2020 Ostric Regional Election [IC | Kylaris Only]

by **Ostry** » Sat Dec 28, 2019 12:16 pm

2020 Ostric Regional Election

Wëbòrë regionalné na Òstrsczé w 2020 r. | 2020 ostrische Regionalwahl

2 February 2020

Setting the Stage
An internal change within the governing Social Democratic Radical Party has left Ostry’s government with a new leader and no majority in the Dorada, the self-governing territory’s legislature. Thus, Minister-Chairwoman Nataliô Kohl has called for a snap election, mere weeks into her term. As parties and politicians prepare to canvas and give speeches in a highly polarizing island, the rest of Werania and Euclea are watching...

In these thread, you are allowed to post speeches, posters, advertisements, party newsletters, and any other campaign-related accoutrements to bolster your supporters, inform the voters, and try to form the next Ostric government. Keep in mind this RP is only for members of Kylaris only!

Ostry’s government and elections
The Free State of Ostry is a devolved region of Werania, allowed limited power over its own affairs, albeit with Weranic direction. The main organ of legislation is the 15-seat Dorada, headed by the President of the Dorada. The official head of government is the Minister-Chair(wo)man, nominally the leader of the largest party in government. Although politics are fought on the left-right axis, the issue of Ostric separatism plays an even stronger role, creating unlikely alliances.

Ostrins go to the polls every four years, and elect their Assembly Members (AMs) through non-single transferable vote. The entire island forms one electoral district.

The Issues
Ostry faces many unique issues due to its location, status, and history. Issues of note are:
- The debate over Ostry separating from Werania to form its own sovereign country, mainly through a referendum.
- Dealing with soaring food prices and need for importing most supplies.
- The high rates of alcoholism and suicide on the island, considered connected with lowering wages.
- Economic security in the face of a potential recession in the dominant fishing industry.
- Fixing issues between fishing rights of Ostry and the larger Weranic federal government.
- Addressing climate change, which could affect the island severely.

Other issues exist (or can pop up on the campaign trail!) but these, especially the question on independence, will be the most discussed.

Political Parties in Ostry
Here is a list of currently registered parties in Ostry. If you wish to register a party, please sign up here! I will respond via Discord.

Social Democratic Radical Party
RPed by: Ordennya
Leader: Nataliô Kohl
Stance on independence: Unionist
Ideology: Social democracy
AMs: 6
Platform: Not yet released

Ostric People's Party
RPed by: Caltarania
Leader: Adóm Lës
Stance on independence: Separatist
Ideology: Agrarian socialism
AMs: 4
Platform: Here

Ostric Coalition
RPed by: Open
Leader: Msczisłôw Mencher (interim)
Stance on independence: Separatist
Ideology: Right-wing populism
AMs: 2
Platform: Not yet released

The Union (electoral alliance of National Consolidation Party and Modern Centre Party)
RPed by: Brumah
Leader: Linus Hoch, Arne Gotti
Stance on independence: Unionist
Ideology: Liberal conservatism
AMs: 2
Platform: Here

Nation and Freedom
RPed by: Alleniana
Leader: Macéj Fiedler
Stance on independence: Separatist
Ideology: Right-wing populism
AMs: 1
Platform: Here

Citizen’s Alliance for Ostry
RPed by: Glitter
Leader: Josef Stegerwald
Stance on independence: None
Ideology: Social progressivism
AMs: 0
Platform: Here

Ostry Unbound
RPed by: Crylante
Leader: Léch Schwarzman
Stance on independence: Separatist
Ideology: Left-wing nationalism
AMs: 0
Platform: Here

Party for the Whales
RPed by: Montecara
Leader: Eckart Schmuck
Stance on independence: Unionist
Ideology: Animal rights
AMs: 0
Platform: Not yet released

Democratic Alternative
RPed by: Nuvania
Leader: Adam Duerr
Stance on independence: Unionist
Ideology: National conservatism
AMs: 0
Platform: Here

Ostric Greens
RPed by: Luziyca
Leader: Miłosłôw Gendron
Stance on independence: None
Ideology: Green politics
AMs: 0
Platform: Here

Calendar of Events
28 December 2019: Registration opens, campaign begins.
5 January 2020: Registration closed (existing parties still open to grab until Election Day).
12 January 2020: "Small" Leader's Debate (WÒÒ, ÒN, SdW, DA, ÒZ).
19 January 2020: "Big" Leader's Debate (SRPO, ÒSL, KÒ, DU, NëW).
2 February 2020: Election Day.

NOTE: This is an In Character thread outside of this post, all OOC planning and discussion will occur on the discord.

About me · by **Luziyca** » Sat Dec 28, 2019 1:09 pm

Platfòrma wëbòrcza - Wahlplattform

We, the Ostric Greens, believe that climate change is by far the biggest problem that we Ostrins will have to face. As this planet warms, it is clear that we can no longer afford to play "politics as usual." We can longer afford to debate on whether Ostry should become independent, or be closer to Werania when our very island is starting to suffer from the effects of climate change, such as our depleting fisheries, rising sea levels that would force us to evacuate to higher ground, and warming temperatures that harm the ecosystems that all life in Ostry depend on.

Therefore, we, the Ostric Greens believe that Ostry must transform its economy to be a sustainable economy. To this end, Ostry will need to:

Move its primary economic driver away from the declining fishing industry, towards a diverse set of economic drivers based on the principles of the green economy
Adopt wind power to eliminate the need to import diesel from Werania, and to become the first polity in the world to produce 100% of its electricity via renewable energy
Implement policies to ensure that all persons working in the fisheries sector be retrained so they may be able to work in the new green economy, without having to suffer in the transition between the current economy and the new sustainable economy

By implementing these policies, the hope is that Ostry will be able to reverse its long-term demographical decline, and increase immigration to Ostry, as opposed to emigration from Ostry, while simultaneously combatting climate change.

We also need to recognize that at the current rate of climate change, it is completely irrelevant whether Ostry becomes independent or not, as we will continue to suffer the effects of climate change, regardless of what the people and Dorada decide. To this end, the Ostric Greens shall maintain a neutral position on the matter: if the people desire independence, so be it; if the people desire closer links to Werania, so be it.

Finally, the Ostric Greens recognize the underlying problems that face Ostry: alcoholism, suicide, and rising food prices. We believe that these are all linked to the fact that all the major parties in Ostry have neglected all the above issues, instead focusing on "politics as usual" while the people of Ostry suffer from their policies. To this end, the Ostric Greens will fund programs to improve our mental health and take it with the seriousness that it deserves.

Psychologists and psychiatrists will be encouraged to move to Ostry to help deal with these mental health crises on the island
All gun owners will be required to have a yearly meetup with a psychiatrist to ensure that they are of sound mind
All labels of alcohol sold on Ostry shall contain pictures of the effects of alcoholism on your body, with such photos taking up a minimum of 60% of the bottle label
All rehabilitation programs, of alcohol, or of other drugs, shall be covered by the government
The Ostric government will subsidize all costs of importing food to ensure that prices in Ostry will be no higher than in Wiesstadt

These policies will hopefully help reduce the severity of these crises, and will help ensure that the Ostrins will be able to all work together to create a better Ostry, where the economy is sustainable and no longer reliant on the "boom and bust" cycle as we have all experienced with the current domination of the fisheries.

We believe that combined, this platform will help address the problems facing Ostry, while ensuring that Ostry transitions towards a sustainable economy that will help combat climate change.

by **Caltarania** » Sat Dec 28, 2019 4:27 pm

by **Brumah** » Sat Dec 28, 2019 8:52 pm

About me · by **Luziyca** » Sat Dec 28, 2019 9:55 pm

December 29, 2019
Eriksztadt - Erichstadt

As Ostric Green posters began appearing on the island's walls and billboards, in both Weranic and Ostric, Miłosłôw Gendron knew that all the posters in the world won't mean a damned thing unless he actually spoke. Fortunately for him, he had experience in speaking, which was something that he will rely on throughout the campaign. And today, Miłosłôw Gendron would make his first speech, in front of the Main Hall of the University of Ostry. A small crowd of supporters were waiting for him, and Gendron was delighted.

