation and funding, corruption, the Green President not practicing what he preaches)
Is there an independent judiciary, or is it subject to political pressure? The judiciary is not independent. It is subject to political pressure.

CIVIL LIBERTIES
Is there an independent media? Yes.
Is there freedom of religion, including non-belief? No. Atheism (or, to an extent, spiritualism) is mandatory.
Is education free of political interference or indoctrination? No. The education system is nationalized and supports environmentalism, socialism, progressivism, and social justice.
Are citizens able to express dissent in practice, without fearing retribution? How pervasive is surveillance? Yes, as long as it isn't anything the government considers "lies" (e.g. "climate change isn't a huge problem") or "hate speech" (e.g. "there are only two genders"). Surveillance is not very pervasive.
Is there freedom of assembly? Are peaceful protests allowed, and are they able to proceed in practice? Yes, as long as it isn't anything the government considers "lies" (e.g. "climate change isn't a huge problem") or "hate speech" (e.g. "there are only two genders").
Are there basic guarantees of due process (in civil and criminal matters), and are they upheld in practice? The government states that "justice will be fair" (implying due process), but this promise is not upheld in practice.
Are independent trade unions and NGOs able to operate freely? Yep. Just fill out this 80-page paperwork. And meet these racial/ethnic/sexual orientation/gender identity quotas. And no allowing any racists, sexists, homophobes, transphobes, xenophobes, fascists, bigots, white supremacists, or religious fanatics into your organization. And fill out additional five-page paperwork every month. And the bureaucrats will audit you to make sure you're not spreading hate or anti-scientific lies. And pay these high taxes.
You know what, we'll cut your taxes and even give you public funding without auditing how you utilize that IF you lobby our government, preach environmentalism and social justice, and virtue signal your support for these causes by joining this list of marches and rallies.
Do individuals enjoy freedom of movement inside the country and of international travel, including in education, residence or employment? Not very much. Certainly more than authoritarian dictatorships, but not as much as the United States. People cannot go to the United States or any nation within the Assembly of Strahconian Nations. All children and teenagers are assigned to a public school and need to fill extensive paperwork and face bureaucratic regulations for the chance of transferring. They can live where they want - as long as the place doesn't cause "environmental problems" and isn't overly luxurious (unless if the current Green President says they can (but they won't tell them that there)). Since the economy is socialist, and the government can only have so many job openings at a time, employment is a challenge, but the individual can choose any available department to work for (although there's no guarantee that he/she would be accepted by any of them).
Do individuals enjoy basic social freedoms (do they have control over appearance? are they able to freely choose marriage partners and size of family? how common is domestic and sexual violence?)? Somewhat. They have control over personal appearance as long as they don't "culturally appropriate". They can definitely choose marriage partners and size of family (the woman is also legally allowed to abort her fetuses for any reason - whether that is good or bad is subject to disagreement). Domestic and sexual violence seems very rare (unless if you count abortion), although it is very, very frequently used against people like conservatives, capitalists, and classical liberals. (If it is found out, the government will try to cover it up, then "justify" it with lies, and perhaps attack the character of the one who found out and told everyone.)
Are individuals able to freely set up their own business? Are property rights adequately protected? No. The nation runs under a socialist economy. Personal property can be seized by the government for "reasons" and maintained for "an indeterminate amount of time".

PARTICIPATION AND GUARANTEES OF EQUALITY
How is citizenship determined? Include a brief overview of the naturalization process, if available. Everyone who enters the nation is considered a citizen. As dictated by an agreement with the rest of the AntiStrahcoin League, citizens of America or the League of Strahconian Nations are excluded unless if the individual in question has committed a crime that isn't considered a crime here (e.g. abortion, destruction/theft of private property, etc.).
Case 1: Somebody from non-restricted nation:

Case 2: Somebody from restricted nation, but has committed crime there:

Case 3: Somebody from restricted nation, and has not committed crime there:

Who is able to vote in elections, if they exist at all? All citizens.
Are different segments of the population (men, women, the LGBT community, ethnic minorities...) treated equally in law and in practice? The LGBT+ community is treated "better" than ethnic minorities, who are treated "better" than women, who are treated "better" than men. Basically social justice or intersectionality.
Are the above groups well represented in government? Yes. There's lots of affirmative action.
Do individuals have realistic opportunities for upward social mobility? One could voice his/her support for environmentalism and social justice, change his/her gender, etc. for more notability and support by the people and the government. Merit-wise, however, not really.

OPTIONAL ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS
Are the government or nonstate groups deliberately and systematically changing the demographics of the country so as to dilute or eliminate a particular group? In case it wasn't implied enough here, right-wingers will have a hard time here. One may say that the government is deliberately and systematically diluting (possibly even elimating) conservatives, capitalists, and classical liberals. I'll let you decide whether that counts.

Any suggestions for future editions of the index?

by **Plaetopia** » Sun Feb 09, 2020 6:44 am

Updated.

by **Blodrike** » Sun Feb 09, 2020 4:06 pm

ELECTIONS
How was the head of state (or other chief national authority) selected? What powers does the office exercise? There isn't really a process for selecting the Queen, because Queen Freya is the first and only so far. For a long time, Blodrike didn't have a single leader at all—it was a loose collection of solitary hunter-gatherers and farmers. In the Middle Ages, Blodrike was invaded by Christian crusaders who committed a brutal genocide against 75% of the vampire population, an event that's now known as the Bloody War. But one of them survived by escaping into the wilderness and mastering elemental magic. Returning with a vengeance, she single-handedly defeated the crusaders with her newly acquired powers, driving them out forever. She then cast a spell on Blodrike, permanently surrounding it with violent storms to make sure the invaders didn't come back. Legends of her bravery and heroism quickly spread across the land, and she became known as the protector of vampire-kind. She was then officially coronated as the Queen of Blodrike, and took the name Freya after the Norse goddess of love (vampires don't have families like humans, so they're born without a name).
How was the head of government selected? What powers does the office exercise? Blodrike doesn't have a government in the traditional sense. The Queen rules the nation, but there aren't any state institutions except the military.
How is the national legislature selected? There are no laws except for treason, so there is no legislature.
Are elections considered free and fair? Are irregularities serious enough that they alter the results significantly? No elections (but they aren't necessary because there isn't a government).
Does the opposition have a realistic chance of gaining support and power through elections? No elections (but they aren't necessary because there isn't a government).
Is voting voluntary? If so, which was the average turnout in recent elections? No elections (but they aren't necessary because there isn't a government).

SEPARATION OF POWERS AND FUNCTIONING OF GOVERNMENT
In case national representatives were freely elected, are they able to succesfully develop and implement new policies? Does government authority extend over the full national territory? There are no laws except for treason. The Queen does have rule over the entire land, but she'll only get involved if the nation's existence is at risk.
Do foreign powers (democratic or not), or unelected entities (the military, religious or economic oligarchies...) exercise undue influence over the government? no
Does the legislature have the legislative initiative? What restrictions are placed on its ability to pass laws, including constitutional amendments? There are no laws except for treason, so there is no legislature.
Is the executive able to subvert the legislature through legal or extralegal means (such as arbitrary dissolutions, lack of an adequate budget, or vetoes)? There are no laws except for treason, so there is no legislature.
From 0-10 (0 = clean, 10 = most corrupt), how pervasive is corruption (in government, business, etc.)? (Small explanation appreciated) 0/10. No government means no potential for corruption.
From 0-10 (0 = completely opaque, 10 = completely transparent), how transparent is government activity? (Small explanation appreciated) 10/10. No government means nothing to hide.
Is there an independent judiciary, or is it subject to political pressure? There is only a single judge in all of Blodrike, and that's Queen Freya herself. There are no police or courts, because Blodrikers prefer to settle disputes among themselves without involving authority. The only crime is treason (attempting to kill/harm/overthrow the Queen, aiding a foreign enemy of the nation), and although the Queen can theoretically get rid of anybody, she only uses this power very sparingly in practice—the most recent executions for treason were centuries ago, for collaborators in the Bloody War.

