The Apollo Fireball V

MCS Switches to Google Maps

2010-04-01T11:00:00.047+01:00

The Micronational Cartography Society (MCS) is to switch to using Google Maps as its technical basis. The Google Maps API will be used in a unique micronational mash-up which will incorporate the official geographical map of Micras as its base map, upon which individual micronations will be able to superimpose additional layers for cultural, political and resource maps.

The new system will include automatic monitoring of activity levels by using an updated version of the Ultimate Micronational Forumlist. Micronations will be required to designate parts of their territories which will be sacrificed should their activity fail to meet the MCS' prescribed criteria, with the map being appropriately updated automatically. New claims will also be able to be submitted automatically, with special algorithms being used to being used to determine their validity.

MCS administrator Craitman said: "this new system will take away much of the tedium associated with the manual updates while giving more control to our members and ensuring all territories are allocated on a fair and uncontestable basis. We will also offer a version of Google Earth, called Google Micras, to enable aerial and fly-through views of Micras' rendered landscape, which will take the micronational experience to a new level."

FNORD 2010 Medals Are Here!

2010-01-30T11:28:00.002Z

MCS, MICRAS - The FNORD Awards 2010 medals are now here, courtesy of Dr Spangle. Some group, front and back photos are below:

MNN: Still Here After Eight Years

2010-01-28T08:00:00.032Z

PONTES NOVI, IMPERIUM INCOGNITA - Veteran micronational news site and portal MNN celebrates its 8th anniversary today.

Founded in the legendary Barony of Treesia and Fabon on 28th January 2002, MNN has arguably become a much-valued source of news and information about micronations, and has operated continously (apart from a week's interruption in late 2008) ever since.

While it no longer has its own forum (archived here), it has expanded its listings of micronational resources and its news coverage, which, as well as blogs and journals, now includes tweets and videos. To celebrate its anniversary, MNN now has its own Twitter and mobile sites, plus a new look and logo, and a slightly revised name, the Micronations News Network, which replaces its previous twin names of Micronational News Network (for the news) and Micronations.Net (for the site).

We at the Apollo Fireball V congratulate MNN on its anniversary and wish it many more years of success.

Gralus Vanishes for Real!

2010-01-22T20:42:00.002Z

(updated below)

NOTHING, GRALUS - The magical kingdom of Gralus mysteriously disappeared earlier today, leaving kings, wizards and warlocks everywhere feeling slightly miffed and tentatively apprehensive. The last time it disappeared was due to an elaborate roleplayed conflict.

However, this time the last known sign of life that we had was receipt of a private message earlier this afternoon. By the time we went to open it, the entire nation had been replaced by a seemingly innocent-looking holding page.

Have Gralus' adventures in magic gone too far this time, or is there a more mundane explanation lurking in the shadows?

Only time will tell...

Update (24th January 2010)

We are pleased to report that Gralus has now safely returned from its temporary oblivion.

Hyperborean Ice-Demon Freezes Ireland

2010-01-09T14:27:00.001Z

HYPERBOREA, SHIREROTH - It seems that, when you are researching micronational myths and legends, it may not be best to speak aloud the name of any sensitive deities or demons, just in case they see it as open invitation to wreak havoc shortly afterwards.

This unfortunate sequence of events occurred last week, apparently as a consequence of a meeting between two Hyperboreans, Scott of Hyperborea and Eoin Dornan, which took place somewhere is deepest, darkest Ireland.

It has been admitted that, during the meeting, the name of Jogri Temyyyutsion, King of the Ice-Demons, was forgetfully spoken aloud in place of his safer winter pseudonym "Oin Suilar", which was effectively an invitation for him to expand his "icy reign" across the seas to all of Ireland.

Banishment of the Ice-Demon may prove to be troublesome, as the only potential rituals are to be found in the legendary "Cold Rain Book", which itself has proven to be entirely imaginary.

In the meantime, climate experts have warned that the anticipated duration of the supernatural freeze of "three times three times three days" may prove to be rather optimistic.

FNORD! Again

2010-01-08T22:00:00.071Z

2009 was a year of changes and consolidation. It saw the end of Babkha, a micronation that served as a pillar of our sector since before the MCS even existed. It saw the end of the hated MicroHub, which for all of its flaws served as a continuation of the MNN tradition and one of our last links to the larger micronational world. It saw the organization of large chunks of the world into the Small Commonwealth and its Small Economy, which have escaped the pitfalls of so many other organizations by expecting less.

And thus commenced the 2009 FNORD Awards earlier this evening, hosted by its eponymous and erstwhile founder, Scott of Hyperborea.

The awards, held, as ever, in honour of Emperor Norton Day and inspired by Molossia's original Norton Awards, were judged this year by Bjorn Ironfist of Stormark, Ryan Caruso of Shireroth, Emperor Edgard of Alexandria, and Guido Zambelis of Lovely.

A traditional mix of categories has been continued, with the winners of each as follows:

Most Promising New Micronation: Victoria
Award for Graphic Arts: Victoria
Award for Leadership: Chris Mules (Antica)
Jeremy Bellamy Award for Literature: Ben Kern ( Rauðbjörn's Saga, Stormark)
Bill Dusch Award for Cultural Development: Aryeztur Mejorkhor (Wiki of Aryez)
Joshua Coales Award for Best New Idea: The Small Commonwealth
Tony Au Award for Economics: The Small Commonwealth
Iain Jacobson Award for Journalism: Max Edwards (Litovsker Tagblatt, Ashkenatza)
Liam conToketi Award for Most Promising Micronationalist: Andrew Allot (Elwynn, Shireroth)
Shane Odlum Award for Overall Achievement: Nathan Shepard (Natopia)

The winners, will, for the first time, receive real medals instead of virtual ones, courtesy of Dr. Spangle.

Natopia to Celebrate Cowmas

2009-12-13T15:08:00.002Z

LINDSTROM, NATOPIA - The Dozan Bovic Church will be officially celebrating Cowmas for the first time this year, on December 22nd.

Last year it was unofficially observed to mark the restoration of the county of Smjorkr in Shireroth, a place where Dozan Bovinism successfully sought refuge during the period known as the Natopian Dark Ages.

At Cowmas, the faithful are expected to offer a sacrifical dairy product to the Butter Spirit, with a glass of milk generally being favoured. His Holiness, Nathan, Pentheros of the Dozan Bovic Church, said:

"Cowmas is a time to celebrate our faith through the darkness. We celebrate this by stringing lights upon our houses and candles in our windows, to let our faith shine through the dark as those brave Natopian refuges let their faith shine through the Dark Ages. "

Istvanistan & Verac Accords Finally Take Effect

2009-12-11T23:00:00.001Z

MODBURY, VERAC - After many diplomatic niceties and cartographical tweaks, the Istvanistan-Verac Accords took effect today.

The slightly mundane title disguises some fundamental changes that affect both nations. Verac relocates completely from Istvanistan Island across the world to a vacant area adjacent Gralus (although one that has been occupied by many different nations in previous years), while donating its former territory to neighbouring Istvanistan.

For the first time ever, Verac's island of Molyneux is shown on the MCS map, while Istvanistan expands for what is probably the first time in its long history, although only back to its previous fullest extent, with the new territory intended to be allocated to its own long unmapped Autonomous Oblast of Polabia..

"I, Nathan" - An Interview with Nathan of Natopia

2009-10-28T23:51:00.008Z

I, Nathan, am one of the three original founders of the Bovic Empire of Natopia.

Introducing Natopia

In August 2002, my friends and I were bored during a new student orientation for high school, and we doodled an imaginary city on the back of a hand-out. The city floated on clouds and had advanced aerospace technology. It also had a unique fascist totalitarian eugenics regime that executed "undesirables", and presidential succession was achieved officially through assassination. However the more micronation-like Natopia was set up in September. I did this because I had a lot of time on my hands and I really enjoyed playing SimCity.

Natopia was first all off-line. Classmates were given ranks and titles and even formed rival nations. The World Domination Society (WDS) and Emilyland were Natopia's first enemies, but the WDS eventually became an ally in our war against gravity. Natopia was a novelty that was a bit of fun for imaginative freshmen. The first Natopia Day, August 23, 2003, was even celebrated with a real life party with upwards of 15 people attending to celebrate Natopia.