"Greetings, guys," Gendron began in Ostric. "As we begin the election campaign, I'd like to thank you all for coming out here on a Sunday morning."

"Since the previous Ostric Green Party was dissolved in 1999, it has become clear that not only has climate change continued to occur, but it has reached a point where we Ostrins can no longer afford to ignore it. We can no longer pretend that this is politics as usual when we face declining fish stocks, when young people like you and I have to leave this island because there is no future for us here."

"It is time for Ostry to adopt a sustainable economy. It is time for us to adopt renewable energy as the primary form of electrical generation. It is time for Ostry to invest in mental health, and it is time for Ostry to institute a green policy that benefits all Ostrins, and does not hurt anyone in the transition away from our traditional economy to this new green economy," Gendron declared. "If we are able to do all of that, we will be able to do more for Ostry in four years than the major parties have done in over three decades!"

"If we can accomplish all that, then imagine the possibilities of a green Ostry: one where people are coming to Ostry because they have more opportunities here; one where our young people are staying on the island because there are abundant jobs in all these new sectors that will develop as part of a green economy; one where alcoholism is all but eradicated, and one where our mental health has greatly improved," Gendron said. "All we need to do is to fight for what we stand for; all we need to do is fight for what we believe in, and if all goes well, then Ostry shall prevail!"

"Thank you," he concluded.

by **Azmara** » Mon Dec 30, 2019 10:09 am

20/20 Vision: A Manifesto for an Ostry Unbound

Friends, Ostrins, countrymen, the grave details of reality hold our beautiful, proud island nation back. Our nation is bound to the Weranian nation, who for too long have restricted our potential and subjugated our nation. Continuously has our nation been held back to the bourgeois, reactionary nature of the Weranic people, to their petty chauvinism and long-failed economic agenda.

It is no wonder, then, that we are the poorest state of the Weranic Crown; it is simply not fair to compare us to other states such as Ruttland and Cislania, or even Westbrücken when these three states are not shackled down in their potential and are unbound to achieve as they may. Equalisation payments will not fix this systemic inequality; they are merely a way of patching over a broken system that does not work for the Ostric nation. An unbound Ostry, free from the ties of Weranic oppression, will be an Ostry that achieves great things.

The dream of an Ostry unbound by Werania and by the pitfalls of capitalism can be achieved through 25 simple steps.

- Lech Schwarzman

The quick secession of the Free State of Ostry from the Weranic Crown. The first act of an Ostry Unbound government will be to ensure a referendum on the issue of Ostric independence and the implementation of the result by the end of 2025.
The creation of an Ostric republic. The Weranic monarch shall no longer be the head of state of Ostry and shall be replaced by an elected President.
A trading relation between Ostry and the Euclean Community. We shall negotiate a trade relationship that both protects our industries and our jobs and allows us to export to the Community.
An open constitutional convention for Ostry to create an innovative democracy in our nation. Such ideas as recall and popular referenda will be top of the agenda.
An Official Language Act to end linguistic disputes. Ostric shall be declared the sole language of public life, education and government.
An improved, independent coast guard. We shall establish the Ostric Coast Guard as an independent force capable of protecting Ostry's territorial waters.
A hard link between the salaries of Assembly members and the median wage of Ostry. All excess wages earned by Ostry Unbound parliamentarians will be donated to local charities until this link is established.
Reforms to the fishing industry in order to place fishermen in control of their catch. Fishing companies shall be restructured to ensure decentralised workers' control over the industry.
Similar reforms to the brewing industry as those to the fishing industry.
Land reforms for the benefit of the everyday Ostrin. Property owned by absentee landowners of Weranian or other foreign nationality shall be seized and redistributed back to their communities.
Financial reforms to end the corrupt banking system. We will establish a national building society that shall be the centre of the Ostric financial system and shall put Ostrins first.
A final solution to housing issues. An Ostry Unbound government shall build new housing and nationalise unoccupied housing and provide it as affordable, rented accomodation for young and homeless Ostrins.
A comprehensive education system in Ostry itself. Schooling shall put the pupil first and encourage them to succeed through engaging them in open discussion and through support for all pupils that need it, and prepare them for life through comprehensive education in life skills and civics. It shall not punish students for problems out of their control, or see them as a test statistic.
Expansion of the University of Ostry. We shall invest in providing science, mathematics and engineering degrees and postgraduate research programs, and shall give living grants to all students in need of it.
Diversification of the Ostric economy through investing in the technology and tourism sectors. Tourism is a natural source of income for our beautiful country, and with the expansion of the University we will be able to expand into the technology sector.
Ostry shall be carbon neutral by 2035. We shall achieve this through investing in electric cars, electric buses and through building wave power stations to cater to Ostry's power needs.
A public bus system covering the whole of Ostry. We shall establish a system of electric buses that shall provide affordable transport across the island of Ostry for all its residents.
Investment in the road network of Ostry. We shall set aside a fund to fix Ostry's roads and smooth over their potholes.
A society free from homophobia and transphobia. We shall address homophobic and transphobic bullying in schools, set out harsher penalties for homophobic and transphobic hate crimes and provide LGBT-inclusive sex education in schools.
Complete equality between men and women. We shall launch a government enquiry into pay differences between men and women in order to eradicate the pay gap and shall address sexism in the workplace and in domestic life head on.
A properly funded mental health service. We shall tackle Ostry's unacceptably high suicide rate by opening up a national suicide hotline, providing greater coverage for therapy in health services, establishing courses in counselling and therapy at the University of Ostry and expanding support networks at schools across Ostry.
A more comprehensive healthcare system in Ostry. We shall work to provide a free GP service in every town in Ostry.
A national fibre optic broadband service for Ostry. We shall provide the whole of Ostry with free fibre optic broadband by 2030.
A radically progressive taxation system. We shall overhaul the Ostric tax system, imposing higher taxes on those able to pay and shifting the burden away from indirect taxes that hit those worst off disproportionately.
A more generous welfare system. We shall provide all Ostrins unable to work or looking for work with a livable income to mitigate the struggles that they face, and shall implement more generous pensions and child benefits so that those who have already contributed their fair share to Ostry and those raising the next generation of Ostrins are provided for.

About me · by **Luziyca** » Tue Dec 31, 2019 2:04 pm

December 31, 2019
Przëkam-Roztoka - Perschkam-Rostock

It may be the last day of the decade, but for Miłosłôw Gendron, it was to be his first campaign speech outside his hometown of Eriksztadt. As he arrived at the local community center, he saw a crowd dancing to the final few verses of We love what we're fighting for, Ostry!

...e're fighting for,
We believe in what we're fighting for;
We love what we're fighting for, Ostry!
We love what we're fighting for, Ostry!

After the crowd finished that dance, Miłosłôw Gendron walked towards the stage, where he was greeted with applause. Given what the volunteers had done to whip up the crowd, Gendron suspected it was because they really did not want to dance. But soon enough, it was time for Gendron to start speaking.

"Hello, friends!" Gendron began in Ostric. "I am Miłosłôw Gendron, and I'm the leader of the Ostric Greens."

"As we close the old year, it is time to discuss the most important issue facing Ostry. And before most of you say it, you are wrong, it is climate change," he said.

At around that point, some of the crowd groaned. "Why isn't he paying attention to the independence debate?" one heckler said in Weranic.

"Because," Gendron responded in Weranic, "climate change does not care about whether Ostry is independent or not. It will still hurt us whether we remain with Werania or go our own separate ways."

"As I was saying," Gendron said in Ostric, "climate change is the most serious threat that Ostry is facing. Our fisheries have been a way of life for generations, and yet, we are so dependent on them that as our fish stocks are dwindling, our economy is suffering because we are so dependent on fishing. While there are some radical environmentalists who suggest that we just ban all fishing altogether, I do not believe that this is worth the pain."

