NationStates Jolt Archive

ooc: I will also keep updating the other thread concerning this but lets at least get the ball roling by RPing the founding of this organization.

Wincha, Largent

The Lady of Largent sat, arms folded listening to the proposal brought before her. Two young members of the High Charter had brought a proposal for Largent to start an international relief organization. Having extensive economic capabilites and ties with several nations, it was suggested that Largent give back to the world(s) wich had allowed it to prosper. The Empress closed her eye and thought long and hard about the idea.

When the two had finished the sat up and thought for a moment before saying, "Very well, I would be happy to start and head this organization. We should get word of it to the leaders of other nations and if they agree to it we will host a summit in our capital to set forth a charter to wich the organization will adhear."

With that the meeting was over and calls were sent out. The first order of buisness was to find a president for the organization. Several nominations were made and background checks were conducted before a temporary President was chosen. John Paul Dorhety, the former CEO of Dyna-Flex Inc. and a well known political figure. He was mainstream enough to satisfy the public until a final President was chosen at the summit.

A second oreder of buisness was to find a peice of land in the capital that would be proclaimed neutral territory. A spot was soon chosen in the heart of a city that was approximatley 28 acres in size, enough to house all facilites. Immediatley following this descision LACE started bringing in materials to construct a temporary yet comfortable structure where the summit could be held.

It was estimated that in approximatley one weeks time the entire area would be ready and fully prepared to host up to two hundred delegations from countries spanning the galaxy.

--Transmission to John Paul Dorhety--
From: SAVX Foreign Relations

Hello, I am Ambassador Tom Takigora, representing the government of SAVX. As we have previously discussed, my nation has taken an interest in the idea of an international aid system. As my nation is currently involved in a regional conflict, my leader, Der Führer Hans Müller, will be unable to personally attend. I shall be representing SAVX in his stead. I look forward to meeting with yourself and other delegates to discuss the formation of this association.

Please inform me as to where and when I should arrive, so that I may plan my responsibilities accordingly.

--End of Transmission--

To: J.P. Dorhety
From: Theao, Foreign Ministry, Sub-Section Human Aid

We support this inititive, and while it is impractical for poltical involvement, we would be honoured to be counted among the supporters of the Red Cross. We are willing to provide aid to those nations that need it.

Open Communiqué

"The Republic of Guffingford is very pleased to see progress being made on humanitarian level by the government of Largent. These kind of things make us feel proud, and hopeful about the future of our planet and the human race. With greatest respect to your scientists and policy-makers, we wish to send forth a delegate to discuss these matters in person. Our minister of National Healtcare shall represent Guffingford. Before this accord is signed, we like to urge nations to take part in this initiative, for the betterment of all suffering citizens of the world."

- Kellus Constantine, Minister of Foreign Affairs
The Republic of Guffingford

ooc: I relize some of you out there that posted earlier may not have recieved my TG yet but I think we will continue with the meeting anyway. Just jump right in once you get to the thread.

##BEGIN TRANSMITION##
##From: RC Pesident Dorhety##
##To: SAVX Foreign Relations##

Greetings,
We thank you greatly for your participation in this humanitarian movement and look forward to meeting with delegate Takigora upon his arrival. The meeting will take place as soon as all delegations schedueled to attend arrive. This means you may arrive at you leasure but I must request you do arrive in a reasonably timely fashion. We have transportation arranged for you as well as accomodations.

##END TRANSMITION##




##BEGIN TRANSMITION##
##To: Kellus Constantine, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Guffingford##
##From: RC President Dorhety##

We are extremely pleased to hear of you upcoming participation at our conference. I look forward to meeting face to face with your delegation and discussing matters. I am also pleased to hear it is of someone with some back ground in Healthcare as I am sure they will be able to greatly contribute to our meeting. Your delegate may arrive at their leasure but I must ask the arrive in a reasonably timely manner. Upon arrival, transportation and accomidations will be prepared for him/her.

##END TRANSMITION##
##To: Theao, Foreign Ministry, Sub-Section Human Aid##
##From: RC President Dorhety##

We thank you for your support and respect your desicion not to become involved politically.

##END TRANSMITION##

Site Of Internation Red Cross Offices

All the preperations were falling into place. A meeting room had been constructed to comfortably fit upwards of 200 delegations, a lofty goal perhaps but it could never hurt to be optimistic. It had only been slightly over twenty four hours and several nations were already scheduelling an attendance, on their way, or just simply expected to arrive some time in the near future.

J.P Dorhety was extremley pleased with the way things were progressing. He along with several former collegues had already drafted a proposed charter that hoped to present at the meeting in the interest of time but they also had to be prepared to either completely redraft it or revise it thoroughly, which was anticipated.

Already, donations from national corporations had started coming in and the future looked good for the buisness and Dorhety had come to describe it. He did not refer to himself as a volunteer but a man of buisness and that is just how he planned to handle his corporation, as a buisness. He would make sure he was supplying the services that were needed but he was still hoping to make some sort of a profit. 'Controversial?' he thought to himself, 'Perhaps but if I make no profit our buisness will not stand.'

OOC: Short post since I'm brain dead. Sorry, I'm just not in the right mind. Largent, you can "meet and greet" Fotheringown if you want, next post.

IC: Castellan Amber Fotheringown, the Deputy Head of State of Adejaani dozed quietly while on her way to the meeting in the converted Boeing 777. Adejaani had been the first nation to wholeheartedly and enthusiastically support the proposal. Now it was time to deliver.

OOC:
I'd like to suggest that the NS Red Cross also consider participating in some of the efforts of the Intl Red Cross:

http://s3.invisionfree.com/UN_Organizations/index.php?showtopic=26

The more players participating in a single role-play, the more interesting things can become. :) I use the IRCO to sort of represent whatever the will seems to be of UN players in humanitarian roles based on the body of UN resolutions dealing with the IRCO. I hope that makes some sense. :)

[ooc: a few things. First, don't post if you don't have an IC comment. That belongs in our other thread. Next, your next post should be arriving and sitting down to the meeting, just to keep things moving. And finally, the charter below is prectically identical to the real red cross's, don't feel obligated to do any more than briefly skim if, if that.]


In the lavish, mohogany covered board room several thick packets of paper were placed at many seats, for each of the arriving delegates. It was the first draft of the International Red Cross Charter. All preperations were made and now President Dorhety was only waiting for delegates to arrive.

In his hands he held a copy of the document. It was long and tedious, but presiding over the meeting, he was obligated to know it well. It read:


Section 1—Organization (a) FEDERAL CHARTER. The Nationstates International Red Cross (in this chapter, the "corporation") is a body corporate and politic in the Wincha. (b) NAME. The name of the corporation is "The Nationstates International Red Cross". (c) PERPETUAL EXISTENCE. Except as otherwise provided, the corporation has perpetual existence.