CIVIL LIBERTIES
Is there an independent media? Yes. Media is completely unregulated.
Is there freedom of religion, including non-belief? Yes, but there's also the freedom to attack any religion. Especially because of the Bloody War, preaching any Abrahamic religion is an extremely bad idea.
Is education free of political interference or indoctrination? There is no compulsory education of any kind in Blodrike. Schools make sense for human societies, but not for vampires because their way of life is completely different.
Are citizens able to express dissent in practice, without fearing retribution? How pervasive is surveillance? Freedom of speech is absolute unless it's treason. Free speech even includes threats, defamation and hate speech (but whatever happens to you, you're on your own because there aren't any police). And if the Queen thinks your speech is dangerous (likely to start a revolution or destabilize the nation), she'll send her elite guards to hunt you down. At that point, it's game over.
Is there freedom of assembly? Are peaceful protests allowed, and are they able to proceed in practice? Peaceful gatherings (including protests) are ignored as long as they don't disrupt business. Riots are not tolerated at all (while technically legal) and will be met with military force. In addition, damaging property will get you beaten or shot by the owner.
Are there basic guarantees of due process (in civil and criminal matters), and are they upheld in practice? There are no laws except for treason. Blodrikers settle their disputes among themselves, without involvement of authority. So there is no law enforcement or judiciary.
Are independent trade unions and NGOs able to operate freely? Yes, but businesses are free to break up unions, or fire striking workers. Employment law (like any other law except for treason) doesn't exist. That said, most vampires are hunter-gatherers who live off the land, and won't sell themselves in servitude to others.
Do individuals enjoy freedom of movement inside the country and of international travel, including in education, residence or employment? Travel by foot or carriage is unrestricted. Travel by train is a privilege for those who pay a fare (the Queen owns the railroads and train companies). Blodrike has been completely closed off to foreign travelers since the end of the Bloody War.
Do individuals enjoy basic social freedoms (do they have control over appearance? are they able to freely choose marriage partners and size of family? how common is domestic and sexual violence?)? People are free to wear whatever they want, or go completely natural—there are no morality or public decency laws. Vampires don't form monogamous pairs like humans do, and rarely commit to long-term relationships, so marriage isn't a thing. In addition, vampires live for a very long time, and childbirth is fatal for the mother, so births are extremely rare. But there's no law against it.
Are individuals able to freely set up their own business? Are property rights adequately protected? Economic freedom is absolute. You can do or refuse to do business with anybody you like, and there are no income or property taxes. Property law (like any other law except for treason) doesn't exist, but that's what guns are for.

PARTICIPATION AND GUARANTEES OF EQUALITY
How is citizenship determined? Include a brief overview of the naturalization process, if available. There is no national registry or database of citizens. Foreign travel to Blodrike is impossible, so anybody in the nation is presumed a citizen.
Who is able to vote in elections, if they exist at all? No elections (but they aren't necessary because there isn't a government).
Are different segments of the population (men, women, the LGBT community, ethnic minorities...) treated equally in law and in practice? In practice, yes. Equality law (like any other law except for treason) doesn't exist.
Are the above groups well represented in government? Blodrike doesn't have a government.
Do individuals have realistic opportunities for upward social mobility? There are no social classes or hierarchies in Blodrike. Vampires don't have as complex social structures as humans do.

OPTIONAL ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS
Are the government or nonstate groups deliberately and systematically changing the demographics of the country so as to dilute or eliminate a particular group? no

Any suggestions for future editions of the index?

by **Suburbistanistan** » Sun Feb 09, 2020 6:45 pm

ELECTIONS
How was the head of state (or other chief national authority) selected? What powers does the office exercise? The president is randomly selected from the Sorted House (our federal parliament) every 5 years. The President's job is to be a face to the people, have some emergency executive powers, and to have limited veto power over laws.
How was the head of government selected? What powers does the office exercise? The Prime Minister is also randomly selected from the Sorted House every 5 years. The PM normally acts as a representative of the Sorted House, but also acts as the tiebreaker, should the situation ever occur. The PM also has some veto power over laws.
How is the national legislature selected? There are 1046 seats in total. 1000 of them are randomly selected from all of the population, as proportional representatives, the remnant of the old lower house, while the other 46 seats are reserved, 2 for each SR (Socialist Republic).
Members of the Sorted House are selected every 5 years. The President and PM of one assembly were selected from the previous assembly. Members who are inactive can be ejected through a vote of no confidence and someone new is selected for the rest of the term.
Each SR also has it's own, smaller sorted house of only 100 members, that votes on issues pertaining to that SR. Issues of varying importance are delegated to either be voted on and implemented on the level of individual SRs, or if federally, voted on by the federal Sorted House. Issues of lesser importance on any level are delegated to the common populace to vote on directly. Issues of the highest importance are voted on by the President, PM, and General Secretary.
Are elections considered free and fair? Are irregularities serious enough that they alter the results significantly? Yes and yes, even if they technically don't count as elections from the point of view of a bourgeois liberal framework that thinks representative republics are somehow democracy.
Our system has been designed to be tamper proof.
Does the opposition have a realistic chance of gaining support and power through elections? Since all parliamentarians are randomly selected, yes. It simply comes down to recruitment numbers. Now, right-wing parties have been purged shortly after the 52 GE revolution (it is currently year 117), and haven't recovered since. There are still a few fringe weirdos hanging around, but with very little traction.
Is voting voluntary? If so, which was the average turnout in recent elections? Voting is mandatory. There is, however, a "none of the above" option.

SEPARATION OF POWERS AND FUNCTIONING OF GOVERNMENT
In case national representatives were freely elected, are they able to succesfully develop and implement new policies? Does government authority extend over the full national territory? The federal government has power over the entire country, but there are also SR governments that have some autonomy.
Do foreign powers (democratic or not), or unelected entities (the military, religious or economic oligarchies...) exercise undue influence over the government? No. The military is subordinate to the government, and holds more conventional elections for officers/commanders/brass. There are also separate parties for military elections, of which the civilian parties have their own military branches.
Does the legislature have the legislative initiative? What restrictions are placed on its ability to pass laws, including constitutional amendments? The Sorted House comes to a consensus on what issues should be delegated to SR governments, the populace, the Heads (President, PM, GenSec), or if they should vote on it. Constitutional amendments require 60% in favor.
Is the executive able to subvert the legislature through legal or extralegal means (such as arbitrary dissolutions, lack of an adequate budget, or vetoes)? Executive veto power is shared among the President, PM, and GenSec. No one has the power to dissolve the parliament. The GenSec specifically holds veto power to throw out issues that would be detrimental to Socialism.
From 0-10 (0 = clean, 10 = most corrupt), how pervasive is corruption (in government, business, etc.)? (Small explanation appreciated) Very little, between 0 and 1.
From 0-10 (0 = completely opaque, 10 = completely transparent), how transparent is government activity? (Small explanation appreciated) The government is quite open about most things, even the use of UFO technology in aircraft. Probably about a 7-8.
Is there an independent judiciary, or is it subject to political pressure? There is an independant judiciary, but they don't actually do anything. Not because they can't, but because they are very rarely needed. Members are also randomly selected every 5 years.
In trials, there are also juries. They are, of course, randomly selected when they are needed. All of our judicial bodies are rarely used because of our very, very low crime rate.