The Inspirations

The idea for Natopia came from many different places. Mostly from classes in school that I'm taking. Early inspirations included the American government for the original Republic during freshman year civics class. The Holy Roman Empire was a basis for the first incarnation of the Sovereign Natopian Empire during a medieval history class. Athlon was first based on a Crusader State culture, but then evolved into a Greek themed culture after I took a Greek art class in college. The new Bovic religion taking root in Hazelwood is based on voodoo after curating an exhibit on Haitian voodoo. Natopia has had so many constitutions we can hardly be called a stable nation! Each new one changed when I had a new whim to fulfill. It has been rewritten so many times - many different parts came together to form what we have now.

A fun, yet important part of Natopia is The Ministry of Silly Walks. It was created when Natopia adopted an economy. Due to the technology, the government held all the money and distributed it out via salaries. Not all citizens held government jobs, so to get the money to the people, I set up the Ministry as a type of welfare system. Basically free money and a little bit of cultural development. Another part of fun part of Natopia is the Natopian Institute for the Promotion of Primate Literature, or NIPPL. It is the "citizens only" discussion forum. Matt Ziff came up with the idea of a Natopian institution to research the "infinite monkey theorem." However, another citizen, Tom Mills, devised the scandalously appropriate acronym.

The Butter Cow

The Butter Cow religion came about from the Natopia Day tradition to have a party "in real life." After the parties declined in popularity, and due to the nearness of dates, I took some friends to the Springfield Illinois State Fair and they always have a Butter Cow sculpture. Because it was an "official" Natopia Day outing, the Butter Cow was adopted as a mascot for Natopia in the same way Malarbor is the mascot for Shireroth. Butter Cow continued as a news mascot until, because of a constitutional crisis, Natopia collapsed. Athlon seceded from Natopia and adopted the Butter Cow as a divinity to bridge the cultural gap and declare itself the successor to Natopia.

When Natopia was reformed and annexed Athlon back, the Butter Cow religion came to the forefront of Natopia and was organized into a Catholic-style hierarchy as the Dozan Bovic Church. With myself as leader of both the church and Natopia, soon I fused the church with the state, which violated the many years of official Natopian secularization.

Citizens

New citizens of Natopia appeared somewhat sporadically. I never really "got" people to join - perhaps one of the problems with long term activity. People just sort of trickled in - some from other nations, others from out of nowhere (of course those people just could have been using fake names). I've made it a personal policy to not kick anyone out of Natopia, but there have been some I've wanted to.

Development

Natopia progressed most quickly in the very early days with Tasneem, Ryan and myself. Since Tasneem and Ryan were my friends in real life but lived too far away to hang out with, Natopia became our primary forum of communication and thus an explosion of Natopian culture. The Free Juice and Bagels Party and the legislative Frenzy are legacies of this time.

Natopia was never really a success per se. I don't really know, it was just kind of a general plateau of existing. I always remember that every time Natopia slows down to a crawl, within a month activity always picks up. If it didn't we wouldn't have been here for seven years.

Dark Ages and the Restoration

After Natopia slowed, restoring it was really a no-brainer. It had been a part of my life for so long and I was still involved in micronations, so there was no reason to not restore it. Allowing it to collapse and have Athlon and South Mehlville secede provided a very interesting historical element, however, and Natopian history fully embraces the collapse, calling it the Dark Ages, which I think adds a sense of realism to the nation.

Diplomacy and Culture

When Natopia was first settling into the Micras sector, I wanted Natopia very diplomatically involved. However as time went on I had less time to keep up with other nations, and the nations that Natopia was closely involved with closed up shop.

Our dealings with the MCS have always been favorable. In the past, we have had many comments by other nations, and I need to say that I fully endorse being called not serious but awesome. I allowed Natopian culture to grow naturally, instead of imposing a "cookie cutter culture" on it such as German, Roman, English, etc. When the population was mainly teenagers, the culture developed into that "immature" track. We have one of the most unique cultures out there and I would rather have Natopia's awesome unseriousness over way too serious with a lot of activity.

Favorite Things

I really enjoyed some special parts of Natopia. My favorite Natopia was Tasneem. She was one of the very first to join in high school and stayed for several years. During some of the slower times when I considered ending Natopia or annexing it to another nation, she always kept me on track and kept Natopia independent. It was a sad day when she left - she brought many good times to Natopia. Tasneem is now happily married and graduating from Michigan State this upcoming spring.

My favorite time was the one successful Summer Arts Festival we had. We had participants from several nations and filled the Library with some really nice works of art and literature, something I have always fancied being one of Natopia's strong points. A lot of Natopia’s own citizens have work submitted to the library through this day including Monkey Wrench, a one-act play by a former citizen, Zechariahs Azilin (Z).

Abdication and a New Emperor

Recently, the throne of Natopia was abdicated and my friend Konrad V Z (kvz) has taken over. He was crowned on October 10th, 2009. Why would I give up my throne of seven years strong? Simple answer: no time any more because of grad school.

By abdicating and showing that I am willing to let someone else shape and guide Natopia, perhaps it will encourage immigration. Natopia is, after all, named after me. It might not encourage people to join and think they can implement their own ideas. Konrad was chosen as my successor because he has acted as my Regent for many years and has been an extremely loyal and dependable citizen. He has been active and involved in Natopia long enough that I trust him with something I have spent nearly one third of my life on.

And Finally

Natopia will go forward, as it always does. With a change in leadership and the return of valued old citizens, I have high expectations for it, and I hope that soon Natopia can blossom into the active and powerful nation it deserves to be.

- Nathan of Natopia was interviewed by Sir Matthew, Baron of Hazelwood and Minister of Silly Walks

Istvanistan Wins Controversial MCS Appeal

2009-10-26T20:13:00.004Z

MCS - The Republic of Istvanistan has won a controversial appeal for the MCS to restore its long-standing claim on the Micras world map, following its equally controversial removal last month.

The removal of Istvanistan from the map was apparently instigated by Dr. Spangle, who "forced" long-absent Istvanistani veteran Ari Rahikkhala to submit a claim for its removal on the grounds that it had been dead for four years.

What had been rather carelessly overlooked, though, was that Dr. Spangle's very own Ultimate Micronational Forumlist clearly showed otherwise, although anyone could presumably have briefly checked Istvanistan's forum instead.

At the beginning of this month, the Republic's recently appointed Minister of Foreign Annoyances and Envoy to the MCS, George W. Seagull, submitted an appeal against the removal, and stood steadfastly in the face of unreasonable offers for Istvanistan to meet additional conditions before its rightful position was restored.

The MCS Council eventually accepted the appeal just over a week ago, and we are now tentatively awaiting the next edition of the map to be published with Istvanistan restored.

Babkha: The Road Ahead

2009-10-26T00:01:00.004Z

ROYAL SHAHYIAR PALACE, BABKHA - Babkha's new Shah announced his vision for an ongoing Babkha today. Remarkably, his vision looks like many visions that have gone before, when Babkha was officially a micronation, including such time-honoured traditions as a constitutional convention, an updated website, subdivision restructuring, meetups and recruitment.

Of course, Babkha is now officially a micronation-that-isn't-but-is -really, as it is still referred to as a kingdom while also being a Villainous Order. Confusing, no? Perhaps they should have just made their government the Villainous Order instead of the entire Kingdom. After all, that name could probably be applied to a few real-world governments as well.

A New Shah for Babkha

2009-10-25T12:50:00.004Z

ROYAL SHAHYIAR PALACE, BABKHA - The Kingdom of Babkha has a new Shah, with former incumbent Hesam Jahandar having abdicated in favour of Sfeir Namvari. The act was accomplished by the issuing of a traditionally long-winded farman.

Babkha is still suffering from an indentity crisis, following its transformation into the rather cumbersomely-named Villainous Order of Babkhan Blackfriars, while still retaining the trappings and institutions of an autocratic micronational kingdom, but not enough to convince the Babkhans against withdrawing their membership of the MCS.

However, from now on, Hesam Jahandar will be known as the Emir of Sajin, while Shah Namvari will be known as Cyrus Namvari Shahanshah.

2010 Micronational Olympics to be Hosted by DeWaCo Estates

2009-10-25T12:33:00.004Z

MCS - It has been announced on the MCS board that the 2010 Micronational Olympics will be held by the Imperium of the DeWaCo Estates, although dates and events have yet to be established.

The Micronational Olympics were founded by the Republic of Molossia in 2000 and have been held every two years since.

For information about past games click here.

Hyperborea to Secede from Shireroth?

