NationStates Jolt Archive

From: NRC-Handelsblad
UN Promotion of Solar Panels threatens Knootian energy, economy
AMSTERDAM – Stockbrokers and economists are anxiously watching the resolution currently at vote in the United Nations, which will make it mandatory for solar panels to be installed on virtually all buildings in UN nations. The resolution, which is currently set to pass with a wide majority, will ban UN nations from burning fossil fuels after an implementation phase of ten years and seven months. According to the UN proposal, all electricity in UN nations will have to be generated by solar panels and other “environmentally friendly methods” such as wind power.

Stock indexes related to UN Nations fell by an average of 3.5% in the AEX. According to leading Knootian economists, the resolution will have widespread and severe economic effects. Most share the opinion that the goal of generating 100% of power by sustainable methods is completely unattainable. "If the ban on fossil fuels is enforced this will lead to blackouts in UN Nations and global economic slowdown," a leaked internal document of the ministry of Economic Affairs said. The document also stated that the project itself, due to the inefficient allocation of resources, is likely to begin causing problems for the Knootian import and export sectors after the first 2-4 years of the implementation phase. The value of Knootian natural gas (a major export product) may also suffer.

The price of Fossil Fuels Futures plummeted by over 39% on average in the Amsterdam Exchange when it became apparent that the resolution is set to pass by an unheard-of majority, greatly diminishing the chances for a quick repeal.

The fossil fuel reserves available to non-UN nations including Knootoss will increase by an order of magnitude if the resolution passes, and Knootian energy corporations have already called on the Daatman administration to take measures against "energy dumping" by UN fossil fuel producers no longer able to produce for their home markets. The projected sustained low price of fossil fuels is also threatening the competitiveness of established fusion power plants.

Hugo Fransman, director of the Environment State-Secretariat also called on the government to take measures to protect the production of green power at home, which is also threatened by the prospect of an influx of extremely cheap fossil fuels. The government is set to announce measures in a press conference tomorrow.


From: Trouw

http://diplomacy.shu.edu/adminfac/academic%20programs/UN_General.jpg
Knootoss UN lobbyists intensify anti-solar lobby

UN HEADQUARTERS – Knootian lobbyists joined the effort today to stop the UN Promotion of Solar Panels resolution from passing. The Daatman administration has sent over specialists from the Dutch Democratic Republic to reinforce the small team at the Knootian UN Representation.

"It is imperative that this resolution fails", a spokesperson for the Knootian UN mission told Trouw. The resolution will ban all burning of fossil fuels in UN Nations after an implementation phase of ten years and seven months, and make solar panels obligatory on all buildings even in countries with insufficient sunlight. "We should cut power to the UN building", a wrathful Aram Koopman stated. "That’ll teach them." The Knootian UN envoy continued to say that "anyone voting for this is absolutely despicable – hippy commie trash. Not to be taken seriously."

The ministry of foreign affairs was quick to emphasise that many, if not most of the most active UN members oppose the resolution, including unanimous opposition by the UN Old Guard. According to a campaign launched by the Guard, the resolutionis based on bad science and has "troubling" economic consequences "This proposal, as written, would be the most economically catastrophic UN proposal ever voted on by this body, due to the requirement of utterly changing the way the world uses energy", the UN Old Guard stated.

The nation originally submitting the resolution has also turned against its creation, but the majority of votes is still in favour. The only Knootian organisation speaking in favour of the resolution has been the Animal Liberation Front, an ecological organisation, which has called it a "daring choice."

From: NRC-Handelsblad, the next day

Zeevalking: Bright side to power problems

THE HAGUE – a joint press conference by the ministers of economic affairs and foreign affairs tried to reassure upset markets today with provisional measures in the wake of the continuing vote on the UN Solar Power resolution as markets enter their fourth consecutive day of dropping with no official result yet in from the United Nations.

The newly appointed minister Zeevalking affirmed that the government would take affirmative action if the resolution was passed. The coalition has agreed to immediately raise taxes on fossil fuels by 12 eurocents to compensate for the price fall if the resolution passes. Zeevalking confessed that this would not fully cover the losses created by the drop in natural gas exports, terming the price raise an “unideal” solution. The government said it would also create an assistance fund of three trillion euros over 10 years to help Knootian domestic wind power plants become more competitive, and it is considering to permanently subsidise green power if lower prices of fossil fuels turn out to be sustainable. Measures to protect the fusion power industry are also being considered, although the SLP in the Staten-Generaal opposes such drastic intervention in the energy market.

Zeevalking told the press that the resolution could be a good thing. "We are getting more cheap energy, and the burden on the environment is significantly reduced without a eurocent of Knootian investment." He considered the prospect of global economic slowdown to be worrying, but emphasised again that most Knootian trade partners are not UN member states. "We musn't overreact. The effect on Knootoss will be limited, perhaps even positive. This is a business opportunity. We can sell cheap energy to UN nations at very competitive rates if we play this smartly. Knootoss could actually be better off." Zeevalking dimissed, partially, the negative conclusions of the report of his own ministry. "This resolution will be good for the Knootian trade balance", he told KNN in a live interview.

Members of the Telidia’s Ariolum gathered to watch the recent news report coming in from various nations and that of Telidia’s TGNN network. The assembled ministers sat weary eyed having worked tirelessly through the night to reassure Parliament and the financial markets the country was not standing on the brink of economic collapse. Members of both parliamentary houses had begun to rally in a single cause against the government’s official position to remain a UN member though calls such as; “First we’ve been hit by a natural disaster the costs of repair is now being calculated in the billions of Telidians Crowns and now we are being hit by another, the stupidity of some of our fellow UN members. We must withdraw our membership at once!” were hard to rebut.

The familiar face of the TGNN reporter focused everyone present’s attention on the television monitors in the Ariolum chambers.

TGNN can exclusively reveal that two thirds of the Executive House now supports an immediate withdrawal of UN membership in the wake of the Solar Energy resolution currently under vote. Though opposition by various factors within the UN is vehemently against the resolution the votes in favour remain ahead at this time. The Independent Energies Consortium comprising of many of Telidia’s major energy producers has been quoted in saying, “the sun is about to set on Telidia and the UN’s economy and we doubt it will rise again for several decades. Our members have seen a rush sale of energy stocks and collectively in the last 24 hrs since voting began, some energy companies have seen a loss of between 10-15% of their values.”

Lydia Cornwall, UN Ambassador at a recent press conference stated, “This resolution could not have come at a worse time for our delegation. Our entire resources are now focused in helping our fellow members understand the long term damage this resolution will bring and I firmly believe we will be able to do so.”

Power still remain unavailable in many of the most heavily affected areas of the recent Earthquake and sources have informed us that it may be “several weeks” before the national power grid return to normal strength. With fears of rising energy prices citizens have taken to buy as much fuel, gas and oil supplies as possible. Minor riots have been reported in certain areas where fuel and oil supplies were already low. Tankers have been unable to reach these areas due to damage of road infrastructure.

In related news, Prime Minister Nadia D’Nion is due to have an emergency Ariolum meeting to discuss the crises and the government’s response. We now go live to our reporter Ricou Yj’ll at the Ariolum Chambers.

“Ricou, what can you tell us of the events there at the moment?”

“Yes indeed, over the last 10 minutes or so ministers have been steadily entering the chambers for the emergency meeting. Nothing is being said, but the mood is quite serious. One junior minister I spoke to earlier stated he doubted the government would survive if this resolution passed. Of course this is only an opinion, but it seems clear that a leadership challenge may be inevitable should matters in the UN not reverse to the contrary. I should add about thirty minutes ago the leaders of more than half the opposition parties delivered a signed petition to the Prime Minister requesting an immediate withdrawal from the UN. One member said to me, it would be an abhorrence to him to watch his people without power, whilst we agree to run our economy to the ground.”

“Do you have any indication whether the government might take such a decision?”

“Well that is a little more complicated than just making a decision. A general vote will have to be brought before both houses and must passed with a two-thirds majority, which will take time. What this petition represents though I feel is a general push to force the government's hand.”

“Thank you Ricou”

We will of course bring you more on the meeting as events unfold.

Signaling to turn the screens off the Prime Minister turns to her Ministers. “Well it seems we need to find a way to defuse this and fast!”

Everyone in the room knew this was going to be long night and from the look of it, the Prime Minister meant action and fast.