Section 2—Purposes The purposes of the corporation are: (1) to provide volunteer aid in time of war to the sick and wounded of the armed forces, in accordance with the spirit and conditions of: (A) the conference of Geneva of October, 1863; (B) the treaties of the Red Cross, or the treaties of Geneva, of August 22, 1864, July 27, 1929, and August 12, 1949, to which the United States of America has given its adhesion; and (C) any other treaty, convention, or protocol similar in purpose to which the member nations have given or may give their adhesion; (2) in carrying out the purposes described in clause (1) of this section, to perform all the duties devolved on a national society by each nation that has acceded to any of those treaties, conventions, or protocols; (3) to act in matters of voluntary relief and in accordance with the military authorities as a medium of communication between the people of the member nations and the armed forces of the member nations and to act in those matters between similar international societies of governments of other countries through the International Committee of the Red Cross and the Government, the people, and the armed forces of the member nations; and (4) to carry out a system of national and international relief in time of peace, and apply that system in mitigating the suffering caused by pestilence, famine, fire, floods, and other great international calamities, and to devise and carry out measures for preventing those calamities.

Section 3—Membership and Chapters (a) MEMBERSHIP. Membership in the corporation is open to all the people of Nationstates, on payment of an amount specified in the bylaws. (b) CHAPTERS. (1) The chapters of the corporation are the local units of the corporation. The board of governors shall prescribe regulations related to: (A) granting charters to the chapters and revoking those charters; (B) territorial jurisdiction of the chapters; (C) the relationship of the chapters to the corporation; and (D) compliance by the chapters with the policies and regulations of the corporation. (2) The regulations shall require that each chapter adhere to the democratic principles of election specified in the bylaws in electing the governing body of the chapter and selecting delegates to the international convention of the corporation.

Section 4—Board of Governors (a) BOARD OF GOVERNORS. (1) The board of governors is the governing body of the corporation with all powers of governing and managing the corporation The board has 50 members. The governors shall be appointed or elected in the following manner: (A) The President shall appoint 8 governors, one of whom the President shall designate to act as the principal officer of the corporation with the title and functions provided in the bylaws. The other governors appointed by the President shall be officials of departments and agencies of various national Governments, whose positions and interests qualify them to contribute to carrying out the programs and purposes of the corporation. At least one, but not more than 3, of those officials shall be selected from the armed forces. (B) The chapters shall elect 30 governors at the international convention under procedures for nomination and election that ensure equitable representation of all chapters, with regard to geographical considerations, the size of the chapters, and the size of the populations served by the chapters. (C) The board shall elect 12 governors as members-at-large. Those governors shall be individuals who are representative of the international interests that the corporation serves, and with which it is desirable that the corporation have close association. (2) One-third of the members elected to the board shall be elected at each international convention, and take office at that time or as soon as practicable after the convention. (b) TERM OF OFFICE AND VACANCIES. (1) The term of office of each governor is 3 years. However, the term of office of a governor appointed by the President (except the principal officer of the corporation) expires if, before the end of the 3-year term, the governor retires from the official position held at the time of appointment as a governor. (2) The President shall fill as soon as practicable a vacancy in the office of the principal officer of the corporation or in the position of another governor appointed by the President. The board shall make a temporary appointment to fill a vacancy occurring in an elected position on the board. An individual appointed by the board to fill a vacancy serves until the next international convention. (c) EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE. The board may: (1) appoint, from its own members, an executive committee of at least 11 individuals to exercise the powers of the board when the board is not in session; and (2) appoint and remove, or provide for the appointment and removal of, officers and employees of the corporation, except the principal officer of the corporation. (d) VOTING BY PROXY. Voting by proxy is not allowed at any meeting of the board, at the international convention, or at any meeting of a chapter. However, the board may allow the election of governors by proxy at the national convention if the board believes a national emergency makes attendance at the national convention impossible.

Section 5—Powers (a) GENERAL. The corporation may: (1) adopt bylaws and regulations; (2) adopt, alter, and destroy a seal; (3) own and dispose of property to carry out the purposes of the corporation; (4) accept gifts, devises, and bequests of property to carry out the purposes of the corporation; (5) sue and be sued in courts of law and equity, State or Federal, within the jurisdiction of the Militaristic Union of Largent or any other member nation; and (6) do any other act necessary to carry out this chapter and promote the purposes of the corporation. (b) DESIGNATION. The corporation is designated as the organization which is authorized to act in matters of relief under the treaties of Geneva, August 22, 1864, July 27, 1929, and August 12, 1949.

Section 6—Emblem, Badge, and Brassard (a) EMBLEM AND BADGE. In carrying out its purposes under this chapter, the corporation may have and use, as an emblem and badge, a Greek red cross on a white ground, as described in the treaties of Geneva, August 22, 1864, July 27, 1929, and August 12, 1949, and adopted by the nations acceding to those treaties. (b) DELIVERY OF BRASSARD. In accordance with those treaties, the delivery of the brassard allowed for individuals neutralized in time of war shall be left to military authority.

Section 7—Annual Meeting The annual meeting of the corporation is the international convention of delegates of the chapters. The national convention shall be held annually on a date and at a place specified by the board of governors. In matters requiring a vote at the international convention, each chapter is entitled to at least one vote. The board shall determine on an equitable basis the number of votes that each chapter is entitled to cast, taking into consideration the size of the membership of the chapters and of the populations served by the chapters. The board shall review the allocation of votes at least every 5 years.

Section 8—Buildings (a) OWNERSHIP. The Militaristic Union of Largent shall retain ownership of the corporation’s permanent headquarters, comprised of buildings erected on square 172 in the City of Wincha, including: (1) the memorial building to commemorate the service and sacrifice of the women of Nationstates, erected for the use of the corporation; (2) the memorial building to commemorate the service and sacrifice of the patriotic women of Nationstates, its territories and possessions, in all Nationstates wars, erected for the use of the corporation; and (3) the permanent building erected for the use of the corporation in connection with its work in cooperation with the Nationstates Governments. (b) MAINTENANCE AND EXPENSES. Those buildings shall remain under the supervision of the Administrator of General Services. However, the corporation shall care for and maintain the buildings without expense to the Government.

Section 9—Endowment Fund The endowment fund of the corporation shall be kept and invested under the management and control of a board of 9 trustees elected by the board of governors. The board of governors shall prescribe regulations on terms and tenure of office, accountability, and expenses of the board of trustees.

Section 10—Annual Report and Audit (a) SUBMISSION OF REPORT. As soon as practicable after July 1 of each year, the corporation shall submit a report to the Secretary of Defense of all member nations on the activities of the corporation during the fiscal year ending June 30, including a complete, itemized report of all receipts and expenditures. (b) AUDITING OF REPORT AND SUBMISSION TO CONGRESS’. The Secretary shall audit the report and submit a copy of the audited report to Congress’ of member nations. (c) PAYMENT OF AUDIT EXPENSES. The corporation shall reimburse the Secretary each year for auditing its accounts. The amount paid shall be deposited in the Treasury of the member nations as a miscellaneous receipt.

Imperial Transmission
http://www.nationstates.net/images/flags/uploads/the_macabees.jpg

We are interested in the ability to 'enter' the red cross and support some sort of international aid system. Unfortunately, we find ourselves in the same boat as Super American VX Man as we are in the midst of a war for succession of the Golden Throne, and Fedor I is about to get married. However, we will send a seperate representative in the form of Albert Senit, the CEO of Kriegzimmer. He is very adept in organization and in the ability of supplying, so we find him perfect for this situation.