2009-10-25T11:46:00.007Z

SHIREKEEP, SHIREROTH - In an unexpected turn of events, a three-way battle has broken out in Shireroth's Imperial Judex over the future of the County of Hyperborea. Hyperborea was annexed to Shireroth in May 2002, but earlier today, it was revealed that it was suddenly no longer a subdivision of Shireroth (along with Yardistan) by Scott of Hyperborea, in his response to a case brought by Steward Malliki Tosha against an allegedly illegal alliance between Hyperborea and Yardistan.

Steward Tosha was subsequently obliged to drop that case after he then submitted a new case against Scott of Hyperborea for treason as secession is illegal. The latter then responded with a counter-case against the Steward for an allegedly illegal alliance between Tosha's own Duchy of Brookshire and Harvey Steffke's newly recreated Duchy of Goldshire.

Although a number of historical records from the first half of 2002 no longer exist, the Hyperborean Incorporation Act is still intact. Unfortunately, following the fashion of that time, it consisted of a single unqualified line:

The former Tymarian state of Hyperborea will be incorporated into the Duchy of Elwynn.

Arbiter Leo Dine, Duke of Elwynn, called the situation an "ordeal" and decided to adjourn both cases until tomorrow in order that a single, unified, case can be prepared.

The Last Day of Geocities!

2009-10-25T00:01:00.001+01:00

JUST ABOUT EVERYWHERE - Geocities, the ancient host of countless micronational sites, closes tomorrow (October 26th), so today is the last day for you to complete backing up your Geocities-hosted micronational site, should you wish to preserve it elsewhere. This was announced months ago, so hopefully you've already done that.

If you ask really nicely, Dr. Spangle may help you out at the MCS, but don't leave it until the last minute. After tomorrow, such sites might still be found at the Internet Archive, or maybe not.

New News for a New Season

2009-10-24T21:58:00.003+01:00

NOVA KAJAR, NELAGA - It's a new season, and a rare event has occurred. A smart, regularly updated, quality newsblog was launched a week ago.

Even rarer, it shares the Apollo spirit and name and was created by micronational veteran Harvey Steffke.

It's called the Apollo Aurora and it is to primarily cover the news of nations of the Small Commonwealth and Micras. We think you should check it out at: http://apolloaurora.livejournal.com/

Summer Slump News Roundup!

2009-08-01T12:42:00.027+01:00

It's that infamous time of year again, so we've awoken from our siesta to bring you all the latest news from around a large part of the micronational world:

A1 has announced an election.
Aerica is talking about food.
Alexandria's implementation of its new constitution has stalled.
Antica has denied Aryez its independence, is indecisive over who should become its new Foreign Minister, and is thinking of reviving KZFO Radio Nafticon.
Apiya is opening diplomatic relations with Pasárgada.
Ashkenatza has restored its Nohsi, Herr Astopov.
Atlantium is having some communication problems.
Azuristan has replaced its Crown Prince and heir apparent.
The Babkhans are still drunk.
Beaugium is still talking about Cake and Fridays.
Bobalania has been invited to join the UNUMC.
Bosworth has published some Batavian orders of battle.
In Cräiteland, Craitman has gone on the Grand Tour.
Cyberia fails to prevail.
The Domain and Realms want to create an online zoo.
Dura is not that durable.
The Formori flag is still appearing all around the world.
Gralus is having a land swap, reforming its Intelligence Community, still hosting the World Expo and doing various other things.
Hamland has some new insignia and a new General.
Hanover has published its Hanover Day 2009 Honours.
Holzer is finally preparing a new map showing its independence.
Imperium Incognita has entered into a diplomatic and familial alliance with Natopia.
Istvanistan still has not fallen.
Jamzinia is ticking over thanks to a talking strawberry.
Kanto has been denied a map.
Ladonia's driftwood "city" is featured by IO9.
Lavalon is drafting a new foreign policy and compiling a list of coverage of micronations in the mainstream media.
In Laurant a new palace is being constructed from the ruins of an ancient Atteran castle.
Livlandia is preparing for a recwar and deciding on deserving recipients of its Order.
Lovely has just elected a new Prime Minister (Cog).
Molossia has joined microfinancing charity Kiva.
Natopia has had its Emperor's Jubilee.
Nelaga is talking Storywar Charters and Micron Revolutions.
New Britannia has applied for preservation by the Apollo Foundation.
Norduryyk is holding a constitutional debate.
In Nova England, Jeremy has had to quit micronations.
In Ocia, Matt Kovac has made a "speach" to mark Federation Day.
Réunion has signed a treaty with Lavalon.
Shireroth has a new Minister of Information (Erik Mortis) and a Fiesta de la B0O0/\/\.
The South Pacific region of Nationstates has suffered a precipitous decline in population over the past year.
Stormark has received a state visit from Batavia.
Talossa's poetry competition has concluded, while senate reform and freedom of information and privacy are being debated.
Thrace has a new ambassador.
Uantir's King Ari has changed his name to King Ailin.
The Umbagollans are still irregularly reviewing things and discussing utterly fascinating links.
Universalis is signing treaties.

And finally...

The League of Secessionist States (LOSS) has a new website designed by HHIM Claudio de Castro of Réunion.

That's all, folks!

Candid Cadan Interviewed by Micronational Radio

2009-06-06T18:02:00.005+01:00

Cadan Ap Tomos of Apiya is the first interviewee of the latest micronational media on the block, Micronational Radio, a new micronational media forum/group/collective/thingy created by Rebecca "Artz" Panks.

In the interview Cadan candidly talks about his time in the Kingdon of TwoChairs, as well as moving onto greater things in Apiya, as well as with Micronations.Eu and, quite coincidentally (of course), Micronational Radio.

Naturally, as is traditional in some media, the interview includes one or two incorrect facts wrong and perpetuates the myth that Micronations.Net is dead (hello!), although it understandably confuses it with the more obscure micro-nations.net domain that is once again being used by Micronations.Eu, which it recently reacquired having used it in one of its previous incarnations.

You can read the interview in full here.

The History of the Grand Commonwealth

2009-05-23T12:15:00.003+01:00

Just over four years ago the micronational world was slightly shocked when a new and mostly unexpected micronational union appeared on the scene: the Grand Commonwealth.

It started out in 2004 as a plan between Treesia and Aerlig to try and create the first new micronational empire since Tymaria (which had lasted for just over 10 months until September 2002). It was also an opportunity to try and restore some of the former Apollo Foundation territories that had been previously and controversially removed by the MCS.

By the end of 2004 Lemuria, Antica and Arminy had signed up, but the latter two got cold feet and withdrew, throwing the whole project into jeopardy. In January 2005, an inspired approach to Babkha (followed later by Alteria) led to the launch of the Grand Commonwealth on April 28th 2005. It almost immediately became known as the "Great Satan" as a consequence of a major propaganda campaign instigated by Diga of Attera and implemented by Scott of Hyperborea.

A number of other micronations joined the Grand Commonwealth over the next two years, either as members or protectorates, while it also played a significant role in the formation of the MCS-rivalling Geographical Standards Organisation in 2006.

It all ceased abruptly at the end of the summer of 2007, following the withdrawal of Treesia and an effective boycott of the federal government by Babkha. A swift closure of the forums took advantage of the vacation period. Most of its former members have since failed to survive.

The Grand Commonwealth's website is now restored, and a more detailed history has been published there.

State of the Nation: Ashkenatza in May

2009-05-11T23:04:00.002+01:00

Shireroth's DiploCorps have finally summoned up the will to resume their reporting, only to find that others have lost their will to do anything much reportable.

Their latest report from Ashkenatza indicates that the Nohsi, Pachad Emet ben Mavet, has resigned due to absenteeism, an unfortunate pandemic that seems to have afflicted many in that nation of late.

Foreign Minister Maksym Izaak Rozenthal is expected to lead the government for the foreseeable future. An unnamed source is reported to have stated that it has proved difficult for recent administrations to provide leadership when there is no-one to be led.

Demolished! The Great Geocities Rescue...

2009-04-26T22:24:00.005+01:00

Geocities, Yahoo!'s "$4bn dotcom relic" has stopped accepting new hosting accounts and will be closed later this year. For the micronational community, this means that a number of micronational sites, some quite old and of historical interest, will need to find new homes sometime soon.

Fortunately the erstwhile Apollo Foundation has just launched a campaign to gather information on sites that will need to be relocated, with the intention of archiving many of them itself. It is hoped that, for some sites, other parties will also be interested in offering ongoing hosting arrangements.

