Greater Díenstad Regional Council [GD only; IC]

[The Macabees]

The chamber of the GDRC had been inactive for a short while now since the passing of the Agencies Act. There was always talk of more legislation but nothing new was pushed on the floor. But now that war between the Kraven and Ordenite Reich had opened in Varathron, threatening to spill into Greater Díenstad, there was a new issue of concern to the government of the Golden Throne. There was a distinct possibility that Kraven would attack the Ordenites within its regional territories and although there was no love lost for the Ordenites, a successful extra-regional attack within Greater Díenstad could have the effect of inviting future attacks. Better to nip those types of threats in the bud and dissuade future iterations and evolutions. Just over a decade ago, most of the Greater Díenstadi powers had signed the Fedala Accords, an agreement to defend the region as a whole against extra-regional aggressors, but much had changed geopolitically and there were new powers that had never heard of these accords. It was time for something new.

Andro Kilomen put in a proposal to that effect:

PROPOSAL FOR COMMON GREATER DÍENSTADI DEFENSE AGAINST EXTRA-REGIONAL AGGRESSORS ACT

RECOGNIZING the threat that imperialist extra-regional invaders pose to the territorial, cultural, and geopolitical integrity of Greater Díenstad.

OBSERVING the increased likelihood of extra-regional conflict following (1) the Gothic War between the Golden Throne and the Scandinvan Empire and (2) the Varathron War between the Ordenite Reich and the Kraven Reich.

CONSIDERING that the previous regional defense agreement, the Fedala Accords, are now outdated and practically defunct.

WE PROPOSE a regional defense agreement against extra-regional aggressors, known as the Nova Orontes Defense Agreement (NODA):


ARTICLE I

This treaty shall not infringe on the right of signatory nations to settle international disputes in such a manner considered optimal and ideal by their governments.


ARTICLE II

This treaty shall not infringe on the right of the sovereign governments of signatory nations to determine their own foreign policies.


ARTICLE III

Signatory nations agree that an armed attack against one or more of them within the territory of Greater Díenstad by an extra-regional aggressor shall be considered an attack against them all and consequently they agree that, if such an armed attack occurs, each of them, in the exercise of the right of individual or collective self-defense will assist the Party or Parties so attacked by taking forthwith, individually and in concert with the other Parties, such action as it deems necessary, including the use of armed force, to restore and maintain the security of the Greater Díenstadi area.


ARTICLE IV
For the purpose of Article III, an armed attack on one or more of the Parties is deemed to include an armed attack:

on the territory of any of the Parties in Greater Díenstadi;
on the forces, vessels, or aircraft of any of the Parties, when in or over these territories on the date when the Agreement entered into force.

[Greater Ordena]

Paulus Rödl waited for Andro Kilomen to finish presenting the new proposal before rising from his seat afterwards.

"The Greater Ordenite Reich as one of the original signatories of the Fedala Accords fully sides with the proposal at hand to update the Fedala Accords and enact the Novo Orontes Defense agreement." He would then take his seat as others would surely put in there input too.

[Castille de Italia]

The Federal Ambassador to the GDRC was proud of his accomplishment in passing the Agencies Act in the GDRC, he had for a decade experience in municipal legislation being on the Marais Besançon Municipal Council, and then being that city's mayor for another six years. Now a presidential hopeful and back home campaigning to be the next executive of the Castillian Federation, Chet Litheau hadn't much time to tend to his duties as the permanent representative to the GDRC. Castillia itself was not in good shape as of late; democracy stood on a precipice and despite his misgivings and past dealings with the crime families, Chet truly understood the importance of preserving Castillian democracy, after all a stable government and stable society is good for business.

A new threat however faced not only Castillia, but the security of Greater Dienstad itself. With the purely inhumane Kravenites invading the Reichskommissariat Dietsland and a war erupting between them and the Ordenites, if the Kravenites were not repelled from the Reich's Varathron holdings, then there was no telling where they and the other Gothic harbingers of chaos would attack next.

The Golden Throne, a nominal friend of the Federation, had introduced a new piece of legislation into the GDRC, aimed at bolstering the security apparatus of the region through a mutual defense treaty against extra-regional attackers. Historically, Castillia had ran afoul and engaged in numerous conflicts with outside nations in the past, however in the new democratic era, war with an extra-regional power was unlikely unless the Gothic lords so conspired to invade Castillia and Greater Dienstad en masse. Given the gravity of the current war between Kraven and Ordena, it was not out of the realm of possibility.

While Chet personally recognized the importance of what was at stake with this bill and supported it, actually getting presidential approval on it was near impossible; President Hershey had isolated himself behind the wrought-iron surrounding Manoir du Montbatten, and was de-facto a political enemy at this point to Chet. While things were uncertain with the elections underway and the riots consuming the capital over Hershey's voter suppression methods, it was all but certain to many that the Federal Senate was aiming to remove him from power sooner rather than later.

Chet, on a plane to Novo Orontes, sent a text to his chief of staff. "On the way, I'm going to voice our nation's support. Whether I'll be the GDRC rep after I state our intent on the floor remains to be seen," it read.

Twenty-two hours later, Chet strode onto the floor of the council and requested the time to speak. After being granted recognition, he began:

"Ladies and gentlemen of the Council, I stand to recognize the state of war between the Kraven Reich and the Ordenite Reich. While the Ordenite ideology is nothing to be celebrated, their struggle to resist the depravity of the Kravenites is a pressing issue that affects us all: the need for regional unity and collective defense against those who seek to destroy any semblance of normality and humanity. As we look around the world, we can see many examples of how the absence of regional unity and collective defense has led to disastrous consequences for the people. Krasnova, the civil war in Morrdh, the Ralkovian Wars, even the Castillian war in Asadabad; the lack of regional unity has led to unnecessary death and destruction across our region.

Regional unity is not just a matter of defense. It is also about building strong and prosperous communities. When we work together, we can create economies of scale, share knowledge and resources, and create a better future for our children. Achieving regional unity is not easy; it requires leadership, commitment, and a willingness to put aside our differences and work towards a common goal. We must build trust and cooperation between our countries, and we must be prepared to make sacrifices for the greater good. I for one would not be willing to make friends with the Ordenite Reich if the consequences were not so dire, but we must recognize that they are.