CIVIL LIBERTIES
Is there an independent media? There are independent Groraŋh media. They are collectively owned by their workers, as all enterprises.
Is there freedom of religion, including non-belief? Yes.
Is education free of political interference or indoctrination? No. There are classes in our Communist ideology that everyone takes in high school and also more advanced versions offered in college, which are electives. There is even a guest worker program where students work in capitalist countries for a semester to get a taste on why capitalism is bad.
Are citizens able to express dissent in practice, without fearing retribution? How pervasive is surveillance? The government has a history of respecting personal privacy, and still does.
Is there freedom of assembly? Are peaceful protests allowed, and are they able to proceed in practice? The right to public protest is a constitutional right.
Are there basic guarantees of due process (in civil and criminal matters), and are they upheld in practice? There is a law for that dating back to when there was a much higher crime rate. The current crime rate is so low that you now would have a better due process experience than in the Capitalist Period.
Are independent trade unions and NGOs able to operate freely? Unions, yes. NGOs have to consult any and all SR governments for each SR they will operate in. It is not uncommon for workers to be members of multiple unions.
Do individuals enjoy freedom of movement inside the country and of international travel, including in education, residence or employment? Yes.
Do individuals enjoy basic social freedoms (do they have control over appearance? are they able to freely choose marriage partners and size of family? how common is domestic and sexual violence?)? Individual freedoms in regards to social issues are quite extensive. You can officially be married to your entire polycule here. The government also has no jurisdiction over what individuals wear, or what colors people dye their hair, or what tattoos they get, or anything like that. Domestic violence has a very low rate, like all crimes.
Are individuals able to freely set up their own business? Are property rights adequately protected? No. All enterprises are collectively owned by their workers. Workplace voting is one person one vote, and shares cannot be bought or sold. If an individual leaves a workplace, they give up their share of ownership. Anyone who wants to start an enterprise must first go to their local planning office and pitch the idea and plan, then there is a system similar to crowdfunding except it is about 'labor pledges.' Instead of people pitching in money, they are expressing interest in working there. The backers get to be the founding workers if the required amount of workers are pledged.

PARTICIPATION AND GUARANTEES OF EQUALITY
How is citizenship determined? Include a brief overview of the naturalization process, if available. Citizenship is jus soli, and fairly easy to get. There is also a specific clause that refers to taking control over the territories of neighboring nations that have collapsed and giving the people of those countries citizenships.
Who is able to vote in elections, if they exist at all? Everyone 18 and above receives a personal code that is used to download a voting app. Voting can also be done through simple text messaging, which citizens are automatically texted the contact on their 18th birthday.
Are different segments of the population (men, women, the LGBT community, ethnic minorities...) treated equally in law and in practice? Yes.
Are the above groups well represented in government? 1000 parliamentarians proportionally represent the population, meaning 1% of the population is represented by 10 people. There are also caucus groups that interact with parliamentarians.
Do individuals have realistic opportunities for upward social mobility? There isn't much room to move up or down, seeing as there is a high amount of income equality, in that the richest segment earn less than twice what the poorest segment of the population earn, which is already pretty high.

OPTIONAL ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS
Are the government or nonstate groups deliberately and systematically changing the demographics of the country so as to dilute or eliminate a particular group? No.

by **Plaetopia** » Tue Feb 11, 2020 3:18 am

Updated.

by **Confederate American SU** » Fri Feb 14, 2020 11:42 pm

(Updating my post to reflect the RCAS being non-Fallout.)

ELECTIONS
How was the head of state (or other chief national authority) selected? What powers does the office exercise? The Committee of States and the Committee of Syndicates are elected annually by the populations of each of the states and syndicates. They can be recalled at any time. Their powers are limited to enforcing laws.
How was the head of government selected? What powers does the office exercise? Same as above.
How is the national legislature selected? The entire citizenry is the national legislature. They vote by bloc on laws directly as well as discussing said laws in their local citizen assemblies.
Are elections considered free and fair? Are irregularities serious enough that they alter the results significantly? Yes, they are free and fair. And, no.
Does the opposition have a realistic chance of gaining support and power through elections? Yes
Is voting voluntary? If so, which was the average turnout in recent elections? Participating in the citizen assemblies and workplace meetings is compulsory.

SEPARATION OF POWERS AND FUNCTIONING OF GOVERNMENT
In case national representatives were freely elected, are they able to successfully develop and implement new policies? Does government authority extend over the full national territory? The Confederate government only makes laws affecting the states. However, the states and counties follow the same model of direct democracy, and local governments use the traditional model of direct-democracy.
Do foreign powers (democratic or not), or unelected entities (the military, religious or economic oligarchies...) exercise undue influence over the government? No
Does the legislature have the legislative initiative? What restrictions are placed on its ability to pass laws, including constitutional amendments? Yes
Is the executive able to subvert the legislature through legal or extralegal means (such as arbitrary dissolutions, lack of an adequate budget, or vetoes)? No
From 0-10 (0 = clean, 10 = most corrupt), how pervasive is corruption (in government, business, etc.)? (Small explanation appreciated) 2. The frequent elections and recalling combined with the direct democracy leaves little room for corruption.
From 0-10 (0 = completely opaque, 10 = completely transparent), how transparent is government activity? (Small explanation appreciated) 10. The Committee of States, Confederate Tribunal, and Committee of Syndicates are regularly watched by the population. The rest of the government is a direct democracy.
Is there an independent judiciary, or is it subject to political pressure? Somewhat. The Confederate Tribunal is appointed by the Committee of States, the Committee of Syndicates, and the state courts every 6 years.

CIVIL LIBERTIES
Is there an independent media? Yes
Is there freedom of religion, including non-belief? Generally yes, though Mormons, Muslims, and Evangelical Christians were persecuted during the Risorgimento. However, this is no longer the case, and freedom of religion is covered through the 2nd Bill of Rights. Still, the government actively promotes secularism and laicism.
Is education free of political interference or indoctrination? Not during the Risorgimento, but court cases and educational reform during Ascension has depoliticized education.
Are citizens able to express dissent in practice, without fearing retribution? How pervasive is surveillance? Yes. Government surveillance is banned by the 2nd Bill of Rights.
Is there freedom of assembly? Are peaceful protests allowed, and are they able to proceed in practice? Yes for citizens
Are there basic guarantees of due process (in civil and criminal matters), and are they upheld in practice? Yes
Are independent trade unions and NGOs able to operate freely? Trade unions are part of the government, but there is nothing stopping workers from forming their own union. However, they still have to be members of the official labor union regardless. NGOs can operate freely as well as long as none of their members are nonwhites.
Do individuals enjoy freedom of movement inside the country and of international travel, including in education, residence or employment? Citizens can travel anywhere within the country or abroad. However, non-white immigration is banned, and non-whites who aren't visitors are highly restricted.
Do individuals enjoy basic social freedoms (do they have control over appearance? are they able to freely choose marriage partners and size of family? how common is domestic and sexual violence?)? Yes. Pickett himself is a crossdresser and bachelor. Domestic abuse and sexual violence is heavily cracked down on and is rare.
Are individuals able to freely set up their own business? Are property rights adequately protected? No, only those who have passed the apprenticeship in their union are able to start up a business in that particular industry. But, property rights are protected in the mutualist sense. Absentee ownership, however, is illegal in most circumstances.

