NationStates Jolt Archive

Special edition of the International Knootian

The Hague - Four years of the left-wing coalition government led by Prime Minister Jan Willem Daatman (http://ns.goobergunch.net/wiki/index.php/Jan_Willem_Daatman) are drawing to an end! Knives are being sharpened as Knootians prepare to vote in what promises to be one of the most hotly contested elections in decades.

The Social Liberal Party, which has held the balance of power in Knootian politics ever since Prime Minister Vogels took the nation onto the international stage has split into warring factions, and it appears doomed to take a back-seat role. Many of the nations voters are still undecided, and dirty campaigning by both the government and the opposition is about be decided in a massive 24-party tug of war.

This election, Knootians will get to vote twice: one vote will be cast for their favourite party in the unicameral parliament, and one vote will be cast in the first round of the elections for the next Prime Minister.

As usual, the big parties campaign on the "vaultline issues" of the Knootian culture wars. In this special issue, the International Knootian will look into the parties, the issues, and the Prime Ministerial candidates.

The Parties:

List 1
Knootiaanse Groene Partij
Strength: 75 seats - polled at around 50 seats

The Knootian Green Party (KGP) is the largest political party. The KGP is oficially a green Party, but it represents most of Knootoss' centre-left, which is pacifist and anti-war, in favour of the welfare state and socially liberal. The party opposes the growing influence of the Order of the Invisible Hand and won the elections because of its opposition to the war in Tanah Burung.

List 2
Realistische Conservatieve Partij Knootoss
Strength: 47 seats, which it is projected to keep

The Realist Conservative Party of Knootoss or RCPK describes itself as 'Pro-freedom, Pro-strength, Pro-Market and Pro-Knootoss'. It is an economically conservative party with a socially liberal programme. It favours much higher defence spending while lowering taxes and eliminating traditional social programmes. The RCPK has languished in the opposition after having been in government for eight years under the charismatic leadership of Galadriel Táralóm nos Círdan.

List 3
Sociaal-Liberale Partij
Strength: 32 seats - polled at 25

The Social Liberal Party (SLP) is a centrist liberal party with a strong socially libertarian tradition. The party is economically liberal, though its members do not agree on what exactly this means and there are factions within the party of different points of view from the neoliberal former minister of economic affairs Laurens-Jan Brinkhorst to the almost libertarian socialist former Prime Minister Lousewies van der Laan. The party is united on social issues and embraces individualism as the way forward. The party has been in government in all coalition governments of the Dutch Democratic Republic. A significant segment of the party split off to form the new National Liberal Party, threatening its hold on power.

List 4
Nationaal-Liberale Partij
Strength: 29 dissenter seats - polled to capture over 40 seats

The radical National Liberal Party (NLP) broke away from the SLP during Daatmans term in office. It's parliamentary faction comprises of breakaway MPs. 27 of its representatives hail from the SLP, 2 conservative RCPK members joined in later. The party has since succeeded in wooing both dissatisfied conservatives and more right-wing liberals. The NLP is dissatisfied with the politically left-wing leanings of the Social-Liberal party, and stands for more "decisive" and "patriotic" policies. The NLP advocates a more aggressive foreign policy, a stronger state that supports business, more stringent limits on public expressions of religion, and an education system that advocates Knootian values. It has promised to "Get rid of the regents and give the country back to the people."

List 5
Socialistische Partij
Strength: 10 seats, a share which is projected to double

The Socialist Party (SP) runs on a communist platform which has met with surprising success in the last five elections. It is not a social-democrat party. The SLP and KGP compete for "social-democratic" voters in this election.

List 6
Knootiaanse Elven Partij
Strength: 7 seats, which is set to increase.

The Knootoss Elvish Party (KEP) is an 'Elvish' special interest party, taking generally pro-capitalist and pro-Menelmacari policy stances. After the electoral defeat of Galadriël Táralóm nos Círdan, the party managed to recapture a significant part of the Elvish vote, led led by the attractive Tári Calafalas. This election it will try to capture more of the Elvish voting demographic.

Lists 7-24
Strength: No representation, 9 projected seats.

Plenty of other parties exist in Knootoss, but due to the small number of votes they have received, they are not represented in the Staten-Generaal. Amongst these small parties are a Knootian Social Democratic Party, the Party for the Animals, the Knootians For Progressive Change reform group, the populistic Popular Party and several Christian factions including the Christian-Democratic Alliance, the 'Real' Christian-Alliance, the Christian Alliance For Democracy and the Dutch Reformed Voting League to name just a few. The Christian parties are largely ineffective and consumed by infighting and not even many Christian churches or voters take them seriously. The Imperialistische Partij or the Imperialist Party wants to turn Knootoss into an Empire, headed by a Queen they themselves proposed.

The only party that might be successful is the new entrepreneurial KRP, which runs on a more moderate version of the National Liberal Party platform.

The Issues

The three "battleground issues" of these election have been the role of religion, Knootian foreign policy, and the issue of taxation.

Religion

Knootian Green Party - separate church and state but promote a multi-religious, diverse and tolerant Knootoss in schools.
Realistic Conservative Party of Knootoss - maintain the classic separation of church and state, ignore the issue of religion.
Social Liberal Party - Respect freedom of religion but combat "radical beliefs that spread hate".
National Liberal Party - Knootoss is an atheist country with atheist values. This should be taught in schools. Atheism should be the dominant culture.
Socialist Party (Communist) - Religion is the opiate of the people.
Knootian Elvish Party - more government funding to promote Elvish temples for everyone. Promote a multi-religious, diverse and tolerant Knootoss in schools.


Foreign Policy

Knootian Green Party - A more active role in international affairs, work with the international community to promote Sentient Rights. Slash the defence budget. Maintain current alliances but rejoin the United Nations,
Realistic Conservative Party of Knootoss - Promote Knootian business interests abroad. No intervention. Massively increase military spending for parity with Menelmacari spending. Maintain current alliances.
Social Liberal Party - Promote both Knootian business interests and human rights abroad without a budget increase for defence. Maintain current alliances, focus on increasing Western-Atlantic ties.
National Liberal Party - Knootoss has a superior culture, which it should spread throughout the Knootian Federation. Massively increase defence spending for parity with Menelmacari spending and reorganise the Knootian Defence Force into an offensive military machine. Reconsider all existing alliance entanglements.
Socialist Party (Communist) - Join Communist Alliances. Something about worker and soldier solidarity.
Knootian Elvish Party - Massively increase military spending for parity with Menelmacari spending. Try to re-energise KIST and VERITAS as the basis for Knootian security and economic prosperity.