We must acknowledge that the Kraven Reich is a nation built upon a perverse ideology of ultraconsumerism, in that what is consumed is the blood of the innocent, the blood of our people. It is a corrupt entity that seeks to divide us and create a hierarchy of classes; those at the top, and those who are nothing more than flesh and meat to serve the Kraven Reich. It seeks to erase our individuality and turn us into mere cogs in a machine. It is an ideology that has no place in our world, and we must do everything in our power to stamp it out. We must recognize that its mere existence is a threat to our own security.

We must come together as a region and work towards a collective defense against not just the Kraven Reich, but any corrupt entity that wishes to invade our Dienstadi realm. We must build strong alliances and partnerships, share intelligence, and develop strategies to prevent the spread of this ilk. We must be vigilant against these malcontents, watch wherever they may manifest, and act decisively to counter them.

I urge all of you to join me in calling for regional unity and collective defense against this perverse brand of nightmarish tyranny. Let us work together to create a better future for ourselves and for future generations. Let us embrace the power of unity and cooperation, and let us stand together against those who threaten our freedom and our way of life."

Looking back towards the rostrum, he motioned towards the Krierlord Kilomen. "Thank you, and I now yield the floor."

Back home in Castillia, Chet's floor speech was televised widely. While elections were still underway, his polling numbers skyrocketed. It may not be enough to push him past Marlène Backès, but it made him now one of the most popular politicians in the Castillian Federation

[Holy Marsh]

The Elkons-Ambassadress listened to the proposal warily. The Theocracy was not one to bind itself to the defense of those it did not consider friends, nor bind itself in defense without good cause. 'Regional unity' was not a cause that particularly concerned the Marshite people. They held several allies closer to their hearth and home than they did a great number of their region-mates in matters of war if not in gentle good spirits. The issue was being tied together with the war between The Two Reichs. The Kraven Reich was as cruel a regime as existed since the Cult and the Theocracy was happy every time one of them died, and was pleased to see the less evil though still disreputable Ordenite state spend itself in conflict in a war that deemed them righteous.

"Your words and sentiments are well understood and echoed in the larger capacity, and they reflect wisdom much needed in leadership. However, we are wary of this proposal. It is easy to stare at the evil of the Kravenite Scum State and see the desire for regional unity. However, we do not view these issues as being linked. The Ordenites may very well call for aid in this war and find those willing to fight on their side, even from states who are not friendly with it. After all, the Kravenites are truly debauched. Does this mean we should necessarily bind ourselves to the defense of every nation in this region, no matter how base, from any external threat whatsoever?" The Ambassadress answered silently with a shake of her head.

"Imagine the Ralkovian War, but with nations from other regions joining in the Crusade to humble the slave state. If the Ralkovian Slave State had signed this Act, would it have been necessary by treaty for all others to come to their aid? And if it would not be necessary for them to aid the Ralkovian Slave State, then what power is there in the defense pact? The first and second Articles seem to indicate the Dienstadi States are given broad powers. If the so-called foreign aggressor was called into the conflict by a Dienstadi State, would this be an allowable action under those Articles and not trigger Article III? That would seem to answer one of our primary concerns."

[Tangatarehua]

The Rehuan Ambassador, Manaia Hine Ataahua, listened carefully as the points made by the other ambassadors were translated for her before carefully considering her own response. However, her instructions were clear and it was unlikely the the Most Honourable Rangatira was going to change his mind on Tangatarehua's position, regardless of the counterarguments.

She stood and in carefully rehearsed English, began to speak on behalf of the island empire at Greater Dienstad's southeasternmost corner:

"The Empire of Tangatarehua wishes to convey its great respect for those who have drafted this proposal and acknowledge that the intentions behind it are likely to be very morally correct.

"We also wish to make plain our own displeasure at the encroachment of hostile foreign powers into our region.

"However there is no circumstance in which Tangatarehua could ever support or abide by this proposal as this proposal is completely at odds with Article IV of our nation's constitution.

"Tangatarehua has in perpetuity renounced the use of war as a means of settling international disputes. Our laws also prohibit us from entering international military alliances or engaging our Self-Defence Force in foreign conflicts or to defend any nation other than our own should it come under direct threat.

"It is the firm will of Her Sacred Majesty the Empress that the path of peace must always be taken, no matter how difficult and that we never allow ourselves to become entangled in the kinds of situations or international relations that could again see Tangatarehua return to its shameful ways of war and destruction.

"Accordingly, this proposal, well-intentioned though it is, stands firmly at odds with our national values, runs counter to existing laws, foreign policy and our constitution and therefore cannot ever be something we support or take part in.

"We sincerely apologise if this decision causes disappointment, but our path of peace and neutrality must remain clear and we must remain a non-aligned, independent and pacifist nation whatever the future cost may be."

[Stevid]

Sir Vel Fadius Grealius was given the floor to address the proposal.

“My Lords, Ladies, Gentlemen, et cetera, et cetera. I pray to allow me time to voice misgivings in regard to this proposal as so commanded by my Imperial Majesty’s government – as it seems that’s the only thing my country is capable of having these days.”

“The proposal is sound and simplistic where legalistic fluff would only, as I tend to do to people, obfuscate what is undoubtably a serious issue. The Nova Orontes Defense Agreement is undoubtably an accord to better represent the newer upstarts in the region against would be invaders. Though I’m at pains to see how or why they would support such an accord. The Fedala Accord was forged from the dying embers of a regional war – where infighting and neglect of common causes against extra-regional activity could have damned us. Today, Greater Dienstad is a web of interconnected agreements and allyships. The Fedala Accord merely puts pen to paper on a cause most noble nations believe in anyway. To that end, it is outdated but need not require replacement.”

Vel paused to swig a glass of water and grimaced at the lack of alcohol.

“Furthermore, while the learned gentleman Andros is deft at penning such resolutions, my learned Marshite friend makes the most excellent point so far. Why should the Holy Empire, or anyone else for that matter, bind itself to the possible defence of a despicable regime from another despicable regime?
“I concede that articles one and two of the act allow all signatories full independence to not fulfil the act inline with domestic policy decisions; but the signing of the act grants a degree of legitimacy to a nation-state that is not deserving of it in the eyes of the Empire. In principle it allows the Empire to ‘come to the defence’ of the Reich, if not in practice. I suggest that any nation, including Stevid, is capable of doing that on a case-by-case basis without the need of a treaty.”