PARTICIPATION AND GUARANTEES OF EQUALITY
How is citizenship determined? Include a brief overview of the naturalization process, if available. All whites born to American parents are citizens. White immigrants can become citizens after performing a year's worth of military service, residing in the nation for 5 years, and passing a citizenship test.
Who is able to vote in elections, if they exist at all? All citizens, which means the white population. Syndicate elections are limited to only those who are employed within their respective unions.
Are different segments of the population (men, women, the LGBT community, ethnic minorities...) treated equally in law and in practice? Men and women are treated equally. LGBT rights are generally progressive or libertarian. Ethnic minorities are actively persecuted, treated as non-persons, and deported regularly.
Are the above groups well represented in government? Men and women are generally well-represented in government. Pickett himself is a crossdresser. The direct-democratic nature of the RCAS means that the citizenry is generally represented.
Do individuals have realistic opportunities for upward social mobility? Yes. Apprenticeships tend to be short, and full syndicate membership is basically guaranteed for any reasonably competent person.

OPTIONAL ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS
Are the government or nonstate groups deliberately and systematically changing the demographics of the country so as to dilute or eliminate a particular group? Yes, both the government and paramilitary groups have deported most of the nonwhite population out of the nation. Amerindians are either herded into reservations, deported, or force-assimilated.

Any suggestions for future editions of the index? Nope

by **Plaetopia** » Sat Feb 15, 2020 1:40 pm

Score updated, improving from 6.39 to 6.57.

by **Eothasia** » Mon Feb 17, 2020 9:12 am

ELECTIONS
How was the head of state (or other chief national authority) selected? What powers does the office exercise?: The head of state is voted by general elections in the country. This election consists of a maximum of two rounds; ten members of the Primagisters, a group of distinguished members of the Congress of the Union, are selected by the Congress as candidates to the Circle of Governance, the triumvirate the rules the executive branch of the country. These then present themselves to the first round of general elections; if one of them obtains 50% of the vote or 40% and at least a 10% advantage of the following candidate, they are automatically ascended into the Circle of Governance. Otherwise, the top two candidates must proceed to a second round. Because voting is obligatory in the Union of Eothasi Socialist Republics, if one were to consider that they do not approve of any of the candidates, they may vote "Blank"; in the event that this is the most voted option, regardless of the percentage, all ten members are stripped of their position as Primagisters and ten more candidates must be selected by the Congress of the Union.
How was the head of government selected? What powers does the office exercise?: Refer to above
How is the national legislature selected?: The Congress of the Union is composed of 605 seats, of which each represents one constituency in the Union. The most voted candidate of each constituency obtains a seat in the Congress of the Union.
Are elections considered free and fair? Are irregularities serious enough that they alter the results significantly?: Yes.
Does the opposition have a realistic chance of gaining support and power through elections?: Because political parties do not exist, there is no "opposition"; rather, matters are tended to by consensus, voting, and achieving absolute majority within the Congress of the Union.
Is voting voluntary? If so, which was the average turnout in recent elections?: Voting is compulsory. Failure to vote (mail or presencial) results in a fine or a small increase in tax payment for the following fiscal year.

SEPARATION OF POWERS AND FUNCTIONING OF GOVERNMENT
In case national representatives were freely elected, are they able to successfully develop and implement new policies? Does government authority extend over the full national territory?: National representatives are not motivated by party interests, and so they are able to present policies to be discussed in Congress that are more truthful to the ideologies each of them upholds. Furthermore, there are no circumstances in which the authority of the federal or "state" governments in questioned.
Do foreign powers (democratic or not), or un-elected entities (the military, religious or economic oligarchies...) exercise undue influence over the government?: No such influence is exerted on democratically elected representatives of the Eothasi government.
Does the legislature have the legislative initiative? What restrictions are placed on its ability to pass laws, including constitutional amendments?: There are no additional restrictions on its ability to pass laws other than adhering to the legal framework established in the Eothasi constitution. The executive branch is able to veto laws that have obtained more than 50% but less than 60% of the vote in the Congress, but another vote must be taken in which this veto is either permitted or overridden. Constitutional amendments must be approved by 2/3s majority in the Congress, after which the Congress is disolved, another is elected, they vote again on whether to implement this reform, and then a referendum takes place to ensure Popular support for this reform.
Is the executive able to subvert the legislature through legal or extralegal means (such as arbitrary dissolutions, lack of an adequate budget, or vetoes)?: Vetoes can be overridden if the Congress of the Union permits it and only in specific cases where it is deemed appropriate, as explained above. Budgets are established by the executive branch, but both minimums and maximums are set in conjunction with the Congress Committee on Budgetary Functions. In order for the Congress to be dissolved, the approval of all three members of the Circle of Governance must be obtained and the Circle of Governance shall also be dissolved once the Congress of the Union is re-instituted.
From 0-10 (0 = clean, 10 = most corrupt), how pervasive is corruption (in government, business, etc.)? (Small explanation appreciated): 2. Because of the relevance of civic duty in Eothasi society, as well as effective rotation structures, peer reviews, inspections, and other anti-corruption measures, there have not been many documented cases of corruption in the UESR.
From 0-10 (0 = completely opaque, 10 = completely transparent), how transparent is government activity? (Small explanation appreciated): 10. Any and all government activity is organized and published on official transparency portals online with free access for all citizens and residents of the Union.
Is there an independent judiciary, or is it subject to political pressure?: There is an independent judiciary that does not depend on either the legislative or the executive branch for appointments, but rather, on rigorous examination. The legislative and executive branches must only give a ceremonial approval of the selection once it has been completed.

CIVIL LIBERTIES
Is there an independent media?: Yes.
Is there freedom of religion, including non-belief?: Yes.
Is education free of political interference or indoctrination?: Yes.
Are citizens able to express dissent in practice, without fearing retribution? How pervasive is surveillance?: Yes. Surveillance is only permitted in public areas.
Is there freedom of assembly? Are peaceful protests allowed, and are they able to proceed in practice?: Yes.
Are there basic guarantees of due process (in civil and criminal matters), and are they upheld in practice?: Yes.
Are independent trade unions and NGOs able to operate freely?: Yes. In particular, given the nature of Eothasi companies being mostly cooperatives, trade unions are not entirely necessary; however, their creation in situations where it has been deemed a necessity is encouraged.
Do individuals enjoy freedom of movement inside the country and of international travel, including in education, residence or employment?: Yes.
Do individuals enjoy basic social freedoms (do they have control over appearance? are they able to freely choose marriage partners and size of family? how common is domestic and sexual violence?)?: Yes.
Are individuals able to freely set up their own business? Are property rights adequately protected?: Yes. However, because of the nature of Eothasi companies being largely cooperative, in order to establish a company, a minimum of partners is required that will also be employed by said company. This number of partners is set by the Ministry of Employment, Migration and Social Services, which also announces and publicizes the offers to create new companies. Furthermore, they permit the partners to select the market where they will be most effective, providing full lists of companies, sectors, and indicators of saturated and unsaturated markets.