Regardless, we hope that the Red Cross finds a home amongst us all, and the charter seems perfectly agreeable to the likes of us. Thank you for your time,

[signed]Fedor I

Fotheringown sat down at the large conference table and waited patiently. She'd skimmed over the Charter proposal, then leaned forward into the mic. "When it's time to speak... I'd like to propose an amendment to the Charter."

Mr. John Paul Dorhety
City of Wincha, The Militaristic Union of Largent

Dear Mr. Dorhety,

It has come to my attention, as one of the UN IRCO Aid Coordinators for the Kingdom of Listeneisse, that you wish to take a leading role in International Red Cross Organization (IRCO) (http://ns.goobergunch.net/wiki/index.php/International_Red_Cross_Organization) affairs.

This pleases me to no end! For there are nearly four billion people in your magnificent nation, which can dwarf the relief efforts of small nations such as my own homeland, the Kingdom of Listeneisse.

We are trying to presently foster greater awareness of existing IRCO efforts (http://s3.invisionfree.com/UN_Organizations/index.php?c=6), such as the ongoing relief missions being undertaken by over a dozen governments in the IDU (http://s10.invisionfree.com/IDU/index.php?showtopic=278) to help refugees from faltering nations splintered by anarchy and civil war. Many states there have fallen into dissolution, and I am sure this is not the only region in the world suffering from such anarchic conditions.

The Kingdom of Listeneisse, though outside the IDU, has sent relief missions to the affected states and is working closely with IDU governments and NGOs for ongoing relief operations.

Those who seek to assist can respond as they are capable. Our nation has done the bare minimum so far, and pledges to do far more.

If there are nations who are in the midst of crises that need assistance from the International Red Cross, please urge them to formally file a Request for Aid (http://s3.invisionfree.com/UN_Organizations/index.php?showforum=18).

Could Largent also specifically list, and encourage other nations you contact, what governmental and NGO aid they are willing to provide? (http://s3.invisionfree.com/UN_Organizations/index.php?showtopic=38)

Thank you so very much for contributing facilities and sponsorship for these international activities.

Sincerely,

RR J. D. Omnisterra

The Right Reverend J. D. Omnisterra
Abbot General of the Order of White Monks (OWM)
Castle Carbonek, Kingdom of Listeneisse

[ooc: adejanni, you can propose the amendment now or wait for others to show, either way is fine.]

##BEGIN TRANSMITION##
##To: Listeneisse##
##From: President Dorhety##

I must inform you that this Red Cross is not in any way affiliated with the IRCO established and chartered by the United Nations and is not planning to interfere with current IRCO efforts.

Seeing as there are trillions upon trillions of people in the NS world it is necissary to have multiple relief organizations so we are taking a leadership role in an all new Red Cross and our facilities are for our Red Cross not the IRCO although we would be willing to pool forces on some occasions.

As the executive-class dropship neared Largent airspace, it was hailed by Largent air traffic control. The pilot answered the call, giving the proper information to gain clearance.

"Attention aircraft, please identify yourself."

"This is SAVX flight A349Z, transporting a diplomatic personnel."

"Transmit your security clearance code now."

The pilot pressed a button, sending the code they were given. It took a moment before there was a response.

"Flight A349Z, you are cleared for entrance to Largent. Have a nice day."

"Thank you."

It didn't take much longer after passing over the border to near the designated landing station near the location of the Red Cross meeting site. In a rapid, fluid motion, the dropship found its pad and lowered itself. Tom Takigora was ready to go as soon as the dropship landed. Letting himself out, he made his way toward a pair of Largent officials sent to meet him. Dressed in a sharp, clean suit, well-groomed, and carrying a medium-sized black briefcase, Takigora was ready for business. He greeted the officials, who proceeded to lead him away to the meeting location.

After a short trek and ride in a small limousine, Takigora found himself standing outside of the building where the meeting would take place. The structure was well-furnished and clean, with a very modern architecture; definitely an appropriate place to hold such a momentous meeting.

After walking through some hallways marked with directions, he was standing at the entrance to the meeting hall. He was impressed with the number of available positions; obviously Largent had some optimistic ideas about involvement here. There were already a few people in their own seats, so Takigora went and found his own. Then, preparing himself for the meeting, he waited.

Mr. John Paul Dorhety
City of Wincha, The Militaristic Union of Largent

Dear Mr. Dorhety,

Pardon any confusion I might have caused, my good sir. While I understand your reticence, perhaps I should attend simply to get the following settled. To play, if you pardon the expression, "the devil's advocate" for the following questions:

1. Are UN-member nations barred from membership in, or offering assistance to, this new Red Cross?

2. Are UN-member nations allowed to ask for assistance from this new Red Cross?

3. Will member nations of this new Red Cross be willing to respond to international crises identified by the IRCO?

4. What if a member state of this new Red Cross decides to join the UN?

I'd hope this effort takes a cooperative, broad view of relief work, and would welcome to work with the existing IRCO structure. Otherwise, the acts of selflessness and generosity may be suddenly limited by a precipitous political boundary, which ironically, is that some have pledged to international cooperation as a series of United Nations, and others have pledged international cooperation on a different paradigm.

We wish to avoid double-staffing, conflicts of interest, political drama, and stick to what we do best: relief work.

To be sure, we hope these efforts succeed to ameliorate and heal great suffering and misery for countless people. Therefore we believe it is of paramount import to ensure the least friction between international aid agencies.

If given your permission, I'd like to attend this initial meeting, even if simply as an observer. Please advise what capacity you'd welcome such representation from Listeneisse, and our region, the Warzone of the Defenders: observers only, advisors (viz-a-viz prior experience or as members of UN IRCO), or as a possible member.

Sincerely,

RR J. D. Omnisterra

The Right Reverend J. D. Omnisterra
Abbot General of the Order of White Monks (OWM)
Castle Carbonek, Kingdom of Listeneisse

OOC: Doing this now as I'm generally not online during Monday through Friday. I'd like to note I'm not sure what the Red Cross does (my ignorance), so this is just a way to emphasise certain functions.

IC: "I believe that the IRCO should not be just a relief organisation." Fotheringown pushed her glasses up higher a fraction as she consulted her notes. "I believe the functions should be expanded. There is an organisation, I believe, called the Doctors without borders, more properly called and excuse my french, Médecins Sans Frontières."

She looked around the conference table, trying to gauge reactions. "Where we stay and set up hospitals, or a Civil Engineering Corps to rebuild damaged infrastructure, provide temporary housing and the like. This is also an option, to provide police forces to keep the peace, though this falls more into a military purview.

"Nevertheless, I feel that if we are to help, we should also provide the expertise, knowledge and equipment, instead of just providing aid and then leaving them to their own devices."

OOC: apologies for the short post.

IC:
A fancy government learjet (recently confiscated by the government after they noticed a severe lack of diplomatic aircraft), with the paint of the emblems still fresh on side of the plane, it began to approach the nation of Largent. Though still outside of their waters/national borders, the pilot began the standard procedure of contacting and requesting permission to land.

"This is Corpse Diplomatiqué CD-044, requesting permission to enter Largent airspace." And thus thei waited for a response.

In the passenger compartment Kellus Constantine, the minister of foreign affairs waited patiently as well, prepared his paperwork and was making changes to his speech. He felt good and confident about the diplomatic success of this mission, and with some extra fiscal support, the International Red Cross will become very successful.