Yuri shook her head, unable to believe what she was seeing on the television. It was insane. How could they ban fossil fuels? Where would they get lubricants? Plastics? Tar? She laughed softly, lighting a cigarette, pausing to glance at her lighter, "No lighter fluid either..."

And none of this was taking into account the concept of losing all that fuel. Solar aircraftcarriers with solar fighter jets? The thought amused her, even if it was impossible: you couldn't make steel without burning coke, which was, of course, a fossil fuel.

She blew pale green smoke rings as she thought about the implications. "Wonder how they'll insulate their wires..."

Still, it was a pain in the ass for her. She had a lot of stock to rearrange and quickly. The hardest part was being careful about which she sold and which she bought. A lot of people followed her lead, and the last thing she wanted was to have her profit reduced because others started copying.

Edward Jones laid back in his bed, musing on the latest events. Normally he did not like to think about his work as Minister of UN Affairs while at home, but the recent resolution had occupied much of his attention lately. He watched the artificial sunlight play on the wall of his bedroom and a thought hit him like a fastball in the gut. Unenlightened. He laughed as he realized that proposing the replacement of fossil fuels with solar panels was unenlightened, but quickly regained his sense of the gravity of the increasingly ludicrous situation.

The author of the resolution had already indicated that he would repeal it if passed but would not campaign against it. Almost every delegate who regularly attended UN discussions had expressed their distaste for it, economists lambasted it, scientists were distressed by it, and sovereigntists gnashed their teeth in frustration. Workers in the petrol and plastics industries were depressed because their jobs would be gone within a few years, families wondered how they were to afford so many solar panels, and greedy corporate accountants for the manufacturers of solar-power technology wondered how much money this would make them. More technologically advanced nations shook their heads sadly at the stupidity, and it was rumored that some conspired to build a giant solar-powered laser to destroy Starcra, the nation that had proposed the resolution.

All in all, it was not a thing to take lightly.

With great regret, Lady Destra continued to watch the updated news on the vote of the current UN resolution on solar panels. This resolution itself would disrupt daily life within Euroslavia in a short period of time, seeing as the entire nation wouldn't have the resources to convert the entire nation to solar energy within the ten years given. With this proposal at vote, even citizens of Euroslavia are staying home and keeping track of the news. The overwhelming majority of the nation was opposed to it, and despite the opposition of Euroslavia, as well as its regional allies, the proposal is looking like it may pass.

The future of Euroslavia is now in question, if this poorly written proposal goes through the United Nations. If need be, Euroslavia will withdraw from the organization based on the fact that this resolution would completely disrupt the nations' way of life.

As Lady Destra, as well as the rest of the Cabinet looked the proposal over, they tore it apart.

3) Over the period of ten years and a month after this proposal passes Solar Panels should be installed in all homes and places of work and leisure.

4) After the period of ten years and seven months all burning of fossil fuels shall be halted and electricity shall be generated by Solar Panels, together with and environmentally friendly methods each respective nation should wish to introduce.

"Utterly ridiculous." stated Lady Destra, as she slammed her fist against the table, revealing no sort of pain. "Giving us ten years and seven months to do all of this in our nation is absolutely unattainable. It's simply not possible to convery everything to solar energy. Whoever wrote this proposal needs to get a reality check on things that are realistic and things that are unattainable."

"Well Destra, we cannot let this go on. We've got to do something to prevent this proposal from becoming a resolution. If it passes, we need to launch a campaign to repeal it, or else we withdraw from the UN. Those are our choices..."

After some time of utter silence, during the brief and, in the end, rapidly extuingished revolution inside the Commonality (commonly described in the media as 'insurgency' or 'instability', but never actual outright 'revolution'), it would seem that the Diplomatic Corps is awake again.

At least, it would seem so, because a flurry of communications sweeps around the MISAT network. One such communique wings it's way down through standard channels to the Knootian Government - it's a rather simple statement:

"Our apologies for the silence. Internal difficulties were short-lived, are now stifled. Previous defensive coverage may now be assumed resumed in full.

"On more pressing matters: although we understand Knootoss is not a United Nations member, the Commonality is prepared to provide Knootoss with solar equipment, en masse, via an Imperial Energy contract; we can, of course, for such a trusted and valued ally ensure an excellent deal. Very competitive indeed. No doubt the equipment would fetch a fair price on the open market for Knootoss, as well...

"At any rate, we suggest Knootoss focus on urging it's fellow nations to ignore that particular resolution. It will, after all, only serve to further prove that the United Nations is toothless, pointless, and irrelevent. As, funnily enough, the High King is about to observe in a statement...

"But, again, we urge Knootoss to sign the ASH Treaty, which surely provides greater stability and comfort than the United Nations ever did - including support and protection amongst co-signatories against the economic disruption that that particular organisation seems bent on unleashing on the world.

"Sincerely,"

~ 1st Ambassador Nejure

[OOC: Edited with slight adaptation. Oops, sorry Knoot! Forgot Knootoss isn't in the UN. Doh.]

OOC: Hey Ma-Tek, good to see you. I appreciate your message but you might want to edit it based on the misunderstanding that we are in the UN. In fact, we're not. We do however use the Menelmacar-Tarasovka construction of having a tiny sovereign nation with a Knootian UN office in it to represent us in the general assembly and such. The resolution will still affect us of course because it is generally bad for the world economy. ;)

http://www.wkab.net/images/abc_logo.JPG

Austarian Broadcasting Corporation: World News

UN at Vote; Energy Sectors in "Crisis"
ANATOBA CITY, AUSTAR UNION

Despite outrage across the world at the latest U.N. Resolution, Energy Sectors within the Austar Union are experiencing a demand like no other. Economists fear that with the sudden demand on Solar Panels worldwide, countries abroad are heading toward an Energy Crisis; the price of panels (and their materials associated) rising faster than Mercury on a hot day. Lord Indigo Blue has attempted to address the situation by promising massive grants to local corporations, who are willing to expand in the manufacturing of Panels, and focus research in the 'Alternative Energy' sectors. He has also made a call to all citizens within the Union, to assist in the cause by delaying any planned orders to purchase Panels for their own homes, and workplace. It seems that as time goes on, the threat of global panic looms ever closer.

In the meantime, Chief Economist Dennis Moore made the following statement during an emergency Press Meeting the other day.

"Whilst for the most part, I would rather look on the optimistic side of things, I cant help but look upon the situation with a grimace. As per the Resolution's documentation, individuals are being given a time-frame of only ten years to actually make the changeover, city grid included. And given the nature and inefficiency of Solar Power itself... the demand in kind, is more than anyone here could have ever predicted. Unfortunately, since the Solar Industry had already been contained for the most part, supply will be another problem. With such demand being placed on Energy Corporations, I predict that the world is heading toward a major Solar Energy Crisis; the industry just cant keep up with the demand of those who want it.

As such, what we will begin to see over the next few years; will be a steady but sharp increase in world-wide Panel Prices. Currently they sit at $SolarPanels_PriceToday on average -- I expect them to increase to as much as $_InsanePrice within Six Months of the resolution being passed. Ultimately this time-frame will be unreachable, and until then we're either going to see a Repeal occur; or a Global Ignore of the UN Resolution. And in my opinion, I wouldnt blame them..."

Hoogenbosch Berig

With greatest respect towards the United Nations, the governing body of the 'free' world, we cannot stop but wondering what in God's name is wrong with the organisation. Many officials of the government concur with the Knootian delegates, especially Aram Koopman, behind closed doors. Guffingford rarely interferes with United Nations affairs, ever since Guffingford left the organisation when a resolution was going to affect the defence spendations severely - namely biological and biochemical budgets.
Mr. Koopman states this hippie trash cannot be taken seriously, but as our analysts look at the current voting statistics, we think it better be taken seriously.
Votes For: 6,586
Votes Against: 3,829
"This is most troubling, the concequences shall be dire. The world economy's in grave danger. Even though Guffingford is not part of the United Nations, we can clearly see how the State Gold Value is rising again, foreign corporations buying - and thusly hoarding - large quanities of Guffingfordian state gold bonds and bullion investments." Says Mr. Thaddick, Master Banker of the national bank. The government already warned the Imperial Armies stock markets the Duplone (the Imperial Armies interregional currency 1 Duplone = 460 ÐG) was going to raise even more in value, as the demand for gold increases significantly over the past few days. Tomorrow, when the UN resolution ends and therefore implemented on all member states, a global (free) fall of the currency markets is expected by many renowned economists.