Taxation

Knootian Green Party - "Build up Knootoss". Higher taxes, better services.
Realistic Conservative Party of Knootoss - Pledges to undo all recent increases in spending to give everyone a tax cut.
Social Liberal Party - Maintain current levels of spending.
National Liberal Party - Introduce a "Patriot Tax" to fund the army and the national education system, but slash business taxes.
Socialist Party (Communist) - Nationalise all business as a source of income.
Knootian Elvish Party - Institute a tax credit for donations to Elvish religious causes, and promote cross-national business amongst VERITAS members.

Reserved for the Candidates for PM. (Will do that later.)

OOC: That's it for now. Feel free to have journalists ask questions, comment on the elections or anything.

Kiki Sun, CBC (http://ns.goobergunch.net/wiki/index.php/Cookeslandic_Broadcasting_Company) World News, a question for all the political parties: What is your party's policy on Abortion?

Kiki Sun, CBC (http://ns.goobergunch.net/wiki/index.php/Cookeslandic_Broadcasting_Company) World News, a question for all the political parties: What is your party's policy on Abortion?

The law:
At present, abortion in the Dutch Democratic Republic is legal and regulated. Government-sponsored abortion clinics exist throughout the country, and most private healthcare arrangements for women cover the costs. More controversially, serialised abortions are being used to create "designer babies".

Knootoss has average rates of abortion, and an extremely low birthrate.

The compiled results are in...

Abortion!

Knootian Green Party - Pro-choice: we believe in the right of a woman to decide. The state should support and regulate abortions so that they are safe.
Realistic Conservative Party of Knootoss - Pro-sense: Deregulate abortion. There should be no government intervention on this issue. Discourage the practice of serialised abortions to create "designer babies".
Social Liberal Party - Pro-choice: we believe in the right of a woman to decide. The state should support and regulate abortions so that they are safe.
National Liberal Party - Pro-Knootoss: the state should actively promote serialised abortions to create a better Knootian people. Women should be promoted to have children, and abortion should be discouraged. However, the practice should not be made illegal.
Socialist Party (Communist) - Pro-choice: Nationalise abortion clinics.
Knootian Elvish Party - Pro-life: abortion is murder.

Upon the oncoming Knootian elections, a variety of Allanean journalists descended upon Knootoss – the representatives of Liberty Times, the Allanean News Networks, and multiple blogs and activist organisation – the Homeschooling Alliance of Allanea, the Foundation for the New Allanean Century, and others. They showered the candidates with questions about issues that were likely of no interest to the Knootians, but were very curious to their viewers and readers and listeners back home – about gun control, abortion, homeschooling, and, most importantly, the views of the candidates on Allanea.

http://img142.imageshack.us/img142/4826/pinaknootossbds1.jpg

PINA (http://ns.goobergunch.net/wiki/index.php/Public_International_News_Ariddia?goobergunch1_session=a78520edd9a549f3c52852d97e24f5d3) will be following these elections (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=524208) with great interest.

A recent poll in Ariddia suggests that 63% of Ariddians would vote for the Knootian Green Party, 24% for the Socialist Party, 4.5% for the Party for the Animals, 4% for the Knootian Social Democratic Party, and the remaining 4.5% would either abstain, vote blank or vote for other parties.

Upon the oncoming Knootian elections, a variety of Allanean journalists descended upon Knootoss – the representatives of Liberty Times, the Allanean News Networks, and multiple blogs and activist organisation – the Homeschooling Alliance of Allanea, the Foundation for the New Allanean Century, and others. They showered the candidates with questions about issues that were likely of no interest to the Knootians, but were very curious to their viewers and readers and listeners back home – about gun control, abortion, homeschooling, and, most importantly, the views of the candidates on Allanea.

Gun Control

Knootian Green Party - The KGP wants a gun-free society. Only the military should have guns.
Realistic Conservative Party of Knootoss - liberalise gun laws somewhat. Gun licences should be available to citizens who need them for professional or recreational purposes.
Social Liberal Party - Keep the current, tight system of gun control. Citizens should not have guns, with the exception of hunters, the police and the military.
National Liberal Party - The party has not yet taken a stance on this issue.
Socialist Party (Communist) - Keep the current, tight system of gun control.
Knootian Elvish Party - Replace the gun with the longbow as the weapon of choice for the police and the military. Citizens should be allowed to carry bows without a liscence.


Home-schooling

Knootian Green Party - Should remain illegal to ensure quality of education. Keeping a child out of school is child abuse.
Realistic Conservative Party of Knootoss - should be allowed, if home schooled education complies more or less with the national curriculum. It should not be funded.
Social Liberal Party - Should remain illegal to ensure quality of education. Keeping a child out of school is child abuse.
National Liberal Party - No Patriotic Parent would deny their child a Knootian education!
Socialist Party (Communist) - Nationalise all schools.
Knootian Elvish Party - Allow for parents to start special schools for elvish children, who have unique educational needs due to their long lifespan. Exempt elvish citizens from the standard curriculum.


Allanea

Knootian Green Party - Condemn Sentient Rights abuses in Allanea
Realistic Conservative Party of Knootoss - normalise trading ties, establish a firm a Free Trade Agreement but keep them at a distance politically.
Social Liberal Party - Knootoss should explore the possibility of closer economic ties, tied to increased respect for Sentient Rights in Allanea.
National Liberal Party - Allanea should be a key ally in the "Fight for Freedom".
Socialist Party (Communist) - Capitalist pig-dogs.
Knootian Elvish Party - Follow the Menelmacari policy statement on Allanea.

Questions from Ariddia
published by PINA

Samantha Jones (36, bicycle designer)
"Hello. I was wondering what the different parties' policies would be in terms of protecting the environment."

Sarah Hassan (23, postgraduate student in literature)
"Hi. What would each party's policies be on big, successful companies that make huge profits, and yet fire productive, hard-working employees just to make even more profits?"

Michel Deschamps (47, publisher)
"Hello. What are the parties' views on animal welfare?"

Charles Luthier (79, retired)
"Good afternoon. What would each party say the most important freedom is?"

Tania Fjodorovs (30, teacher)
"Hello. With a new government, what changes would there in terms of relations between Knootoss and Ariddia?"