The Right Reverend J. D. Omnisterra did not like to travel. It made his bones ache to sit cooped up in an international flight for so many hours. Especially when he would only pay for a coach flight.

"A bit of suffering might be good for the soul," he mused. It was nowhere near as severe as wearing a hair shirt or flogging onself as monastics of ages past had done.

No, in comparison this was far less terrible. He simply had to tolerate cramped seating and a rather overly-oily bag of crisps. He was glad for the frequent offers of ice water.

Once the majority of the passengers had departed off the front of the aircraft, the grey-haired Abbot General of the Order of White Monks stood and took his small carry-on bag of clothes out of the overhead bin, leaving seat 37E far behind.

After clearing customs, he took a taxicab directly to the location of the new Red Cross headquarters, in the hopes that prompt arrival would make a good impression.

Dear Mr. Dorhety,

After consulting with my superiors, I would be honoured to participate in your organisation. Even my opponents support the idea of such a humanitarian body. The leaders of my nation yearn for sound diplomacy, and I feel that through this Red Cross, we can spread understanding and hope for the future. I look forward to seeing you during negotiations.

Bruce Brike, Minister of Foreign Relations,
On behalf of His Majesty, Holy Emperor Anthony IV,
The Sensible Scepter of South Valhalla

The Abbot checked and double-checked the adress to make sure he was in the right place. It seemed so.

He looked about for someone to direct him to where the meeting was to be held. If he was early, could they tell him of any old place to get a decent cup of tea while he waited?

Minister Brike stepped off the steamship dock in city of Wincha. He checked his briefing for the location of the meeting, hoping that he wouldn't be late. Feeling excited about the founding, he called a cab that would take him to the appointed headquarters building.

[ooc: sorry about this being late, RL has been busy.]

President Dorhety stood at the head of the enormous table as assistants from all over the faciluties guided delegates into the room. Dorhety greeted each one with a warm smile and soon identified each face with messages he had received in the past few days. It took several moments before all the delegates were settled before he began.

"Greetings. I have met nearly all of you, if we haven't feel free to approach me after this meeting has commenced. Now, I can tell by you messages that there is much to discuss. I know one of you has an amendment to propose to the document you will all find in front of you. However, there are a few questions I was sent that I would like to adress:

1. Are UN-member nations barred from membership in, or offering assistance to, this new Red Cross?

Of course not. We may not be associated but we will turn our backs on no one.

2. Are UN-member nations allowed to ask for assistance from this new Red Cross?

Certainly, although they already have the IRCO so we may not be their first choice.

3. Will member nations of this new Red Cross be willing to respond to international crises identified by the IRCO?

I do not speak for any nation other than my own but I should hope so.

4. What if a member state of this new Red Cross decides to join the UN?

This organization will not oppose such actions in any way.

"Now, I believe Mr. Fotheringown has a proposed ammendment":
"I believe that the IRCO should not be just a relief organisation." Fotheringown pushed her glasses up higher a fraction as she consulted her notes. "I believe the functions should be expanded. There is an organisation, I believe, called the Doctors without borders, more properly called and excuse my french, Médecins Sans Frontières."

She looked around the conference table, trying to gauge reactions. "Where we stay and set up hospitals, or a Civil Engineering Corps to rebuild damaged infrastructure, provide temporary housing and the like. This is also an option, to provide police forces to keep the peace, though this falls more into a military purview.

"Nevertheless, I feel that if we are to help, we should also provide the expertise, knowledge and equipment, instead of just providing aid and then leaving them to their own devices."

President Dorhety coniserded the statement for a moment then began, "Well, we definately will not be providing police seeing as we wish to maintain neutrality but I think providing more than supplies should be something we take pride in. Does anyone else have an opinion or second proposal?"

[OOC: I'll assume I flew in, even though I never posted it.]

Albert Senit nodded, almost in agreement, but then he began to arch his eyes and move his mouth as if he didn't agree. What really had pesked him was the latter arguments, and he quickly rose to take the floor,

I think that in any case that we pursue we should take notice that this would be an emergency relief organization. So, the question lies at, what is the line? As Largent's delegate said, there should never be police, or anything that hints towards militarization, simply because of the fact that this is the international red cross, and not the international military force. With that said, I do agree with the idea that we need to expand our funds from just money and other consumibles, and give nations in need our expertise on the matters.

He paused, looking around the room, seeing how people's faces responded to his ideas. He then continued after a slow swallow,

Furthermore, I suggest, which I think has been suggested before, that we reserve a groupings of funds to give to engineers who are sent to the disaster area. These engineers do not necessarilly need to be a body of the IRCO, it could very well be from the Golden Throne, however, they would be able to receive funds from IRCO in order to propel them through their reconstruction, or whatever have you, duties. These duties would include the construction of hospitals, refugee camps, et cetera.

He then pushed himself back to show that he was done.

Bruce Brike stood, taking the floor.

"I fully agree with Mr. Senit. Medical assistance from an international body ought to have no influence over a conflict between nations. If we were to take on the role of a military mediator, perhaps our efforts would lead to a rival of the United Nations," he said, looking around.

"I do not think that is what the High Charter of Largent, or Mr. Dorhety, intended.

However, the abilities of this organization should be expanded to include the rebuilding of infrastructure to damaged areas. By doing this, we may be able to reverse the effects of war, which would aid the return to peace. Thank you," he said, seating himself.

Fotheringown leaned into the mic. "It was only an option to suggest. I officially withdraw the... Concept of a police/military force within the IRCO.

"What about the other options? Providing technical and engineering expertise, instead of just aid?"

Takigora nodded to himself while the other delegates made their points. Choosing his own turn after Fotheringown's question, he stood and began to speak. His voice was calm but assertive, carrying the confidence and tact of a man who has done this sort of thing his entire life.

"I agree with the idea that we need to aid in engineering and construction. Too often this is mostly overlooked by aid organizations. People need places to live and be nourished and utilities to live comfortably and safely. It should be within our scope to aid in the rebuilding of infastructure. The more effort we put into it, the faster that civilian populations can get their lives back on track, which I think we all agree is a necessity."

Slowly nodding once as he scanned the room, he lowered himself back to his seat.

The Abbot waited for some time to deliver what seemed to be a familiar explanation of his nation's aid programmes, tailored to the present discussion.

"I shall offer my own nation's response capabilities, as per one of our top relief organizations: the Knights of the Order of the Temple of the Holy Grail, abbreviated KOTHG, or, the 'Grail Templars' for short."

"They are a military-religious order, a brotherhood of knights, direct agents of the King. They also have well-trained professional sergeants of commoner social class. They have their own helicopters and aircraft for air transport, some construction capabilities (though not as robust as our military construction battalions), ground transports, and yes," he paused to admit, "they have guns if they need them."

Continuing, he described their capabilities, "We give them great leeway to learn what they wish to respond to the nation's most grave and immediate problems, or potential problems. What they call their 'field work.' Many of them are trained surgeons and doctors, specializing in battlefield trauma. Others are quite crack engineers, ministers, pilots, air-sea rescue specialists, law enforcement-types, forensics experts, firefighters, wilderness-survival outdoorsmen and naturalists, meteorologists, chemists, logistical quartermasters, and so on. They cross-train with our military and forestry services, our branches of law, our hospitals, and our church. Each one is encouraged to have specialities that would enable them to be handy in a pinch. And when they are not doing the above, they train with those guns."