"Living in a world without fossil fuels is living in the 17th century, or something similar. It's hard to imagine exactly how the UN is going to expect all of their member nations to follow this inane policy.
Good grief, I cannot think of what might happen to beloved Guffingford, if we were still a member state. The economy would crash overnight, that's what is bound to happen should you embrace this policy promoting self-destruction. That's what it is: economic suicide. But it underlines something important as well: our complete dependence on oil." So said Bram Hausmann, a professor seated in the University of Hoogenbosch.

His latest remark on the United Nation's resulotion hit the nail on its head: oil is what makes the world go around for many nations. Though the resolution as it stands now is ludricous at best, it is a step in the right direction. Unfortunately, that's all that can be said about it.

The Athens Chronicle

by Marcus DuMont

This morning the conrotversial Witdrawel from United Nations Act passed through the Rotovian Senate as is expected to gain Presidential Ascent later today.

The Act which at first started as mere ramblings on the Floor and an unpopular Bill lying in the House Hopper, gained momentum after the United Nations appeared set to pass the Solar Power Resolution.

Orginally gaining support from the remaining fragments of the Conservative Party and newly founded National Reformist Party the expected government objection fell flat after public opinion polls swung sternly in favour of maintaining one of the nation's largest industries.

The National Enviromental Lobby's attempt to blockade the legislation in the Upper House failed when the filibuster was broken by a veto from the Lower House striking four Patrician Assemblyman from speaking.

As yet the fall out from the Former Regional Delegate's withdrawel from the United Nations is unknown. What is known though, is that Rotovia's oil reserves in Crete, Kuwait and Southern Carthage have won a major victory against the massive shutdown they could have faced.

[OOC: This was supposed to be posted here, but somehow I ended up creating a new thread. Hrm. Anyway, as it's more relevant here...]

ICEL Slams 'Toothless' and 'Irrelevent' United Nations
(This headline writer also learns to spell 'irrelevant' - Ed.)

NENYA, THURSDAY - Despite recent instability in the Commonality, the Unifed Commonality Government has continued to hold session as usual. This fact was highlighted today after the UCG backed an Executive Council resolution to issue a statement condemning the United Nations (the organisation rather than the voting members, it was made clear), essentially as worthless.

The Commonality remains a UN member, despite long-standing disapproval of the organisation as a whole. The Commonality does not adhere to resolutions that run counter to Commonality Law, claiming that the United Nations - a young organisation built by young states, in comparison to Iluvauromeni civilization - has no jurisdiction over the Commonality except in matters pertaining to sentient rights.

The Commonality adheres to international law in general - Crown Navy assets routinely patrol trade routes to help ensure the free movement of cargo on the high seas, for example - but makes exceptions with regard certain UN resolutions. Particuarly ignored are 'social resolutions' - resolutions clearly intended to push one sociological ideology ahead of another.

The recent draft proposal regarding solar energy is apparently the last straw. Knootoss, a close ally of the Commonality, is set to take an economic hit as a result of the resolution in question - and the Commonality, as history shows, is not averse to standing up for it's allies.

"The United Nations is effectively irrelevent and toothless," remarked High King Semir-randil I Thursday. "Proclamations and declarations from a dead and defunct international body are not worthy of the attentions of civilized states beyond the need for supranational supervision," he went on, "which is why the Commonality feels no need for involvement beyond observation and adherance to clearly important and progressive ideals which complement our policy of pushing for stability and harmony wherever possible."

The High King went on to admit that, "the ASH Treaty has not been greeted in quite the spirit that had been hoped for," but noted that most of the rejections had not been in principle, but "in practicality."

The High King also observed that "the Commonality supports United Nations resolutions that can be clearly seen to provide a positive effect in people's lives," and assured the People of the Commonality that the Unified Government had no intention of "abandoning an institution which has provided the foundations of what we hope to help develop into something surpassing even the dreams of the noble men and women who envisioned an organisation that has had such a great and positive effect on countless sentient's lives."

~ From the Nenya Today electronic broadsheet

OOC: Woah. The Mythical 02 Ma-tek... I thought he only excisted in my wet dreams...

The Sanctium Bugle

For the past week, we've been bringing you up to the minute coverage of the civil disorder in the industrial belt cities of Sanctius, where rioting Coal Miners, Oil drillers, Steelworkers and members of the small but burgeoning automotive industry have been taking to the streets in vast numbers, demanding that president for life Culleain do something, anything to avoid the irreprable damage the UN's new stance on fossil fuel usage would cause our great nation.

In a shocking move this morning, the president showed her hand. Martial law has been declaired throuought Sanctius, with the recently enlarged youth divisions of the Imperialist Infantry securing the streets by any means. This reporter feared that our noble presidents decisions could finally have gone too far, plunging the state into anarchy! Until she appeared in government square, flanked by the Joint Chiefs, with our UN Representative, and several local members of UN Staff at gunpoint before her.

All the aforementioned people were promptly executed as an example, the president dealing with three personally using a standard issue sting-sauer pulse rifle, which she continued to brandish while giving this speech.

We are tired of seeing our nation languish behind other members of our region while implementing the mealy mouthed lightweight pseudo liberal resolutions passed down by this so-called united nations! the people of Sanctius have a proud history of environmental preservation, alternative fuel and power research, and shackling business for the good of our proud flocks of bees which does not need to be damaged by the imposition of these badly thought out, badly worded directives and laws!

We shall henceforth be leaving such kneejerk politiking to the corporate running dogs of Katherine, and taking our place amongst the proud socialist autocracies of the Duchy! My People, our time has come!

Just what does the president's outburst mean for the people of Sanctius? Will Martial law ever be rescinded? Will the removal of the lingering threat of international governance counterbalance the increasingly strident politics being brandished by President Culleain? This paper will continue to report for as long as it is free and able.

Cuation Herald

Solar Power the New Oil? The UN Thinks So!

It has been a busy week for our great government since the, well meant, UN resolution on the Promotion of Solar Panels was put before the UN to be voted on. The government expected it to be well behind by now but, like many other nations, is dismayed at how the resolution has gained support.

It is well known by now that the stance on this issue has been "Well meant but a disaster to the world's economy if passed. For Cuation it would mean mass unemployment, a near bankrupt nation, potential civil war and a halt to the rapid growth that has defined Warlord Emperor of Imperial Line Jude Takerath's rule over the Holy Empire of Cuation.

Our beloved leader went to argue Cuation's side, leaving his brother, Grand General of the South, Jared Takerath in charge. As it became clear that this resolution was probably going to pass, General Jared called together senior men in the army, banks, police and administration to draw up a contingency plan to limit the damage.

However the inept Inspector Razor Law of Fort Iramawa police force blabbed to the Chairman of the Information Technology industry, Arthus Trand who spread the word of the crisis to everybody in Cuation. Those that helped spread the word have been arrested for breaching national security, Arthus has been sacked, his passions seized and facing exile. Razor has been executed for treason.

Emperor Jude rushed back and has spent most of the week putting down riots with a strong hand, the ringleaders have been publicly executed however General Jared and Emperor Jude have also been merciful, letting most caught up in the troubles given only short sentences of ten years. However such trouble just shows what people have been driven to by the resolution though our leaders will pull us through the crisis.

Just before this issue went to press, General Jared was sent out with a statement from the government:

People of Cuation, we have shown our displeasure to the UN and we will defy the resolution. However we have a ten year period to have it repealed and Cuation will support the repeals as will many other nations. We will keep using oil and other fossil fuels while looking for cleaner options but within ten years, we will hold a national celebration over the repeal's success. This week has shown us who can do their job and that the people of Cuation are able to handle any problem. The Emperor Jude has given his personal thanks to all who did not get involved with the rioters.

Editor's comment: Great news, Cuation is in strong and fair hands, our government is able to deal with problems like this and Emperor Jude, sitting on his throne in our fair capital, Fort Iramawa, has shown once more his political and economic ability. I am going to make a donation to the government; I suggest the readers do the same.

Reporter: Edward Shengal.
Editor and Leader of the Information Technology industry: Sally Daniel.