"While there are some who still believe that politics can, and should continue on as usual, the fact of the matter is that we can no longer afford to pretend that everything is a-okay. We are facing a situation where climate change is hurting our economy, we are facing a situation where the cost of living is expensive because we have to import nearly everything to this little island, and we are facing a situation where climate change will affect how we Ostrins live."

"While the SRPO, the OSL, and the OC all bicker about how to address these problems without realizing that the issue at hand is protecting our environment, and while some Schmuck believes that we can just ban all fishing and poof, things will be better instantaneously, we at the Ostric Greens believe that we need to transition to a green economy: we need to ensure that Ostry's economy is no longer solely reliant on fisheries, that our economy is no longer dependent on imports," Gendron said. "To this end, the Ostric Greens will institute a transition to a green economy, one which is based on the principles of sustainability, one that is based on reducing our reliance on imports, and one of our keystone policies will be to ensure that Ostry will adopt wind power, and power Ostry with 100% renewable energy within eight years."

"However, we know that we cannot do this suddenly, because I am painfully aware that many Ostrins only have skills related to the fishing industry. To this end, a Green government will institute policies to ensure that all Ostrin fishermen will be able to work in the new green economy that will be developed to reduce our reliance on the fishing industry," Gendron said. "By instituting all of these policies, we will be able to reverse our long-term demographical decline, and ensure more people move in than out to this island home, while ensuring that we are combatting climate change."

"As I mentioned earlier, we can no longer afford to debate whether Ostry is better off as part of Werania, or if it'd be better off as sovereign, because all of those involved in the matter ignore the fact that Ostrins must, as that song goes, if we'd only pull together, haul for home now, lend a hand!" he said. "We have to unite to face this existential threat, because if we allow this debate to continue, there may be no Ostry to fight for, meaning that such a debate would be navel-gazing. If we all focus on fighting climate change, even though we may be a tiny little island, then we will be able to ensure that Ostry will prosper for generations to come."

"Finally, we recognize the problems that Ostry faces besides climate change and sovereignty," Gendron declared. "We have a suicide crisis, and high rates of alcoholism on this little island, and we believe that this all traces itself back to the fact that in the past three decades, neither the SRPO nor the OSL, or the OC, have given a damn about our mental health. All they cared about was short-term profits while ignoring what we Ostrins want, and this has led us to this crisis that we see today."

"If elected, the Greens will encourage psychologists and psychiatrists to move to the island, so we will be able to deal with these mental health crises. We will make sure that all gun owners on this island will have a yearly meetup with a psychiatrist to ensure that they are of sound mind to continue owning their guns. We will make sure that all labels of alcohol sold on Ostry shall contain pictures of the effects of alcoholism on your body, with such photos taking up a minimum of sixty percent of the bottle label, and that all rehabilitation programs, of alcohol, or of other drugs, shall be covered by the government," Gendron continued. "And of course, the Ostric government shall subsidize all costs of importing food to ensure that prices in Ostry will be no higher than in Wiesstadt, so prices will be lowered for you."

"If we implement all these policies, the severity of these crises shall be reduced, and it will ensure that all Ostrins will be able to work together to create a better Ostry, where the economy is sustainable and no longer reliant on the "boom and bust" cycle as we have all experienced with the current domination of the fisheries," Gendron said. "Together, a Green government will help address the problems that we are facing, while ensuring that the transition is as painless as possible."

"Thank you," he concluded. "And vote for the Greens on February 2nd!"

by **Alleniana** » Sat Jan 04, 2020 1:06 am

Manifesto of Nation and Freedom

It is evident to every Ostrin that the current system is not working. The elitist, pro-foreigner government has sunk our nation to new depths, and deprived us of our freedom. From the fish in our seas, to the goods on our shop shelves, to our collective health, we are deprived of dignity. What we must do this election is to fix this disgraceful, sorry state of politics as usual, and stand united in our message: Get Out!

Independence for Ostry: Get Out!
Ostry must get out of this disastrous union. Ostrins speak an ancient language unrelated to Weranian, with a unique and precious culture: we must preserve our nation before it ceases to exist before insidious integration and diminution. By no means do we oppose Weranian culture, and the Weranian language: but they belong in Werania, and Ostric in Ostry! The fact is that Ostry's vast territorial waters are a boon to the Weranian economy, a hundredfold the petty subsidies that unionists may bring up. Werania does not belong in Ostry; when they get out, we will have the freedom to determine what we will do with our traditional local jobs, what we will do with our fishing stocks, what we will do with our culture and language and homeland. The billions in revenues from our bounteous natural and cultural endowments, which can stem from both extractive industries and tourism, will fund the healthcare, stimulus and other projects we need, which Werania is evidently incapable or unwilling to provide.

Jobs, Stability and Growth
Ostrins have a right to stable and improving economic conditions, and jobs in our traditional local industries, as well as in newer emerging sectors. Werania is simply a larger, more corporatised country, and so they are able to siphon away economic activity from Ostry itself, not only from its rightful territorial waters. With ample investment in local education, and the breaking of the economic bondage Ostry is held in, our next generations will be secure in their labour for local consumption and export, as brewers, as fishermen, as lawyers, as chefs, as doctors, as any of the respectable occupations that we will need on our treasured isle. Ostry's economic strength will come to light the same way we can expect our culture to, freed from the shadow of an overbearing Werania. Massive investment will rejuvenate the national economy, from a National Fisheries Board for Ostry, to the establishment of an exclusive mental health hospital, to the establishment of domestic tertiary education, while taxes due to the federal government will disappear. Independence, both for the individual and for the nation, turns out best in the end.

An Ostrin Society
Many of the other parties that advocate for separatism just don't get it. Getting out of Werania also means breaking with the turmoil of politics and the economy outside our borders. While we support the equality of women, and the right for people to live their lives free of burdensome government, extremist feminist and LGBTQ+ movements dominate on the continent. Many Ostrins, because of a lack of locally-oriented education, don't realise how much more inherently equal Ostrin society is; we have never had many of the hateful movements that have caused such polarisation in Werania and the rest of Euclea, and extremist leftist movements here gain no traction because they make no sense in our society, save for where they deceive those who have already misled themselves into thinking they are Weranian. Our mental health issues are a reflection of this; studies show that bowed and broken national spirit inevitably results in higher suicide rates, especially in conjunction with Weranian neglect of the national health. We will stand tall in this modern world and forge ourselves an island of stability and common sense.

Our Environment
We recognise the science of climate change, and it is happening. Ostry is however among the smallest of countries, compared to the bulk of Werania and other countries around the world. Our local lifestyle has little of the huge trains and traffic jams, plastic consumerism and flashy appliances so common in big cities in Euclea. Our forests, our fields, our seas, are precious to us. Agriculture and fishery here are sustainable, and have been for centuries, owing to our careful stewardship of our land; Ostry is responsible for little environmental degradation, either per capita or as a sum total. We can take pride in this fact, independent from Werania, and free to make the most appropriate environmental regulations for the island we ourselves know best. Our distinctive and storied landscape, fauna and flora will be preserved from the ravages of mass industrialisation, commercialisation, or immigration for future generations to come, and on the global stage, we will push for other countries to recognise us for the lead we take, and follow in our footsteps, as we are a lighthouse amongst the nations.

I hope you and every Ostrin will vote for Nation and Freedom. Ostry holds fast, but it must be freed from the degradation of global and federal exploitation and disregard; as a free nation, we will fulfil our potential, and build a great life, for all of us. We stand ready to take the helm of state.

Macéj Fiedler, President of Nation and Freedom, 2020.

by **The Kingdom of Glitter** » Sat Jan 04, 2020 7:52 pm

← | → | ⟳ | http://www.citizensalliance.os/estmerish/policies

BETTER IS POSSIBLE - BUT IT IS NOT INEVITABLE

The Citizen's Alliance for Ostry wants to build a better society for everyone on our island. We firmly believe that Ostry is a home for all, regardless of their place of birth, the language they speak, or the religion they practice. Years of divisive rhetoric has divided our island like never before. A single issue has been allowed to dominate the Dorada since its very creation despite the many complex challenges our island continues to face. You deserve better, and we intend on giving it to you. With the Citizen's Alliance, better is possible. However, better can only come if you help us deliver it. As Ostry prepares to vote in the first election of this new decade, we must not allow for the same divisive politics of the past to dictate our future. Demand better and vote Citizen's Alliance.