An initial list of micronational sites currently hosted on Geocities has been published by Imperium Incognita, while the issue has also been publicised on the widely-visited micronational forums aof Microhub, Micronations.EU and Shireroth.

State of the Nation: Natopia in April

2009-04-26T15:30:00.003+01:00

Shireroth's DiploCorps report that Natopia is having trouble retaining all of those recent new citizens.

In other news, the Natopians are downsizing their government, developing the imperial space programme and Bovic religion, and sensibly excluding themselves from recwars.

State of the Nation: Novatainia in March

2009-03-31T14:28:00.001+01:00

Shireroth's DiploCorps reports that Novatainia's businesses are doing deals to trade in natural resources, and that the nation itself may be constructing a space fleet.

In other news, Novatainia also has a List of Failed Inventions and a Flying Duchy of Glanurchy, which clearly is an invention that hasn't failed. Yet.

State of the Nation: Ashkenatza in February and March

2009-03-31T13:45:00.001+01:00

Shireroth's DiploCorps has reported that the Shireroth may acquiesce to Ashkenatza's ambitious territorial water claims in exchange for maintaining extensive access rights.

In other news, Ashkenatza's Defence Minister has assumed responsibility for runnig the government as its Nohsi has mysteriously disappeared.

Cyberia Lives

2009-03-15T01:48:00.003Z

In which we learn that sometimes infamous Cyberia returns and even "eternal reprobate" Jacobus is amazed by the appearance of a mysterious hip-flask salesman from within a rock.

Seers and prophecies not withstanding, we can exclusively reveal that Sir Jacobus the Wise KCOMI, General Malcontent, Traditional King of the Mala'anje, and Bane of Micronationry, has taken the plunge and refounded the Federal Republic of Cyberia.

As undeniable evidence that time cures just about everything, public opinion has been overwhelmingly in favour of this world-shattering event.

As is usually traditional, the new/old leader of Cyberia plans to start a constitutional convention and "see what happens". What is not usually traditional are people publically fortifying themselves with aspirins or appearing out of rocks (but then salesmen will tell you anything).

The State of Micronational News

2009-03-14T14:21:00.004Z

In which we point out that "once in a blue moon" is not just a pithy slogan, and make the news rather environmentally-friendly.

Someone Has Complained.

Someone has objected to that fact that, until today, we haven't published anything for over a month. We'd like to point out that our slogan was deliberately worded to reflect the high probability of that happening. We'd also like to point out that until a few months ago, we hadn't published anything for over a year-and-a-half. so not doing so for about a month is not really a big deal for us.

Naturally, we know of no other micronational news service that has allowed for this. Therefore, as Mr Cairney has so eloquently demonstrated, they have no excuses. So there.

In all fairness, when MNN was first set up some years ago, it did encourage lots of people to do their own blogging as a change from relying on a very small number of people to do all the journalism that had hitherto been the case, thus helping to spread that arduous burden. Even in these quiet times, there is still an average of one story per day, from thirty-odd feeds, which seems a not unreasonable level of reporting. Quality versus quantity, and all that.

Mr Cairney has pleaded that more people should be writing articles and so putting something back into the community. On our part, consider it done.

Even if it is recycled news.

State of the Nation: Natopia in February

2009-02-28T15:25:00.000Z

Shireroth's DiploCorps report that Natopia's imperial wedding finally went ahead, followed by the ubiquitous honeymoon.

In other news Natopia expanded in two areas, most noticeably by inheriting Holzborg in controversial circumstances.

State of the Nation: Novatainia in February

2009-02-28T14:19:00.002Z

Shireroth's DiploCorps report that Novatainia has established a Tourism Board and dismissed its Joker.

In other news, Novatainia now also has a Flying Islands Pact, a Red List and a convention for those who like recwars.

State of the Nation: Stomark in Februrary

2009-02-28T13:28:00.001Z

Shireroth's DiploCorps reports that, in the Viking Empire of Stormark, swearing-in ceremonies have begun, where those of lesser nobility swear their allegiances to the Emperor and his empire.

In other news, voting has started on an Act with an unpronouncable name that does bureacratic things to the legal system.

Micronational Books: Introducing the Nations & Politics Store

2009-02-07T18:59:00.000Z

If you're desperate for some micronational books or DVDs, or are even after books about politics or nations in general, then you'll be pleased to know that a new mail-order store has opened, called the Nations & Politics Store.

It's hosted at Amazon UK and was created by the erstwhile Micronations.Net, which blogged earlier:

It has books and DVDs about micronations, nations and politics that we’ve chosen in the hope that you might be interested in.
There are both some familiar and not-so-familiar titles, should there should be something for everyone.

Cornify Your Micronation

2009-02-07T15:51:00.004Z

Some say they have been waiting for it for ages, and that it is going to single-handedly pull us out of recession.

Some say that the internet is done and that we can all go home and congratulate ourselves, and that it is simply genius.

All we know is that you can now use it decorate your micronation with sparkly unicorns and rainbows, and it's called Cornify.

An Apology... to Everyone Who Takes Offence

2009-02-07T09:57:00.006Z

We feel that the following sentiments should be disseminated to everyone without reservation (courtesy of Diamond Geezer).

I'd like to apologise, in advance, for something I haven't said yet. I don't know what that something will be, nor precisely when I'll say it, but I apologise unreservedly anyway. My remark will be inappropriate, improper and ill thought-through. On reflection, once this outrage has been brought to my attention, I will publicly regret my verbal outburst. There can be no excuse for my upcoming offensive remark. It will be deemed totally unacceptable. I apologise.

I won't think my comment is offensive, of course. It'll be the sort of comment that slips easily from my lips. I'll think nothing of it, except perhaps that it's witty or clever or appropriate. I may not even notice I've said it. In particular, I won't be trying to be offensive. It won't be a deliberate attempt to be aggressive. I won't be thinking "blimey, I really hate the object of my unknowing insult". I'll not be deliberately vindictively hurtful. But it's not important what I think. What's important is how others react.

You probably won't think my comment is offensive either. You're a rational human being, and you can spot the difference between a light-hearted comment and naked spite. But somebody, somewhere, will take offence. Somebody will think my comment is aimed at them. Somebody will find my words deeply damaging. Their thin skin will be punctured, and I will become the object of their scorn and fury. That's all it takes these days, one pointed finger.

If somebody thinks my comment is offensive then it is, QED. I am therefore guilty, I am therefore to blame. Quick, start up a whispering campaign against me. Whip up a storm, beat your breasts, complain. I will be at fault, and the mob must have my blood. Others can then be as offensive as they like about me, because I was allegedly offensive first. Let rational thought be cast aside. Gasp, point, throw stones. Go on, I'll deserve it.

And please feel free to repeat my offensive comment so that even more people can be offended. Others won't realise quite how awful I am unless you tell them. Broadcast my words, spread them around, emphasise their horror... but only so that you can add your disgust at the end. Don't stop until the entire country knows how offensive I've been, and has had proper opportunity to be offended themselves. Magnify the blame, why don't you, until everyone hates me more than I ever hated one of them.

But why should I apologise, completely and unreservedly, for this offensive insult I haven't yet made? It won't have been heartfelt, nor even intentional, it'll just have been completely misinterpreted by shallow self-important killjoys. So maybe I should get my deliberate attack in first. I really, truly, deeply take offence at the self-righteous lynch-mob mentality which permeates our society today. I detest the blame culture that's enveloping our nation and its once tolerant attitudes. I loathe judgmental media crusades and savage newspaper vendettas. I am outraged by bitter citizens and smug sanctimonious bandwagon-jumpers. I despair at those who tut their way through life, one moan at a time, and drag the rest of us down into a vicious cycle of petty pointless repugnance. It's all your fault, you know, not mine. Go on, you apologise first.

State of the Nation: Natopia in January

2009-01-31T14:52:00.000Z

Shireroth's DiploCorps report that Natopia continues to have a "flood of new citizens", while plans for the marriage of the Emperor have run into a few problems.

In other news, Natopia's laws have been enshrined in a new Bovic Code.

State of the Nation: Novatainia in January

2009-01-31T13:53:00.002Z

Shireroth's DiploCorps reports that, while Novatainia has an Office of the Joker, it has also a Government Knows Best Act under which an External State of Emergency has been declared.