Questions from Ariddia
published by PINA

Samantha Jones (36, bicycle designer)
"Hello. I was wondering what the different parties' policies would be in terms of protecting the environment."

Sarah Hassan (23, postgraduate student in literature)
"Hi. What would each party's policies be on big, successful companies that make huge profits, and yet fire productive, hard-working employees just to make even more profits?"

Michel Deschamps (47, publisher)
"Hello. What are the parties' views on animal welfare?"

Charles Luthier (79, retired)
"Good afternoon. What would each party say the most important freedom is?"

Tania Fjodorovs (30, teacher)
"Hello. With a new government, what changes would there in terms of relations between Knootoss and Ariddia?"

Samantha Jones (36, bicycle designer)
"Hello. I was wondering what the different parties' policies would be in terms of protecting the environment."

Knootian Green Party - "Hello Samantha. Thank you for your question. The Knootian Green Party is the most environmentally friendly party in Knootoss. Sadly, our country is one of the largest polluters in the world. We think that, by making sensible laws and regulations, we can promote a cleaner Knootoss."
Realistic Conservative Party of Knootoss - "Face it, Knootoss does not have much "nature" left to protect. We are all in favour of private initiatives to promote environmental awareness. Studies have shown that only a very small percentage of child deaths is due to environmental pollution, so we don't have much to worry about."
Social Liberal Party - "The SLP has done many things in the last four years to promote environmental safety, to raise air quality, and to protect our remaining ecological diversity. On the other hand, we must have sustained economic growth to be able to fund a good environment. Let our record guide your vote."
National Liberal Party - "Back off. Hey! Who said I'd take questions from these communist hippies?!"
Socialist Party (Communist) - "Nationalised Industry has proven far more capable of protecting the environment. The workers should work together with environmental groups. Green-red solidarity!"
Knootian Elvish Party - "The state of the Knootian environment is awful. Someone should really do something! Menelmacar, for example, combines economic growth with a beautiful environment."


Sarah Hassan (23, postgraduate student in literature)
"Hi. What would each party's policies be on big, successful companies that make huge profits, and yet fire productive, hard-working employees just to make even more profits?"


Knootian Green Party - "The Knootian government should have stronger welfare policies to ensure that the losers of in a dynamic, global economy are not sacrificed on the altar of economic growth."
Realistic Conservative Party of Knootoss - "I would compliment those companies for becoming even more productive. It's easy enough to get a new job in our frightening economy, so I see no reason why the state should intervene."
Social Liberal Party - "The government should increase education funding and focus on retraining these workers. It is important that, in a global economy, our workers have the most relevant skills. Promoting entrepreneurial spirit is another way to help these people. Temporary welfare benefits fill the gap nicely."
National Liberal Party - "These big business are the pride of Knootoss. If the NLP gains power, there will be plenty of work for Patriotic Knootians in our economy. And the army will be recruiting as well!"
Socialist Party (Communist) - "These companies should be nationalised and become the collective property of the workers."
Knootian Elvish Party - "I concur with my colleague from the RCPK."



Michel Deschamps (47, publisher)
"Hello. What are the parties' views on animal welfare?"


Knootian Green Party - "Very important! Knootoss should do much more to protect animals. The Bio-industry should be banned, and the government should promote sustainable alternatives."
Realistic Conservative Party of Knootoss - "We have laws against animal abuse in this country."
Social Liberal Party - "We've done lots to help animals. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Daatman, we have increased the minimum space allowance for chickens by more than 14 percent!"
National Liberal Party - "Sick individuals who abuse animals should receive heavier punishments. Bestiality should be criminalised."
Socialist Party (Communist) - "Communal farms would do a much better job at protecting animals."
Knootian Elvish Party - 'Animals are fluffy, cute and they should be protected."


Charles Luthier (79, retired)
"Good afternoon. What would each party say the most important freedom is?"


Knootian Green Party - "The Freedom to be Happy."
Realistic Conservative Party of Knootoss - "The Freedom to do whatever you like. Freedom is Freedom."
Social Liberal Party - "The Freedom to develop yourself."
National Liberal Party - "Freedom is our most important Freedom. This is the most free country in the world, and we should keep it that way."
Socialist Party (Communist) - "There is no Freedom without Equality."
Knootian Elvish Party - "The Freedom to preserve your racial and religious identity."



Tania Fjodorovs (30, teacher)
"Hello. With a new government, what changes would there in terms of relations between Knootoss and Ariddia?"


Knootian Green Party - "Ariddia is a friendly government that respects democracy and human rights. We would really like closer ties with them."
Realistic Conservative Party of Knootoss - "A Free Trade Agreement would be nice, but the Ariddians are too blinded by ideology to see the advantages."
Social Liberal Party - "Despite the obvious ideological differences we believe that deeper economic ties and more cooperation in international fora is a possibility. Both countries are, after all, democratically ruled."
National Liberal Party - "Knootoss should take a tougher stance on communism around the world. Even a fluffy country like Ariddia would side against us if it ever came to a war. We must be prepared..."
Socialist Party (Communist) - "We should have a full political and military alliance as soon as socialism is established in Knootoss."
Knootian Elvish Party - "We would follow Menelmacari foreign policy with regards to Ariddia."

"Knootian elections."

"Ip dip do?"

"Biggest tits?"

"What about the men?"

"Biggest cock?"

"How will we get them naked?"

"They are Knootian!"

OOC: Where's the Muffin Waffle Party? :confused:

OOC: Where's the Muffin Waffle Party? :confused:

OOC: It has been banned and its leaders have been shot.

OOC: It has been banned and its leaders have been shot.

OOC: *executes every holder of Knootian citizenship within the Empire In Denial*

*also enacts an embargo on Knootian anchovies*

OOC: :eek:

"Przemysl Waglweski, St. Casimir News and Record. Given the recent inactivity of both VERITAS and KIST and the withdrawal from active participation in international affairs of the nations of the Excalbian Isles, what, if any, plans for multinational cooperation do you think Knootoss should promote? Is there any hope for the expansion of the North Atlantic Treaty to include other North Atlantic nations such as Xirnium, Amestria or Kaitan-Leagran?"

"Cardelle Kallicharan, St. Mark's Progressive. What do you consider to be the role of the governments of the other Knootian Federation members and what rights, if any, should the people of the Knootian Federation have with regard to Knootoss proper?"