PARTICIPATION AND GUARANTEES OF EQUALITY
How is citizenship determined? Include a brief overview of the naturalization process, if available.: Citizenship is determined by being born with either parent being a citizen of the Union, as well as in the case of one having been born in Eothasia to a parent (without citizenship) also born in Eothasia, in the case of being born in Eothasia to parents whose citizenship has been stripped, in the case of being born in Eothasia without the ability to determine the parents, and in the case of adoption of a minor by an Eothasi. Furthermore, residents of Eothasia can obtain citizenship after spending a minimum of five years in consecutive official residence with a maximum of 90 consecutive days abroad and after undergoing examination to ensure sufficient integration into Eothasi society.
Who is able to vote in elections, if they exist at all?: Any and all Eothasi citizens over the age of 16 can vote in elections. Furthermore, permanent residents can vote in local elections.
Are different segments of the population (men, women, the LGBT community, ethnic minorities...) treated equally in law and in practice?: Yes.
Are the above groups well represented in government?: Yes.
Do individuals have realistic opportunities for upward social mobility?: Yes.

OPTIONAL ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS
Are the government or nonstate groups deliberately and systematically changing the demographics of the country so as to dilute or eliminate a particular group?: No.

Any suggestions for future editions of the index?: N/A

by **Alzatia** » Mon Feb 17, 2020 10:54 am

ELECTIONS
How was the head of state (or other chief national authority) selected? What powers does the office exercise? The Principality of Alzatia is a hereditary absolute monarchy. The Prince or Princess makes all the laws and policies, and is the final authority in legal questions or appeals. He or she also commands the armed forces.
How was the head of government selected? What powers does the office exercise? The closest thing to a head of government would be the Chancellor. Appointed by the Prince or Princess, this individual has the job of recording and announcing new laws and decrees, as well as running the day-to-day operations of the government.
How is the national legislature selected? The closest thing to a legislature would be the Royal Council. Its members are appointed by the Prince or Princess, and their job is to advise him or her on policy and national issues.
Are elections considered free and fair? Are irregularities serious enough that they alter the results significantly? There are no elections at the national level. At the local level, mayors of cities are elected. Elections are free and fair, but all candidates must be approved by the Prince or Princess.
Does the opposition have a realistic chance of gaining support and power through elections? No political parties are allowed. All candidates are independent, with their agendas determined by their own views, not a party line.
Is voting voluntary? If so, which was the average turnout in recent elections? On average, 65 % of citizens participate in local elections. Voting is voluntary.

SEPARATION OF POWERS AND FUNCTIONING OF GOVERNMENT
In case national representatives were freely elected, are they able to succesfully develop and implement new policies? Does government authority extend over the full national territory? The monarch enjoys popular and stable support in all parts of the nation. There are no known internal conflicts or separatist movements.
Do foreign powers (democratic or not), or unelected entities (the military, religious or economic oligarchies...) exercise undue influence over the government? no
Does the legislature have the legislative initiative? What restrictions are placed on its ability to pass laws, including constitutional amendments? The Royal Council is an advisory body, not a legislative one. The Prince or Princess is not bound to accept their recommendations.
Is the executive able to subvert the legislature through legal or extralegal means (such as arbitrary dissolutions, lack of an adequate budget, or vetoes)? The Prince or Princess makes all the laws. The Royal Council is an advisory body, not a legislative one.
From 0-10 (0 = clean, 10 = most corrupt), how pervasive is corruption (in government, business, etc.)? 1/10. Government accounts and expenses are strictly audited to prevent abuse. Taking bribes is a serious offense for civil servants.
From 0-10 (0 = completely opaque, 10 = completely transparent), how transparent is government activity? 8/10. Government spending and records are all available to the public. The only exception is where they contain personal details of private individuals (criminal records, driver's licenses, etc)—those are confidential. In addition, the personal finances of the Prince or Princess are not publicly disclosed.
Is there an independent judiciary, or is it subject to political pressure? Judges are independent from government and law enforcement agencies. They only answer to the Prince or Princess, who is the nation's highest judge and the final authority in legal questions or appeals.

CIVIL LIBERTIES
Is there an independent media? yes
Is there freedom of religion, including non-belief? yes
Is education free of political interference or indoctrination? yes
Are citizens able to express dissent in practice, without fearing retribution? How pervasive is surveillance? Dissent is treated as free speech, except for outright threats of violent rebellion. Civil servants and military officers have greater restrictions on speech, as they officially represent the Prince or Princess. Surveillance is used in major cities, but only for public safety purposes. The government does not monitor individuals for expressing political opinions, unless they're a terrorist threat.
Is there freedom of assembly? Are peaceful protests allowed, and are they able to proceed in practice? Assemblies and protests are allowed in public areas open to pedestrians. Blocking roads and railroads is strictly forbidden. Protesters are also not allowed to interfere with private business.
Are there basic guarantees of due process (in civil and criminal matters), and are they upheld in practice? yes
Are independent trade unions and NGOs able to operate freely? Yes. However, police and emergency workers are not allowed to strike.
Do individuals enjoy freedom of movement inside the country and of international travel, including in education, residence or employment? yes
Do individuals enjoy basic social freedoms (do they have control over appearance? are they able to freely choose marriage partners and size of family? how common is domestic and sexual violence?)? Yes. Like other types of assault, and violent crimes in general, domestic violence is extremely rare.
Are individuals able to freely set up their own business? Are property rights adequately protected? yes

PARTICIPATION AND GUARANTEES OF EQUALITY
How is citizenship determined? Include a brief overview of the naturalization process, if available. Alzatian citizenship is determined by the nationality of the parents. To be a natural citizen, you must be: 1) born in Alzatia with at least one parent being a citizen, or 2) born or adopted in any nation with both parents being citizens. To be a naturalized citizen, you must be 18 years or older and fluent in one of the official or co-official languages (French, Alzatian, German). There is an annual quota which is first-come-first-served. If the quota has been filled, no new applications will be accepted.
Who is able to vote in elections, if they exist at all? All citizens 16 years or older.
Are different segments of the population (men, women, the LGBT community, ethnic minorities...) treated equally in law and in practice? yes
Are the above groups well represented in government? Alzatia is a relatively homogeneous nation with little diversity. This is due to history, not policy.
Do individuals have realistic opportunities for upward social mobility? yes