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Austarian Broadcasting Corporation: World News

Indigo/Corporations Agree; Market Strategy Released
ANATOBA CITY, AUSTAR UNION

"Increase Solar Divisions by 20%, then Stop", said Lord Indigo Blue in a second meeting with the press. "It's an unstable growth in the world economy, we cant risk losing out if and when the United Nations chooses to repeal the Solar Power Resolution."

In a meeting kept behind closed doors, Lord Indigo Blue has met with several industry leaders to discuss the future of global energies, the market situation of today, and that which to come; and then furthermore, the risks which are associated. And the decision has been unanimous; for fear that the United Nations might choose to repeal this resolution, any form of expansion into the Energy Markets will be slow, and cautious. Whilst Economists in the meantime have looked over budget allocations and approved--the plan to increase Austarian Solar Panel Manufacturing Sectors will be capped at 20%, and is expected to return profitable even within the first yearly quarter. Afterwards, they predict that world demand would have driven prices so high that said profits will be unimaginable.

In the meantime, they have also revealed a large economic plan, should the Resolution remain; Lord Indigo Blue has expressed intent on further building more nuclear power generating facilities, whereby the power will be contained and then exported to U.N. consumers. However, he has also noted that such plans are sketchy at best, and that if the Union was to greaten Energy Exports, then it would only occur under the most secure of conditions.

"Im just not willing to risk that we build so many power facilities," he announced to the press. "We are a cautious, but deliberate peoples. And given the right conditions, I think the Energy Exportation Industries will make up a good core of our future economic planning. With more consumers than there are providers, the world is heading for a major shortage... its up to us as businessmen to make sure we're able to capitalize on the opportunity, and further the Union's economy even more." He shrugged. "Especially if silly U.N. Resolutions prevent certain countries from producing their own..."

The Free Republic's take on the matter:

Lassic News Service (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=408580&page=3)

Allied Industries (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=444425)

Our apologies for the silence. Internal difficulties were short-lived, are now stifled. Previous defensive coverage may now be assumed resumed in full.

On more pressing matters: although we understand Knootoss is not a United Nations member, the Commonality is prepared to provide Knootoss with solar equipment, en masse, via an Imperial Energy contract; we can, of course, for such a trusted and valued ally ensure an excellent deal. Very competitive indeed. No doubt the equipment would fetch a fair price on the open market for Knootoss, as well...

At any rate, we suggest Knootoss focus on urging it's fellow nations to ignore that particular resolution. It will, after all, only serve to further prove that the United Nations is toothless, pointless, and irrelevent. As, funnily enough, the High King is about to observe in a statement...

But, again, we urge Knootoss to sign the ASH Treaty, which surely provides greater stability and comfort than the United Nations ever did - including support and protection amongst co-signatories against the economic disruption that that particular organisation seems bent on unleashing on the world.

Sincerely,

~ 1st Ambassador Nejure

Reply:
To: 1st Ambassador Nejure
From: Femke Halsema, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Defence, Knootoss

Your Excellency,

I thank you very mutch for your kind letter and we in Knootoss are happy to learn that order in the ICEL has been restored. We remain committed as a nation to our friendship with the Commonality.

I must admit I was a bit surprised by the offer of an Imperial Energy contract. for solar panels. You may have heard about our own efforts to adapt, in particular to retain a competitive green energy sector. Ecological issues have always been close to my heart, and I'd loathe seeing the terrible resolution currently at vote in the United Nations throw the energy sector off-balance, doing the cause of sustainable energy a disservice.

My colleague Mr. Zeevalking has informed me that some Knootian energy corporations might want to take a closer look at the offer by Imperial Energy. As energy companies have been privatised throughout the Knootian Federation, I cannot accept you offer from my position as government minister but I can refer you to the appropriate businesses. A word of warning, though, would be that the Knootian climate is not particularly suitable for solar power. My own hopes for future sustainable energy generation lie more in advanced windmill parks at sea such as those placed at Texel and Vlieland.

Finally I beg you to understand that I am part of an incoming government, and as such have only finished the coalition negotiation a few days ago. Joining the ASH Treaty is a matter that will require study, especially given myriad of foreign policy tasks for the Dutch Democratic Republic diplomatic corps at this point. It is certainly an option that will be considered, in due consultation with the Staten-Generaal. My first priority at this point will be restoring the trust of the international community in the DDR.

Kind regards,

Femke Halsema

ooc: A little reminder... From the FAQ: 'The UN is your chance to mold the rest of the world to your vision, by voting for resolutions you like and scuttling the rest. However, it's a double-edged sword, because your nation will also be affected by any resolutions that pass. (You can't just obey the resolutions you like and ignore the rest, like real nations do.)' Mind, going by the nation page, you're not a member, your claims to the contrary aside. Mind making up your mind?

"Fucking wankers."

"Yes, Ma'am." Sylvia Hawkings looked slightly amused at her superior's latest tantrum, trying her best not to show it while holding the bunch of papers relevant for the daily work Catherine tended to ignore.

About an hour of ranting and random tantrums, followed with a little research on the matter ('Why the hell do they claim to be my subjects when they aren't?! Idiots.' - 'Yes, Miss.') and half a dozen scared, unqualified and underpaid guards later, a short communique was released.

'I'd strongly suggest that wannabe-king Semir-Randil shuts his all-to-big mouth and tries to cut down on his oversized ego before dealing with matters he has obviously no clue about (Unsurprisingly, given his status as a parasite of his own society, as most kings are).

'Pathetic little worm. Who is he, compared to me, who has tens of thousands of nations under her fist? Though I'll admit that it amuses me that he claims me--us--to be irrelevant for 'civilised nations' when he's obviously giving us quite a bit of attention.

'Good to know that he's aware of his own barbarism.

'Nonetheless. We don't need him or his pathetic little nation. We don't want him or his joke of a milwang. Go away and keep quiet, little dog, before the tiger bites you.'

~ Catherine Gratwick

Having published the document, Catherine then went back to poking various underlings about their progress with the Prinz Eugen project. A most valuable resource, that... She could hardly wait. Besides, having an organisation of inept AK-47 wielders was a little depressing, and having slightly more firepower available would be nice.

[OOC: I presume you mean myself. Ma-tek is supposed to be a UN member, but for some reason isn't. Further, I can't seem to join again, even though I have no other nations in the UN. Didn't get around to trying to find out why, though, yet...

Historically, ICEL/Ma-tek is a UN member. As I've not RP'd ICEL leaving the UN, it is, therefore, still a UN member. Even if I can't bloody vote on anything at the moment. Rr.

Oh yes. Also, although UN resolutions are always implemented in the game engine, this doesn't mean to say that I can't ICly ignore them. Israel, for example, in real life, frequently does so. I don't see a difference.

It strikes me this deserves more of an explanation; when I say 'ignore', I do not mean fail to acknowledge the existance of. What I do mean, however, is that I have no intention (either ICly or OOCly) of allowing the UN to alter my nation-concept in directions it shouldn't be going. In other words, I'm exercising creative control over my own creation. Which really isn't all that horrific, when you think about it.

For example, let's say a resolution passes which insists that all nations must now become fully-fledged dictatorships commanded by Bob Dylan. There's no way I'm going to accept that. And since some of the resolutions have only been marginally less nation-changing than that...

I hope you see my point. :)]

IC:

"The High King of Ma-Nenya is unfortunately busy with matters of higher importance, and therefore cannot respond in person to the loathsome 'communique' published by the SUT at this time.

"However, I might note that the Lady Catherine Gratwick (as no title was supplied, I shall err on the side of politeness) clearly has no idea what she's talking about. When the day comes that that Lady has personally secured the civil liberty and economic freedom of more than two billion sentients, then I suppose she may claim 'superiority' to the much-respected member of the Iluvauromeni Executive Council.

"And when the Lady has learnt civility, perhaps the High King will deign to deliver a personal response.

"On the purely diplomatic front, I am authorized by the Executive Council to inform SUT that we are neither moved nor disturbed by their overly-aggressive stance.

"The Commonality remains confident in the ability of the Crown Guard to ensure the sovereign freedom of each and every one of it's citizens.

"Finally, the Executive Council observes that perhaps the SUT research staff ought to be given extensive vacations and re-training; clearly they are overworked and overstressed, or else they would have realised that the title 'High King' is purely ceremonial, and in honour of earlier days.