"Lois Langbain, Salanthini Union Review. Knootoss is known as a strong advocate of free trade but also for being a modern democratic state with a legal framework of fair cooperation and reasonable protection for businesses, workers and consumers. Do any of you feel that there's any danger to these protections in Knootoss posed by free trade with countries where a comparable framework might not exist? In particular, what trade policy, if any, do you feel is appropriate towards a country which practices an especially abusive economic system such as slavery?"

"James Odam, Victoria Guardian. What is your view of law of the seas issues such as deep sea fishing, environmental issues, piracy, safety and human trafficking in international waters?"

"Juerg Jeker, Zwingli Patriot. How do you view your country's relationship with the Resurgent Dream and has the transition from High Kingdom to Commonwealth to Confederated Peoples affected this relationship?"

"Peter Priest, Worthington Post. Doesn't the ban on home-schooling violate the prior right of the parent to determine the form of education, a right generally accepted as a basic human right in past international conventions as well as in liberal thought?"

"Edha Baboor, Bharat Popular Tribune. What specific steps would your party take to protect the rights of ethnic, cultural and religious minorities?"

"Przemysl Waglweski, St. Casimir News and Record. Given the recent inactivity of both VERITAS and KIST and the withdrawal from active participation in international affairs of the nations of the Excalbian Isles, what, if any, plans for multinational cooperation do you think Knootoss should promote? Is there any hope for the expansion of the North Atlantic Treaty to include other North Atlantic nations such as Xirnium, Amestria or Kaitan-Leagran?"

Knootian Green Party - "Rather than trumpeting some overbearing Plan for the Future, we believe that there should be some sort of international conference involving all of the nations your mentioned. We are the party that most believes in international cooperation and human rights. We should make quick work of expanding our Atlantic framework to incorporate, for example, Xirnium."
Realistic Conservative Party of Knootoss - "We would like free trade and friendly relations with all of these nations. However, we cannot risk being perceived as an unreliable ally by shifting the basis of Knootian security away from VERITAS. Knootoss has to become a serious military power in its own right."
Social Liberal Party - "Heh. Our party asked itself exactly that question when we wrote our electoral programme, and its true. An old Knootian saying goes that a good neighbour is better than a far friend. Moreover, most Western Atlantic nations are significantly more democratic than most of VERITAS. It will be interesting to see what we can accomplish. The SLP would be glad to work with other governments to deepen ties. You may remember that the first major act of Jan Willem Daatman was to create a highly effective Atlantic framework for peace and cooperation. "
National Liberal Party - "The National Liberal Party will reconsider all existing alliances when we rise to power. Then, and only then, shall the lists be made of who are our friends and who are our foes. We will be friends to the friends of freedom."
Socialist Party (Communist) - "We believe in a foreign policy based on the liberation of the working class."
Knootian Elvish Party - "We would follow Menelmacari foreign policy with regards to the West Atlantic, but promote peace and trade generally."


"Cardelle Kallicharan, St. Mark's Progressive. What do you consider to be the role of the governments of the other Knootian Federation members and what rights, if any, should the people of the Knootian Federation have with regard to Knootoss proper?"


Knootian Green Party - "The role of Knootoss in the transitional governments in the Knootian Federation should be directed at providing indigenous peoples with more autonomy. That said, we also believe that all citizens of the Knootian Federation deserve the same inalienable rights. We would loathe to sacrifice the Colombian small business credit provision, for example."
Realistic Conservative Party of Knootoss - "There is no single answer to that question. The situation in Ale-Yarok is completely different from the situation in, for example, Nieuw-Rotterdam. The people of Ale-Yarok have a large degree of autonomy and they are generally happy with Knootoss keeping the peace. Nieuw-Rotterdam, on the other hand, is an inalienable part of Knootian civilisation. Every citizen of the Knootian Federation is entitled to the rights provided to them by our constitution."
Social Liberal Party - "Increased autonomy for Federation members should be part of a larger framework of progress. The I-word should not be a goal in itself. The Dutch Democratic Republic has a moral and historic responsibility towards all members of the Federation."
National Liberal Party - "Knootoss should do more to promote Knootian culture and Knootian business in the Federation. We've shed our blood to defend and secure these lands. They are an inalienable part of our Sphere of Influence."
Socialist Party (Communist) - "Power should be transferred immediately to socialist collectives in all members of the Federation. Every state should then join the Communist International as an equal."
Knootian Elvish Party - "I have little to add to the statements of my SLP and RCPK colleagues."


"Lois Langbain, Salanthini Union Review. Knootoss is known as a strong advocate of free trade but also for being a modern democratic state with a legal framework of fair cooperation and reasonable protection for businesses, workers and consumers. Do any of you feel that there's any danger to these protections in Knootoss posed by free trade with countries where a comparable framework might not exist? In particular, what trade policy, if any, do you feel is appropriate towards a country which practices an especially abusive economic system such as slavery?"


Knootian Green Party - "Knootian trade policies should always take account of sentient rights and the protection of workers. We should not trade with countries that condone slavery."
Realistic Conservative Party of Knootoss - "Free Trade spreads Freedom. In the past, these boycotting policies have proven ineffective, only driving these nutcase countries further into isolation. Economic engagement without political endorsement is the best possible approach."
Social Liberal Party - "Any trade with such a nation should be tied to improvements in sentient rights."
National Liberal Party - "We should have an army strong enough to engage in regime change. Knootoss should lead an international coalition against slavery."
Socialist Party (Communist) - "A Socialist Nation does not trade with capitalist pig-dogs."
Knootian Elvish Party - "We should act more firmly against nations that discriminate against elves."


"James Odam, Victoria Guardian. What is your view of law of the seas issues such as deep sea fishing, environmental issues, piracy, safety and human trafficking in international waters?"


Knootian Green Party - "Knootoss should rejoin the United Nations and work with the international community on these issues."
Realistic Conservative Party of Knootoss - "We should expand our navy to secure the seas. The United Nations has produced poor laws in this area. We are open to respecting internationally recognised concepts, such as law of the seas, without all the ideological baggage."
Social Liberal Party - "Despite the obvious ideological differences with the United Nations, we do believe that cooperation in international fora is the only way to resolve issues which are inherently international in nature. As a trading nation, we stand to gain from safer seas."
National Liberal Party - "We should expand our navy to secure the Atlantic for Knootian trade. Ruthless destruction is the only answer to piracy. A properly-sized navy could protect our trade by convoying dangerous waters."
Socialist Party (Communist) - "Existing international law protects capitalist exploitation of the seas. A Socialist approach to international relations is the answer."
Knootian Elvish Party - "The Navy should crack down on the trafficking of elvish slaves."