"However," he admitted, "they know not every event needs guns. They can stow them away before they arrive. They can come as strict civilians if ordered by our government, or, externally, by the hosting nation or coalition. This is presently the case in Domnonia and other nations where they are currently deployed assisting various failed states in the International Democratic Union."

Countering this, he spoke, "They can also come as peacekeepers, with light weapons only. Or, if they need, they can come loaded to bear, fully armed, including machine guns on helicopters, automatic cannons on personnel carriers, mortars and even towed howitzers. They may do this when operating in integration with our military forces in a true combat zone. All of this is tailored to their mission."

"Aside from the Grail Templars, we have two religous monastic orders. The Order of Grey Nuns, or OGN, and the Order of White Monks, or OWM. I am the Abbot of the OWM. We provide hospital care, counseling, schooling, and community development -- keenly needed after disaster strikes or war uproots populaces. We have our own nurses and doctors since we run the nation's best charitable hospitals. We offer far better general pediatrics and gynocological care than the Templars, and," he gave a bit of a smile over his reading glasses, "I'd daresay we have better dentists."

He then continued soberly, "Yet we shall not hide who we are at heart. We are Christian orders, especially the Grail Templars. While we are valiant and willing to risk our presence in time of war entirely unarmed for combat, we'd prefer not to be sent into regions where our faith would be expressly targeted for murder. Martyrdom is indeed part of Christian tradition, yet we'd prefer not to put our lives at needless, pointless hazard."

"Many times, our nuns and monks partner with the Grail Templars. They provide security and 'first in' services to ensure that there is an area of calm. Then the nuns or monks can operate from secured relief stations and refugee camps. It is one of the few ways to successfully work if there is a chaotic situation. At other times, if there is stability provided by other means or by the nature of the event, we all go in side-by-side, unarmed. However, I can assure you from personal experience in my younger days, I was glad to have the Grail Templars present to get me out of some sticky wickets."

"A note for heralds and vexillological scientists is that the Grail Templars use as their heraldic device a red cross on white. Like the Cross of St. George. We call it the Cross of St. Josephus, but it looks the same, and many sometimes visually confuse it with the Red Cross's blazon of the red Greek cross on white. In fact, this is the same device as used on our national flag. The Grail Templars, by tradition, still wear a surcoat over their uniforms with this design. The way to distinguish is that the Greek cross does not extend to the border of the design, but is centered on the field, whereas the Cross of St. Josephus (or St. George) extends to the edges on all four sides."

"We have many other governmental groups, like our forestry service, our military, logistical and transportation experts, who we can provide in wider context of disaster and war response. They would have the heavy equipment to repair dams, dykes, bridges, ports and airports, deal with disarmament of bombs, debriefing of combatants or decontamination of warzones. Our nuns are good, but few of them are trained to clear landmines. And none wish to step on them. Even the Grail Templars, apart from one or two, turn to our army to deal with bombs, mines, and weapons of mass destruction."

"Of course, there are other non-denominational charitable organizations in our nation. What I describe is simply who we traditionally send when first called to help."

"We are certainly willing to adhere to what this organization requires from us when the rules are eventually set forth, when responding as part of the context of this organization. If, by our presentation, there would be any questions or desire to address any point, I'd be glad to answer."

With that, he sat.

Dorehty sat and listened to the lengthy explination the Listeneisse delegate gave. Feeling that he should give closure to previous arguments before going astray he stood. "Firstly, I would just like to say that I feel that it is unanimous, we will later creat an official amendment to say that we can provide engineering expertise, construction, along with other things, excluding military. Someone tell me if I'm wrong.

"Second, I would just like to make it clear to Listeneisse that nothing will be expected of them from the Red Cross. Secondly, although having a relief organization have some military/peackeeping authority make work in Listeneisse I can assure you it wont go over will with nations who are having us as guests within their borders. Also, I will repeat myself in saying that this is a neutral organization and that is one thing that is non-negotiable."

"Would anyone else like the floor?"

[ooc: bump]

The Abbot listened to see if anyone else had any comments. Holding his glasses, he reviewed the copy of the charter that was provided, "(4) to carry out a system of national and international relief in time of peace, and apply that system in mitigating the suffering caused by pestilence, famine, fire, floods, and other great international calamities, and to devise and carry out measures for preventing those calamities."

Looking up from the document, he reflected, "This would seem to indicate the charter already expresses the purpose to 'devise and carry out measures' to mitigate calamities, which likely would include engineering projects for, say, flood control or forest fire prevention."

"Within these provisions, it would also fall to the Red Cross to teach, if welcomed, about International Humanitarian Laws, often called IHL. While many nations are not members of the United Nations, there are certain governing documents, such as the Geneva Convention, which we might like all nations to ascribe to. Whether they do or not, of course, is up to the nation itself, and in part, possibly influenced by whatever education programmes we have to hand and set up."

"By the way, it is not against the Geneva Convention for medical units to be armed, to have armed escorts, or even use arms in their own defense, as per Convention I, Chapter III, Article 22. Red Cross workers are more likely to be reserved exclusively to serve the wounded or sick, and should be treated as Chapter IV, Articles 24 and 26 cover. What is best, of course, is to create properly demarked hospital zones or localities with the agreement of all parties involved with a conflict."

Here he paused.

"Yet not every AK-47-toting would-be warlord really cares much about ascribing to the Geneva Convention, especially when he is wholesale liquidating a contending tribe or a political rival's troops. If he is convinced you are harboring his enemies, he may slaughter your relief group as well."

"We would of course have to separate clearly whether our Grail Templars were present as Red Cross personnel or not. If they were Red Cross personnel, it would be traditional that they would be unarmed. However, I do wish to point out that, neither according to the Nationstates Red Cross Charter here, or according to the Geneva Convention, is it a firm requirement for any personnel to be disarmed, nor would it constitute a reason to remove protected status from any Red Cross personnel so equipped under the Geneva Convention, so long as they did not act in an offensive capacity. And if anyone could teach about international law, instill discipline in developing militaries, and so on, well, our Grail Templars are better than that than our nuns."

The Abbot seemed to have other points to make, but waited for the rest of the delegates to speak their peace, or, based on the host nation's prior response, change the subject. He knew much of what he was saying was likely to be interpreted as anathema to some of them. It was time to see what sort of rational discourse could be had between them all now, before they actually had to respond to a 'fair barney,' as Prince Kardiez would describe some of the less pleasant carnages.

"(4) to carry out a system of national and international relief in time of peace, and apply that system in mitigating the suffering caused by pestilence, famine, fire, floods, and other great international calamities, and to devise and carry out measures for preventing those calamities."


"Yes, we may merely wish to word it slightly differently but then again we may not, at least we have mutually agreed that, whether or not the wording suites us all, engineering and such will be provided.

"Secondly, there is a great difference between taking precautions to protect the safety of volunteers in an active war zone and having a trained force marhing around. In short, if we stay out of the line of fire, stay totally neutral, and tread lightly in testy regions, our staff should be safe from anything other than say terrorists but that will just be a problem we face when we come to it. However, if you do send your Grail Templars in be advised that they can't really be considered neutral and will therefor not be assosiated with this organization and we can't stop you from sending them but you are responsible for the outcomes.