Vel turned towards the Ordenite representative Paulus Rödl across from him and shrugged. “I wish you and the craven Kraven all the best in killing yourselves – but the Empire will vote against this. Sorry old boy, business is business, and it’s not my country’s business to help yours.”

[Eitoan]

Donald Novak rose to address the assembly.

"This proposal is worthy of consideration. The points of view presented by my august colleagues are important to ponder. We are, overall inclined to see the merit of protecting Greater Dienstad from unwarranted intrusion. At this time, however, such a measure needs to be crafted further. We should appoint a committee to work out the details, including but not limited to, specification on the impingement of action on existing treaties internecine within the region, definition of actionable threats against GDRC member states, and specification of required non-military sanctions on extraregional actors on the part of GDRC members.

Much of our concern involves obligations under Article 3 where required actions of individual states run counter to national security needs of those states within Greater Dienstad.".

[Morrdh]

After listening to both the proposal and the responses from the other representatives, Lord Ravener Ser Alistair Kendrick cleared his throat and spoke up.

"Whilst I can great behind a measure to more formalise what were previously ad hoc collective defence measures, I can not vote for the proposal as it currently stands."

"My main concern is it being exploited by certain nations to effectively bring in, if you'll forgive the term, 'proxy allies'." Kendrick explained. "That is to stay a Dienstadi nation's folly in another region and incurs the wrath of those who reside in that region, then the said Dienstadi nation trying to drag it's fellows into the resulting conflict."

"In short, there should be a caveat regarding provoked and unprovoked attacks." Continued Kendrick. "Then only the latter event, I feel, should be the trigger point for a collective regional response."

[The Macabees]

While Andro suspected that his proposal would be met with some skepticism, it was somewhat surprising that the common sentiment was not as deadset set against extra-regional invasions as Andro had expected. Times had changed since the Fedala Accords, it seemed. Regardless, Andro felt that getting the proposal to pass was just a function of revising it to address the many caveats to regional defense.

When there was a pause in the commentary on the proposal, Andro stood to address the feedback. He started with the points raised by the Marshite representative. "Ambassadres," he said, "regarding Articles I and II, it is my belief that any proposal that pretends to constrain our governments' sovereignty by constraining how we do foreign policy would be dead in the water. Better to work with the current than against it, I say. Certainly, as the Morridane gentleman points out, this creates a sort of moral hazard in which Greater Díenstadi states may feel bolder in attacking states outside of the region, safe in the knowledge that this proposal protects them.
I have a two-fold response to that concern. First, I venture to argue that the cost of moral hazard is worth the benefit of protection from coordinated extra-regional invasions of our region. Second, while the solution is not to remove those articles, it may be to add another article to rethink the overall concept of regional defense. And I'll get to what I mean by this in just a moment. Before I get to that, I would like to address the Stevidian gentleman's concerns."

"Mr. Grealius," he continued, turning to his Stevidian counterpart, "of your two points, the second is the most important. Before I speak to it, let me start by saying that we are by no means beyond the point of needing something like the Fedala Accords or this. We are more divided as a region than ever. The Great Díenstadi War, the two Macabéan-Ordenite Wars, the invasion and partition of the Ralkovian Empire, et cetera, show that Greater Díenstadi is more active in intra-regional conflict than ever. While I understand your point about the Fedala Accords following the War of Golden Succession, consider that the unity in devastation not so much made us more vulnerable but rather created the conditions for us to truly believe in mutual defense. Whereas I wonder whether conditions today would make mutual defense less likely, making an agreement more necessary and not less."

"Along your other vein of argumentation, I think it preferable to have evil nations at home than to give extra-regional nations a foothold to expand their influence within the region. But maybe those aren't the only two options. This brings me back to what I was saying to the Ambassadres. Rather than seeing this as a tool that less deserving states could use to protect themselves, maybe it can act in the opposite way. Regional self-defense could involve removing bad actors within the region as much as defending Greater Díenstadi states from extra-regional threatening powers. The language for that could look as follows."

Andro sent amended language through to the screens in front of each representative:

ARTICLE V

Signatories nations agree that Greater Díenstad, as a collective, reserves the right to resolve defense and security issues created by bad actors within the territory of any of the Parties in Greater Díenstadi.

ARTICLE VI

Signatory nations that answer the call to arms during the event of an extra-regional invasion of a Greater Díenstadi state agree to form a temporary council of war, by means and with rules deemed proper at the time of the specific trigger event, that will determine the best means of resolving the extra-regional threat to this region. This includes, and is not limited to, directly intervening against the invading force and preempting the invading force by internally suppressing bad actors in accordance with Article V.

[Morrdh]

"Along your other vein of argumentation, I think it preferable to have evil nations at home than to give extra-regional nations a foothold to expand their influence within the region."

"Better the devil you know..." Smirked Kendrick at Andro's words. "...Or some might even say the lesser of two evils."

"That said, I do find the amendment more agreeable."

[Eitoan]

www.News-Herald.et.com


Overseas: Golden Throne Proposal Sparks Lively Discussion
Fault Lines Emerge in Both Houses Along Left/Right Views

Susan Armstrong reporting from Vladarsik

A proposal by the Golden Throne at the Greater Dienstad Regional Council has raised eyebrows both in the cabinet and legislature this week. Most proposals in the Council are reviewed routinely by the President in Foreign Affairs Secretary Andrew Falkowski’s weekly report and are usually uncontroversial. But the PROPOSAL FOR COMMON GREATER DÍENSTADI DEFENSE AGAINST EXTRA-REGIONAL AGGRESSORS ACT has received more than the normal amount of attention since Secretary Falkowski’s report to President Shrdlu on Monday.

Late Monday afternoon Secretary Falkowski requested an impromptu meeting with President Shrdlu and Vice President Koubek to discuss the matter. The Secretary’s Monday report was commented in the margins that the measure was controversial, in his opinion, and that it should be reviewed by the Ghastak in preparation for possible ratification by the legislature. The President had looked over the document briefly and reportedly noted that he thought the concept looked good. Upon hearing President Shrdlu’s response Secretary Falkowski phoned the President and demanded to see him, and the Vice President. Reports from the Executive Residence indicate that the President did not see a problem with the proposal on the face of it and casually remarked that he could take it up with Ghastak chair Louis Herb at his convenience. According to confidential sources, the discussion that afternoon became heated, with some reports that Secretary Falkoski putting forth the case for legislative consideration at the earlies possible date to fully air out all points of view regarding the proposal. There were even reports that the Secretary offered to tender his resignation if a meeting with Ghastak Chairman Louis A. Herb and Dashez President and Speaker James Sandack could not be arranged within a week. Following further discussion in the meeting, a call was put in to Mr. Herb and Mr. Sandack, where consultations between the Secretary and the legislative leaders were arranged for Wednesday. Following that meeting, Mr. Herb assigned review of the proposal to the Ghastak Subcommittee for Extraregional Affairs. It is believed that the two leaders are planning a joint committee of the legislature to join Ambassador Novak in Novo Orontes to drill into the details of the proposal.