"Juerg Jeker, Zwingli Patriot. How do you view your country's relationship with the Resurgent Dream and has the transition from High Kingdom to Commonwealth to Confederated Peoples affected this relationship?"


Knootian Green Party - "The Resurgent Dream is one of our closest allies, and the admirable progress in their own country should lead to ever-increasing ties."
Realistic Conservative Party of Knootoss - "The Resurgent Dream is a good trading partner and a more-or-less dependable ally. The changing domestic situation does not affect the continuing friendship between our peoples."
Social Liberal Party - "I agree with my green colleague. The Resurgent Dream has been neglected lately by our diplomatic corpse. We definately should do more to engage all the new members of the Commonwealth in friendly economic and political projects."
National Liberal Party - "The National Liberal policy on the Resurgent Dream will depend on their stance on the NLP. It should be recognised that that the better parts of the Commonwealth were built by Knootian immigrants. Wherever these immigrants form a majority that wants a return to the motherland, there should be referendums on the subject."
Socialist Party (Communist) - "Things may change on the surface, but the Resurgent Dream is still a deeply capitalist nation. They cannot really be trusted to befriend a Socialist Nation."
Knootian Elvish Party - "We like you guys!!!! <3"


"Peter Priest, Worthington Post. Doesn't the ban on home-schooling violate the prior right of the parent to determine the form of education, a right generally accepted as a basic human right in past international conventions as well as in liberal thought?"

Knootian Green Party - "No. Every child has a right to quality education, and the government should enforce that right. In this case, the right of the child is more important than the right of the parent."
Realistic Conservative Party of Knootoss - "It does. That is why our party wants to allow home-schooling."
Social Liberal Party - "No. My Green colleague already put it just as I would."
National Liberal Party - "No Patriotic Parent would deny their child a Knootian education!"
Socialist Party (Communist) - "Schooling should be organised by a Socialist State. Home-schooling is just an instrument to provide benefits for a small capitalist elite. Children deserve equal opportunities in education. Fuck liberal thought when it screws over the poor."
Knootian Elvish Party - "Yes. That is why we want special schools for elvish children, who have unique educational needs."


"Edha Baboor, Bharat Popular Tribune. What specific steps would your party take to protect the rights of ethnic, cultural and religious minorities?"

Knootian Green Party - "Previous governments that included the greens have expanded the rights of all kinds of minorities. We want to preserve the rights of these minorities too, even if the tide of public discourse runs against them."
Realistic Conservative Party of Knootoss - "The best way to ensure these peoples rights is by keeping the Government out of it. There should be no policies for special interests."
Social Liberal Party - "We should remain one of the most religiously tolerant countries by fighting the extremists - the radical clerics that preach hate. By fighting the extremes of religion, we can keep our society together."
National Liberal Party - "Now listen, we are an atheist nation and the atheist culture is the dominant one. I don't care what people do in the privacy of their own home, but "Knootoss: love it or leave it', for all I care."
Socialist Party (Communist) - "The only way to eliminate these petty disputes is to eradicate the capitalist system that sustains these distinctions amongst working class Knootians."
Knootian Elvish Party - "More should be done to protect the rights of elves! We want a special tax credit for our religious causes, for example. The government should be far more considerate of non-human races."

Allison Moulding, New Leicestershire Broadcasting Corporation, asks: "What is the stance of the major parties on so called victimless crimes such as prostitution, driving without a seatbelt and use of controlled substances?"

Bernard Morton, The Battersea Economist, asks: "What are the views of the various parties on Tobin taxes and other measures to regulate the trade of currency across borders?"

Firstly it is my honor to inform you that The empress-of-the-stars hopes that the parties involved will take a firm line on the following issues.
•Use of drugs (alcohol, tobacco, coffee, marijuana, opiates, etc)
•Prostitution
•Genetic engineering
•Assisted Suicide
•Gambling

The people of she-with-the-heart-of-a-lioness also wish to know the parties attitudes to nations like ours undergoing reform?

~’Starian Standard’ reporter An-Na'im

Allison Moulding, New Leicestershire Broadcasting Corporation, asks: "What is the stance of the major parties on so called victimless crimes such as prostitution, driving without a seatbelt and use of controlled substances?"

Knootian Green Party - "Those crimes are not entirely "victimless", in the green view. We believe in safe, legal and regulated prostitution. It is legal in this country, but more should be done to protect the "happy hookers' and to stop exploitation. The same goes for controlled substances: legal, but regulated. Driving without a seatbelt is a violation of the traffic code, and at such it is a misdemeanour. Sometimes you have to protect people from themselves."
Realistic Conservative Party of Knootoss - "None of the governments business. The police should go catch real criminals."
Social Liberal Party - "The Social Liberal Party believes in the freedom of adult, sane people to make their own decisions. That is why we were a driving force behind substances legalisation and legalising prostitution. You'll have a hard time convincing me about seatbelts though, that is just an elementary aspect of car safety."
National Liberal Party - "We believe in Freedom, but people should behave like patriotic citizens. That is what made this country great."
Socialist Party (Communist) - "There is no such thing as a 'victimless crime' - when debauchery threatens the community as a whole. When you harm yourself and others, it is a crime. Even if it is done with so-called 'consent'. It is a capitalist myth that drug addicts and whores really have a choice. "
Knootian Elvish Party - "Could care less about the seatbelts, but we at the KEP certainly don't want to promote immoral behaviour."


Bernard Morton, The Battersea Economist, asks: "What are the views of the various parties on Tobin taxes and other measures to regulate the trade of currency across borders?"


Knootian Green Party - "My party considered the idea of a tobin tax, a few years ago but it isn't really a feasible without world-wide consensus. We are staunch believers in fair trade, however, and have promoted practical policies to make workers rights a reality. "
Realistic Conservative Party of Knootoss - "Communist pipe dreams."
Social Liberal Party - "Such measures are anathema to free entrepreneurialism. They would destroy the international trade system as we know it, and bring the Dutch Democratic Republic to utter ruin."
National Liberal Party - "Such taxes would harm the national interest. We are a trading nation, and depend on trade for our very livelihoods. We'd be mad to support a tax on freedom."
Socialist Party (Communist) - "An excellent idea.."
Knootian Elvish Party - "Why would anyone want to tax trade?"