In other news, Novatainia has signed the Small Treaty of Non-Aggression, issued tenders for an advanced defense system, allows its citizens to own land, and has an apparently "thriving" business district.

State of the Nation: Ashkenatza in January

2009-01-31T13:37:00.001Z

Shireroth's DiploCorps has reported that Ashkenatza's elections for its second Nohsi were won by Max Rosenthal, who is also the Baron of K'Tzuni in Shireroth.

In other news, Ashkenatza entered into border dispute with neighbouring Tellia, and initiated a claim for territorial waters around Shireroth's own Naudia'Diva islands and Benacia.

State of the Nation: Stormark in January

2009-01-31T12:59:00.001Z

Shireroth's DiploCorps reports that the Viking Empire of Stormark is working on a national wiki, StorWiki, which will also include information about its autonomous state of Hurmu.

Its parliament, the Althing, in which all Stormarkians are permitted to vote, has opened.

Stormark also a has a new Empress Consort, Sigrid, following the recent official death of the previous holder of that title, Asa, widow of the late Robert Davis.

Finally, the Empire has successfully applied to join the Small Commonwealth.

7 Years of MNN

2009-01-28T19:43:00.004Z

We thought you might like to know that today sees the 7th anniversary of Micronations.Net, which started out life in a slightly different form back in January 2002 as the Micronational News Network. You can read all about its early years in this article of ours.

It has to be said that last year saw what was probably the most significant one-off change in its history, when the majority of its management decided to retire and take it down with them. Happily, a new site was established within a week of that happening, while a replacement forum was swiftly established by others. Although the previous site only survives in part via the Internet Archive, the forum did at least eventually reappear as an archive, while the original sites and forum have remained continously in the same original ownership.

The new setup has brought its own advantages, with the site using Wordpress, allowing better integration of the continuing MNN news service, and inspiring new peripheral services such as a radio station and a forthcoming store.

So here's to another seven years of Micronations.Net.

Deconstructing RIMA's 2008: The Inconvenient Truth

2009-01-25T15:24:00.021Z

In which we analyze RIMA's analysis of 2008 and find it to be somewhat economical with the truth.

The Evolution of News

2008 was indeed a year of change, but the changes were not quite as profound as the RIMA article imagines. Of the dubbed "old guard" of micronational journalists of Scott Alexander and Liam Sinclair, who were out of the "picture" by 2008, it was Scott Alexander who had mostly retired from journalism in June 2003, before making an all too brief return in 2006. Liam Sinclair had at least three blogs, but curiously, despite his claims of them being "often the main source of news for the community", those that our investigative journalists have found and been able to attribute to him have all been unaccountably deleted.

In the meantime, the acclaimed "new guard" of 2008, while heralding the welcome mainstream return of group blogging, was not much more than the latest evolution of the micronational blogosphere which had been popularised by Jack Santucci's Microblog group since May 2004 and capitalized on with the launch of the MNN news aggregator shortly afterwards, which led to an immediate proliferation of individual blogs which has continued, with a few notable interruptions, to this day. To imply otherwise, as the RIMA article has apparently done, is at the very least disingenuous.

The Handover That Wasn't

With regards to the other notable change of 2008, the article has completed ignored the fact the Micronations.net hub, which was removed in a very rapid and underhand fashion, actually returned in albeit a somewhat reduced form about a week later, an event that was not exactly unreported.

While the article rightly praises the "younger generation" for taking up the challenge of immediately providing a replacement hub (i.e. a forum), it glosses over the fact that the "handover" was actually a rather desperate rescue effort, as a direct result of the majority of the MNN management refusing to consider handing over MNN as going concern to the very generation now being praised.

A genuine handover would not only have allowed the services provided by MNN to have continued without unnecessary interruption and inconvenience, but would also have meant the management majority could have retired on a high, rather than fleeing from a community that was understandably full of instant animosity and ill-will.

By completely failing to see the bigger picture, the older generation only showed the younger generation how not to do it, but these days that seems to be a globally recurring theme, doesn't it?

FNORDs 1, Norton Awards 0

2009-01-08T21:16:00.007Z

It's Emperor Norton Day once again, and, as usual on Emperor Norton Day, there are one or two commemorative award ceremonies to look forward to.

There should ideally, be two, but the original Norton Awards seem to have sadly run out of steam, despite a poll showing overwhelming public demand for them.

Happily, the alternative FNORD Awards, back this year in the capable hands of its erstwhile founder Scott Alexander, has triumphed yet again with a wide variety of worthy winners carefully chosen by judging panel comprising such well-known and respected names as Ryan Caruso, Liam Sinclair, Chris Mules, Ari Rahikkala, and Ardashir Khan.

As is traditional, the award winners are listed as follows:

Tony Au Award for Economics: Andreas Mayer
Liam Sinclair Award for Micronational History: Jonas Windsor
Jeremy Bellamy Award for Recwar and Storytelling: Antony Montague
Liam con Toketi Award for Best New Micronationalist: Peter Ulsnes
Best Original Idea: Dr Spangle
Bill Dusch Award For Cultural Development: Troy Thompson
Best Graphic Artwork: Scott Alexander
Iain Jacobson Award for Micronational Journalism: Will Tomsett
Shane Odlum Award for Overall Achievement: Hesam Jayatar

Our congratulations to all.

Camel Racing and Other Distractions

2008-12-13T19:26:00.001Z

Camel racing is back, and it's gone "offshore"! Babkha's most famous pasttime has evaded gaming restrictions by reappearing in an "offshore" location, where addicted punters can bet their Rials for the Kingdom's most daring dromedaries in an infinite number of races.

For those who eventually need a change of entertainment, or who simply don't like camels that much, there are also other games available like Connect 4 and Tic Tac Toe.

Micronations.Net is Ready for Christmas

2008-12-13T13:56:00.002Z

Micronations.Net has given itself yet another new makeover in time for the Christmas season. The website has a new green and red Christmas theme complete with falling snow that changes direction and collects briefly at the bottom of the screen before melting away, while the slogan had been appropriately updated too.

You can check out the new look here.

The FNORD and Norton Awards Return!

2008-12-06T15:31:00.004Z

Rejoice, for the season of micronational awards in honour of Emperor Norton is upon us once again!

The FNORD Awards are being co-ordinated by their founder, Scott Alexander of the Institute of Micropatriology. Nominations are currently being accepted for the following categories:

Economics, Best New Micronationalist, Overall Achievement, Micronational History, Journalism, Cultural Development, Recwar and Storytelling, Best New Micronation, Best Original Idea, Best Signature/Avatar, Best Graphic Artwork.

Meanwhile, the Norton Awards are being co-ordinated by their founder, HM Kevin Baugh of Molossia, with nominations being accepted for:

Intermicronational Achievement, Political Achievement, Cultural Achievement, New Micronation of the Year, Personal Achievement

We recommend placing your nominations while you can.

Convergence of Evil 1, Euromeet 0

2008-12-06T15:22:00.002Z

We are pleased to report that we survived the Convergence of Evil, which was unofficially extended into a second day and included an appropriate visit to Babylon, as well the usual selection of taverns.

Unfortunately Euromeet was not so lucky and was cancelled for a variety of reasons. However, a replacement UKmeet is now under consideration.

The Merry Month of Meetings

2008-11-21T20:53:00.000Z

It has been a while, but, following a somewhat long absence, there are two international micronational meetups just around the corner.

First on the agenda is the slightly pretensiously titled "Convergence of Pure Evil", being held this Saturday in London, and organised by the Kingdom of Babkha.

Secondly is the rather more mundanely titled "Euromeet", scheduled for December 21st in deepest Prague, and arranged by the Micronations.EU forum. Euromeet will also have a special guest DVD presentation by Stephen Scharff of the Microfreedom Index.

We plan to attend the Convergence of Pure Evil. If we somehow survive it, we might report back. If not, then, in advance, so long and thanks for all the fish (especially those rich in Omega 3).

Music for Micronations

2008-11-16T21:46:00.005Z

Micronational radio stations have come and gone. Mostly, by now, they have gone. Generally they have taken the form of podcasts, sometimes regularly, sometimes intermittently, with a mix of news, discussion, unintelligble rants and chatter, and a smattering of royalty-free music.

Now, there's a new radio station in town. One that narrowcasts continously, doesn't require the involvement of any micronationalists to keep operating, and doesn't have any actual micronational content.