OPTIONAL ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS
Are the government or nonstate groups deliberately and systematically changing the demographics of the country so as to dilute or eliminate a particular group? no

by **Sadakoyama** » Mon Feb 17, 2020 11:02 am

ELECTIONS
How was the head of state (or other chief national authority) selected? What powers does the office exercise? The nominal head of state is the Director of the Department of Education, usually selected from among the Sciencemasters of the Council by general election, though other candidates from outside the Council are considered and occasionally elected. The DDoE has no more power or authority than other Sciencemasters except for they moderate and help resolve disputes among the council, and has also been chosen to represent the country as a de facto "Head of State" for the convenience of foreign diplomacy. The current DDoE is Harper Wade Addison; she was appointed to the post by the council in a constitutionally prescribed process as a result of the ouster of the previous holder of the office for egregious nonperformance and dereliction of duty. She has survived three subsequent reelections.
How was the head of government selected? What powers does the office exercise? The other Sciencemasters on the Council are selected by the departments they represent by whichever method the departments choose, We are always trying to improve our processes, so elections are experiments as well.
How is the national legislature selected? We don't have one. Most political power has been devolved to the various karass, the extended family groups (like mutual corporations of syndicates) that constitute our primary socialstructure.
Are elections considered free and fair? Are irregularities serious enough that they alter the results significantly? We like to think they are free and fair. It would be hard to determine what the effect of irregularities might be because the majority of them occure within the karass.
Does the opposition have a realistic chance of gaining support and power through elections? We don't allow political parties, so "the opposition" is ill defined and in constant flux. We have had many changes of direction and philosophies over the years, sometimes dramatic ones. Our culture is always learning, growing, and changing.
Is voting voluntary? If so, which was the average turnout in recent elections?Voting is not voluntary. The cost of not voting is determined by one's karass, usually consisting of community service to the college and remedial civics lessons, and a loss of social status.

SEPARATION OF POWERS AND FUNCTIONING OF GOVERNMENT
In case national representatives were freely elected, are they able to succesfully develop and implement new policies? Does government authority extend over the full national territory? Our policies change frequently, as our scientific knowledge increases constantly and we don't value tradition very much. The University is the government and adminstrates the entirety of our territory and beyond.
Do foreign powers (democratic or not), or unelected entities (the military, religious or economic oligarchies...) exercise undue influence over the government? We are as a people generally disdainful of other nations; we are a bit arrogant and narcissitic in that way. The military, the university, and the government are the same thing, and every citizen in part of the military. Religion holds almost nosway in Sadakoyama and while constitutionally protected is virtually nonexistant as we are a highly educated and scientific culture. Our constitution is written to eliminate economic oligarchies and in our early days we frequently executed wealth hoarders and profiteers.
Does the legislature have the legislative initiative? What restrictions are placed on its ability to pass laws, including constitutional amendments? We don't have a legislature, but Departments set their own policies. Constitutional amendments fall under the aegis of the Council, subject to national refferendum.
Is the executive able to subvert the legislature through legal or extralegal means (such as arbitrary dissolutions, lack of an adequate budget, or vetoes)? No
From 0-10 (0 = clean, 10 = most corrupt), how pervasive is corruption (in government, business, etc.)? (Small explanation appreciated) 0. The massive and ubiquitous educational juggernaut that is Sadakoyama reinforces from birth the idea that personal social responsibility is one of the central tenents by which we survive and prosper. Everyone is taught they are responsible for the safety and well-being of everyone else. It is so pervasive and effective that we police ourselves.
From 0-10 (0 = completely opaque, 10 = completely transparent), how transparent is government activity? (Small explanation appreciated) 7? Government activities on the University level are transparent excepting the Department of International Studies (which includes our Intelligence service) and certain programs undertaken by the Department of DefenseTechnologies. What occurs on the karass level is harder to determine. We as a culture do not value secrecy very much because it is antithetical to scientific progress.
Is there an independent judiciary, or is it subject to political pressure? In a way; most functions of the juduciary are handled by whichever karass are directly involved, or those neutral karass chosen to moderate.

CIVIL LIBERTIES
Is there an independent media? Yes
Is there freedom of religion, including non-belief? Nominally,legally, and constitutionally yes, but there is a social stigma to belief that means being too overt about religious belief will have a deleterious effect on one's social life.
Is education free of political interference or indoctrination? if anythingour education interferes with and indoctrinates our politics.
Are citizens able to express dissent in practice, without fearing retribution? How pervasive is surveillance? Yes, and frequently do. Entusiastically and profanely. Surveillance is only widely applied in our two airports and other similar tourist-heavy areas. We don't really trust our out-of-town visitors.
Is there freedom of assembly? Are peaceful protests allowed, and are they able to proceed in practice? Yes to all.
Are there basic guarantees of due process (in civil and criminal matters), and are they upheld in practice? Yes. It is one of the few restrictions the University imposes on the karass.
Are independent trade unions and NGOs able to operate freely? Yes, although mostly unions aren't necessary because Sadakhan largely work for their karass.
Do individuals enjoy freedom of movement inside the country and of international travel, including in education, residence or employment? Yes
Do individuals enjoy basic social freedoms (do they have control over appearance? are they able to freely choose marriage partners and size of family? how common is domestic and sexual violence?)? Yes. Minors and Active Duty personnel wear uniforms but adults wear what they want, or don't (nudity is not proscribed). The University does not involve itself in the romantic affairs of our people. Thanks to our robust prosocial edcuation domestic and sexual violence is virtually unknown.
Are individuals able to freely set up their own business? Are property rights adequately protected? Yes, but practically most business is conducted by the karass. Our people disdain personal, individual wealth; we live in extended non-kin dependent family groups (called "karass") that hold the bulk of assets in trust for the family as a mutual corporation or syndicate. The prevailing attitude is that a person should personally own no more than they can carry. Excess personal wealth is seen as akin to hoarding and treated by therapeutic psychological intervention. Private ownership of land in proscribed, however; only the karass can own real estate.

PARTICIPATION AND GUARANTEES OF EQUALITY
How is citizenship determined? Include a brief overview of the naturalization process, if available. Being legally recognized as an adult and a citizen involves passing the strict high school graduation examination, which includes not only prescribed academic achievement but a doctor and a psychologist certifying the individual meets physical, emotional, and psychological maturity benchmarks. This is all accomplished under the aegis of the Department of Education. This has occurred for a very few as young as twelve but is commonly completed around age 16. Ethnic heritage, biological sex, gender identity or sexual preferences do not factor into this determination; allowances are made for physical disadvantages that cannot be mitigated by medical or technological means. A foreign national wishing to enter Sadakoyama on a work or student visa is subject to a security and background check, and must pass a basic STEM aptitude test or otherwise provide proof of competency. Becoming a naturalized citizen typically requires many years of schooling, physical training, and sometimes therapy to pass the stringent citizenship test.
Who is able to vote in elections, if they exist at all? Citizens, and it's mandatory.
Are different segments of the population (men, women, the LGBT community, ethnic minorities...) treated equally in law and in practice? Yes. Such protections are constitutionally guaranteed and deeply woven into the fabric of our culture.
Are the above groups well represented in government? Yes.
Do individuals have realistic opportunities for upward social mobility? We like to think so. Our Income inequality is very low and our personaly freedoms high.

OPTIONAL ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS
Are the government or nonstate groups deliberately and systematically changing the demographics of the country so as to dilute or eliminate a particular group? No. Well; we try to educate the ignorant, heal the sick, enrich the poor, and enfranchise the powerless. Does that count?

Any suggestions for future editions of the index?

by **Plaetopia** » Mon Feb 17, 2020 12:30 pm

Done.

by **Vozh** » Mon Feb 17, 2020 12:58 pm

ELECTIONS
How was the head of state (or other chief national authority) selected? What powers does the office exercise?