"Thus we suggest that, in future, before launching into a tirade against the noble way of life of our rich and fertile nation, which has provided great services to the Solar System at large including in the form of the continuing Sol Mass-Transit Network Project (http://ns.goobergunch.net/wiki/index.php/Iluvauromeni_Sol_Mass-Transit_Network), that you employ researchers who will not serve merely to embarrass your surely otherwise noble and enlightened civilization.

"With politeness and humility,"

~ 7th Ambassador Lady Iriana Saldana

The Athens Chronicle

Oil Supply Cut

The Ministry for Economics and Commodities announced today that it will envoke it's powers under the State Powers Act and reduce oil production by 2/3 within Rotovia and issue a temporary ban on imported of crude or refined oil.

This is believed to part of a new government plan to tackle the expected global fall out of the United Nations cutting the bottom out of the Oil Industry.

President Baccheus will meet tonight with members of the UIFC Oil Consortium in an attempt to have them join with other pertolium production organizations cutting supply.

Any drop in oil prices could hit Rotovia hard, with it's oil and gas heavily subsidized at present and a long term anti-inflation plan that leading ecnomists suspect may be the nation's undoing if oil prices continue to drop.

[OOC: Knoot, I need to talk with you on IRC before I answer your post. Thanks. :)]

IC:

"The Commonality would like to observe that it made the transition from the oil economy to a combined helium-3/hydrogen economy some time ago, and thus would be pleased to provide aid and support to those states which desire to follow suit.

"The Commonality also wishes to make clear that it still pursues a positive ecological policy, through the mandate of the Commonality Environmental Court."

~ Unified Commonality Government statement (delivered by Second Echelon Ninth Speaker of the Commonality Citizen's House, Alyssa Dethri-Rihad)

[See: Iluvauromeni Constitution (http://ns.goobergunch.net/wiki/index.php/Iluvauromeni_Constitution) for information on the Environmental Court.]

The Gnomes would like to remind Ms. Gratwick where her power truly comes from, and that should would be well advised to keep such things in mind when flaunting her... status.

That being said, we aren't especially looking forward to the passage of this resolution as rooting out all petroleum products will be a bucketload of work. Still, some of our enforcers are giggling at the prospects.

~ Gnome in Charge of Stating Facts
"Who made who / Who made you?"

Emergency Oil Summit Called (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?p=9652281#post9652281)

[OOC: Nevermind. There was an Economist's prediction here, but then I realised a fundamental flaw in it. A Major Flaw in-fact. >_>]

CASTLE CARBONEK, Listeinesse -- The Kingdom of Listeneisse has been through great economic crises due to world energy market changes. Uranium mining nearly wiped out wildlife in the Perilous Forest National Park in recent times. Because of this, nuclear energy has been widely regarded by the populace as too dangerous to produce.

Now the country is abuzz with the term "Peak Oil." It is the term for when world oil production will have achieved its maximum net output. After this period production will slacken. It is sometimes called the "Hubbert Peak," after a scientist who first discovered the phenomenon.

Some scientists predict that the Peak Oil point will be achieved as soon as this year. A few said it already occurred in 2003. Others place it at 2008, or as far away as 2035. Regardless of when it occurs, scientists are reasonably sure that it will occur at some point in the first few decades of this century.

Fossil fuels are not expected to disappear overnight. While the peak may have already occurred, or may occur sometime this decade or in the next few, world fossil fuel supplies are anticipated to exist until the end of the century. There can be a plateau of production, though it is hotly debated how long it will last.

United Resolutions Proposal for Solar Energy

The United Nations delegates approved for vote a proposal which, if passed, will bar the use of fossil fuels within 10 years. Instead, solar power is to be installed on all buildings, residental or commercial.

Scientific and political critics of the plan decry it as unsufficient to meet global transportation and energy needs. Today, solar power accounts for far less than 1% of all world energy output and only a handful of the most lightweight solar vehicles.

Would the world be able to switch to solar in a decade?

"Absolute rubbish!" was the response of King Parzival XIV, "There is no way we can retool the Kingdom to even a significant percentage of solar power in that time frame without crippling the entire nation. Worse, it will detract from our present focus on renewable energy: wind power."

The King, through the Ministry of the Interior and Ministry of Finance, has plans to covert Listeneisse to over 10% power production by wind power within the next few budget cycles. While wind power can be costly in terms of land use, Listeneisse is blessed with extensive shallow offshore shoals and wild, rugged hilly terrain. "My hope is actually to achieve 20% to 30%. But that will be difficult given the growth of the nation," he said in an emergency briefing.

"I want all the people of the nation to know, we shall be sticking to those plans, even if this UN Resolution is adopted. However, when it is adopted, as it is likely to be given the vote in the international body, expect quite a 'sticker shock,' as they say of purchasers at the luxury auto lot."

When questioned why Listeneisse does not withdraw from the United Nations before the effectivity of the resolution, the King responded, "We have an obligation, a duty, to our region. Other members of our region are not members of the United Nations. We must represent their voices to the international community. We understood when we accepted this role there would be costs, sacrifices, and obligations of such a commitment. Today, I ask the people of Listeneisse to be aware that our duty is to the greater good, and our sacrifice for such work is immanent."

Solar Power Costs

Why not simply convert to solar power? The answer is cost. While fuel costs for coal and gas continue to rise, they are still far below the cost of solar power production. Solar power requires large solar collectors, with solar panels made of advance materials. Land costs for industrial-scale power production are not insignificant.

Solar power capital costs today are between $2,000 to $3,000 per kilowatt produced ($2-3 per watt). For a gigawatt of energy output (1 million kilowatts), that would ostensibly result in an expenditure of $2-3 Billion.

In comparison, a typical hydroelectric power plant can be produced for about $1 Million per megawatt ($1 per watt), or about 33-50% of the cost. Hydroelectric power plants are generally less than 1 gigawatt in size, however, because there are only so many major rivers to dam in the world.

Yet for solar, economies of scale are possible if there is land enough to build collectors on. Due to technological advances, costs are also continuing to fall. A recent study projected that an 8.3 gigawatt solar power production system could be manufactured for $1-3 Billion by the year 2011.

This study projects between $120-360 Million cost in captialization per gigawatt of power produced ($0.12 - 0.36 per watt), depending on many factors such as cost of land, sunlight exposure, weather variables, and so forth. Which leaves potential governmental sponsors and investors with many questions. Obviously, there would be no cost of fuel, but land investment and management of physical plant of the solar power station would need to be taken into account.

Space-Based Solar?

Some have posited that the solution to a lack of land is to use the final frontier: space. At least, earth orbit.

Right now the largest communication satellites in orbit produce up to 20 kilowatts of solar power, mostly for their own operation. In comparison, a single large terrestrial wind turbine can easily produce upwards of 600 kilowatts, at a fraction of the cost.

Still, there is persistent belief that space might hold an opportunity for large-scale solar power projects, called a Solar Power Satellite (SPS). Scientists believe achievement of an SPS in the gigawatt-plus range will take 25-30 years to produce, if all scientific and political boundaries could be overcome.

A study some decades ago into development of a network of 60 SPSs, each delivering 5 gigawatts (GW), for a total delivered power of about 300 GW, showed it would take an investment of $275 billion before the first power was returned to earth. An investment before any power production of $1 billion per GW delivered, or 3-8 times the cost of a terrestrial-based solar project. There would be significant operational costs thereafter, replacing components hit by space debris or recalibrating power transmission systems.

While solar power efficiencies have improved greatly since the report was written, it is still expected to far exceed the costs of terrestrial solar projects.

"We just launched our first military communication satellites as a nation. Now you're asking to run our electrical grid off of -- just how many launch vehicles do you think we're capable of building a year?" asked a rather terse Royal Air Force spokesperson who demanded to remain nameless.

"Each bird we launch to geostationary orbit takes $285 Million the launch. Do you realize that takes the entire annual income of about 11,000 average citizens of our nation to send even one aloft? And you want to convert the grid...? In ten years?"

When asked of his opinion of the proposed resolution, he summed up the opinions of many with one word: "Incredulous."

National Economy and Security at Stake

Military experts were invariably stymied at the prospect of having to stop all use of fossil fuels in a decade.

The Royal Listeneisse Navy just celebrated the successful launch of a multi-year, multi-billion-dollar building programme for the nation's first conventionally-powered (non-nuclear) aircraft carrier, with even more invested in the overall fleet naval group, complete with a carrier air wing, guided missile escorts and support ships.