Mr. Sandack was nonplussed about the review, stating “The Dashez will follow up on any findings from the Ghastak, if presented. I don’t believe this possible ratification will have much effect on the normal flow of business. If it does reach our docket, you can be sure it will have been fully vetted both by the Department of Foreign Affairs, and by the Ghastak.”. Legislative reaction was somewhat restrained across the mainstream Socialist, Free Democrat and Civic Platform members of both houses, although falling along predictable lines along the left-right divide. Free Democrat Dasheznik Dagmar Styskalova commented “I’d wait and see what the contents of the final form of this proposal contain. There is no reason to be rash. Overall, our alliance with The Golden Throne has proven to be an important factor in national security, and I’d tend to think further collaboration with them in the face of any threats originating from outside the region would also be beneficial.”. Socialist Ghastaker Caoinhe Evans, a member of the Subcommittee on Extraregional Affairs noted “I appreciate the value of the alliance with The Golden Throne,and expect relations with them to remain good. However, the contribution of Holy Marsh to security and order in the west cannot be underestimated. We must be certain to understand their views of this proposal before making any decision about ratification. Dashez member Shmuel L’mav, (Civic Platform - District 18) said “I’d have to hear further reporting from Novo Orantes. Certainly, the views of the major powers are important. And if both The Golden Throne and The Ordenite Reich are pulling together to face any threat from outside Greater Dienstad then that would be in fact be a strong indicator of the need for all states in the region to join in meeting a threat of that magnitude.”.

The outlier Communists and National Democrats were less sanguine in their reactions. Typical of the Communist response was Ghastaker Jackson BenAmi, decrying any arrangement with The Ordenite Reich, stating “Our valiant boys and girls, giving of their blood to push back the murders of the Raskov dynasty stood shoulder to shoulder with brave Marshite warriors. This rotten arrangement with the imperialist exploiters of Fedala and the Nazi scum of Ordena is nothing but a slap in the face of all Eitoan patriots!” National Democrat Dasheznik Jarmil Snorrason, representing District 275 took the contrary view claiming “A powerful threat originating outside the region must be met by all nations. The Ordenite Reich is facing up to that now. In the west, we could be vulnerable on land to superpower invasion and many of the states in the interior are weak. Even if the local powers, Eitoan, Aman, Potthan and Valkolicki, and hopefully a recovered Ralkovia banded together against such a threat, such a conflict here would be very costly. And if both The Ordenite Reich and The Golden Throne join the forces of the west, we can be confident that any such threat would be stymied.”

[The Technocratic Syndicalists]

Oscar Engeström, The Arcaenian delegate to the GDRC spoke next. Although the Arcaenians had intuited that this current proposal would likely fail to gather enough support for a vote they nevertheless agreed to publicly support it as a bridge to perhaps a more comprehensive Greater Dienstad defense agreement

"The Kingdom of Arcaenia is willing to accept the amended proposal, given that the language of article III be also changed to clarify that only unprovoked attacks by an extra-regional aggressor would trigger the mutual defense clause. We believe the current misgiving that other parties have regarding this agreements would be assuaged if this explicit clarification were made. We also propose that Article VI should be expanded to include the formation of a permanent Greater Dienstad Security Council which could continually monitor the threats of external aggression and create a framework for GDRC states to coordinate on matters of extra-regional security. "

[Gortenia]

Gortenia, a peaceful country has been informed of a new proposal made by the Andro Kilomen. One governmental pastor sated*: "Though this does pose a threat to our peaceful out look, it may be necessary to support this proposal due to recent happenings."

The lead governmental pastor said*: "This has completely breached our beliefs in pacifism. But, we have compulsory military for a reason, though it did say 'this treaty shall not infringe on the right of signatory nations to settle international disputes in such a manner considered optimal and ideal by their governments.' I think that, we would only participate if absolutely necessary. Due to this and the fact that the golden throne has helped us in the past, and the reasoning behind legislation in every reasonable capacity we should sign it, but it is a matter of morals. This compulsory military is only for when a country comes to our land to fight us on our own Gortenian ground. That is if they can't be reasoned with, as well the Bible strictly prohibits war, and we would only do it if we were told by our Lord all mighty. So with all respect towards the golden throne, and many blessing, we decline from supporting it."




* Translated from Gortenian

[Holy Marsh]

The amended proposal was certainly better. Andor had done well to allay some concerns as well, though there remained the question of what exactly was an extra-regional aggressor. There was also an unspoken though well-understood implication that to be Dienstadi was by virtue of that fact alone something to be defended. This was understandable, but to the Marshites it mattered little. Dienstadi, Novan, Havenic, Goth, Prussian- geography was no reason alone to confer worth at a regional scale. The defense of the region itself was not something therefore that greatly appealed to the Marshites.

It had to be thought of in a different way. The GDRC was a non-binding institution (and non-binary, if one asked the Engineering Sarda) as were its acts. It could not enforce it, and the Theocracy would not spend blood unless it wanted to. Therefore, what was CGDDAE-RAA if not a symbolic statement to others to keep off their lawn? There was some value in that. It would protect some of the smaller friendly states on the edges of the region and hopefully make certain lands think again before stepping in.
But what value truly lay in that if it also closed off allies of nations in the region? Was it an aggressor if they were invited? There were still questions. Questions that needed answering.

"Indeed, Ambassador Ser Kendrick, the devil we know. Let it be known that the Theocracy does reject the idea that extra-regional powers exerting influence in Dienstad is worse than the presence of evil within it. On that matter, we shall not move. In any case, I would like to thank the Good Ambassador Andro for his willingness to answer questions and modify the proposal," she said as she turned to address him directly. "I believe you have shown excellent conduct during this affair and I applaud your efforts. The amended Act is indeed superior, though it does still leave me with some questions," the Ambassadress began.