However, it has been created by Micronations.Net especially as a dedicated music station for micronations, with a varied playlist to suit many tastes, and it's called Micronational Music Radio.

We quite like it, and we think you might like it too. You can listen to it indirectly here, or directly here.

Viva La Vida!

2008-11-16T21:21:00.005Z

A familiar name returns today in the form of a revived-yet-new Apollo Fireball V, being the fifth incarnation of various micronational journals bearing an Apollo Something name, all trying to continue in the spirit of the original Apollo Fireball created by everyone's favourite micronationalist, currently known as Scott Alexander (and himself a man of many names), back in the times of micronational antiquity in the days of the legendary Republics of Blackrock and Treesia.

Those of you with an urge of nostalgia can read the very first issue here. The rest of you are invited to keep on reading here, not that we intend to guarantee any specific regularity of coverage, hence our disclamatory new slogan.

So there you have it. Viva la Vida, and Viva la Fireball.

And not a paper butterfly in sight.

And Now We Are Two

2007-04-29T18:29:00.000+01:00

In which the Grand Commonwealth celebrates its second birthday, and is revealed to be a noble hippopotamus.

Yesterday (Saturday 28th) saw the erstwhile Grand Commonwealth celebrated the first two years of its fabled existence, thus confounding the beliefs of a well-known minority who have long professed that it was dead, and consequently are now rather disappointed and seeking counselling for the withdrawal of their much-cherished belief-system.

The anniversary event consisted of a well-attended but low-key ceremony, during which His Majesty Tahmaseb Abakhtari, the Shahan-Ri, delivered the following rallying speech:

"One could begin to babble endlessly how great and mighty we all are, but we all know that. Instead I plan to talk about something completely different: hippos.

"The noble hippopotamus is a remarkable beast. It is mostly docile and likes to stay in the water in groups. It is a vegetarian but its teeth are very suitable for combat. When two hippopotami fight death is an option. Hippos are buoyant when young but not anymore when they grow up which means adults can't swim. They can stay submerged about five minutes while walking on the bottom of the river/lake.

"We are much like the hippos. We have grown up and are not buoyant anymore. To keep breathing we must be active and not just dose off while floating. We might be nice but can be dangerous if cornered. Hippos are docile but then again they are an endangered species. Perhaps we shouldn't be like the hippos?

"Therefore I invite everyone to think what kind of an animal we should be. This is a task that might seem ridiculous and childish at first but I ask you to think about it. This is about change which is essential in every community. Stagnation leads to death. Therefore it is your duty to commit yourselves to progress.

"This has been a great two-year fable so far. Let's make it even better!"

The New Novaya Zemlya: Home to Soviet History, Vodka, and Radiation Therapy

2007-04-29T14:59:00.000+01:00

The Soviet Republic of Novaya Zemlya has started its umpteenth lease of life following the unexpected return of Dominika Tchesnova, widow of the late Vladimir Alexei.

Dominika Tchesnova, who just been appointed as the latest Premier, has promised to revive Novaya Zemlya in "some manner of archival state", and already added to the growing collection of historical documents several items including an extended history, promotional banners, artwork and the state coat of arms. It has been hinted that the famous vodka distillery may be re-opened in the near future, and that a special spa may be opened to harness the high levels of radiation for therapeutic uses.

Novaya Zemlya, which has been protected by the Grand Commonwealth since August 2005, started life in October 2004 as a top secret testing site for the USSR micronation founded by Yuri V Andropov. Within a month it had been transformed into an internationally popular cultural enclave, and was granted a new status of a Soviet Socialist Republic in November of that year. By the end of 2004 the parent USSR had been dissolved following the climax of an escalating series of political crises and scandals, so the surviving Novaya Zemlya was declared its successor.

Following a golden age in early 2005, its very existence was threatened firstly by the infamous EzApocalypse which destroyed much of its forum, and secondly a conversion from socialism to communism that encouraged the emigration of most of its population and brought about months of inactivity, which led to its being protected by the Grand Commonwealth. Several months later most of the founders had returned and attempted a revival, but the untimely death of Vladimir Alexei resulted in a period of mourning that turned into another mass exodus.

The final nail in the coffin was the mysterious deletion of its boards in July 2006, although a surprising number of records were recovered and stored in a new board provided by the Grand Commonwealth, where the new Novaya Zemlya remains based.

Oscland Joins The Grand Commonwealth

2007-04-29T14:42:00.000+01:00

The Confederate Kingdoms of Oscland became the eighth and newest micronation to join the Grand Commonwealth since the latter's inception two years ago, when it was ceremoniously welcomed in on Monday.

Sir Marc Evans, Oscland's Chancellor of Valuta, is now the Chancellor of the Exchequer, while King Oscar Direzione II is the new Chancellor of State.

Sir Marc, in expressing his thanks to the Grand Commonwealth for admitting Oscland, said: "Oscland is changing and we want to make it better than ever and there could not be a better time to join the Grand Commonwealth as we continue to look for ways to contribute to the micronational community."

Opinion: The Hypocracies of Hanover

2007-02-02T23:30:00.000Z

In which His Majesty Osman Shahanshah of the Kingdom of Babkha casts his eye over the public workings of Hanover and finds no redeeming features whatsoever.

While Hanover denounces simulationist micronations, its very own Prime Minister proposed to the 'Imperial Parliament' the establishment of a simulated economy and health care system, an example of joined-up government which drew a scathing response from the honourable Sir Carson Smith, who was quite surprised to find himself sitting in an Imperial Parliament when he had most certainly entered a House of Lords and Commons Together Assembled.

This incongruity being thus highlighted drew the sheepish admission from Prime Minister Portela that he had in fact copied most of the speech from one made to the 'Imperial Parliament' of the Empire of the Alexandrians, a simulationist micronation over which the Prime Minister of Hanover presides as Emperor.

None of this impressed Sir Carson, who remarked that "Copying speeches, regardless of who wrote them originally, is only going to make you look stupid. The Right Honorable gentleman still is not off the hook for the Imperial Parliament goof-up."

Hanoverians, it seems, are maybe starting to wonder about the comparative merits of allowing confessed simulationists attain the hallowed office of Prime Minister. More worryingly for Hanover it is perhaps the dearth of native talent that is forcing King Alexander to rely on imported potentates to provide his public officials, such as the current Prime Minister of Hanover, Mr Portela, his predecessor Mr Thompson, and the Speaker of the Assembled House, a certain Mr Dreesbach who happens to be the King of Interland, the sometimes disputed GC member-state and or Atteran province.

The Hanoverian delusion of sovereignty and nationhood does not so much place them on a par with Ascalon as with the myriad egostans of the 5th World Council led by the transcendental, or perhaps just plain mental, Cesidio Tallini.

- His Majesty Osman Shahanshah

Bergen Abandoned? Elephants In the Room!

2007-01-31T00:48:00.000Z

BERGEN, HANOVER - The much-trumpeted Bergen Conference in Hanover appears to have been mysteriously abandoned by both its chairman and its royal host, leaving attending delegates alternatively bemused and frustrated.

Delegates were left wondering whether the conference was in recess, moved to another medium, or if people had simply lost interest "in a flawed concept". And indeed, the delegates from one attending nation, the Grand Commonwealth, have withdrawn in protest at the stalled discussions.

Of the three issues being discussed, the delegates have shown little interest in either establishing co-ordinated efforts to preserve micronational history, or in agreeing on any form of economic unity. The third issue, a merger-that-isn't-really-but-is-actually (the "Union of Anglia"), has made some progress, although a considerably less-bureaucratic and actually workable version of it has already been in existence for almost two years elsewhere.

Meanwhile, during the current hiatus, the Cyberian issue has been raised and described as "the elephant in the room" by President Jacobus of the FRC. However, the topic seems more likely to scare away the remaining delegates rather encourage them to stay on in the rather glaring absence of any leadership.

Only one question remains - if Hanover can't cope with holding a simple international conference, then what chance does it have of successfully creating a "loose" confederation such as the proposed Union of Anglia?

Micronations.Net - Fifth Anniversary!

2007-01-28T14:19:00.000Z

Micronations.Net has today celebrated its fifth anniversary with a complete redesign and relaunch of its website and related services.

Started in 2002 as a long overdue replacement for the old Micronations Today Ezboard, the MNN forum has evolved from providing its original forum-based news service to a micronational hub, with a strong community of members and a wide variety of organisations offering their services. The Micronational News Network feed service has expanded over the past years, and has now been updated to provide a more streamlined service.