Virginie Merlot, Peacock Daily News, asks: "The Order of the Invisible Hand is regarded by most Pantocratorians as a dangerous organisation with ties to terrorist and militant groups in various parts of the world. It is illegal in Pantocratoria and other places. Will the parties continue to tolerate meddling by such a group in Knootian and international politics, and to what extent do the parties feel the Order has penetrated Knootian politics?"

Amad Mamood, Daytan Peasant and Worker Journal, asks:

"What is each party's position on foreign aid, especially to developing countries?"

Virginie Merlot, Peacock Daily News, asks: "The Order of the Invisible Hand is regarded by most Pantocratorians as a dangerous organisation with ties to terrorist and militant groups in various parts of the world. It is illegal in Pantocratoria and other places. Will the parties continue to tolerate meddling by such a group in Knootian and international politics, and to what extent do the parties feel the Order has penetrated Knootian politics?"

Knootian Green Party "The greens oppose the idea behind the Order of the Invisible Hand. We deplore the amount of influence they have on the right of Knootian politics, and will fight it at every turn."
Realistic Conservative Party of Knootoss - "The Order of the Invisible Hand is a religion. Church and state are separate in Knootoss, so the question is irrelevant."
Social Liberal Party - "Some of the ideas of the Invisible Hand are downright scare, but we musn't forget that we have freedom of speech in this country. Moreover, it would be inappropriate for me to comment on the status of one particular organisation with regards to a potential criminal investigation. That is more something for the prosecution office."
National Liberal Party - "The Invisible Hand is a part of Knootian culture. We don't care what foreigner scum think about it."
Socialist Party (Communist) - "The "invisible hand" is just the latest excess of Knootian capitalism. The entire political scene is dominated by the Handie consensus. Only the Socialist Party cares about the fate of the ordinary worker; the others are slaves to their way of thinking."
Knootian Elvish Party - "The Invisible Hand is kind of silly, isn't it?"


Amad Mamood, Daytan Peasant and Worker Journal, asks:

"What is each party's position on foreign aid, especially to developing countries?"

Knootian Green Party - "Thanks to the greens, Knootoss continues to devote a sizeable amount of our resources to foreign aid for developing countries. Much of this is channelled to the appropriate international institutions, particularly UN institutions, which know best how to deal with the challenges of developing nations."
Realistic Conservative Party of Knootoss - "We shovel plenty of funding to developing nations in the Knootian Federation. We've done our bit for the world, really. Seeing as there are very few developing countries left, aid could stand to be knocked down a notch."
Social Liberal Party - "As my green colleague commented, Knootoss provides copious funds for international institutions. That aside, we also hope to establish more lasting bilateral ties of aid and trade with developing nations."
National Liberal Party - "Knootian money should be used for Knootian causes. We're not in the UN any more, so I don't see why we are still funding those corrupt bureaucrats."
Socialist Party (Communist) - "International solidarity of all workers!"
Knootian Elvish Party - "Meh. Poor nations can take care of themselves, really. Right? Well, if there is a heartbreaking disaster or something, we'll help."

"Only one thing springs to mind when talking of governments in the DDR : disappointment. The double standards set by the last two governments of the DDR in their international dealings and their patent dishonesty make it likely that no matter what the outcome of this current election relations with the DDR will not improve substantially."

-Comment to LNS news by First Republican William Issem as he headed to lunch.



"The DDR is still in business? That's a shock. Do they have an embassy here?"

-Comment to LNS news by Minister of Foreign Affairs Sir Alec Conover as he arrived to work, at about lunch time.



LNS News polls show that citizens of the Free Republic overwhelmingly support the Green Party. Most Vaadians still see Daatman's Government as highly corrupt due to his naming of members of the terrorist organization, The Order of the Invisible Hand, to several government positions. Despite the support for the Green Party only 4% of poll respondents favored any sort of meaningful relationship with the DDR, no matter what party is victorious.

LNS Satellite News

-From the desk of the Federal News Network's Overseas Election Department
-To Party Headquarters of each main group

"Considering recent comments from each party on VERITAS, where do you stand on the issue relating to defense spending? Government sources within the Federal Republic have privately said if the Dutch Democratic Republic withdrew from the organization any and all subsidies directed toward your defense budget would be withdrawn immediately pending a review of still existing ties. Do you feel, even in a strong economic position that the country is ready for such a sudden shift in it own defense spending?"

-From the desk of the Federal News Network's Overseas Election Department
-To Party Headquarters of each main group

"Considering recent comments from each party on VERITAS, where do you stand on the issue relating to defense spending? Government sources within the Federal Republic have privately said if the Dutch Democratic Republic withdrew from the organization any and all subsidies directed toward your defense budget would be withdrawn immediately pending a review of still existing ties. Do you feel, even in a strong economic position that the country is ready for such a sudden shift in it own defense spending?"

Knootian Green Party - "Well... we certainly hope to preserve good relations with our New York allies, and our platform does not explicitly advocate leaving VERITAS. However, it may be sound economics to end the deal between our two countries that was made so many years ago. The basic economics behind the deal have changed: New York and Jersey is no longer ailing economically, and Knootoss is amongst the biggest spenders on defence in the Western Atlantic region."
Realistic Conservative Party of Knootoss - "Knootoss will not leave VERITAS with a conservative government in power, so the issue is completely hypothetical."
Social Liberal Party - "In general, I don't respond to unfounded media speculation. The New Yorkers are amongst our staunchest allies, and presumably this will remain so even if our relations with Menelmacar change. Make no mistake however; the state of the Knootian Federation is strong - it would be easy enough to redirect the economic support that is going to New York and Jersey to our own military. While that would make our development aid policy seem less generous, it isn't really fair to direct so much of that aid to a First World nation in the first place."
National Liberal Party - "The Patriotic War Tax that we propose will make Knootoss one of the strongest nations on the planet."
Socialist Party (Communist) - "This is a transparent attempt at blackmail by the capitalist pro-menelmacari lobby."
Knootian Elvish Party - "Breaking with VERITAS?!!?! What?! Over our dead bodies! <rants in various elvish languages>"


((OOC: Hey. Nice to see you "alive". Truth be told I wasn't working on the assumption that we were still doing that, but if you -are- then sure. ))

Allanean Response

"Given our slighlty oversized Commerce budget, we'll be happy to aid our Knootian friends if something goes wrong in their relationship with the JErseyans".