"I think the question of extra-regional allies needs an answer. If I am engaged in a defensive war against a regional opponent, it would be easy to assume this Act would allow an extra-regional ally to aid me in my defense in my own land. If in the name of my defense this ally were to invade the regional aggressor, would my ally be called an extra-regional aggressor? I would assume not, but it needs to be clarified. As for the Council that can be called in the event of Article VI, are there any limits to the conclusions it can reach? And what of extra-regional allies called in during offensive wars? Perhaps such a situation could be discussed here and at this proposed council? In any case, we certainly do not oppose the creation of a Greater Dienstad Security Council as proposed by the Valued Delegate-Ambassador Engeström, in whatever form we may decide."

[Mokastana]

Alfonso Rivera listened to the debates about the proposal, but said nothing. On one hand, a “New Fedela Accords” as proposed could, in theory, require the PUF to spend much needed political capital to refuse to assist its enemies, such as Greater Ordena, from an outside threat. Tying the defense of the PUF to the defense of the region means that the “devils we know” would almost be considered allies in an interregional war. Why should the PUF come to aid those who were only forced to recognize their humanity and legitimacy after the threat of nuclear war?

On the other hand, the PUF’s influence was in its political power, not its military. In a Total War, the PUF would eventually lose against the powers of Ghogolth, or even local powers such as the Golden Throne or Holy Marsh. The PUF was a hornets nest, dangerous to be sure, but ultimately defeatable. It had worked hard to be not worth the effort of conquest. It was why the PUF had, ever since the unification of Mokastana, been working to create alliances with regional powers, from Lyras to Lamoni, Holy Marsh and more. By allying with multiple powers, the PUF managed to resist falling to any single sphere of influence.

This “Novo Orontes Defense Agreement” would provide nations such as itself, smaller military powers on the borders of Greater Dienstad, an agreement in place to provide additional protection in a Total War between regions. It was in the Federation’s interest to have as many allies as it could, and agreements such as this were, ultimately, what PUF foreign policy strove to achieve. However, the Marshite Elkons-Ambassadress was bringing up important points that also concerned the PUF.

For now, Alfonso said nothing, if only because the Federation’s most likely concerns were already being asked, and it would not make a difference to stand up and reiterate the questions before Krierlord Kilomen could respond. Alfonso fully expected to be signing this document once these hang ups were addressed, but until then, he waited and watched the debate unfold.

[AHSCA]

Itsuki gave a read over the latest proposal. A mutual defense proposal? Right off the bat it seemed like it'd conflict with AHSCA's own Constitution which prohibited it to wage war without being attacked. An attack on a nation might not be justification enough, really it was kind of murky. But clauses did say it was optional but what is truly optional about paying into an alliance that AHSCA would likely not benefit from or be able to work with. Hardly a trouble making nation anyway. Still Stevid being among the GDRC, uh would they really come to AHSCA's defense were it attacked? Not likely so. Quietly she stood and excused herself from the room, for this it was best consult with the higher ups back home, so she'd talk to Officer VinoCaco about it.

A joint conference with her and Defense Officer Kurago. The Duchess absent given she was still recovering from her recent assault a couple weeks ago.

"It's a grey area, Constitutionally speaking." Noir replied giving the draft a read over "But really I'm not as worried about the potential Constitution Conflicts as much as neighboring conflicts."

"This deals with the idea of nations beyond our borders, Madame Officer" Itsuki responded "But I see your point."

"I also hardly see certain nations willing to defend us. But I guess that's what the op=out clauses are for."

"Who is the proposer and how are nations responding?"

"Proposer is Golden Throne, Madame. The Greater Ordenite Reich, Castillia are in support, Tangatarehua, Stevid and Gortenia have announced intent to vote against, Holy Marsh is undecided. No responses from Mokastana. "

"If it comes up to a vote, abstain. No need to give a policy position on the open floor, I'd say our official position on this is we have none because we aren't a military power like some of the other hawks in the region. If called upon you can yield."

"Yes ma'am, thank you." A return to the chamber and that was that they had their vote choice in mind so now unless something really amazing were to happen that she could change her vote on the fly she had the liberty if she felt it would align with what what the Crown would want and there was no time to contact the officers back home, but it'd be ultimately up the The Duchess to agree to a treaty anyway.

[Cartoonia]

Back at the Regional Council again. It has been a while. Ambassador to the GDRC, Kiku Honda was going through the council's new proposal. A mutual defense pact? Where was this when Cartoonia was being invaded by Crossoveria? It seemed like something a little late as they have tried many times for the council and other nations of the region to come to their aid. It was pretty sad that they didn't come to their aid when war broke out and the country was being invaded by the anti-freedom, anti-child welfare, and aggressive nation of Crossoveria. The only nation that came to their aid was Phibeta, and that was mostly on the basis of its own defense pact. Fortunately, their invasion plans failed and Cartoonia continued to bolster it's defense and military since that incident. Cartoonia now has been advocating for something like this for years, a combined military force and a pact to defend each other if other nations attack. True that there are nations with a constitution that restricts them from declaring war without being attacked first, but that was another can of worms right now. Right now, it was about the feeling of Cartoonia's worry that a nation like Crossoveria might once again try to attack them and their allies too.

"I personally think it is high time our region agreed to a mutual defense pact" Mr. Kiku Honda exclaims to the council. "Our politicians in Cartoonia have been talking about this issue for years whether or not to bring up the need for a pact like this, especially during the crisis that was the Crossoverian invasion. The only nation that came to our aid was Phibeta. We called on all nations to help us in our fight to protect our lands and no one else seemed to have come. What is needed now is a way to protect each other from invaders and those who wish to fight us on our soils, of all soils. Therefore, we support this new proposal for the Nova Orontes Defense Agreement, and we hope that other nations here do the same in a need to protect all lands from aggressors, just like Crossoveria's ACE not so long ago".

Mr. Honda once again sits back down.

[The Macabees]

Andro duly considered the words of his Marshite counterpart. He agreed that some additional changes had to be made to the treaty text. While others in the chambers gave their own opinions he drafted a new version of the proposal and entered it for consideration whole. The new articles were V, VI, and IX. The old articles with these titles were changed to VII and VIII.