Along with moving to the new SMF forum system in recent months, Micronations.Net has also launched a number of new services to make it a complete hub of services for micronationalists, including a new sports forum, the Arena. Complementing the forums and news system are the rescued and restored MicroWiki (the Micronational Encyclopedia) and the Directory of Nations - recreating the most comprehensive list of micronations.

Congratulations to Micronations.Net and to everyone involved over the years.

Opinion: Beware Bergen's Revisionists of History

2007-01-17T19:50:00.000Z

In which His Majesty Osman Shahanshah of the Kingdom of Babkha deplores recent attempts to rewrite the past and fondly reminisces about a golden age of micronationalism.

The President of that entity which refers to itself as the Federal Republic of Cyberia, but which we all know to be the latest manifestation of Jacobus' near decade-long smear-campaign against the legitimate Virtual Commonwealth of Cyberia, did voice, at the Bergen Conference, an aside concerning the complex diplomatic situation that occurred in Morovia during the winter of 2001-2002:

"Does anyone remember the machinations carried out at the expense of Morovia? The infant Republic would not have had to kow-tow to Babkha for protection against the giant that was Tymaria, or accept the restoration of a monarchy they did not want."

In doing so, he did repeat a version of history as the Digas and Scott Alexanders of this world would have it, that either the Babkhans (as ever it seems) were entirely to blame or else both sides were as bad as the other. This is blatant poppycock.

When news of the demise of King Vincent's Kingdom reached the halls of Babak the Great it was my honour to be sent to make a reconnaissance of the failed state. The great tragedy of the Morovian forums in the absence of any meaningful central authority was that it was so badly structured and insecure that anyone could pretend to be anyone (as indeed we saw with the Tyrant Diga's lamentable attempt to pass himself off as 'King Vincent IV'.

Now, in the milieu by which we were confronted, many forces were clearly at work, including various scavengers of legitimacy not entirely unfamiliar to President Jacobus himself. Then of course there were the Tymarians who were looking there because we were there and there were some scuffles provoked on their part by the militarist Atteran desire to spark a wider war between the Kingdom of Babkha and Tymaria. The Atterans were at that time effectively the military wing of Tymaria, accounting for little aside from bellicosity. It was all in all a most wretched scene.

However, from amongst all the ruined edifices of Morovia there was at least found one gleaming gem, and that gem was not the Republic of Morovia, but rather Bob Kee, a Malaysian political activist of character and distinction, and of rare organisational ability. It was he alone who held the head of the 'infant Republic' above water. It was he alone who gave it grace and dignity, and it was his common sense and competence that above all else recommended him to us as the one coherent voice amongst the cacophony there.

Indeed there again, such was his good judgement and plain common sense that he and Shah Babak had an immediate meeting of minds. From thereon, a fruitful policy of engagement was born, marred only by the ham-fisted efforts of Tymarian Military Intelligence to infiltrate the Republic. The Republic, however, was illegitimate and it was Bob Kee's insistence rather than our own that led to that country returning to the honourable institution of monarchy.

Regrettably the true King Vincent was not to be found and Diga's manifestation as 'King Vincent IV' was contemptable. At a loss then, Mr Kee arranged to have the President crown as King in the interim, however long that should be. As such, Morovia rose in the estimation of all nations, save for Tymaria and those other petulant spirits who had been cheated of their mischief by the end to the chaos.

In the end, of course, it was all to end happily. Diga's antics in Morovia had come to the attention of the true King Vincent, apparently the third of that name, and happy was the occasion of his restoration.

In the end both Kingdoms benefitted and no true Morovian ever lost out from the restoration. Indeed Bob Kee also went on to become Abbas Namvari of Babkha, and in that capacity was to usher in almost single-handedly one of the most glorious chapters in that nation's history - the faint echo of which we still hear today in the Abbas Namvari-Charles Beard FNORD award.

- His Majesty Osman Shahanshah

Spy Spooks Bergen Conference

2007-01-17T00:33:00.000Z

BERGEN, HANOVER - The Apollo Inquisitor can exclusively reveal that Bergen Conference delegate Slavko Militz is not quite who appears to be.

We can reveal that he is actually maladroit statesman Neil Spall, who appears to have founded a dummy nation, Vlatava, for the sole purpose of providing a seemingly legitimate cover for infiltrating the Bergen conference as an potential agitator and possible spy.

Spall was recently described by an anonymous source as a "perpetual dissenter who passed through the gut of Lyrica and found a new cause in Rocentia as a Hickeyist running dog, before becoming a mild irritant and ne'er do well in Treithar".

The Norton NewsBlink: Awards, Abdications and Sealand

2007-01-08T22:00:00.000Z

It's been an Emperor Norton Day to remember this year, with all sorts of interesting things happening...

Some Awards
As is the custom on this day, the FNORD Awards were presented in the Norton Lounge, this year by Sander Dieleman of Lemuria. As usual lots of people won various medals, while even more didn't, but that's just how such things go.

This year is the 127th anniversary of Emperor Norton's untimely death, and the fourth anniversary of the FNORDs themselves, which were created by the omnipotent Scott Alexander of many, many places as an alternative to the original Norton Awards, which seem unfortunately to have been carelessly forgotten about this year.

And then for those of you like less serious awards, you might like to check out the first ever Paper Plate Awards...

... and an Abidication
Shireroth's Kaiseress Carol abdicated today in favour of her daughter, Hypatia. Clearly disappointed at the lack of general support by most of the populace for keeping the nation going, she ended her remarkable reign with a mercifully brief yet moving speech which promised a great renaissance in the hands of the new Kaiseress.

Other than the Royal Family and President Jacobus of the FRC, we think that two ordinary Shirerithians attended the ceremony, which is probably some kind of record.

... and then there's Sealand...
which is offered now for sale, or for rent, depending on who you want to believe, as long as you have many millions of something to pay for it. NewsNow has lots of reports in many tongues, so read them while you can, before everyone gets bored and finds something else to waffle about.

And finally...
Someone from NationStates has joined the Grand Commonwealth's Babkha. In return, the Shah , who has long bound himself to join NationStates in return, will finally discover a place that's worse than the infamous salt mines...

NewsBlinks: blink and you'll miss 'em ^MTM

Micronational Directory Relaunched at MNN

2006-12-09T13:10:00.000Z

The team at Micronations.net, a driving force behind intermicronational cooperation and host to such respected organisations as the Micronational News Network, the Geographical Standards Organisation and the Micronational Recreational Warfare Society, also noted as the host of the famous intermicronational award ceremony, the FNORDS, announced the launch of a new micronational directory service on December 4th 2006.

The original micronational directory was hosted by micronations.org, and like its predecessor the new version retains much of the elegant simplicity that made the original such a success.

By utilising the directory, micronational leaders will be able to provide viewers of the site with a link to their micronations, as well as an icon-based summaries of their political cultures, aspirations, languages and diplomatic stances with regards to other members of the community.

The founder of Micronations.net, and leading the figure in the Grand Commonwealth and the United Baronies of Aerlig and Treesia, Sir Iain de Vembria, was quoted as saying "We are pleased to be able to be the first to relaunch this type of micronational directory, a few years after the unfortunate demise of the original that was hosted by Micronations.org. The basic features have been recreated, while any additional features will depend on demand or on voluntary contributions to the project."

Certainly his view echoes the widely held optimism that the introduction of the new Micronational Directory, together with the successful forum upgrade also completed in December 2006, means that Micronations.net will continue to serve as the primary hub for news and networking activity for the micronational community over the next five years just as it has ever since it's foundation in 2002.

NewsBlink #3: Hear No Evil, See No Evil, Speak No Evil...

2006-10-13T10:18:00.000+01:00

NewsBlink #3

Hear No Evil
When you can't admit you're wrong, just put your hands over your ears and sing very loudly. And if you're a Stormarker to boot, turn it into a Viking saga and a Cult of the Emperor just for good measure. Because, so far, the bill for Stormark to sever ties with Cranda is not yet a dead cert, with those pesky voters having the sheer audacity to split the vote evenly both ways at the time of press.

See No Evil
So how's the new Attera geting on? We think the Grand Commonwealth sees it as a tame leopard rather than a roaring Lion of Judah, especially as the Atterans seem very in to things like constitutions and coronations for the time being.