"Finally, agreeing to the Geneva Convention and other certain treates is mentioned somewhere in the charter. Agreeing to the treaties in total is not required, nor shall we make it a requirement, but certain parts which are open for discussion now will be enforced while aiding in the aftermath of tragedies.

"Those are my opinions, anyone else?"

[ooc: c'mon, someone else must have an opinion]

The Abbot waited for others to participate before speaking again. He seemed ready and keen, but also patient and inclusive of other opinions.

Bah, we will have NOTHING to do with international aid, its every nation for itself.

Bah, we will have NOTHING to do with international aid, its every nation for itself.

Please, if you don't have anything positive to contribute don't post in this thread/ BUMP.

"If I recall my history correctly, the Red Cross got its beginnings by being, what I suppose would be spoken of in the modern age, 'embedded' within military organizations. Hence why medical personnel in the military are still permitted to bear the Greek red cross on white. It's historically important to note that our own military also bears this symbol, as do most military services, and even civilian private or governmental ambulance corps, even though they are not part of the Red Cross organization per se. If we are establishing a Red Cross movement it is up to us all to determine what restrictions we shall operate within."

"Yet, I can see the point of your objections. You would wish for us to establish a wholly separate Red Cross agency, apart from any other aid organization." With a sigh, he also guessed, "Probably even secular."

Reservedly, he added, "Neutral, as it were."

"I'd have to bring such a proposition to His Majesty. He makes health and human services a priority, but he does loathe duplication of mission and funding. This is like asking us to stick a new arm on, rather than use the limbs we have. Right now, our Red Cross contributions are drawn from existing services, including the Grail Templars. They are keenly involved with this. Otherwise, we'll have to extricate the Grail Templars from the work, and staff our Red Cross organization solely from the OWM and OGN, which are Crown-sponsored Church organizations. If this does not meet the needs of the 'neutrality' provision, at last resort, we'll just turn it all over to civilian volunteers. Such restrictions, you must understand, will severely limit its capabilities and curtail the crown's ability to offer funds."

"As of now, our UN Red Cross efforts have not had a great deal of restriction placed on them. We are called for humanitarian missions, and we respond with what we have at hand. I'd be glad if you could either codify the restrictions of funding and response for all member nations as you might percieve them, or simply waive restrictions for now, allow each participating nation to offer what it felt best for humanitarian relief, and see what develops over time."

Changing tempo, he ventured, "The Red Cross' challenge today is how to remain 'neutral' in a highly fractured, chaotic landscape of humanitarian relief. How does it set aside issues of race, religious and economic differences, ongoing war, purposeful genocide, anarchic conditions and -- most importantly -- succeed in its mission to deliver relief to both combatants and civilian populations alike? While it may wish to keep to its principle of neutrality, others, in both sponsoring nations as well as in aid recipient areas, will attempt to ignore such status and gun them down, subvert the situation to their advantage or make it into a mockery rendering aid impossible. In many cases, standing on principles undermines the basic mission of getting the task of medical and humanitarian aid accomplished."

"Already, if we look at a typical warzone, we might see the following: two or more combatant forces, a possible regional and/or a UN peacekeeping mission force, UN IRCO, other NGOs, and now, NSRC resources. If, for instance, someone decides to lob mortars into a Red Cross refugee camp which was accused of harboring combatants, would the Red Cross pull out because they need to remain neutral, wait until another organization relieved them then pulled out, refuse offers of military assistance to protect the camp, or stay there disarmed and become willing targets?"

"I propose that, aside from this organizational meeting you have put forth on the Charter -- which I find wholly satisfactory -- that we have serious discussions about the operations of the NSRC, for pragmatic issues, policies and procedures. When and how does the Red Cross get involved in a crisis? When does it hold back and wait for others to go first? When does it take over from or turn over issues to military or civil authorities? What is the military affairs protocol? Otherwise, you may simply be adding risks and potential casualties to an international crisis."

Dorhety, shrugged, if Listeneisse really wanted to get military involved some way he guessed he alone could not stop them. "Well, that idea may work but of course we would need others here to agree..." he gestured about the room to the other delegates.

ooc: It would be helpful if other delegates would respond...

Fotheringown rubbed her eyes. "The response should be handled on a case-by-case basis. Nevertheless, if there is demonstratable need for the NSRC's services, we should provide it.

"How will we define demonstratable need? When the government, authorities, or whatever tinpot dictator or mogul cannot provide the basic services for their citizens. Even if it's not asked for, the safety and wellbeing of lives is our reason for being.

"Understandably, this may bring us into... Disagreement with said authority figures, but that's what we're here for. It would also conceivably put NSRC personnel at risk, which is why they should all be volunteers and told what they're getting themselves into."

Fotheringown rubbed her eyes. "The response should be handled on a case-by-case basis. Nevertheless, if there is demonstratable need for the NSRC's services, we should provide it.

"How will we define demonstratable need? When the government, authorities, or whatever tinpot dictator or mogul cannot provide the basic services for their citizens. Even if it's not asked for, the safety and wellbeing of lives is our reason for being.

"Understandably, this may bring us into... Disagreement with said authority figures, but that's what we're here for. It would also conceivably put NSRC personnel at risk, which is why they should all be volunteers and told what they're getting themselves into."

Dorhety nodded in agreement, "Your proposition sounds reasonable and if no other delegates have an opinion on the subject I believe we should move on to other matters."

The Abbot General listened to the representative from Adejaani. "Quite so. We can disagree with leadership. Part of 'neutrality' does mean that the Red Cross can vary from the official position of the government that sponsors it. This often can get members of the Red Cross in trouble, with accusations of harboring enemies of the state. For instance, if a Red Cross field hospital took in enemy combatants, it would be well within its rights, under the principle of neutrality, to not turn them over to their enemies as prisoners of war. However, it might occur that the enemy combatants will come and take them prisoners of war regardless, which must be objected to, but carefully done."

"Oddly, our being clergy has helped in that regard. It is somewhat like seeking sanctuary on church ground, which our nation respects deeply. Obviously, to many other nations in the world, such reverence would not be respected or even understood."

"'Neutrality' is a position itself. It is a politic. It needs to be formally defined, so that we might all understand the spirit of it, and not merely take it to mean, 'avoid unpleasant subjects we'd rather not face.' Because the wars we shall respond to are real. The lives of my charges -- the clergy and lay brethren, and the secular volunteers -- are not to be frittered away because we were rather unclear as to how to effectively operate in a warzone. Neither should the lives of those we take to care for in the affected missions. I again bring to the hosting nation the prospect of drawing up guidelines -- they do not need to be exhaustive or proscriptive -- but best practices, policies and procedures to follow on how we should operate."

Yet relenting somewhat in tone and relaxing his body, he said, "It may be best to define the more guiding documents -- on the principles of the Red Cross movement. What our aims are, what we hope to achieve. For from that, we may better decide what those policies and procedures should be, drawing from a common shared vision of what we are, and what we are meant to do."

ooc: I've added some ideas to the OOC thread on this: Some RL References to the Red Cross (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?p=9728329#post9728329). We might just want to accept, de facto, RL documents of the Red Cross, but I think they might be 'too much' for NationStates. We might want similar, but simpler structures for NSRC, and include a mix of IC and OOC rules to abide in our roleplay.