"The UN-supporting naval strategy calls for overseas force projection, dispatching forces to UN peacekeeping operations worldwide. It was hinged on conventionally-powered ships for cost-effectiveness," explained naval expert Jane S. D. Weekly, "Nuclear-powered vessels limit international rebasing, since there are few ports that know what to do with the waste and handling of fissionable materials. Many nations do not want nuclear vessels in their populated harbours for fear of catastrophic failure. While many see nuclear ships as 'fuel free,' the truth proves otherwise: nuclear vessels cost almost 50% more to operate on an annualized basis. Many nations, though not all, are converting away from nuclear vessels, which became popular in the 1970s to 1990s, back to conventional fuel designs. Of course, the ever-shifting cost of oil is altering those strategies as we speak."

Naval experts say it is impractical to retrofit the navy for nuclear engines in ten years.

"The whole fleet will be bottom's up!" quipped retired Naval Commodore Theodoric White, "Our diesel-electric submarines will need to be scuttled. They were not designed to carry nuclear engines. I just don't think it would even be possible to retrofit them. I don't think it's wise for us to ban diesel ships."

A Royal Army spokesman, when reached for comment, said this: "Show me any 60-tonne MBT [Main Battle Tank] that runs on solar power, and I'd be happy to take this UN Resolution seriously." Giving a bit of a break to the proponents of solar power, he added, "Show me any 10-tonne truck that can even move on solar power, and I'll invest my life savings in the company that produces it."

Ten Years to Repeal or Renew

The effects of the provision would have immediate chilling effects on world markets. Financial disaster greater than past economic depressions is being discussed seriously in markets around the world. Yet there is already movement afoot to repeal the measure.

UN nation states have a twin challenge before them: to take the next ten years to repeal the UN resolution before all fossil fuel vehicles would be prohibitted, or to convert as much as possible to solar power, and liberally interpret they it did as much as could be reasonably achieved to comply with the provisions of the world body.

For now, the world awaits the outcome of the present vote, which stands at 8,080 votes in favor of the solar power resolution, and 6,066 votes against. While there are 31,136 total votes in the UN, most recent resolutions have typically seen 12,000 - 15,000 votes cast.
_______
Sources

Peak Oil Primer (http://www.energybulletin.net/primer.php)

The End of Oil? (http://www.technologyreview.com/articles/05/02/issue/review_oil.asp)

Cost Reduction Study for Solar Thermal Power Plants [PDF] (http://www.solarpaces.org/STPP%20Final%20Report2.pdf)

Testimony of John Mankins before House Science Committee Hearings on Solar Power Satellites (http://www.spaceref.com/news/viewpr.html?pid=2568)

EIA Annual Energy Outlook 2005 - Market Trends - Electricity Demand and Supply (US DoE) (http://www.eia.doe.gov/oiaf/aeo/electricity.html)

http://www.wkab.net/images/abc_logo.JPG

Austarian Broadcasting Corporation: World News

Austar Union ~ The Future of Nuclear Energy?
ANATOBA CITY, AUSTAR UNION

Meeting with Economists from the Reserve Bank of Austar Union, Indigo and the R.B.A.U. released a 365 Page Report to the public yesterday, highlighting issues regarding the Solar U.N. Resolution, and its impacts on the Global Economy. Within it, are stastics and numerical data, all in prediction of an economic crash--particularly within Energy Stocks across the world. In the meantime, admist fears of the lack of efficiency within Solar Technology to cover global energy requirements, Lord Indigo Blue has met with the press to release his own plan to address such matters, and provide 'relief' to those who need it the most.

"Given the nature of the Resolution," he noted in an extract of his statements. "I find little, if no documentation which actually states that states must cover their own power requirements. Therefore, in an effort to help said U.N. Memberstates, I will be working alongside Energy Corp, the Austar Union's leading supplier of energies, to build greater facilities to aid in the expansion of this nation's power capabilities. Particularly, we will be focusing on the development of several nuclear plants, whom will be dedicated specifically to the exportation industry."

He smiled; "Through this method, governments will be able to import their power requirements, instead of having to focus only and specifically on generating their own via less capable methods." Indigo frowned just a little before moving on. "Of course, we cant promise to be able to assist everyone, just those who come to the table first, I suppose."

"Should the United Nations seek to repeal this resolution successfully however, you can expect us to cancel such plans; since nations will be then able to generate their own with relative ease," He chuckled; an obvious statement.

Indigo is currently in a meeting with Prime Minister Jan Willem Daatman of Knootoss, where he hopes to find some kind of viable solution to the U.N. Energy Crisis.

The letter was written on the instantly recognisable cream double-bond notepaper that played such an influential part in the governance of Findhorn. But the writer, giving way to a spirit of mockery, had framed it in the style of a UN resolution.

"RECOGNISING

That many nations on NS are permanently on the Dark Side of the Moon OR shrouded in a mysterious mist OR constantly getting rained-on," it said,

"AND THAT

It is no use suggesting that the power collected in any excessively sunny nations be shared with less sunburnt states, owing to the extreme general stroppiness of NS and the unreliability of inter-temporal, inter-dimensional or interplanetary connections,

THEREFORE WE, THE NATION OF FINDHORN,

have urged our Lost Colony, Ardchoille, to exercise its UN vote AGAINST this resolution.

HOWEVER,

Ardchoille's reply has been indecipherable, possibly due to solar flares caused by all those solar panels sucking the sunlight down towards the earth.

CONSEQUENTLY

We will have to leave it up to them to decide whether they are offended by the weird science, the unnecessary expense and the unrealistic timetable,

OR

Whether they feel that the virtuous intentions of the proposer over-ride both the proposal's extreme fluffiness, shrewdly observed by many commentators, and its appalling effects on their Mother Nation."

"There," said Mother Mirrim, Abbess of Findhorn, whose dominance in the areas of scones and jam made her the de facto head of government for the tiny nation. "Dicey Reilly said she'd like to hear from us whenever we could use a voting friend in the UN. Looks like now's the time. Whatever happens, we're certainly not going to mothball our hydro-electric schemes."

"You don't think your letter's a little ... frivolous ... for such a serious topic?" said Brother Rhys. "Shouldn't we at least help them out with a bit of research to support our position?"

"Ardchoille's a magic-using nation with 50% of its population being actual Magic Creatures," Mother Mirrim returned. "It's easy for them, they'll just magic any UN inspection teams into believing they've complied. So Dicey's got plenty of time to do the mundane-world research she'll need to argue our case.

"And as for ... frivolity," she added, looking severely over her glasses, "Dicey Reilly, unlike certain others, has a sense of humour."

Imperial Energy Ramp Up Oil, Natural Gas Production

TURATH, SATURDAY - Imperial Energy, the only supplier of hydrocarbon products in the Commonality, will increased production "in line with a surge in short-term demand," by 50% by the end of this financial quarter, to the Commonality's production capacity of 3.15mio barrels per day.

Accordingly, Iluvauromeni Crude Light theoretically plummeted to it's lowest value in seventy-five years - just Rlh17.41 is projected for the opening of trading Monday.

The Commonality's largest energy asset also announced a resumption in the production and sale of natural gas, to be implemented over the next four months - and expected to provide an addition six thousand jobs to the Iluvauromeni economy.

Imperial Energy denies that these actions are reactive measures against current instability in hydrocarbon fuel markets, claiming instead that the measures "represent established Imperial Energy policy in securing the lowest possible price for our customers while guaranteeing continued growth for IE."

Imperial Energy further insists that the hikes in producton do not run counter to Commonality Environmental Court Order #428-C ('Sustained Progress on Hydrocarbon Production Disbandment', DY1), although various suits, it is understood, have already been presented to the Court.

~ Source: Turath Financial Examiner financial electronic broadsheet

* * *

Commonality Economic Court Issues Emergency Ruling Amidst Energy Export Concerns

NENYA, SATURDAY - An emergency session of the CeC Saturday has resulted in a temporary measure, to be applied immediately, to attempt to ensure that global energy market instability does not harm Iluvauromeni interests.