PROPOSAL FOR COMMON GREATER DÍENSTADI DEFENSE AGAINST EXTRA-REGIONAL AGGRESSORS ACT

RECOGNIZING the threat that imperialist extra-regional invaders pose to the territorial, cultural, and geopolitical integrity of Greater Díenstad.

OBSERVING the increased likelihood of extra-regional conflict following (1) the Gothic War between the Golden Throne and the Scandinvan Empire and (2) the Varathron War between the Ordenite Reich and the Kraven Reich.

CONSIDERING that the previous regional defense agreement, the Fedala Accords, are now outdated and practically defunct.

WE PROPOSE a regional defense agreement against extra-regional aggressors, known as the Nova Orontes Defense Agreement (NODA):


ARTICLE I

This treaty shall not infringe on the right of signatory nations to settle international disputes in such a manner considered optimal and ideal by their governments.


ARTICLE II

This treaty shall not infringe on the right of the sovereign governments of signatory nations to determine their own foreign policies.


ARTICLE III

Signatory nations agree that an armed attack against one or more of them within the territory of Greater Díenstad by an extra-regional aggressor shall be considered an attack against them all and consequently they agree that, if such an armed attack occurs, each of them, in the exercise of the right of individual or collective self-defense will assist the Party or Parties so attacked by taking forthwith, individually and in concert with the other Parties, such action as it deems necessary, including the use of armed force, to restore and maintain the security of the Greater Díenstadi area.


ARTICLE IV

For the purpose of Article III, an armed attack on one or more of the Parties is deemed to include an armed attack:

on the territory of any of the Parties in Greater Díenstad; on the forces, vessels, or aircraft of any of the Parties, when in or over these territories on the date the Agreement entered into force.


ARTICLE V

For the purpose of Article III, an extra-regional aggressor is defined as an extra-regional state and/or government that attacks a member state of Greater Díenstad with the intention of infringing on its territorial sovereignty and/or integrity or as a means of terrorizing the civilian population of the said member state.


ARTICLE VI

Any extra-regional state and/or government deemed to be evil shall be barred from any and all military and commercial activity within the territory of any of the Parties in Greater Díenstad.


ARTICLE VII

Signatories nations agree that Greater Díenstad, as a collective, reserves the right to resolve defense and security issues created by bad actors within the territory of any of the Parties in Greater Díenstadi.


ARTICLE VIII

Signatory nations that answer the call to arms during the event of an extra-regional invasion of a Greater Díenstadi state agree to form a temporary Council of Regional Defense, by means and with rules deemed proper at the time of the specific trigger event, that will determine the best means of resolving the extra-regional threat to this region. This includes, and is not limited to, directly intervening against the invading force and preempting the invading force by internally suppressing bad actors in accordance with Article V.


ARTICLE IX

The temporary Council of Regional Defense also has the right to end the call to arms if it deems that the extra-regional invader is not truly an aggressor. In this situation, the Council of Regional Defense assumes the right to define the limits of the extra-regional state's and/or government's war in Greater Díenstad.

[Holy Marsh]

The Ambassadress sat back and allowed the new text to be read out loud, as well as begin its transmission. Rapid messages were fired back and forth among her diplomatic crew and the Karda. While they mulled it over quickly, she sat back a little and looked it over herself with no small amount of satisfaction. The Good Ambassador had done well and had shown himself rather able to conduct his affairs with great effectiveness, not allowing himself to be married to certain sticking points. The resulting act was certainly more agreeable. Article V carried with it the necessary allowances for foreign allies to engage in an active and brutal defense of their allies, while Article IX carried with it the necessary provisions to deny slave-states and others who may reside in the region the right of collective regional defense. Or at least, that is how the Theocracy viewed it. After all, it wouldn't be the foreign ally who was the aggressor- it would be the Theocracy. They wouldn't want to violate territorial integrity- that would be the Marshite job. The allies were there for killing.
At least, that is how they viewed it- which is what got back to her about thirty seconds later.

"This Act meets with our approval. We will vote for it in its current state, with the understanding the Articles allow extra-regional allied intervention on our behalf, gives us the capability to define the nature of an extra-regional nationstate's involvement in Greater Dienstad in the event of armed conflict, and does not force upon members military conflict alongside states that would otherwise violate the precepts of the First and Second Articles. However, if we may suggest something? Valued Delegate-Ambassador Engeström suggested a permanent Greater Dienstad Security Council. Its role and abilities may be further discussed, but a more permanent security apparatus would improve our ability to coordinate on these matters more effectively. I believe that body should be created with this Act, with the following Act defining its powers."

[Eitoan]

An aide tapped Novak on the shoulder. He turned around and accepted a note from her, reading it through rapidly.

Don -

Foreign Affairs legal team tells me the measure before you would be acceptable under the Constitution and applicable statutes. I'm here with Lou Herb and he tells me he has the votes to get ratification through the Ghastak for the first reading. We may need to team approval with throwing some bone to the left, maybe military assistance to Tupenga. I'd recommend lobbying Andro for softer language on Article III, maybe a private meeting with him and Engeström, your call. But the view from here is that you can approve putting it to a vote, if advantageous to announce it at this time.

[Stevid]

Vel made his way back into council’s chambers for the new reading of the act. There had been several readings now and Vel grew tiresome of having to trudge back and forth from his offices with every amendment to read and discuss. In truth, though it was no secret among his contemporaries at the GDRC, he cared little. The idea was a good one – a form of ad hoc defensive league against unscrupulous invaders. The act had been anaemic at first but now it carried more weight what with the additional clarifications. He liked it. His minders didn't.

He headed into the chamber while casting a longing look towards the Red Eye’s Cave with several aides at his back. They fussed over paperwork regarding the legislation, minuscule points regarding conflict with Stevidian law, and other administrative concerns – and such concerns were beginning to irk him.

“For the love of – go away!” He snapped at them. It must have been a common enough occurrence because they immediately turned heel and left the chamber without even a flinch. Vel sat at his chamber desk and awaited the proceedings.
“I need a drink.” He said under his breath as he pressed his desk button to join the queue for floor time and paid only as much attention as necessary so as to not fall asleep. With a startle at his name, he stood up as he was given the floor.

“My Lords, Ladies, so on, so on, so on. After much deliberation between my government and my attached staff, and much arm’s length oversight and hearty delegation of work from me, I can inform the learned gentleman Andros that my Imperial Majesty’s government… err… ‘reluctantly’… agrees to the amended proposal.”