OUR SHARED FUTURE

We believe that Ostry's future is one that involves all of us. Citizen's Alliance remains concerned by the failure of politicians to come to agreement over the issue of Ostry's relationship with Werania. This issue has polarized our politics since devolution was first granted in 1986. This is unacceptable.

We are clear that the future of Ostry is one that is shared by all of us, regardless of stance on the relationship with the mainland. Our politicians must work together to reach a consensus and deliver for Ostry. This is something they have not done.

Citizen's Alliance seeks to bridge the issue that has divided our island for so long. In the Dorada, we will work to ensure the agenda tackles these pressing issues.

We firmly believe that everyone has a place in Ostric society and are deeply concerned by the tone of current debate regarding issues such as the status of the Weranic language, the diaspora, immigration, religion, and same-sex rights. Citizen's Alliance will fight to ensure that everyone in Ostry has a place in our society. We believe that policies that aim to divide have no place in politics and will fight them every step of the way in the Dorada.

JOBS AND EDUCATION

Citizen's Alliance is clear that comprehensive yet sustainable public spending is essential to ensure the economy of our island continues to develop. Such an approach allows for the development of a strong, robust provide sector and high-quality, sustainable public services. Funding from the federal government is essential to ensuring that such an economy can develop in Ostry, providing jobs in both the private and public sectors as traditional industries enter a period of decline. We believe in a right to employment and favor an approach that allows those who want a job to get one.

We are steadfast in our support for the traditional industries of Ostry. Fishing, whaling, and agriculture have been the cornerstone of our economy for centuries. As these sectors enter a continued decline, Citizen's Alliance is concerned that the regional government has done little to soften the blow on those who work in these industries. Support for our workers in fishing and agriculture is essential to ensuring the Ostric economy remains strong.

As these industries decline, we believe that it is the responsibility of our politicians to ensure these workers can find employment elsewhere. Retraining programs and schemes for employment in both the private and public sectors must be created and expanded to help those facing unemployment and displacement.

Yet, we also believe that we must find new industries to replace those that have declined. Tourism has provided our island with a strong and growing industry. However, the seasonal nature of tourism and lower wages for many service jobs shows us that this is not a sustainable replacement on our own. To ensure that Ostry's economy continues to grow and develop and to work towards a better quality of life, we believe that the regional government must attract high-tech companies to Ostry. Our unique geographic location combined with the federal government's pro-business outlook provides them with opportunities

Because of this, Citizen's Alliance believes that jobs and education are intertwined. We support an approach to education that will help Ostry develop a highly-skilled labor force, bringing high-paying jobs from the private sector to our island. To do this, we must expand the University of Ostry. New funding for additional programs and partnerships with universities in the mainland and beyond will allow us to help train a workforce for the future. A highly-educated workforce will help combat the brain drain our island faces.

We also support the extraction of our natural resources. As seen in other North Euclean nations, natural resources have radically transformed agrarian societies to ones that are high-tech, high-wage, and have a high-standard of living. The development of a petroleum industry would bring high-wage jobs to our island, raising the quality of life for many Ostrins. It would also provide a new source of revenue for the regional government to provide public services that put people first. Yet we must be responsible in developing such an industry. The regional government must play a part in controlling any corporation created to develop this industry in order to protect our environment.

Higher-incomes will allow us to combat the rising costs of every-day items and create an Ostric economy that is sustainable for the future.

HEALTHCARE

Health and social care should be universal and free at the point of use. This is essential in order to provide the people of Ostry with the services they need. We believe this is also a key part of securing a fair and equal society. Services should be patient-centered and flexible to meet everyone's demands, and on an island of our size this is within our grasp.

As Ostry continues to face an unprecedented mental health crisis, we believe that mental health and well-being must be at the heart of the health services provided. Such services must be adequately funded. This crisis can no longer go unaddressed and we must stop the devastation it brings to our family, friends, and neighbors. The regional government must promote anti-stigma campaigns, introduce mandatory mental health curriculum in our schools, and work with our communities to help those impacted by this crisis heal.

The regional government must work with the federal government, and the Euclean Community, to secure additional funding for Ostry. New funding is essential to creating health services that put patients first.

ENVIRONMENT

Our world is facing a climate crisis that will have disastrous and lasting impacts for human existence. As a small island located near the northern ice caps, the stakes could not be higher. To fight this crisis, the regional government must mitigate the impact of climate change by developing a comprehensive climate action plan. This would embed environmentalism at the heart of government planning and policy.

We must develop sources of renewable energy in Ostry, and renewable energy is an issue that needs to be championed by Ostry's AMs and representatives in the federal government. We must reduce the use of fossil fuels in the Ostric economy. The regional government must explore the island's potential for energy generation through wind, tidal, biomass, and geothermal energy production.

However, the impacts of climate change are already being felt and disproportionately so among the most vulnerable among us. Changes in weather patterns and increased flooding present new challenges for our island. The degradation in the natural environment will also have an adverse effect on the habitats and biodiversity on our island. Our representatives will work to ensure the financial cost of addressing these needs must be brought to the federal government.

by **Nuvania** » Sun Jan 05, 2020 12:47 am

#StrongerTogether

Our little island faces tough times ahead, and ones in which require astute and decisive issues that face each and every one of us. However, we cannot do this alone, and together we will deliver a bright and prosperous future together as one united kingdom.

#BetterTogether

Our vision for Ostry is one in which we thrive together as one country. The Democratic Alternative rejects the notions of independence, an island of our size lacks the capacity for self reliance, economically, socially, politically. A referendum on the issue would be a non-starter under a government including the Democratic Alliance, without our union, we would not exist.

However we recognise that there is discontent, and the Democratic Alternative promises to address the issues affecting all Ostrics regardless of political beliefs.

#EasingThePain

We know that many of us are hurting, and the Democratic Alternative knows how it can help. If elected, the Democratic Alternative will introduce a tax credit for families up to 20% on federal income taxes to put more of your hard earned income back into your pockets.

We know that food prices are increasing and wages are keeping up, which is why the Democratic Alternative will abolish sales taxes on fresh fruit, vegetables, bread, fish, and milk, in order to ensure that the most basic of necessities is affordable for all families.

However, it's not enough to ensure that the basics are affordable, Ostry needs greater food security. To do this, the Democratic Alternative promises to introduce subsidies for farmers to provide produce, meat, and dairy products for all of us. We will also introduce free advice on how to grow your own food and raise small livestock animals and poultry.

These subsidies to Ostric farmers will create jobs and alleviate some of the pressure off our declining industries. In conjuction with this, the Democratic Alternative promises to create a financial aid package for affected families in the fishing and tourism industries, and to expand existing subsidies to promote more tourism. To do this, the Democratic Alternative will create an Ostric Tourism Board to specifically promote Ostry as a tourism destination across Euclea. In order to provide additional jobs to the island and to best handle increases in tourism, the Democratic Alternative will petition the federal government to help fund expansions of existing terminal facilities and the runway at Eriksztadt Airport to improve transport links with the mainland.

Business cannot thrive in such difficult circumstances without significant help, and therefore the Democratic Alternative promises to introduce tax credits for all small and medium business in Ostry, to put more money into the hands of Mum and Dad business owners.

#HelpingYou

The Democratic Alternative knows that because of the economic issues affecting our island, our hard working men are turning to alcoholism or committing suicide. In order to prevent more of our men from turning to alcohol and causing harm to themselves, and those around them, the Democratic Alternative will provide a joint fund between the local and federal governments to provide counselling and rehabilitation services using local community groups.

#SecuringOurFuture

We believe that Ostry and Werania are inseperable and need to remain so in order to make full use of the opportunities ahead of us. Therefore the Democratic Alternative pledges to commit to the same plan of action as our coalition partners in the federal government.