"You had wished to move on to other matters?" the Abbot reminded the host.

"Yes, although my government has no current objections to the charter so we would require the suggestions and opinions of others before we continue any farther."

"A clarification," the Abbott asked, "In this, it speaks about this being a Federal Charter, and it infers it is for your nation, and to work, in the second section, with the 'International Committee of the Red Cross.' I found this a bit confusing, since apparently you are forming this as the international NationStates Red Cross, and there is the UN International Red Cross Organization -- IRCO -- but there is no other International Committee of the Red Cross. Could you clarify whether this is a document for your national institution, or whether this is for an international institution? If so, then it might need more on how nations outside of yours join or cooperate with the institution, what is required of them to remain members or affiliates of the Red Cross, how such recognition might be denied or revoked, and so forth."

(ooc: Please see my comments in the OOC NSRC Thread (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?p=9728329#post9728329))

Dohrety paused momentarily looking for the right words, "Well, I agree it is worded funny, but what the International Committee of the RC implies is simply representatives from each member state gathering to form a sort of committee. Any nation outside the RC would have no interaction with this committee until they applied for membership.

"As for you ideas about an ICRC and an IFRC, I think that they should be parts of the NSRC and will be established by member states and will be voluntary for member states to take part in or participate in. However, it isn't soley up to me and should be voted upon by the member states attending this meeting."

ooc: I updated the OOC discussion, I propose we combine ICRC & IFRC into one NSRC (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?p=9785939#post9785939).

"Well, then, let's have a closer look at this Charter, and see if it serves as an International Charter."
Section 1—Organization (a) FEDERAL CHARTER. The Nationstates International Red Cross (in this chapter, the "corporation") is a body corporate and politic in the Wincha. (b) NAME. The name of the corporation is "The Nationstates International Red Cross". (c) PERPETUAL EXISTENCE. Except as otherwise provided, the corporation has perpetual existence.
So far, so good. Yet I still wonder about the "Federal Charter" wording, and the citation of "Wincha," and wonder if that means that other nations might not feel as equal signatories to the legality of its constitution.
Section 2—Purposes The purposes of the corporation are: (1) to provide volunteer aid in time of war to the sick and wounded of the armed forces, in accordance with the spirit and conditions of: (A) the conference of Geneva of October, 1863; (B) the treaties of the Red Cross, or the treaties of Geneva, of August 22, 1864, July 27, 1929, and August 12, 1949, to which the United States of America...

ooc: Need to remove references to the United States. This is why I was saying this is a 'national charter;' it needs to say something like 'the undersigning nations' or the like, to be more inclusive of present signatories or future signatories.

...has given its adhesion; and (C) any other treaty, convention, or protocol similar in purpose to which the member nations have given or may give their adhesion; (2) in carrying out the purposes described in clause (1) of this section, to perform all the duties devolved on a national society by each nation that has acceded to any of those treaties, conventions, or protocols;
ooc: Again, this infers it is a national society charter. While this is a good draft for other people to have to adhere to -- a 'straw dog' for each of us to draft up our own national Charter, it is improper in structure for an international charter, statute, or constitution.

(3) to act in matters of voluntary relief and in accordance with the military authorities as a medium of communication between the people of the member nations and the armed forces of the member nations and to act in those matters between similar international societies of governments of other countries through the International Committee of the Red Cross and the Government, the people, and the armed forces of the member nations;

ooc: Mentions ICRC, which does not exist in NS, and again infers this is a national, not international, charter. We should have NSRC clearly be the international "ICRC/IFRC" combination organization. We should also clearly mention the UN IRCO, as a peer international organization for humanitarian relief which we should cooperate with when operating in UN member nation territory. Then each nation needs to have its own (single) Red Cross/Red Crescent national chapter, which should be recognized by and be able to cooperate with both UN IRCO and/or NSRC.

...and (4) to carry out a system of national and international relief in time of peace, and apply that system in mitigating the suffering caused by pestilence, famine, fire, floods, and other great international calamities, and to devise and carry out measures for preventing those calamities.

"Again, much of this language is applicable to a national chapter organization. The basic mission is the same," continued the meticulous Abbot.

Section 3—Membership and Chapters (a) MEMBERSHIP. Membership in the corporation is open to all the people of Nationstates, on payment of an amount specified in the bylaws.
"Individual membership should be held in the national chapters of an organization, to be afforded however each nation wishes to. If in your nation you charge membership dues, and if in another nation membership is sustained by governmental grant and does not require dues, this is up to each nation to decide. Otherwise, some might see this as an economic opportunity for the host nation, which I am sure was not your intent. Yes, it is likely to be run as a non-profit organization -- dues would be modest -- yet the allegation of international funds transfer of memberships to this nation will be brought up, and possibly seen as a 'poll tax' for participation.