He paused slightly as he shuffled his desk notes that had the Stevidian position written upon them.

“I say reluctantly because the general consensus at home is to defer to the Fedala Accord. But the guarantees and greater context afforded in this amended act compared to its first iteration has alleviated my country’s concerns that we would be ‘obliged’ to race to the defence of hostile state.
“We voice our objection to the terminology in Article III – for an attack on certain members of this council would in no way be viewed as an attack on Stevid. But such circumstances should always be taken on a case-by-case basis as to whether such an attack would inevitably become an existential threat to the Empire. Therefore, we voice our objection – but it does not change our support.”

Another pause. “Let’s see… what else did they want? Ah, in early response to the Elkons-Ambassadress’ request that a discussion be had for a more permanent security apparatus to be written into the legislation; my government will not support such an amendment being included and would therefore revert to voting against this legislation. The Holy Empire believes that Article XI, the amendment as proposed by the esteemed gentleman Kendrick, is sufficient.”

Vel slumped back into his chair and awaited the flurry of beeps and vibrations of his phone as his minders chastised him for his usual lack of decorum.

[The Ice States]

_{(Ooc: Please note that the events in this post canonically occurred after any statement on this matter by the government of the Ice States was already published.)}

The Ice States, even as a prolific participant in the World Assembly, has never before directly proposed any law to the GDRC. The situation which had just occured in the Green Zone was undoubtedly severe; and the GDRC would, in no way, be the only course of action taken against the Golden Throne here.

Saverchenko-Colleti had already proven himself in the World Assembly; being responsible for the passage of some of the best legislation by the Ice States in that body, such as the standards for handling of toxic materials, the very charter of that body, and most recently documentation of endangered species. He would obviously be the most fit individual to serve as the GDRC ambassador of the Ice States. He rose to the podium, and spoke,

"To all present in this room, I come here to propose legislation in no comfortable circumstances. It was only recently that we discovered that the Golden Throne -- one of the most respected nations in these regions -- looted our nation while they were occupying part of our territory against our will; motivated seemingly only by the evils of capitalism. While we came to an agreement that they would cease their occupation, it seems that our trust was misplaced. They robbed us of culturally and economically valuable items which are yet to be returned to their rightful jurisdiction."

"We are here to propose two pieces of legislation regarding this matter. The first is an ad hoc agreement condemning the actions of the Golden Throne in looting our nation. Titled simply 'Ormont Defense Pact', I read it as follows,"

Whereas the nation of the Golden Throne recently engaged in an occupation of a section of territory under the jurisdiction of The Empire of the Ice States during the Second Ice Civil War, an occupation which continued even after the Empire was forcibly overthrown and replaced by the Communal Union of the Ice States;

Whereas, following an agreement between the Golden Throne and the Ice States wherein the Golden Throne vowed to end its occupation in the Ice States, the Golden Throne grossly violated trust and respect placed to it by the nations of this region, as well as The Ice States, through the removal of culturally significant artefacts in the occupied areas, including the paintings "Piepowder's Moss-Weed Court" and "The Lizards of Eden", followed by their transportation to the Golden Throne; and

Whereas the justification provided for these actions by the Golden Throne, specifically that the artefacts were transported to the Golden Throne to complete the payment of existing debts owed by the Ice States to the Golden Throne, are insufficient, as the Golden Throne already maintained the funds from frozen Ice bank accounts to complete the payment of these debts;

The Greater Dienstad Regional Council declares as follows.

1. Return: Every signatory condemns, in the strongest possible terms, the looting of Ice territory by Macabean forces. Further, all signatories, collectively and individually, demand that the Golden Throne promptly return to the Ice States all goods the Golden Throne forcibly relocated to its jurisdiction during its occupation of territory in the Ice States.
   
   
2. Cooperation: Should the Golden Throne fail to comply with the demand in Section 1, every signatory shall assist any military action ("Section 2 efforts") by the Ice States to ensure the return of Section 1 goods and natural persons to the Ice States.
   
   
   1. Such assistance shall be to the maximal extent possible without posing a substantial burden on the finances or resources of that signatory.
      
      
   2. No signatory may wilfully obstruct Section 2 efforts, including by assisting in or conducting any retaliatory efforts by the Golden Throne or any ally thereof against a signatory of this resolution in response to Section 2 efforts.
   
   
3. Retaliation: Any attack against a signatory conducted to retaliate against Section 2 efforts shall be considered an attack against all signatories. Every signatory must, to the maximal extent possible without posing a substantial burden on the finances or resources of that signatory, provide defense of any other signatory against such retaliation.
   
   
4. Exceptions and interpretation: Every signatory must interpret and obey this resolution in complete good faith. This resolution shall be declared void when all goods confiscated by the Golden Throne during their occupation in the Ice States are unconditionally returned to the Ice States, whether voluntarily or by force; or when this matter otherwise becomes moot.

"The second piece of legislation is a long-term agreement regarding looting during military occupations. Titled 'On Wartime Looting', the resolution reads as follows,"

Whereas, as shown by recent events wherein the Golden Throne confiscated goods during an occupation of the Ice States, the act of wartime looting remains a problem in this region which this most august body is yet to legislate on,

The Greater Dienstad Regional Council declares as follows.

1. Looting: No military force or affilitated paramilitary force of a signatory may, while occupying territory of another signatory or otherwise engaging in military conflict with that signatory, confiscate, destroy, alter, or otherwise remove any civilian goods or infrastructure located within the other signatory's borders.
   
   
2. Return: Every signatory state which has, in the past, engaged in a violation of Section 1 towards another signatory state, must promptly return all items confiscated, altered, or otherwise removed in said violation to the signatory state subject of said violation.
   
   
   1. The above mandate applies retroactively, regardless of whether Section 1 was applicable or in force at the time of the violation.
      
      
   2. Additionally, where said items have been altered, destroyed, or otherwise no longer exist in their state at the time of the violation, the signatory state responsible for the violation must promptly provide financial compensation to the signatory state subject of said violation equal to or greater than their monetary value were they still in their state at the time of the violation.
   
   
3. Treatment of civilians: No military force or affilitated paramilitary of a signatory may use violence upon any civilian in another signatory which the former signatory is occupying territory of, or otherwise at war with; except where such violence is an absolute military necessity. The burden of proof shall lie on the signatory engaging in such violence to prove that the violence is an absolute military necessity, and the Regional War Crimes Council is established to hear ex post claims of absolute military necessity in cases of ambiguity.
   