For a strong and prosperous Ostry, and for a strong and prosperous Werania, vote for the Democratic Alternative.

by **Ostry** » Sun Jan 05, 2020 10:14 pm

About me · by **Luziyca** » Sun Jan 05, 2020 10:52 pm

January 5, 2019
Tónkowò - An/tonkow

It had been a few days since his last rally in Przëkam-Roztoka, but during this time, Miłosłôw Gendron was still focusing on running his campaign: posters were appearing all across the island, local candidates were beginning their campaigns, and the last few candidates were being selected to run for the Greens.

But now was the time for the Ostric Greens to be more active, with Gendron himself making his way to Tónkowò for his third rally, and the first rally of 2020. As he made his way to the local pub, he silently hoped that there would be no stupid dances like the one in Przëkam-Roztoka. Unfortunately, as soon as he opened the door, he heard that song. Sure, it was a very good song, but then he saw that dance.

Fortunately, he arrived at the tail end, arriving just as the song was about to end. The crowd at the pub applauded Miłosłôw Gendron's arrival as soon as the song ended.

"Hello guys," Gendron began in Ostrin. "I am Miłosłôw Gendron, and I'm the leader of the Ostric Greens."

"As we enter a new year and a new decade, I have to admit that we are facing tough competition this year. We are seeing a bunch of new parties, many of them founded by people like you who want to see change on this little island. Many of you are wondering whether any of them are worth it, and I cannot blame you," Gendron said.

"However, of all the parties that have been registered, of all who have a shot at winning, we are the only ones who both have the capability to win seats in the Dorada, and that will address the real issue facing Ostry: climate change."

"We are the only party in Ostry that will not use climate change as a way to harm your standard of living just for the benefit of the elites; we are the only party in Ostry that will focus on green policies that will benefit all people, Weranic and Ostrin alike; we are the only party in Ostry that will ensure that workers will be able to transition to a green economy," Gendron said. "And of course, we are the only party in Ostry that will uphold our promises that we have outlined in our manifesto."

"Of parties like us, we know we are the only one that can win because the Citizens Alliance do not go far enough in addressing climate change the way that we will address them; Ostry Unbound wastes people's time in focusing on separatism when Mother Nature simply does not give a fuck about whether Ostry is sovereign or part of Werania; Party for the Whales seeks to use climate change as a smokescreen for policies that will harm us Ostrins, and the Democratic Alternative deny that climate change is a problem."

"Of all these new parties, we are the only ones that can safely say that yes, we will do everything possible to address climate change. But in order to do that, in order to implement our policies that will benefit each and every one of you, we have to band together and realize that the Greens are the only option that will care about the environment," Gendron declared.

"And before you give me the whole 'but what about the big parties,' well, guess what: they won't give climate change the same way that we in the Ostric Greens will. At best, like the SRPO, OSL, the Union, or the Coalition, they are paying lip service so that you will vote for them, and then they'll quietly ditch them at the end of this election to go back to bickering about issues that won't matter if climate change continues to ravage our country," Gendron said. "At worst, they are, just like the Party for the Whales, hellbent on using climate change as a justification to implement policies that will undermine Ostrin brotherhood, common values, and what not, just to appeal to a bunch of radicals who think that we can turn the clock back six hundred years and call it a day."

"It simply cannot work like that. And all of these platforms that we've seen so far, all of these campaigns lead us to one thing: the Ostric Greens are the only party that recognizes the seriousness of climate change, and are the only party willing to transcend sectarian lines to ensure that this problem gets resolved for the benefit of all Ostrins," Gendron said. "If we can achieve that, then Ostry will prosper in the future."

"Thank you," Gendron concluded.

by **Azmara** » Mon Jan 06, 2020 11:13 am

About me · by **Luziyca** » Mon Jan 06, 2020 4:40 pm

Miłosłôw Gendron
@greenvore

Replying to @lechschwarzmON
Mother Nature does not care whether we're sovereign or not precisely because we are a tiny little rock in the middle of the sea. All it cares about is how much damage to the environment we are doing.

RETWEETSFAVORITE
546

5:39 pm - 6 January 20

by **The Kingdom of Glitter** » Tue Jan 07, 2020 6:52 pm

← | → | ⟳ | http://www.citizensalliance.os/estmerish/leaders

OUR LEADERSHIP - FIGHTING FOR BETTER

Citizen's Alliance for Ostry was founded in 1996 with the objective of crossing the bitter divides that face our community. We believe in a shared society for all where everyone can play their part and is treated fairly and with dignity. We believe that everyone belongs in Ostry and in a society for everyone.

Our leaders believe in a shared future for Ostry. We believe that together we can build a stronger Ostry, transforming our island into an attractive place to invest and a place where people enjoy a high standard of living. The challenges our island faces are ones we can only overcome together.

The co-leaders of Citizen's Alliance, Klara Andrësziak and Josef Stegerwald, are committed to delivering better for Ostry. Better is possible, but better can only come if you help us deliver it.

KLARA ANDRËSZIAK

Having served as co-leader since 2016, Klara Andrësziak is a native of Gòłosztrąd where she has served in the municipal government for over half a decade. An in-home caregiver by trade, Klara is committed to ensuring that all Ostrins can receive quality health and public services. She has seen firsthand the shortcomings of the Ostric health system and the frustrations many in our communities continue to face with a system that is both underfunded and overwhelmed.

Tired of the rhetoric that divides our communities, Klara believes that the "Ostric issue" is one that seeks to distract from the issues that effect every-day Ostrins. Deeply alarmed by the mental health crisis that faces the island, she has called on the regional government to increase its efforts to combat the crisis and raise awareness. While serving in the municipal government of Biôłi Kòscół, she has championed this issue and worked within the community to launch an awareness campaign to bring the residents on board as partners.

She is also deeply troubled by the economic problems facing Ostry, problems she believes are being brushed aside by the ongoing debate surrounding Ostry's relationship with the mainland. As more and more Ostrins face unemployment, Klara believes that the regional government has failed to provide crucial public services. She supports efforts to bring new jobs and investment to Ostry and programs that would offer retraining for those facing unemployment in Ostry's traditional industries.

JOSEF STEGERWALD

Having been among the founders of Citizen's Alliance, Josef Stegerwald has sought to bring our island together as politicians seek to divide it. Josef was part of the group that founded Citizen's Alliance in 1996, hoping to deliver real results for Ostrins. Having served in Eriksztadt's municipal government for nearly two decades, Josef has the experience it takes to fight for better in the Dorada. When the regional government is faced with hard decisions, Josef has the experience required to make them.

The son of a Weranic professor at the University of Ostry and an Ostric home-maker, Josef has seen what the divisive rhetoric used by politicians can do to our communities firsthand. Inspired by his father, he became a school teacher and taught math and science for over thirty years. He believes that delivering a quality education is crucial to ensuring Ostrins are equipped with the tools they need to succeed as the island's economy changes.

Josef believes that politicians in the Dorada have failed to address many of the problems Ostrins face. He was personally effected by the mental health and alcoholism crises gripping the island, after his son, Adam, committed suicide in 2017. Josef is fully committed to fighting these crises and working to bring relief and healing to our communities.

by **Caltarania** » Wed Jan 08, 2020 8:29 am

About me · by **Luziyca** » Sat Jan 11, 2020 10:12 pm

January 11, 2019
Neuebucht - Nowa Łãka

Miłosłôw Gendron was by the far the most active campaign on the island, which to be honest, was not saying much: while other parties were merely releasing manifestos or setting up posters, Gendron was taking his time to give speeches to everyday Ostrins, and today, he was able to visit the sleepy little village of Neuebucht.

As he entered the local pub, the crowd was much smaller than the crowds in Tónkowò, Przëkam-Roztoka, or even Eriksztadt, but Gendron expected that, what with the small population of Neuebucht. But at least unlike the crowds at Tónkowò, and Przëkam-Roztoka, they did not do that stupid dance.

Instead, as he came in, they greeted Gendron. Gendron responded positively, greeting them and asking them how they were doing.

After a long while, Gendron was ready to begin his speech.