The measure - CeCO #997-At ('Critical Trade Adaptation no. 71') - essentially states that all export tariffs on hydrocarbon fuels are dissolved (retroactively), with immediate effect, for the next six months and the last two months. The CeCO also insists that the Imperial Trade Conglomerate - set to lose millions of Relhames in rebates - "seek acceptable alternative income" to shore up it's profit margin, and advises that the Commonality Unified Government does not increase the supply of capital to the Conglomerate in the upcoming budget.

The CeCO comes into effect as of next Tuesday.

~ Source: Nenya Today electronic broadsheet

Earlier today the Politburo announced Russkya's withdrawl from the United Nations. Paraphrasing some elements of a telegram exchange with the nation of Telidia, Industrial Minister Oleg Ramenski and Minister of Finance Alexi Korakov explain the reasoning behind this 'unprecidented' move while Defense Minister Mikhail Sergetov and General Secretary Igor Krushamev sit in the background.

"... Can no longer accept the knee-jerk reactions of members of the United Nations to various proposals, including this insane solar power project. It is as if the majority of voting members refuse to read the proposals and instead cast their votes according to personal beliefs, however detatched from reality they may be, and how those beliefs relate to the proposal's title, rather than the proposal itself.

As such, we have withdrawn from the UN, a move supported by the politburo, the parliment, and the majority of you, the people."

Mineral Resources Minister Ivan Slushbayetov and Victor Govak, the Agricultural Minister, have issued orders to their respective offices to increase agricultural and mineral resource outputs to maximum sustainable levels, in order to assist any member of the Socialist Federative Republics who is damaged should this resolution pass.

Pradivoe has been instructed to announce Russkyan political support to any nations refusing to support this potentially devastating proposal.

-- End Broadcast --

To: 1st Ambassador Nejure
From: Femke Halsema, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Defence, Knootoss

Your Excellency,

I thank you very mutch for your kind letter and we in Knootoss are happy to learn that order in the ICEL has been restored. We remain committed as a nation to our friendship with the Commonality.

I must admit I was a bit surprised by the offer of an Imperial Energy contract. for solar panels. You may have heard about our own efforts to adapt, in particular to retain a competitive green energy sector. Ecological issues have always been close to my heart, and I'd loathe seeing the terrible resolution currently at vote in the United Nations throw the energy sector off-balance, doing the cause of sustainable energy a disservice.

My colleague Mr. Zeevalking has informed me that some Knootian energy corporations might want to take a closer look at the offer by Imperial Energy. As energy companies have been privatised throughout the Knootian Federation, I cannot accept you offer from my position as government minister but I can refer you to the appropriate businesses. A word of warning, though, would be that the Knootian climate is not particularly suitable for solar power. My own hopes for future sustainable energy generation lie more in advanced windmill parks at sea such as those placed at Texel and Vlieland.

Finally I beg you to understand that I am part of an incoming government, and as such have only finished the coalition negotiation a few days ago. Joining the ASH Treaty is a matter that will require study, especially given myriad of foreign policy tasks for the Dutch Democratic Republic diplomatic corps at this point. It is certainly an option that will be considered, in due consultation with the Staten-Generaal. My first priority at this point will be restoring the trust of the international community in the DDR.

Kind regards,

Femke Halsema

Reply:
Honourable Minister,

The Commonality is glad to continue our celebrated friendship with Knootoss.

Naturally, the Imperial Trade Conglomerate will handle matters regarding the prior offer, and the Commonality apologizes for any inappopriateness surrounding said offer.

Further, as has been noted in the news, I feel it right and proper to ensure that the Knootian government is aware that non-renewable energy tariffs have been suspended for six months, in order to aid our economic allies who may not be able to react to recent developments with the required tigerishness.

And lastly, the Commonality would like to request face-to-face talks regarding security operations in Knootoss by the Crown Guard. Considering the exceptional furtherment of the interests of your nation in recent times, it would seem wise to re-evaluate. However, we assure you that we have no intention of ceasing our commitment to provide military aid and support to Knootoss, and, of course, the quantity of aid will increase as ever in line with the Knootian rate of inflation.

Good will and friendship,

~ 1st Ambassador Nejure

Yuri put her feet up on the ottoman, watching her wall.

Ever since she and Megumi had moved to Tindalos, they had spent some time modifying their penthouse suite in the Gibson Tower. This particular modification involved an entire wall that was impregnated with some nanowankery -- Yuri really didn't know how it worked -- that allowed her to track her stocks in real time, all at the same time. A simple ticker window would suffice for most people. Yuri, on the other hand, owned a lot of stock. Then again, it was her job to do just this.

She smoked her catnip cigarette almost absentmindedly as she watched the delicate dance of buy and sell, short sell and late purchase; and overreaction, always overreaction. She wore a custom head piece that wrapped around her cat ear and connected -- wirelessly, 'natch -- to her phone. She was tempted to use it to make another move, but she held back.

She hated playing the market like this. She prefered seeing long-term trends and adjusting as needed to take advantage of them. Situations like this had far too much margin for error, and now that she was a mother, she was more determined than ever to avoid economic ruin. She'd grown up in the Bay, and had been the poor daughter of a poor dock worker; she wasn't going back to that, and she certainly wasn't going to subject little Ella to that. Consequently, she was putting in a lot of long hours managing her stocks and her interests. The fact that, if successful, she would manage a considerable profit even while other people were losing everything never really crossed her mind. It wasn't her job to ensure that economically-ignorant countries did what was right for their citizens, after all.

The real question about this moronic law was compliance. Would non-UN countries be able to ship in petroleum, or was that banned too. More importantly, would UN nations start hording the stuff? Judging which way to move on the oil industry was tricky.

She glanced at the wall display, "Current tally?"

8,285 For
6,777 Against

VOTING CLOSED
RESOLUTION PASSED

"Well, fuck me running..."

Edward got the call as he was standing up and looking out the window of his office at the Ministry of UN Affairs headquarters in Rodder City. Listening until the final numbers were given, he nodded and put the phone down. He had expected this and had reported the likely outcome to HotRodia several days before. Despite a fierce telegram campaign by certain members of the UN Old Guard, the resolution had passed, but the voting had been much closer because of that campaign. It fit. After all, the author had pressed on to the submission phase even after his proposal had gotten thrashed in the halls of the UN. This particular piece of legislation had overcome many obstacles on its way to becoming a resolution. It had triumphed over a lack of scientific evidence to back up its claim, a myriad of well-considered arguments that foretold tragic consequences should it be enacted, and a general lack of textual refinement.

Edward was undoubtedly upset. The resolution was everything he opposed; impractical, unscientific, poorly-written, and egregiously anti-sovereignty. Nonetheless, he remained calm. After watching utter crap get passed by the UN for well over a year he had long since become jaded and unfeeling with regard to UN resolutions. This was simply the grand climax in a long play of moronic UN legislation.

If nothing else, he knew that the rest of his colleagues had finally realized the immense danger posed by the largely ignorant membership. Perhaps in the future there would be a greater willingness to campaign against flawed legislation instead of accepting it because "there was a good idea behind it". That was probably just Edward's eternal optimism, and he knew it.

Edward moved away from the window and began work on something that he had long known he would eventually have to do. The word "the" in the Federation's official legal lexicon would now be defined as "a filmy yellow substance with a bitter taste," thereby nullifying the effects of every resolution the Federation had ever fully complied with...all while technically remaining in compliance.

Prince Babit had stayed awake all night to view the outcome of resolution #122.
Dismayed as he watched the closing minutes of the coverage by the B.T.V he called for his advisors.
"This will seriously hurt our economy that i know" he said to his assembled advisors "but just how much?"

The advisor for Enviromental affairs stood "We ran the numbers Your Highness and we envisage a cost of approximatly 5 billion Babits just for the first ten years"

The economic advisor added "Your Highness even with the support we have been promised by the U.N this will need an immediate increase of 2% in income tax on average and further rises in the future"

"So we have no other option but to refuse to comply with this Resolution" "What are our options" he asked the foriegn affairs advisor.

"your Highness we cannot afford to go against the U.N." "They could very easily remove all funding they currently extend to us if not expel us totally from the U.N"

"But we do not have the money to implement this, the report i recieved from the Enviromental office has clearly stated that the money required to implement this will not even cover the limited amount of energy we will gain from this" The Prince paused, "Gentleman I have decided. Let it be known to the U.N and to our regional members that we hereby close our doors to all U.N compliance teams and we also stop all funding on all programs to bring us into line with all U.N resolutions"

"Your Highness we simply cannot do this" called out the Foriegn Affairs advisor " I strongly urge you to reconsider this action. We simply do not know what action the U.N may take against us."