Question from the Taraskovyan News Network:

“Please outline in general the approach of your political party to bilateral relations between Knootoss and Taraskovya. Is any expansion or reduction of bilateral ties envisioned in the case of your political formation coming to power in the Dutch Democratic Republic?”

Question from the Uthariaans Nieuwsbedrijf:

“According to the Vigvar Convention on Cooperation, the governments of Taraskovya and Knootoss set out plans to form a Dutch Language Union to regulate the Dutch language and to create uniform Dutch grammar. Since the ratification of the agreement, no move has been made in that sense. Is the DLU project dead?”

Question from Alexander Slanderov, Rainy Sunday:

“What are the competing parties’ views on promoting the Knootian sex industry as a viable tourist attraction? Shall the Knootian government issue legislation to set out Sex Worker Quality Standards?”

Question from the Taraskovyan News Network:

“Please outline in general the approach of your political party to bilateral relations between Knootoss and Taraskovya. Is any expansion or reduction of bilateral ties envisioned in the case of your political formation coming to power in the Dutch Democratic Republic?”


Knootian Green Party - "The leader of our party is married to a Taraskovyan, if that is any indication. Seeing as our peoples have mingled so freely in recent years, we would love to deepen cultural and economic ties."
Realistic Conservative Party of Knootoss - "The pursuit of a military alliance, and lowering trade barriers. Ideally. It really depends on how far the Taraskovyan government is willing to go."
Social Liberal Party - "We should really make work of the Dutch Language Union, and deepen all existing ties. It would not be prudent to speak without first consulting the Taraskovyan government, but the SLP is not going to exclude any type of beneficial relationship."
National Liberal Party - "We must counter the spread of Orthodox Christianity in Knootoss, and help our Dutch brethren abroad to throw off the yoke of alien oppression. We hope to pursue these goals using peaceful means, however."
Socialist Party (Communist) - "Capitalists!!!"
Knootian Elvish Party - "We want to be your best friends. Haha!"


Question from the Uthariaans Nieuwsbedrijf:

“According to the Vigvar Convention on Cooperation, the governments of Taraskovya and Knootoss set out plans to form a Dutch Language Union to regulate the Dutch language and to create uniform Dutch grammar. Since the ratification of the agreement, no move has been made in that sense. Is the DLU project dead?”

Knootian Green Party - "The project just ran into some unexpected delays. Negotiating on a language is hard but it is certainly the intention of the government to reach a compromise that is acceptable to all parties involved."
Realistic Conservative Party of Knootoss - "Don't ask us, ask the incompetent Daatman government. The DLU is vital to promoting cultural relations between our two nations, and there has been nothing but sloth from our far-left foreign minister."
Social Liberal Party - "Jan Willem Daatman has pledged to re-energise this project within the first 100 days of his re-election as Prime Minister. It really is a priority."
National Liberal Party - "As the premier Dutch-speaking nation, we should just dictate our grammar to the world. I don't see why we should pander to academic special interest groups abroad when we have a perfectly fine language, right here. "
Socialist Party (Communist) - "Typical government laziness."
Knootian Elvish Party - "Maybe it is dead. But I think everyone should be allowed to speak their own language anyway. No need to deal with all this silly bureaucracy. The money should instead be used to teach more children how to speak Sindarin."


Question from Alexander Slanderov, Rainy Sunday:

“What are the competing parties’ views on promoting the Knootian sex industry as a viable tourist attraction? Shall the Knootian government issue legislation to set out Sex Worker Quality Standards?”

Knootian Green Party - "The Green party indeed believes that we must strengthen regulations to protect men and women in the sex industry. I don't think the national government should promote our country as some sort of paid-sex paradise; that would just encourage more prostitution."
Realistic Conservative Party of Knootoss - "We don't believe that the government should meddle in the economy. These women can do whatever they want, we certainly aren't going to waste any damned taxpayer money to either promote that shit, or to wage some futile war on prostitution. Coppers should go and catch criminals."
Social Liberal Party - "Knootoss can be proud to have high standards for its sex industry workers. Our unique combination of ensuring protection for its employees, whilst having a liberal approach to the industry is one of the things that make Knootoss great. And, considering how many of our incoming tourists visit the sex industry, a promotional campaign would not be a bad idea. Of course, you always have to take into account local laws when doing such a thing."
National Liberal Party - "Knootoss is the best nation on the planet, and many tourists come here already to admire our great nation. A national-liberal government will support our tourism industry, yes."
Socialist Party (Communist) - "We should fight against the abuse of women, not commercialise it!"
Knootian Elvish Party - "Hmmm. Maybe we should limit prostitution somehow."

“MacDonald, IanCorp Wireless National. What would be the policy of your party’s government towards those territories which are being held in trust by Knootoss and foreign states until the proper apparatus for self-rule can be installed? To further expand: what is your party’s stance on outlaw terrorist groups such as the Rumbiak Brigade and the states which harbor them?”

EDIT:

National Liberal Party - "Knootoss is the best nation on the planet, and many tourists come here already to admire our great nation. A national-liberal government will support our tourism industry, yes."

((+10 points for the most evasive answer possible =P))

OOC: Ian, that question reminds me a bit of the one I quoted below. Is there anything else you wanted to know about the colonial policy?


"Cardelle Kallicharan, St. Mark's Progressive. What do you consider to be the role of the governments of the other Knootian Federation members and what rights, if any, should the people of the Knootian Federation have with regard to Knootoss proper?"


Knootian Green Party - "The role of Knootoss in the transitional governments in the Knootian Federation should be directed at providing indigenous peoples with more autonomy. That said, we also believe that all citizens of the Knootian Federation deserve the same inalienable rights. We would loathe to sacrifice the Colombian small business credit provision, for example."
Realistic Conservative Party of Knootoss - "There is no single answer to that question. The situation in Ale-Yarok is completely different from the situation in, for example, Nieuw-Rotterdam. The people of Ale-Yarok have a large degree of autonomy and they are generally happy with Knootoss keeping the peace. Nieuw-Rotterdam, on the other hand, is an inalienable part of Knootian civilisation. Every citizen of the Knootian Federation is entitled to the rights provided to them by our constitution."
Social Liberal Party - "Increased autonomy for Federation members should be part of a larger framework of progress. The I-word should not be a goal in itself. The Dutch Democratic Republic has a moral and historic responsibility towards all members of the Federation."
National Liberal Party - "Knootoss should do more to promote Knootian culture and Knootian business in the Federation. We've shed our blood to defend and secure these lands. They are an inalienable part of our Sphere of Influence."
Socialist Party (Communist) - "Power should be transferred immediately to socialist collectives in all members of the Federation. Every state should then join the Communist International as an equal."
Knootian Elvish Party - "I have little to add to the statements of my SLP and RCPK colleagues."