"Greetings," Gendron said in Weranian. "My name is Miłosłôw Gendron, and I am leader of the Ostric Greens."

"Today, I would like to talk to you about transportation policy: since the railways were discontinued, and the ring road built, us Ostrins are forced to drive if we want to get from Neuebucht to Eriksztadt. Since then, there have been chatter in the Dorada about a bus system to connect these islands so you don't have to drive from point A to point B."

"Of course, because the parties in the Dorada don't care about the people, much less the environment, we never had a bus system on this island, which means that if you don't have a car, you're stranded where you live," Gendron said. "You can't go to your appointments, you can't see friends living on the other side of the island, and it denies those without a car the opportunity to see the island."

"If you elect the Greens on the second of February," Gendron declared, "Ostry will receive a state-of-the-art electric buses to ensure that you can go from point A to point B without the need of a gas-guzzling car! Those of you who cannot drive for whatever reason will be able to have the same freedoms as those with a car to go to your doctor in Eriksztadt; to see your friends who live on the other side of the island, and you can appreciate the full majesty of this little island!"

"We are the only party on this island that will uphold this promise: others will promise the world, but only we will stand up for you and your interests!" Gendron concluded. "Thank you."

by **Ostry** » Sun Jan 12, 2020 2:45 pm

OOC Note: This debate is only for the mentioned parties below. For the mentioned parties, you have a week (until 19 January) to respond to the posted seven questions, as well as respond to other leaders and such. Have fun!

2020 Ostric regional election leader's debate - Hosted by The Islander
The "Small" Debate - 12 January 2020

Zigmùnt König, editor of The Islander: Hello, and welcome to the 12 January leader's debate. I am Zigmùnt König, editor of The Islander and moderator for tonight's debate. Today, we have with us five leaders from the five parties not in the Dorada. Our coverage of currently represented groups will occur next week on the 19th.

Here with us today are Léch Schwarzman of Ostry Unbound, Eckart Schmuck of the Party for the Whales, Adam Duerr of the Democratic Alternative, Miłosłôw Gendron of the Ostric Greens, and Josef Stegerwald o the Citizen's Alliance for Ostry. Welcome gentlemen, I hope the campaign has been good for you so far.

Now, for our questions.
1. Some groups and people have stated that now is the time for a referendum on possible independence or further devolution. Your thoughts on the issue?
2. Ostry's infrastucture has been deemed as one of the worst in Werania. Any solutions to this issue, or further expansions on previous statements?
3. Some have called for a temporary maximum quota on fishing, to stop overfishng around the Boreal Sea. Do you agree with this?
4. Climate change in general has become a hot-button issue this campaign. Do you have any suggestions for alternative energy, or plans outside of currently importing fuel and electricity from mainland Werania?
5. How do you feel about the current state of rhetoric this campaign? Many have called out some instances, such as the platform of Nation and Freedom, as a significant change from previous elections.
6. Mr. Gendron, some of your campaign speeches have been deemed as "inappropriate", including a rather exchange with Mr. Schwarzman on Twitter. Anything to say about this?
7. Closing our questions, if you are successful in entering the Dorada, do you believe in joining government, or wish to remain fully in opposition?

Thank you, gentlemen, for your answers.

by **Azmara** » Sun Jan 12, 2020 3:14 pm

1. Some groups and people have stated that now is the time for a referendum on possible independence or further devolution. Your thoughts on the issue?
- Ostry Unbound wholeheartedly agrees with these people. Ostry cannot develop while shackled to Werania, and it cannot appropriately tackle climate change when it is ruled over by a government which is famous for its lack of regard for climate change as an issue. Therefore, we believe the most important action a government can take is to free Ostry and unbind it from its shackles. Therefore, our first move if we are elected as the government will be to call for a referendum on the future of Ostry with the option of an independent republic on the ballot.
2. Ostry's infrastucture has been deemed as one of the worst in Werania. Any solutions to this issue, or further expansions on previous statements?
- We will address the issue of Ostric infrastructure if we are elected as the government. We will take the steps to improving your life by investing heavily in fixing Ostry's roads, allowing them to be actually driven on like roads are supposed to do. We will also equip our great island nation with a fleet of electric buses so that those who don't own a car can travel around the island in an environmentally friendly way. And, most importantly, we will deliver free, fibre-optic internet to all homes in Ostry so that we can stay connected with each other and the world at large and harness the potential of the online economy.
3. Some have called for a temporary maximum quota on fishing, to stop overfishing around the Boreal Sea. Do you agree with this?
- Claims of overfishing by Ostrins are merely attempts to try and stifle the Ostric economy. It is not us who overfish in our territorial waters; I think you will find it is largely large Weranic and Euclean fishing vessels that unsustainably fish. Our small fishing boats are merely taking what they need from the sea to survive and should not be punished for that; it is not them who are irreparably damaging the ecosystem and it is extremely dishonest to imply otherwise.
4. Climate change in general has become a hot-button issue this campaign. Do you have any suggestions for alternative energy, or plans outside of currently importing fuel and electricity from mainland Werania?
-Climate change is one of the most important issues that we, as a nation, and as humanity, face. Once we have left the climate change denying hard-right Weranian government's iron clasp, we shall address it with the introduction of our fleet of electric buses for environmentally sustainable travel, and shall build a large wave power station off the coast of Ostry to harness the power of the seas around us in an environmentally friendly way of keeping your bathroom light on. We are also strongly opposed to any oil drilling within Ostric territorial waters, and believe that anyone claiming to support action on climate change while supporting oil drilling does not really care about climate change and is only using it as an issue to gain votes. As is anyone who does not also commit to leaving the grasp of the hard-right climate change deniers that make up our national government.
5. How do you feel about the current state of rhetoric this campaign? Many have called out some instances, such as the platform of Nation and Freedom, as a significant change from previous elections.
- On the one hand, it is great to see so many political forces on the island backing comprehensive plans to create an equal society, to tackle climate change, and the mental health crisis of Ostry. On the other hand, it is abhorrent to claim that feminism and the LGBT rights movement are the causes of suicides of Ostrins, as have Nation and Freedom. It is pretty obvious to me that the only suicides relating to either issue are because of sexism, homophobia or transphobia driving people to suicide, which is why we need feminists and LGBT rights activists in the first place. It is also absolutely disgusting that my support for environmentalism has been drawn into question because of my separatism when it is plainly obvious that you cannot be an environmentalist and a unionist, and that a party here tonight has the vacuousness to believe that climate change is not real and not an issue that needs addressing. Many parties have acted shamefully this election campaign, and it represents the fundamental pitfalls of the conservative influence of the Weranians on our society.
7. Closing our questions, if you are successful in entering the Dorada, do you believe in joining government, or wish to remain fully in opposition?
- We are not opposed to entering government. However, we do not believe in government with principles, and will thus only enter a government which agrees to our demands. That is, we will only endorse a government which supports our plans for a referendum, for action on climate change, for infrastructure reform, for an equal society and for solving the mental health crisis.

by **Nuvania** » Sun Jan 12, 2020 3:17 pm

Adam Duerr sat between the candidates from the Greens and Schmuck from the Party of the Whales. It was an unusual setup, and the heat inside the studio was quite warm, so he was sweating slightly. Nevertheless he was prepared for this debate. He waited until it was his turn to begin his spiel.

"Well firstly I'd like to thank you for hosting this debate today," he said after taking a sip of once ice cold water. "And now I want to say that from the get-go, the Democratic Alternative, and I personally, do not support any independence referendum whatsoever. I think that Ostry is too small to be able to be properly independent and self functioning without relying on federal assistance or assistance from other countries. What we have now is about the best that we can get."

Duerr took another sip and cleared his throat.

"It is correct that some of our infrastructure is the worst in Werania and that shouldn't surprise anyone, because we lack the tax base to properly fund our roads, ports, and our airport. And this would only get worse if we became independent. We'd essentially become a third world country. So we do need to invest in our infrastructure, and we'd work closely with our compatriots in Weisstadt to lobby for federal funding for expansions to the airport terminal, cargo, and runway facilities to improve connections to the mainland, and most importantly, create jobs. We'd also improve roads around the island where possible."