The Head of State is the High King, who has few constiutional powers. However, the current High King, Elizabeth II, exerts broad influence over the government by use of a puppet premier and a "party of power".
How was the head of government selected? What powers does the office exercise?

The prime minister has broad constitutional powers.

How is the national legislature selected?

Via universal suffrage with a single transferable vote.

Are elections considered free and fair? Are irregularities serious enough that they alter the results significantly?

Elections are mostly free and somewhat fair. The secrecy of the ballot is respected, but voter intimidation and ballot-box stuffing are somewhat common. The average election probably has results skewed by 2-5% due to to fraud.

Does the opposition have a realistic chance of gaining support and power through elections?

Yes, although it faces a lot of intimidation and cabalism

Is voting voluntary? If so, which was the average turnout in recent elections?

Yes, 68%

SEPARATION OF POWERS AND FUNCTIONING OF GOVERNMENT
In case national representatives were freely elected, are they able to succesfully develop and implement new policies? Does government authority extend over the full national territory?

Yes, although they may face interference by oligarchic business leaders or the monarch. Yes.

Do foreign powers (democratic or not), or unelected entities (the military, religious or economic oligarchies...) exercise undue influence over the government?

Yes. Both the monarch and national business interests frequently exert influence via intimidation and bribes.

Does the legislature have the legislative initiative? What restrictions are placed on its ability to pass laws, including constitutional amendments?

Constitutionally, the legislature has total legislative initiative. The premier is allowed to propose laws, and royal assent is theoretically automatic.

Is the executive able to subvert the legislature through legal or extralegal means (such as arbitrary dissolutions, lack of an adequate budget, or vetoes)?

Yes. The High King successfully influences legislature via bribery and intimidation. Several outspoken republicans disappeared mysteriously two years into her reign.

From 0-10 (0 = clean, 10 = most corrupt), how pervasive is corruption (in government, business, etc.)? (Small explanation appreciated)

7. Bribery is reasonably common, especially among law-enforcement and the bureaucracy. Belarus is a good parallel.

From 0-10 (0 = completely opaque, 10 = completely transparent), how transparent is government activity? (Small explanation appreciated)

4. See above.

Is there an independent judiciary, or is it subject to political pressure?

The Judiciary is under extreme pressure from conservative and monarchist forces. However, some measure of independence survives despite this.

CIVIL LIBERTIES
Is there an independent media?

Yes, although it is often drowned out by the sheer volume of state propaganda.

Is there freedom of religion, including non-belief?

Total, although Greek Catholicism is the state religion, several high-ranking cabinet members are Shia Muslims or Ashkenazi Jews.

Is education free of political interference or indoctrination?

Mostly. Monarchist and Nationalist propaganda is occasional, mostly found in history classes.

Are citizens able to express dissent in practice, without fearing retribution? How pervasive is surveillance?

Dissent is broadly tolerated, with repressive measures largely being focused within the government and business world. Surveillance is moderate.

Is there freedom of assembly? Are peaceful protests allowed, and are they able to proceed in practice?

Yes, and for the most part.

Are there basic guarantees of due process (in civil and criminal matters), and are they upheld in practice?

Yes, and they are mostly upheld. Several vocal communists and republicans have been disappeared over the last decade, however.

Are independent trade unions and NGOs able to operate freely?

Mostly, although they are frequently extorted for bribes by corrupt officials.

Do individuals enjoy freedom of movement inside the country and of international travel, including in education, residence or employment?

Yes.

Do individuals enjoy basic social freedoms (do they have control over appearance? are they able to freely choose marriage partners and size of family? how common is domestic and sexual violence?)?

Yes. Domestic and sexual violence are uncommon, with 'perverts' being subject to lashings.

Are individuals able to freely set up their own business? Are property rights adequately protected?

Yes, although corruption is prevalent.

PARTICIPATION AND GUARANTEES OF EQUALITY
How is citizenship determined? Include a brief overview of the naturalization process, if available.
Ethnic Vozhsk and ethnic Musulmen are citizens, regardless of parent citizenship or birth country. People born within Vozh, except for the children of foreign leaders or diplomats, are entitled to Vozhsk citizenship. Naturalisation requires 15 years legal residence and 12 months in the military or equivalent national service.

Who is able to vote in elections, if they exist at all?

Elections are universal among citizens.

Are different segments of the population (men, women, the LGBT community, ethnic minorities...) treated equally in law and in practice?

Yes, and this is mostly respected

Are the above groups well represented in government?

Yes

Do individuals have realistic opportunities for upward social mobility?

For the most part

OPTIONAL ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS
Are the government or nonstate groups deliberately and systematically changing the demographics of the country so as to dilute or eliminate a particular group?
No

Any suggestions for future editions of the index?

No

by **Bagong Luzon** » Tue Feb 18, 2020 9:08 am

ELECTIONS
How was the head of state (or other chief national authority) selected? What powers does the office exercise? Semi-Salic primogeniture, with women inheriting only upon the extinction of the male line. As absolute monarch, His Philippine Majesty is both Head of State and Head of Government, wielding absolute political power.
How was the head of government selected? What powers does the office exercise? See above.
How is the national legislature selected? Various forms of primogeniture or other inheritance mechanisms subject to the King's assent; the Royal Assembly is composed of 130 individuals who were elevated to the nobility as counts and countesses in 2008. Prior to this, these individuals were appointed by the King.
Are elections considered free and fair? Are irregularities serious enough that they alter the results significantly? Not Applicable.
Does the opposition have a realistic chance of gaining support and power through elections? Not Applicable.
Is voting voluntary? If so, which was the average turnout in recent elections? Not Applicable.

SEPARATION OF POWERS AND FUNCTIONING OF GOVERNMENT
In case national representatives were freely elected, are they able to successfully develop and implement new policies? Does government authority extend over the full national territory? Not applicable; Yes.
Do foreign powers (democratic or not), or unelected entities (the military, religious or economic oligarchies...) exercise undue influence over the government? His Philippine Majesty's Government is an unelected entity.
Does the legislature have the legislative initiative? What restrictions are placed on its ability to pass laws, including constitutional amendments? The Royal Assembly has legislative initiative, subject to limitations; certain laws proposed by the body require the assent of the marquesses or the dukes before reaching the King for approval or denial.
Is the executive able to subvert the legislature through legal or extralegal means (such as arbitrary dissolutions, lack of an adequate budget, or vetoes)? Yes; Royal Decrees may override Acts of the Royal Assembly, and the King has the power of executive veto.
From 0-10 (0 = clean, 10 = most corrupt), how pervasive is corruption (in government, business, etc.)? (Small explanation appreciated) 3 - corruption, where found, is often limited to the lower levels of government, but as the noble lords of dominions have incentive to root out corruption, it rarely goes beyond the municipal level.
From 0-10 (0 = completely opaque, 10 = completely transparent), how transparent is government activity? (Small explanation appreciated) 8 - most decisions and their intent are announced to the public.
Is there an independent judiciary, or is it subject to political pressure? The Royal Supreme Court is appointed by the King and serves at his pleasure.