OOC: Ian, that question reminds me a bit of the one I quoted below. Is there anything else you wanted to know about the colonial policy?

((yes, I remember reading that one. I suppose I meant to ask the question more in terms of the international aspect of colonialism: as in, what steps would Knootoss take in defending its right to administer those territories (the Rumbiak Brigade part of the question -- it was asked a bit maliciously, in view of the Tanah Burung débâcle) and in how Knootoss would interact with other countries (such as mine) with less-palatable colonial regimes. Sorry if that wasn't clear))

((yes, I remember reading that one. I suppose I meant to ask the question more in terms of the international aspect of colonialism: as in, what steps would Knootoss take in defending its right to administer those territories (the Rumbiak Brigade part of the question -- it was asked a bit maliciously, in view of the Tanah Burung débâcle) and in how Knootoss would interact with other countries (such as mine) with less-palatable colonial regimes. Sorry if that wasn't clear))

((I can answer it now for you, but they would just give evasive answers like "terrism is bad" right now. Except for the commies who'd go "CAPITALISM!!!1". >_> Eh. I suppose I could do that, and give you the opportunity for follow-ups XD))

((I can answer it now for you, but they would just give evasive answers like "terrism is bad" right now. Except for the commies who'd go "CAPITALISM!!!1". >_> Eh. I suppose I could do that, and give you the opportunity for follow-ups XD))

((Don't strain yourself, Knootie. I just wanted to get in on the question-asking =P))

http://www.nationstates.net/images/flags/uploads/knootoss.jpg

Omnia mutantur nos et mutamur in illis

Joint Position Statement by
the Minister of Foreign Affairs & Defence and the Minister of Economic Affairs of the Dutch Democratic Republic of Knootoss


Position
The Executive Branch of Knootoss fully supports the "International Trade Currency" resolution, which currently stands to be pass by a marginal amount in the United Nations General Assembly. As such, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Defence has instructed the head of the Knootian UN Office to vote in favour of the resolution.

Political discussion on the implementation of the resolution, should it be passed by the General Assembly, will have to take place when a new government has been formed (after the general elections, which are due shortly.) The government is of the opinion that full technical implementation is the most efficient option.

Argument
Knootoss has an open economy that is heavily dependent on foreign trade. All UN resolutions and international agreements which reduce barriers to free trade and commerce have therefore traditionally enjoyed the support of the Dutch Democratic Republic. After the International Patent Office, this is arguably the strongest free trade resolution ever proposed by the United Nations, and (if passed) it stands to generate an unprecedented amount of international trade.

Multi-national trade involving numerous currencies (such as is the case with throughput trade) would become considerably easier. When the prices of Knootian and foreign goods and services can effectively be measured against one unified international standard, comparative advantages become immediately obvious. This will increase economic efficiency within the International Credit area.

A world bank that has the stated purpose of "creating a free market for the exchange of local national currency to the International Credit" carries the full support of the executive, especially considering that the World Bank has stated to standardize international exchange rates though a common free market exchange. The government interprets this as full support for its policy of floating the Euro.

The government is firmly opposed to a "Tobin Tax" or any other direct tax on trade, however it does recognise the need for the World Bank to receive appropriate funding without a direct mandate. Considering the negligible nominal cost of World Bank facilities, the government believes this fee would not amount to a Tobin Tax and it could (should) in practice be substituted with a small near-nominal fee charged on national governments, depending on the volume of trade. Such a manner of implementation would be consistent with earlier resolutions banning the UN from directly taxing the citizens. The government remains committed to see a "UN Funding Act" pass, doing away with the need of cumbersome separate funding clauses.

Policy implementation
If the "International Trade Currency" resolution is passed, the government of the Dutch Democratic Republic shall:

Mandate, by Executive Order, that the prices for government services as well as national government statistics shall be drawn up in both the Euro (EUR) and in the International Credit (IC)
Promote use of the International Credit for the purpose of international trade.
Work with banks to establish the International Credit as a digital currency - and guarantee that all digital conversion shall be instantaneous and free of charge.
Study the merits of switching to a minted version of the IC for the purpose of intra-national exchange, should a minted IC become popular internationally.

“MacDonald, IanCorp Wireless National. What would be the policy of your party’s government towards those territories which are being held in trust by Knootoss and foreign states until the proper apparatus for self-rule can be installed? To further expand: what is your party’s stance on outlaw terrorist groups such as the Rumbiak Brigade and the states which harbor them?”


Knootian Green Party - "We have a constitutional duty to keep the peace in the Knootian Federation, but the green party believes in peace through engagement. I take it you refer to the disastrous invasion of Tanah Burung - the greens were elected to make sure something like that would never, ever happen again."
Realistic Conservative Party of Knootoss - "We are engaged in a constant War on Terror against terrorists that terrorise our people. Any member of the Rumbiak Brigade will be given a fair trial in an international court, other terrorists will be given trials under the law, right here in Knootoss. Galadriël proved that the conservatives will not stand for foreign countries agitating against us and employing terrorists to send their message of Hate, or to destroy our agenda of Freedom."
Social Liberal Party - "The Social Liberal Party is tough on crime, including terrorism. We believe that terrorism requires a comprehensive approach - a full military, diplomatic, economic and cultural response. We believe there should be a national terror coordinator to cut throw the red tape and steer the Foreign and Domestic ministries towards better results."
National Liberal Party - "Inciting terrorism against the Knootian Federation is an act of war, to which there is only one possible response..."
Socialist Party (Communist) - "The Knootian Federation should be disbanded, and its constituent states should immediately become independent. We are a fighting a pointless, colonial war out there in Colombia. "
Knootian Elvish Party - "Terrorists are very bad! They must be caught and tried. Our keen elven senses can help detect terror plots before they unfold, so the police force should hire more elves."