Duerr waited for some of the other candidates to say their part before the host moved onto the next question. After others had issued their support for a fishing quota, Duerr began his piece.
"Quite frankly, the problem is not us," he began. "The problem is foreign fishing vessels coming into the Boreal Sea and stealing our fish. They're not subject to quotas, they've already overfished where they should be, I see absolutely no reason why we should be subject to a quota given the tiny size of our fishing fleet and how little of an impact we have on the number of fish in the Boreal Sea. It's madness."

"So you'd oppose a quota?" the host asked.

"Absolutely," Duerr replied. "Our fishermen and their families need as much support they can get, and that is why we'd introduce tax credits for fishermen and tax relief for their families so they they aren't being forced to do more with less."

The host moved through other leaders before moving onto the climate change question. Throughout this, and especially Gendron's spiel, Duerr sniggered and rolled his eyes. The host noticed this, and challenged him on it.

"Do you disagree with the Greens proposals?" he asked. Duerr jolted slightly and sat more upright.

"It's not that I disagree with them," he said. "In an ideal world, we'd be able to have all of the things the Greens want but the problem is funding." Duerr took a sip of water, looking unusually robotic as he did so. "The fact of the matter is we have a population the size of a small town attempting to fund the same kinds of projects as much larger nations, and it's impossible. We don't have the tax base. And even if we did, wind, solar, etc. are hugely inefficient and expensive for power generation."

"Do you believe climate change exists?" the host asked. Duerr shifted in his seat.

"I believe that we do not have an impact on the climate," he said. "We're far too small and the amount of energy we consume is miniscule. And thus the emissions we produce have absolutely no impact whatsoever."

"So you don't believe?" the host asked.

"I don't think we as a territory are able to have an impact on the climate," Duerr replied. "Other countries do and they're the ones that need to reduce their emissions, not us."

The host moved onto additional questions, which Duerr did not have a comment on. In the final question, Duerr waited before he began to speak.
"The Democratic Alternative would be willing to work with parties in the Dourada as long as the idea of a referendum is binned."

About me · by **Luziyca** » Sun Jan 12, 2020 6:29 pm

January 12, 2019
Eriksztadt - Erichstadt

1. Some groups and people have stated that now is the time for a referendum on possible independence or further devolution. Your thoughts on the issue?
"As I have said many times on the campaign trail, and probably will, it should be up to the people to decide. Mother nature does not care one iota whether Ostry is sovereign or not, all it cares about is what we are doing enough for the climate," Gendron responded. "If the people want a referendum, then go for it. But I feel that as it stands right now, talking about a referendum is a complete waste of time when we have many real issues to deal with."

2. Ostry's infrastucture has been deemed as one of the worst in Werania. Any solutions to this issue, or further expansions on previous statements?
"Any solution to the issue of Ostric infrastructure must and ought to be based on environmentally sound principles," Gendron said. "Yes, we need to invest in our infrastructure, but we must focus on green infrastructure, so that we can balance both the needs of the people on this little island, and also protect our environment. This is why a Green government will invest in state-of-the-art electric buses; invest in developing environmentally friendly infrastructure so that these needs can be met without harming the environment."

3. Some have called for a temporary maximum quota on fishing, to stop overfishng around the Boreal Sea. Do you agree with this?
"While I do agree with the sentiments behind these calls, it should only be imposed once our fishermen are able to find work in a new green economy. To institute a maximum quota on fishing right now would be like pushing someone off a boat and leaving them to either sink or swim in the Boreal Sea," Gendron said. "It would cause great disruption to our economy if we are to do without providing the appropriate supports for fishermen to find new jobs in the green economy we would like to develop, and this is why we are going to do everything possible to create a green economy on our island."

4. Climate change in general has become a hot-button issue this campaign. Do you have any suggestions for alternative energy, or plans outside of currently importing fuel and electricity from mainland Werania?
"Certainly: wind," Gendron said. "Some of you may be thinking I am talking hot air, but Ostry is in the ideal location where we can easily produce all our energy just by the wind, and have enough left over to export electricity to the mainland. This would be a great way for us to stop importing electricity from Werania in the long term, and vastly reducing our fuel imports."

5. How do you feel about the current state of rhetoric this campaign? Many have called out some instances, such as the platform of Nation and Freedom, as a significant change from previous elections.
"Personally, I feel that with the exception of some brain-dead functionalists who never realized that their ideology was completely and utterly discredited with the end of the Great War and the Solarian War, the rhetoric in this election campaign is not too different from previous elections," Gendron said. "The rhetoric from pretty much every other party in this campaign has been fairly normal, it is not too extreme, but then there are those brain-dead functionalists that I've mentioned earlier, who believe that environmentalism, feminism, and LGBT rights are the cause of Ostry's ills. I think they're why this question is even being asked during the campaign."

6. Mr. Gendron, some of your campaign speeches have been deemed as "inappropriate", including a rather exchange with Mr. Schwarzman on Twitter. Anything to say about this?
"I have a specific style that I use: while some may see it as inappropriate, or at best, casual, I feel that my style is a great way to get those who are not into Ostric politics to tune in, and listen to a party that would like to change things on this island for the better," Gendron said. "Nonetheless, if I offended anyone, I deeply apologize for what I said."

7. Closing our questions, if you are successful in entering the Dorada, do you believe in joining government, or wish to remain fully in opposition?
"Our main priority is that we do anything in our power to resolve climate change," Gendron said. "If the government is willing to help Ostry deal with climate change, then we will support them. If they are unwilling to fight climate change, then we're not going to support them."

by **The Kingdom of Glitter** » Tue Jan 14, 2020 7:19 pm

Josef Stegerwald

Co-leader of Citizen's Alliance for Ostry

Responses to prompts:

1. Some groups and people have stated that now is the time for a referendum on possible independence or further devolution. Your thoughts on the issue?
"This question of independence has been used as a means to divide our communities and build political support without having to tackle the real issues. The Dorada has failed to deliver on what the people of our island need for decades, the result of squabbling over independence" Stegerwald began. "No longer can we allow this question to divide us. Ostry's future is one that is shared by all of us. We can only build a better society for all Ostrins by coming together to tackle the challenges our island faces. That is not something that can be accomplished through division. We must rise to the challenges that we face and overcome them together".

2. Ostry's infrastructure has been deemed as one of the worst in Werania. Any solutions to this issue, or further expansions on previous statements?
"Infrastructure is one of the major issues that impacts every day Ostrins. Whether it is the inability to get around our island or to ship in supplies from the mainland, our communities are struggling to access sufficient transportation. The regional government must work to secure funding in order to revamp our island's aging roadways. This would allow for the establishment of a high-quality regional bus service. However, given the pressing climate crisis and the threats it poses for our island we must work to ensure such a system is carbon neutral from the start" he replied.

3. Some have called for a temporary maximum quota on fishing, to stop overfishing around the Boreal Sea. Do you agree with this?
"Our fishermen and those who work in the industry face increasing challenges presented by economic stagnation. We must ensure that they are supported as their industry faces decline, brought on by external forces outside of their control" he answered thoughtfully. "At the same time, we must ensure that we remain committed to our agreements with the federal government and the Euclean Community. Violating the terms of these agreements could result in devastating consequences for the industry. We must also be mindful of our environment and the harms overfishing presents to our ecosystems. If a maximum quota is what it takes to ensure this happens, Citizen's Alliance would back such a measure". Stegerwald took a brief pause before continuing. "As more and more fishermen face unemployment as a result of industry upset, we must ensure that new jobs are brought to the island and they are retrained to qualify for employment elsewhere. For many fishermen, it is a way of life. Ostrins must stand behind them as they face hardships".

4. Climate change in general has become a hot-button issue this campaign. Do you have any suggestions for alternative energy, or plans outside of currently importing fuel and electricity from mainland Werania?
"As the climate crisis worsens, we are faced with choices that become so much harder to make. We must act proactively to ensure this climate does get past the point of return. Renewable sources of energy, including wind and solar power, must be developed in Ostry. This is an issue that must be championed by our elected representatives in the regional government and Ostry's federal representatives. We must do our part to reduce the use of fossil fuels in our own economy, and work with other states to ensure the same is happening federally before it is too late".