CIVIL LIBERTIES
Is there an independent media? Yes, in addition to state-sponsored media.
Is there freedom of religion, including non-belief? Mostly yes; while Catholicism is the state religion of the Kingdom, there is no prejudice against other religious groups. Non-belief, on the other hand, is seen in society with considerable distaste as a consequence of the Red Scare of 1995 and the Brown Scare of 2011.
Is education free of political interference or indoctrination? Ambiguous.
Are citizens able to express dissent in practice, without fearing retribution? How pervasive is surveillance? Mostly; surveillance is particularly pervasive.
Is there freedom of assembly? Are peaceful protests allowed, and are they able to proceed in practice? Sometimes.
Are there basic guarantees of due process (in civil and criminal matters), and are they upheld in practice? Yes.
Are independent trade unions and NGOs able to operate freely? Mostly; some organizations are monitored as "Parties of Interest" under the Anti-Subversion Law.
Do individuals enjoy freedom of movement inside the country and of international travel, including in education, residence or employment? Yes.
Do individuals enjoy basic social freedoms (do they have control over appearance? are they able to freely choose marriage partners and size of family? how common is domestic and sexual violence?)? Yes; rare.
Are individuals able to freely set up their own business? Are property rights adequately protected? Yes.

PARTICIPATION AND GUARANTEES OF EQUALITY
How is citizenship determined? Include a brief overview of the naturalization process, if available. Jus sanguinis, jus soli, and naturalization. Naturalization requires a petition to be heard; qualifications are found here.
Who is able to vote in elections, if they exist at all? Not applicable.
Are different segments of the population (men, women, the LGBT community, ethnic minorities...) treated equally in law and in practice? Overall yes.
Are the above groups well represented in government? Ambiguous.
Do individuals have realistic opportunities for upward social mobility? Yes, especially among the commoners.

OPTIONAL ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS
Are the government or nonstate groups deliberately and systematically changing the demographics of the country so as to dilute or eliminate a particular group? No.

Any suggestions for future editions of the index? None.

by **Plaetopia** » Wed Feb 19, 2020 9:28 am

This edition of the Democracy and Freedom Index II is now closed.

CONCLUSIONS REPORT
For this edition, the average overall score was 5.64, which means that the multiverse is Partly Free. The index analyzed 71 nations, of which 25 were Free, 12 were Mostly Free, 9 were Partly Free, 14 were Mostly Unfree and 11 were Not Free. The best performer in this edition was Beatitas and the worst performer was Aryax.

24 nations were classified as democracies (33.8%) of which 13 were full democracies. 19 of the 25 Free nations (76%) were democracies.

These numbers indicate that, overall, there is notable progress in guaranteeing freedom for all in the multiverse, but democratization has lagged behind. Either way, there is a long way to go.

The survey had 29 questions with the following average scores:

ELECTIONS
How was the head of state (or other chief national authority) selected? What powers does the office exercise? 0.38
How was the head of government selected? What powers does the office exercise? 0.48
How is the national legislature selected? 0.48
Are elections considered free and fair? Are irregularities serious enough that they alter the results significantly? 0.54
Does the opposition have a realistic chance of gaining support and power through elections? 0.46
Is voting voluntary? If so, which was the average turnout in recent elections? 0.37

SEPARATION OF POWERS AND FUNCTIONING OF GOVERNMENT
In case national representatives were freely elected, are they able to succesfully develop and implement new policies? Does government authority extend over the full national territory? 0.48
Do foreign powers (democratic or not), or unelected entities (the military, religious or economic oligarchies...) exercise undue influence over the government? 0.52
Does the legislature have the legislative initiative? What restrictions are placed on its ability to pass laws, including constitutional amendments? 0.53
Is the executive able to subvert the legislature through legal or extralegal means (such as arbitrary dissolutions, lack of an adequate budget, or vetoes)? 0.37
From 0-10 (0 = clean, 10 = most corrupt), how pervasive is corruption (in government, business, etc.)? (Small explanation appreciated) 0.65
From 0-10 (0 = completely opaque, 10 = completely transparent), how transparent is government activity? (Small explanation appreciated) 0.63
Is there an independent judiciary, or is it subject to political pressure? 0.54

CIVIL LIBERTIES
Is there an independent media? 0.67
Is there freedom of religion, including non-belief? 0.64
Is education free of political interference or indoctrination? 0.56
Are citizens able to express dissent in practice, without fearing retribution? How pervasive is surveillance? 0.61
Is there freedom of assembly? Are peaceful protests allowed, and are they able to proceed in practice? 0.63
Are there basic guarantees of due process (in civil and criminal matters), and are they upheld in practice? 0.68
Are independent trade unions and NGOs able to operate freely? 0.59
Do individuals enjoy freedom of movement inside the country and of international travel, including in education, residence or employment? 0.75
Do individuals enjoy basic social freedoms (do they have control over appearance? are they able to freely choose marriage partners and size of family? how common is domestic and sexual violence?)? 0.69
Are individuals able to freely set up their own business? Are property rights adequately protected? 0.61

PARTICIPATION AND GUARANTEES OF EQUALITY
How is citizenship determined? Include a brief overview of the naturalization process, if available. 0.75
Who is able to vote in elections, if they exist at all? 0.61
Are different segments of the population (men, women, the LGBT community, ethnic minorities...) treated equally in law and in practice? 0.60
Are the above groups well represented in government? 0.54
Do individuals have realistic opportunities for upward social mobility? 0.67

OPTIONAL ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS
Are the government or nonstate groups deliberately and systematically changing the demographics of the country so as to dilute or eliminate a particular group? -0.17

Overall, the scores are polarized alongside the different questions. Worryingly, there are several questions where the multiverse average does not even reach 0.4/1. The worst overall question scores are the ones for turnout and legislative independence, at 0.37, reflecting low turnouts and the frequency of mandatory voting impositions, and pliable legislatures, often through an executive veto. Vetoes are widespread and range from execuitve vetoes overridden by legislative supermajorities to broad veto powers where the executive (often unelected) can unlimitedly block any legislative proposal, thus largely defeating the point of having a legislature and blatantly disregarding separation of powers.

Another worrying feature is the low average scores in the elections section. Autocracies are definitely a factor, but the main reason for such low averages is the widespread presence of regressive, powerful monarchs even in otherwise largely free nations.

As such, further progress in guaranteeing political and civil liberties for all requires nations to pay attention to the above problems and remedy them.

Not all is bleak, though, with no scores in the last two sections (civil rights and guarantees of equality) being below 0.5/1, some even reaching 0.75: the questions about freedom of movement and citizenship. Governments generally recognize their people as their own and allow citizens to choose their place of residence, education and employment - all vital rights that should never be disregarded. The high overall scores for civil liberties tie back to a slightly above-average multiverse-wide score.

The effects of methodology changes and outlook for future editions
The consequences of methodology and scoring improvements have not been dramatic but have mostly been felt, surprisingly, towards the lower end of the scale, with no nations scoring below 0 in this edition (Aryax scored 0.34) and more Mostly Unfree nations that outright Not Free ones, both departures from the conclusions of the previous edition.

The survey itself seems to be in good shape, as shown by a dramatic decline on the number of suggestions received. However, the government of Plaetopia has already identified some potential improvements for D&FI3. They are mostly related to the internal scoring mechanics of the different questions, but also include loosening the criteria for full democracies, updating the general democracy criteria, revamping the elections section and further expanding the scope of the survey.

by **The Allied Tribe** » Mon Apr 06, 2020 9:48 am

This is closed now. When do you plan to make the third?

Democracy and Freedom Index II (CLOSED)

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