"I have made my decision. All U.N compliance teams are to be immediatly removed from the borders of Babitdom until such time as the U.N comes to its senses"

The Principality of Babitdom is a new country. We joined the U.N thinking that this body was full of free thinking intelligent bodies. However it would appear that the U.N is full of petty minded individuals who do not care about the rest of the world and simply think of themselves exactly like the dictatorship we fought so hard to free ourselves from.

We will not tolerate any region or nation implementing there ill thought out and oppresive ideas on our nation.

To this end we hereby issue the order signed by our esteemed ruler Prince Babit ordering the expulsion of all members of U.N compliance team from the borders of Babitdom. We also do hereby order the halting of all ongoing programs and financial spending to bring us into compliance with this and other U.N resolutions.

The Principality also hereby declares its intention to refuse to vote on any upcoming resolutions except for the repeal of this resolution. Babitdom would like to make it clear to the rest of the world that this stance will remain in posistion until such time as the repeal is voted for or against and then our esteemed ruler will once more look at our posistion with the U.N

Signed this day
Prince Babit
Esteemed Ruler of the Principality of Babitdom
Member of TNP
UN Member

[Note: UN RPs by me are a separate timeline from other RPs. This is UN RP. This is mainly to present a pure FT perspective on how this affects a nation. Feel free to deal with as you wish.]

Interplanetary News Network Special Report

Today, the nation of Lilith's Vengeance, the militaristic remnants of some empire of no importance, have announced a combination of compliance with the new resolution and an energy embargo on the planet Earth. The nation, made up entirely of a large fleet of ships, moved into a position just beyond Murcury's orbit and timed their orbit to where they effective prevent solar rays from hitting Earth. The nation has claimed they will not undo this embargo until the UN repeals the resolution in question.

When asked why the nation is parked so close to the star, Commander Justiah Feranor, captain of the Unimaginable Arrogance, told us to ask the people of the Barely Justified Wanktasm, a battlecruiser turned into a science vessel. We are entirely unsure of what the reasons were, but they sounded perfectly acceptable at the time. Or, at least, that's what our glazed expressions told us.

Three hours ago, the UN Gnomes attempted to negotiate a deal with Lilith's Vengeance to get them out of the way. Needless to say, the massive military armada decided to let its firepower carry the answer. When the Gnomes replied with a small battlefleet of their own, they were just in time to see LV ships get out of the way of a solar flare. Contact with the Gnome ships was immediately lost, and the ships that moved got back into position. Despite baseless, dishonest accusations from the Gnomes, the LV people have maintained their honor and proven beyond the shadow of a doubt that it is perfectly impossible for them to trigger a solar flare by simply firing explosive rounds directly into the Sun.

LV is also denying all rumors that this is part of a plan to wipe out the UN and annex its territories by causing a world-wide economic and societal collapse, in spite of their comments and collaboration inside the UN chambers during the vote. The nation has announced it will only fire on anyone who tries to force them to move or who fires on them, and apologizes to the innocent nations that are damaged by this action. At this time, no word on how the UN nations plan to force the fleet to move and allow sunlight to hit Earth again.

-Mary Woodchucks
INN Reporter

[OOC: I suspect that that really ought to be the basis for the start of a whole new 'alternate timeline' thread born out of this one, Lilith's Vengeance, because otherwise there'll be two parallel plots running at once if people respond to that here. Which would be confusing.

Sorry for a purely OOC post, but just a thought.]

[ooc: I'll thank you to not Role Play my nation.

The Gnomes enforce UN laws, they don't care what non-UN nations do.
The Gnomes have no "battlefleets".
The Gnomes are hyper-advanced and can alter the fundamental laws of the universe with a whim.
Should they actually care what a non-UN nation was doing, they wouldn't be repelled.
The Gnomes do not "negotiate".]

While the nation of LV was desperately interested in making it known that they couldn't trigger solar flares by "firing explosives into the sun", Elijah had -- long ago -- made it well known that he could trigger solar flares without firing explosives into the sun.

A simple transmition was sent:

Mercury space is crowded enough as is. Kindly play your silly games elsewhere.

[Most Glorious Hack, I know all of that. The general tone of the report was intended to give across the idea it is not unbiased in any way, and potentially the idea that it is an outright fabrication. I should have noted that in my post and I apologize for that.

Ma-tek, the link in my signature notes that I consider UN RPs to be separate from my main timeline. I'll also note it in many posts to prevent confusion.]

Leonard Otterby sighed and put his telephone down with an awkwardness that betrayed just how tired he was. The last few days had been exhausting and debilitating for him. The constant changes of government position of the resolution had been a diplomatic head-ache and now he was being asked to help pilot the planned repeal and its replacement resolution through the U.N.

This was difficult, not just because it would mean having to accept alliances from people he and Compadria normally avoided. It involved having to go through the tedious scientific technical details all over again. They gave him such a migraine. He felt like a Guinness.

Pouring a glass, he reflected on the fact that in three months time, the general election was coming up in Compadria. As a member of the Centre Coalition party, he was almost certain to be on the losing side of it. The National Liberals had a 15% lead in the polls and the Radical Bloc were only 3% behind. It was depressing stuff to think that his diplomatic career could be over after only six months.

"I have to leave something behind, something permanant," he thought.

Could this resolution be it?

Otherwise, the resolution was wreaking havoc with energy output and economic projections. Compadria's economy was doing well, yet it lacked the capacity for rapid transitions. It it had to change from a nuclear power/fossil fuel energy economy in 10 years to one almost exclusively composed of Solar Energy, it might well trigger a recession and blackouts.

A nightmare in waiting really, come to think of it.

Effect of UNR #122 on Listeneisse (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=9656338&postcount=45)

Reply to ICEL:
Your Excellency,

I would welcome face-to-face talks regarding the Crown Guard base in Hoek van Holland and joint training excercises . I would consent to having such talks at earliest opportunity, and have delegated the Foreign Affairs ministry to schedule an appointment.

Yours,

Femke Halsema

OOC: This would seem to me as being an IRC thing.

[OOC: Aye, Knoot, that would seem prudent. :D]

IC:

Nejure sighed expressively. "And they keep call me Excellency," he was complaining.

Semir-randil, seated behind a desk somewhere in the Imperial Palace in Nenya, was trying hard not to grin.

And not entirely succeeding, either.

"Look, Nej, if you don't want to go..."

"I don't! I'm quite comfortable here, at home, thank you. The last time I went abroad-," the leading Ambassador of the Commonality frowned. "Well, you know."

"...then I'll send Sarah," Semir finished without missing a beat. "And yes - I know. That's why we promoted you, Ambassador. But don't get too comfortable... the Executive Council is going to need you to start travelling again soon enough."

Nejure shifted in his seat uncomfortably. "I know," he admitted. "But we don't get bloody holidays," he added, barely above a murmour.

The High King nodded slowly, leaning back and laying his hands palm-flat against the table. "Don't I know it," he grunted.

* * *

Reply to Knootoss:
Honourable Minister,

The Commonality will, of course, dispatch an appropriately important representative. Rather than dallying, we have dispatched a conveyance to carry her to Hoek van Holland, from where she can either travel to your chosen location at the appropriate time, or your representatives can join her on-base.

Good will and friendship,

~ 1st Ambassador Nejure

Returning from the UN vote regarding solar panels and banning fossel fuels, Force Commander Lance walks into Ackvick's office. "I have news for you. The UN voted in favor for banning fossel fuels."

Ackvick turns towards Lance in his chair. "You're kidding. I thought that would never go through."

"Well, it did. Looks like our vote was heard. Now the real question is, are we ready for this change?"

Ackvick smiled. "Don't be silly. All civilian vehicles, and our tanks have been using hydrogen fuel for over five years now. Our nuclear reactors are powering our cities and navy. Our aircraft are powered by pulse detonation engines (http://www.aardvark.co.nz/pjet/pde.shtml) which use synthetic fuel. I think we're ready for the next generation. My question is, is the rest of the UN?"

"I don't think so, from what I saw, and have been hearing," Lance replies. "But I think we can take advantage of the situation, and sell some of the hydrogen and technologies that we use to fuel our vehicles."

"Make it so," says Ackvick.

First and final bump.