   
4. Exceptions and Interpretation: Every signatory must interpret and obey this resolution in complete good faith. Section 1 may be waived where the signatory subject to such acts has given its full, uncoerced and informed consent for such actions to take place; or where such actions are only to recover items previously taken in contravention of Section 1 by the target against the nation engaging in such action, and the target of such action has positively refused to comply with Section 2 as to the return of such items.

[The Macabees]

Wide-eyed with surprise, Andro Kilomen carefully read the back-to-back Icer proposals. What took him aback was not the attempt to condemn the Golden Throne for its actions in the Green Zone, but rather the call to arms that went with it. Were they crazy? Saverchenko-Colleti was advertising his government's intention to go to war with the Golden Throne. Kiloment sent a note to his office to alert His Imperial Majesty, the Kuncil, and Fuermak high command.

He then stood and addressed the chamber, "Suffice it to say that the Golden Throne rejects both proposals."

"Regarding the first," he continued, "let it be known that the so-called looting of the Ice States was actually an asset forfeiture to repay debts owed to the Imperial Bureaucracy of the Golden Throne by the Icer state. Initially, these loans were extended to the Icer government of Sotolo, which the current communist government toppled. Those loans represent capital lent by private individuals and business organizations and, as such, those same private individuals and business organizations are entitled to repayment. Said repayment will be paid from the dues earned through the private market sale of the forfeited assets. Out of neighborly spirit, I tentatively offer the Icer government to purchase available forfeited assets from the Golden Throne at fair market value. Otherwise, the Golden Throne will continue with the process of asset liquidation and loan repayment. Regardless, the Icer government should consider itself fortunate that we are not charging them the expected interest payments that would have been due to us had the loans been repaid in accordance with their terms. I know how difficult it can be for a communist government to pay for anything whatsoever, even food for its own people, so it warms my heart to know that the Golden Throne is willing to sacrifice for the wellbeing of its neighbor."

"I will also quickly address the matter of frozen funds. The Imperial Bureaucracy has decided to drop all suits against the Icer government as they relate to accessing these funds and appropriating their contents. We hold the right to private property sacred. We have decided to instead retain these funds, and continue paying their allotted interest on deposits until an Icer government that respects the institution of private property comes to power and can insure the rightful distribution of account funds to the proper, and rightful, parties. We will not release the funds to a government that will only use these funds to oppress and impoverish its own people."

Kilomen then addressed the second proposal. "As for the proposed ban of looting of occupied territories, I don't think a state that loots the private property of its own people is equipped to recommend any legislation on the matter, quite honestly."

"Finally," he finished, "and circling back to the first proposal, let it be known that should the Ice States attack the Golden Throne the only conclusion to said conflict that the Golden Throne will seek is the complete and unconditional removal of the communist government. And should the Ice States renege on its trade agreement with the Golden Throne, the Imperial Bureaucracy shall put in place a complete and unconditional blockade on the aggressor state and its people."

[The Ice States]

"Even if the goal of seizing our assets was, in fact, to repay the debt, that is still a gross violation of the trust placed on your nation. The facts remain that the Golden Throne did have the ability to pay the debts through frozen assets, so the looting was not a sine qua non to ensure that the debt payment be completed. Thus, the looting was an unacceptable action which violated the trust we placed in assuming good faith vis-a-vis the withdrawal of Macabean forces from the Green Zone."

"Your attacks on the second proposal simply due to our economic system is entirely expected, given that your nation has proven itself to be a capitalistic nation commanded by a self-interested bourgeoise. Yet, our economic system being one which maximises the rights of workers and the people is of least relevance to our proposal."

~Alexander Nicholas Saverchenko-Colleti,
World Assembly Ambassador,
The Communal Union of the Ice States.

[Holy Marsh]

The Elkons-Ambassadress listened to the proposals with a stern expression hiding no small amount of admiration for the sheer gutteral insanity of it. Threatening conflict with the Throne? Marsh above, that was not a wise course of action. Nor was either proposal, in her opinion, a wise use of time for the GDRC. Few nations would support either one, but she believed the Ice Ambassador knew it well. Nor was the response from Good Ambassador Andro unexpected. The disdain that the Throne held for communism was hard to mask at the best of times. When they had the ability to lord it over a much weaker foe? Well, the strong sometimes did do as they pleased with the weak. Still, she didn't find either Ambassador doing much for the Council at this moment.

"The Theocracy doesn't care about communism or capitalism and we find the little tit for tat about those systems wholly unengaging as a matter of fact," she said, shaking her head as she reviewed the proposals. "On Wartime Looting will not get our vote. First off, any legislation to create regional law that cites a specific inciting incident seems to have a less than ideal shelf life. As to the substantive issues of the legislation, it simply will not work. The third clause? Wars in this region have a habit of getting total and doing so very quickly. We see no need to save the civilian populace of a nation we have deemed worthy of destruction as a matter of law. It will be up to us how we conduct ourselves during an occupation or when conducting our wars. This extends to certain pacification and purging operations that would be covered by the first and third clauses. As for the first and second clauses, they are too broad and will be extremely difficult to enforce. This is especially true of the second clause. As for the Ormont Defense Pact, it is a full non-starter on our account. Nations should not be obliged to die for you so you can get back your bits and baubles," she said before turning back to the Good Ambassador.

"Good Ambassador Andro, you are by no means a fool but I worry you take me for one. Are you truly implying that the theft of their cultural artefacts is anything more than a punitive measure because the Throne is upset that the current government is not one to their liking? There exists more than enough financial liquidity to help pay back the debts incurred by the Empire before its toppling. You know it, and you know we know it. I find it entirely beneath the Throne that it would play such games with a nation so much weaker than itself. I also reject the notion that the funds are being kept secure for the good of the parties involved, or that the Throne truly has concerns about the oppression of Icer citizens. Systemic oppression didn't prevent your engagement in the first place, and we don't believe it prevents engagement now," she finished as she decided to make clear the Marshite position on the legislation at hand.

"The Matriarchy nonetheless finds little cause to vote for either resolution. We find the demands of the Ice States outrageous, and the conduct of the Throne in this matter beneath a nation of their stature. We will seek to make a deal resolving your issues elsewhere; the GDRC is not necessarily the place."