"Consider instead," he suggested, "criteria whereby national chapters will be recognized by the international organization. What contributed funds from member nations shall be required, if they are at all, and how they might be held in trust by the NSRC for all member nations."
(b) CHAPTERS. (1) The chapters of the corporation are the local units of the corporation."National," coughed the Abbot.
The board of governors shall prescribe regulations related to: (A) granting charters to the chapters and revoking those charters; (B) territorial jurisdiction of the chapters;...
"We should hope that the international body of the NSRC will not be dictating the territorial jurisdiction of national chapters, as that should be done within each member nation, and the member nation's national chapter should dictate local territorial boundaries."
(C) the relationship of the chapters to the corporation; and (D) compliance by the chapters with the policies and regulations of the corporation.
"I also have been wondering about the term 'Corporation,' as this means that the NSRC is subject to corporate law. In most nations where a Red Cross organization is already founded, it is considered a special entity, even in the United Nations. Consider preserving this special legal status for the international body."
(2) The regulations shall require that each chapter adhere to the democratic principles of election specified in the bylaws in electing the governing body of the chapter and selecting delegates to the international convention of the corporation.
"Again, this is sufficient for one nation's national chapter, but other nations might use executive or legislative appointment. The international body of the NSRC should generally allow the national chapters to determine leadership according to their own charters and bylaws, unless this shall be a policy dictated by the international body, to which national charters must subscribe."
Section 4—Board of Governors (a) BOARD OF GOVERNORS. (1) The board of governors is the governing body of the corporation with all powers of governing and managing the corporation
Adjusting his glasses, the Abbot noted, "A period seems to have dropped off here."
The board has 50 members. The governors shall be appointed or elected in the following manner: (A) The President shall appoint 8 governors, one of whom the President shall designate to act as the principal officer of the corporation with the title and functions provided in the bylaws. The other governors appointed by the President shall be officials of departments and agencies of various national Governments, whose positions and interests qualify them to contribute to carrying out the programs and purposes of the corporation. At least one, but not more than 3, of those officials shall be selected from the armed forces.
All of this seems to be appropriate for a national chapter, yet do we wish this for an international organization? For a President to personally select 16% of the international board?
(B) The chapters shall elect 30 governors at the international convention under procedures for nomination and election that ensure equitable representation of all chapters, with regard to geographical considerations, the size of the chapters, and the size of the populations served by the chapters.ooc: I don't know how we'd run this sort of election of the board. Are you presuming it would be all 'gnomes'? Or would these be actual positions we'd vote for? If so, we might need a polling method for just signatories to NSRC.
(C) The board shall elect 12 governors as members-at-large. Those governors shall be individuals who are representative of the international interests that the corporation serves, and with which it is desirable that the corporation have close association. (2) One-third of the members elected to the board shall be elected at each international convention, and take office at that time or as soon as practicable after the convention.
ooc: I am hoping that you don't expect this to actually get 50 players consistently holding these offices. You might need an OOC convention of how people pretend they are part of it, like "UN Member" or "UN Delegate" status. Or, utterly relegate the "Board" functions to gnomes.
(b) TERM OF OFFICE AND VACANCIES. (1) The term of office of each governor is 3 years. However, the term of office of a governor appointed by the President (except the principal officer of the corporation) expires if, before the end of the 3-year term, the governor retires from the official position held at the time of appointment as a governor.
ooc: If this is to actually be done as RP, you'll probably need shorter terms. Given the turn-over of players here, you'll have a lot of vacancies too.
(2) The President shall fill as soon as practicable a vacancy in the office of the principal officer of the corporation or in the position of another governor appointed by the President. The board shall make a temporary appointment to fill a vacancy occurring in an elected position on the board. An individual appointed by the board to fill a vacancy serves until the next international convention.My guess is the President would be a busy fellow, unless we either make this a gnomish mission, or we skinny down the board, or change it so that it's more run by "whoever shows up to RP."
(c) EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE. The board may: (1) appoint, from its own members, an executive committee of at least 11 individuals to exercise the powers of the board when the board is not in session; and (2) appoint and remove, or provide for the appointment and removal of, officers and employees of the corporation, except the principal officer of the corporation.
ooc: Would we really need both Board and Exec Committee? Or should we simplfy for the sake of NS?
(d) VOTING BY PROXY. Voting by proxy is not allowed at any meeting of the board, at the international convention, or at any meeting of a chapter. However, the board may allow the election of governors by proxy at the national convention if the board believes a national emergency makes attendance at the national convention impossible.
"Might we allow more modern means of communication so that people could indeed vote by teleconferencing?" the Abbot enquired. "I agre we should not allow proxy votes to be cast, but allow remote voting systems to be employed, to ensure that quorums can be met more easily and without incurring travel expenditures and global travel time commitments."
Section 5—Powers (a) GENERAL. The corporation may: (1) adopt bylaws and regulations; (2) adopt, alter, and destroy a seal; (3) own and dispose of property to carry out the purposes of the corporation; (4) accept gifts, devises, and bequests of property to carry out the purposes of the corporation; (5) sue and be sued in courts of law and equity, State or Federal, within the jurisdiction of the Militaristic Union of Largent or any other member nation; and (6) do any other act necessary to carry out this chapter and promote the purposes of the corporation. (b) DESIGNATION. The corporation is designated as the organization which is authorized to act in matters of relief under the treaties of Geneva, August 22, 1864, July 27, 1929, and August 12, 1949.
"All quite appropriate.

Section 6—Emblem, Badge, and Brassard (a) EMBLEM AND BADGE. In carrying out its purposes under this chapter, the corporation may have and use, as an emblem and badge, a Greek red cross on a white ground, as described in the treaties of Geneva, August 22, 1864, July 27, 1929, and August 12, 1949, and adopted by the nations acceding to those treaties. (b) DELIVERY OF BRASSARD. In accordance with those treaties, the delivery of the brassard allowed for individuals neutralized in time of war shall be left to military authority."You might also mention that it has the symbol of the Red Crescent in nations where it is known as the Red Crescent Society, and now, the religiously-neutral Red Crystal (http://www.icrc.org/Web/Eng/siteeng0.nsf/iwpList91/303D86D1C5F553DCC1256E3E004E3466)."
Section 7—Annual Meeting The annual meeting of the corporation is the international convention of delegates of the chapters. The national convention shall be held annually on a date and at a place specified by the board of governors. In matters requiring a vote at the international convention, each chapter is entitled to at least one vote. The board shall determine on an equitable basis the number of votes that each chapter is entitled to cast, taking into consideration the size of the membership of the chapters and of the populations served by the chapters. The board shall review the allocation of votes at least every 5 years.
ooc: If we are to do this, it might be something like "every nation with less than 1 billion people gets 1 vote, and 1 additional vote per 1 billion population at the time of the opening of the conference... *if* you are actually going to have an annual conference.
Section 8—Buildings (a) OWNERSHIP. The Militaristic Union of Largent shall retain ownership of the corporation’s permanent headquarters, comprised of buildings erected on square 172 in the City of Wincha, including: (1) the memorial building to commemorate the service and sacrifice of the women of Nationstates, erected for the use of the corporation; (2) the memorial building to commemorate the service and sacrifice of the patriotic women of Nationstates, its territories and possessions, in all Nationstates wars, erected for the use of the corporation; and (3) the permanent building erected for the use of the corporation in connection with its work in cooperation with the Nationstates Governments. (b) MAINTENANCE AND EXPENSES. Those buildings shall remain under the supervision of the Administrator of General Services. However, the corporation shall care for and maintain the buildings without expense to the Government."This looks to have been written as a national charter wit the word "Nationstates" substituted for the name of the particular nation it was originally authored for. It also seemed jarring at first reading to note the statues to the patriotic women of Nationstates, and 'its territories and possessions.'"
Section 9—Endowment Fund The endowment fund of the corporation shall be kept and invested under the management and control of a board of 9 trustees elected by the board of governors. The board of governors shall prescribe regulations on terms and tenure of office, accountability, and expenses of the board of trustees.
"Prudent."
Section 10—Annual Report and Audit (a) SUBMISSION OF REPORT. As soon as practicable after July 1 of each year, the corporation shall submit a report to the Secretary of Defense of all member nations on the activities of the corporation during the fiscal year ending June 30, including a complete, itemized report of all receipts and expenditures.
"May each nation request a different designated recipient of this report? Perhaps a copy also to each national chapter of the Red Cross or Red Crescent Society?"
(b) AUDITING OF REPORT AND SUBMISSION TO CONGRESS’. The Secretary shall audit the report and submit a copy of the audited report to Congress’ of member nations."We don't have a congress. A bit of parliamentary procedure, but that is mostly for internal provincial activities. We have an executive branch and judiciary for our national government. Again, it might be good for each nation to specify to whom the report shall be delivered to."
(c) PAYMENT OF AUDIT EXPENSES. The corporation shall reimburse the Secretary each year for auditing its accounts. The amount paid shall be deposited in the Treasury of the member nations as a miscellaneous receipt."We have no problems reimbursing funds expended by the international organization, especially for financial oversite, but this raises the entire concept of how the International NSRC (INRC?) shall be funded through contribution, both for ongoing general operations as well as for specific funds related to particular programmes or missions."

With that, the Abbot took off his reading glasses to listen to others around the room.

"It seems conversation on chartering seems to have tapered off," the Abbot noted.

"Might we speak instead about missions and present needs? If you wish, there is a current conflict that could use Red Cross assistance. The revolt in Zodno-Pomorskie (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=449605) is worsening. Perhaps we could gather around discussion of this incident, and others that might have come to our collective attention, and figure out how to respond to them."