5. How do you feel about the current state of rhetoric this campaign? Many have called out some instances, such as the platform of Nation and Freedom, as a significant change from previous elections.
Stegerwald cleared his throat before responding. "This is perhaps one of the greatest issues we are faced with as a society. The divisive nature of the rhetoric used throughout this campaign has been deeply alarming. Everyone has a place in Ostric society, regardless of all identifiers everyone must understand this - you belong. We must work together to build a better society, one that is inclusive of everyone. To do so, we must rise above the rhetoric and demand better from our elected officials" he continued. "However, we have also seen an increase in political rhetoric that seeks to divide our islanders into those who identify as nationalists and those who identify as unionists. Such rhetoric is dangerous. It divides our communities, polarizing families, friends, and neighbors. Many Ostrins are tired of this endless debate. They are demoralized by the failure of our political parties to seriously tackle other issues. This rhetoric must stop before it turns more and more Ostrins away from politics. We must demand our leaders work to unite, not divide. The best way to do that is with your vote".

7. Closing our questions, if you are successful in entering the Dorada, do you believe in joining government, or wish to remain fully in opposition?
"Citizen's Alliance is willing to work with any party in the Dorada that is interested in tackling the issues we face and to deliver better for our communities. However, we will not support a single-issue government that works to divide the people of our island".

Responses to other candidates:

1. In response to Léch Schwarzman (ÒN): "Ostry cannot develop while shackled to Werania".
"This is just one of the many examples of the incredibly divisive nature of the independence question. The regional government cannot deliver on the issues is must by dividing Ostrins into different categories" Stegerwald said in response.

2. In response to Adam Duerr (DA): "Absolutely [opposed to a quota]. Our fishermen and their families need as much support they can get, and that is why we'd introduce tax credits for fishermen and tax relief for their families so they they aren't being forced to do more with less."
"Citizen's Alliance believes it is essential that we support our fishermen and their families. A tax relief program would help us do just that. However, we must ensure that we are abiding by our agreements. Failing to do so would have devastating consequences for our fishermen, our communities, and our economies. A maximum quota must remain as an option on the table in order to ensure we can avoid such devastation".

3. In response to Adam Duerr (DA): "I don't think we as a territory are able to have an impact on the climate," Duerr replied. "Other countries do and they're the ones that need to reduce their emissions, not us."
"We must remember that while Ostry is a small territory, we are a part of a much larger nation. The mainland is a significant produce of carbon emissions. We must do our part to ensure our representatives in the federal government fight to reduce the use of fossil fuels in the federal economy and reduce emissions across the board. Our partnerships with other states can ensure our influence is felt, we must not simply through up our hands. The consequences our small island faces are too great to do that".

About me · by **Luziyca** » Tue Jan 14, 2020 8:38 pm

"If I may respond to your point, Mr. Stegerwald," Gendron said, "the Citizen's Alliance supports developing an oil industry on these islands. While in the short term, developing a petroleum industry will bring Ostry prosperity, doing so not only undermines efforts to combat climate change, but in a few generations, we'll be exactly where we are at, where we are forced to find new industries to replace a dying industry."

"And this is not withstanding the fact that petroleum production is one of the largest sources of carbon emissions, which means that by having an oil industry in Ostry, we will contribute to the very thing that could spell an end to the Ostric way of life, as our resources run dry. As a matter of fact, by supporting the development of an oil industry, you undercut your environmentalist credentials," Gendron continued. "In contrast, by developing a sustainable green economy for Ostry now, we will be able to ensure a prosperous Ostry for future generations to come, and solve this issue once and for all."

by **The Kingdom of Glitter** » Thu Jan 16, 2020 4:56 pm

Josef Stegerwald

Co-leader of Citizen's Alliance for Ostry

Miłosłôw Gendron wrote:
"If I may respond to your point, Mr. Stegerwald," Gendron said, "the Citizen's Alliance supports developing an oil industry on these islands. While in the short term, developing a petroleum industry will bring Ostry prosperity, doing so not only undermines efforts to combat climate change, but in a few generations, we'll be exactly where we are at, where we are forced to find new industries to replace a dying industry."

"And this is not withstanding the fact that petroleum production is one of the largest sources of carbon emissions, which means that by having an oil industry in Ostry, we will contribute to the very thing that could spell an end to the Ostric way of life, as our resources run dry. As a matter of fact, by supporting the development of an oil industry, you undercut your environmentalist credentials," Gendron continued. "In contrast, by developing a sustainable green economy for Ostry now, we will be able to ensure a prosperous Ostry for future generations to come, and solve this issue once and for all."

Stegerwald softly cleared his throat before issuing his response. "Many of the parties hoping to win the trust of the Ostric voter have proposed lofty plans and policies that will require significant revenue to fund. The fact of the matter is, the regional government is restricted not only legally but logistically in terms of what it is capable of collecting and spending for itself. It is impossible to build green economy, it is impossible to build a better society without such revenue. As hundreds in our island face economic hardships, we can only offer so much with our limited budgetary resources. What we can offer is development. Jobs in the petroleum industry pay well and this would provide Ostrins would economic opportunity and mobility previously unseen"".

After a quick pause, he continued. "The development of a petroleum industry is a necessary evil. I do not deny the dangers of climate change, but I refuse to eliminate the possibility of offering economic relief to our communities. We can see sustainable, environmentally conscious efforts to develop petroleum industries in Caithia and Caldia. This resource had transformed their economies, as it can ours. Regional control of any petroleum companies would provide the government not just with the revenue it needs, but the oversight it needs to ensure that petroleum extraction can be done in a way that is safe for both those who work in the industry and our environment".

"Buzzwords and vague promises are one thing, tangible action is another. In region as small as ours, our government needs an economic miracle to secure the revenue it needs to sufficiently overcome the challenges we face. Petroleum can provide that economic miracle for Ostry and we would be foolish to deny our communities the services and the relief they need" Stegerwald concluded.

About me · by **Luziyca** » Thu Jan 16, 2020 7:45 pm

As Gendron listened to Stegerwald's response, Miłosłôw Gendron felt a need to respond to what he felt was a really cynical view of Ostry. How oil was apparently needed to help Ostry solve its problems, and that it was impossible for a green economy to be adopted.

"I agree with you on the last point that you made there, Mr. Stegerwald," Gendron began, "that buzzwords and vague promises are one thing, while tangible action is another."

"However, your claims that developing the petroleum industry on this little island are the only way to resolve these problems that face Ostry, is an incorrect statement. While you may argue that developing a green economy is impossible on this little island we call home, I beg to differ on this matter: we seek to develop renewable energy on this island, so that we will not have to import electricity from Werania, but when the infrastructure is in place, we will have enough to export clean energy to the rest of the continent, while having enough to power Ostric homes," Gendron said. "Where the Citizen's Alliance advocates for a solution that will only exacerbate the problem of climate change, the Greens advocates for a solution which will reduce the effects of climate change, especially as the revenues from both oil production on Ostry, or the development of renewable energy will roughly be identical."

"That, in and of itself, should be enough to allay fears that developing a green economy for Ostry would mean that we won't be able to solve all the other problems facing the Ostrins living on this little island," Gendron continued. "Yet, we must factor in the fact that oil production is inherently susceptible to leaks that would damage the environment. And given our remoteness in the Borean Sea, it will mean that any oil spill on our waters will inevitably cause significant harm to our marine ecosystem, which in turn would damage Ostry's fishing industry to the point of no return."

"Renewable energy has zero risks to the Ostrin environment, and with the benefits that it would provide to Ostry, I see absolutely no reason why us Ostrins should believe that a green economy is impossible, when it can be within our grasp," Gendron concluded.

2020 Ostric Regional Election [IC | Kylaris Only]

2020 Ostric Regional Election [IC | Kylaris Only]

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