Speak No Evil
All's fine at the GSO. Yes, it really is. No, really. Even though there have been no updates for almost two months, and no indication of any either. But it's ok really, it's only a service, so there's absolutely no need for any publicity or advertising.

And Finally...
Babkha celebrated its sixth anniversary yesterday, so go and congratulate them.

NewsBlinks: blink and you'll miss 'em ^MTM

Newsblink #2: Cranda and Stormark, the GSO, and... Attera?!

2006-10-04T23:16:00.000+01:00

NewsBlink #2

Cranda versus Stormark
In a typical show of micronational legal prowess, the Viking Empire of Stormark and the Principality of Upper Cranda are locked in an epic struggle over the ownership of the Vaan Aujoen islands. For those of you not familiar with your history, these are the same islands that some years ago Babkha aggressively claimed from Cranda. Stormark, under the mistaken assumption that Cranda being removed from the MCS map under the Atkins plan made it defunct, had annexed the islands, and this had only now come to the attention of the Prince, Johanns fonn Klosso, famed Atteran ex-co-regent and ex-Prime Minister extraordinaire. So far, nothing has been resolved, but it appears that the Most Sovereign and Noble Viking Emperor will not be apologizing for the annexation, which means the Crandish Diet will likely expel him.

GSO versus Giess
In other news, the GSO has spent another straight week without updating the map or informing its members what, if anything, it might be doing. Sources within the GSO organization say that an attempt to shake the leadership from complacency may be underway, however, we have yet to get official word or any outward signs of it.

Attera versus the World
And finally, on our rather short list (I don't get out much, so sue me), rumors have been circulating about the resurrection of the Solomonic Empire of Attera, long-time hated enemy and rival of the Kingdom of Babkha. The Solomonic Empire was perhaps the only African themed nation around, and was made even more unique by also being Jewish. Its return is no doubt feared by all those in the Grand Commonwealth.

And Finally...
That's it for the news today.

NewsBlinks: blink and you'll miss 'em ^MTM

NewsBlink #1: Stormark Stalks, Cyberias Cogitate, Shireroth Snoozes

2006-09-25T16:19:00.000+01:00

NewsBlink #1

Stormark Stalks State
Stormark is living up to its Viking heritage and trying to claim the territory of Oscland, even though the latter merely suffered an abdication and change of government. The Duchess of Romsdal has described the situation as a "Complex and Vexing Problem", but we all know there can only be one "satisfactory solution".

A Couple of Cyberias Cogitate
The VCC is discussing spam e-mail and looking for an electoral commissioner. Meanwhile the FRC is playing a new word game, which is more fun. Probably.

Shireroth Snoozes Serenely
Shireroth's forum is on the blink - the challenging colour scheme is too much even for PHPBB it seems, so it's moved to a temporary location with a readable colour scheme, so now's a good opportunity to catch up on all the stuff you couldn't read before, and discover that they've run out of things to do. Again.

And Finally...
Let sleeping micronations lie. Especially ones like Attera.

NewsBlinks: blink and you'll miss 'em ^MTM

Mapocalypse Now!

2006-08-15T17:51:00.000+01:00

They said it would never happen. They said it couldn't be done. But today saw the launch of a new mapping service, and a consequential en-masse resignation of nine nations (so far) from an long-established micronational mapmaker.

The Geographical Standards Organisation is the new map on the block, and nine nations have already resigned from the venerable Micronational Cartography Society to join it, citing various reasons to do so, including dissatisfaction with the MCS, and the GSO having a better map.

The catalyst for the split occurred in April, after the MCS started to put its map on an "Atkins diet", belatedly held a vote about it, and controversially started backtracking on the previously non-negotiable reductions. The MCS had also previously ignored the 2005 mapping conference COMSAV, which had examined ways of improving the MCS Micras system. While the results of the Atkins Vote looked good for the MCS, some of the voters obviously hadn't been that truthful, as several disaffected nations met soon afterwards in secret to find a permanent solution to their problems, which they did not believe could be found within the MCS. The result, four months later, is the GSO, with most of the creative work having being by John Darcy of Anthelia and Lachlan Powers of the Grand Commonwealth.

The aim of the GSO is to operate a more realistic simulation of planetary mapping than its rival. To begin with, a physical map of a new planet named 'Giess' has been developed, with a detailed geographical backstory for its appearance. Two continents have been left 'unexplored' to assist with the simulated aspects of mapping and exploration.

The nations on Giess will also have more control over their depicted territories with regards to the "development of territories, negotiation of borders, exploitation of resources" and their eventual "decline and disappearance", within an overall framework of rules and guidelines managed by the GSO. They can also produce their own national maps from the GSO maps, at a level for detail that the GSO would not publish itself.

Nations on Giess will also be equal partners in the ownership of the GSO, which has its own elected board of directors and separate committees for managing admissions and designing maps.

The founding members of the GSO are Alexandria, Anthelia, Gotzborg, The Grand Commonwealth, Lemuria, New Brittania, Oscland, Paulovia, Stormark and Treithar, and the current board of directors comprises Lachlan Powers of the Grand Commonwealth, John Darcy of Anthelia, and Ben Gray of Treithar, who is also the President, and was unfortunately unavailable for comment.

Opinion: Matbaa versus Rastakhiz

2006-08-03T17:32:00.000+01:00

While we have taken a break during the summer silly season, things have sufficiently cooled down this week to enable us to give brief consideration to a minor spat that has surfaced between two erstwhile micronational newsblogs: Dzez Matbaa and Radio Rastakhiz. We probably wouldn't have bothered if Dzez Matbaa allowed direct feedback, like ourselves, to published articles, but they seemingly don't, so we have bothered.

Anyway, it would seem that yesterday Radio Rastakhiz essentially accused the Matbaic government of hypocrisy by virtue of apparently permitting two of its key government figures to post messages from the same IP address, and thereby demonstrating that they were obviously one and the same person.

The only thing is, a brief bit of research of the Matbaic website, and of a thread about Matbaa in Micronational Eye, would have provided enough circumstancial evidence to significantly reduce that probability. (We're feeling generous so we'll offer a small prize to anyone who can identify the evidence and let us know if they can conclude what we have concluded from it).

Dzez Matbaa, in its haste to issue a suitable response, also skipped a bit of research. A quick search of the Babkhan forums and of Microwiki infers that Ardashir Khan is the Emir of Raspur all the time, but when he's Shah he's primarily Osman Shahanshah.

While we know we shouldn't jump to conclusions like everyone else, it's possible that a news blog like Radio Rastakhiz was called 'Radio' because its founders thought it was a good idea at the time.

Personally, though, we blame the Baracoãns.

Commonwealth Games off to a Flying Start!

2006-06-13T16:58:00.000+01:00

The first Commonwealth Games have gotten off to a flying start with a variety of events in three different nations. The Games are being held to celebrate the first anniversary of the Grand Commonwealth.

The first event to be completed is the camel racing, held on the ancient camel racing grounds in Babkha. Three participants competed in four races, held in Vey, Raspur, Kamalshahr and Vayelon, with the final points awarded as follows: Sir Iain de Vembria - 7.5, Extreme007 - 3, Dugobert Wurmser - 1.5. Action replays of each race may be seen here.

Another event being held is a football (soccer) tournament, which is taking place in the MZM Superdome, Aurelict. The Trishuli Extremes led the Halberd Harriers, Vayelon Firewolves, and Adelwin Power through to the finals, for which the Georgetown Grenadiers failed to qualify, having put in a consistently miserable performance. The finals will be played on Thursday (June 15th) and will see the Halberd Harriers play Adelwin Power, while the Vayelon Firewolves meet the Trishuli Extremes. The Grand Final will then follow to determine the ultimate champion and runners-up.

Other events yet to be concluded include chess and dominoes championships.

Babkhan Heirs Announced

2006-05-20T13:13:00.000+01:00

THE ROYAL SHAHYIAR PALACE, BABKHA - The long-awaited decision about the successors to the Royal Babkhan Throne was announced to the world on Tuesday by His Majesty Osman Shahanshah.

The decision was inspired by His Majesty being "mortally wounded" by the recent passing away of His Highness the Sultan of Hatay, Muhammed al-Baqir, known to rest of the micronational community as the erstwhile Master Robert Davis.

His Majesty's familial house, the Imperial House of Osmani, has now adopted the Imperial House of Rugahi, thus making His Excellency Mirza Darius Rugahi the new Crown Prince and Heir to the Kapav throne.

The second in line to the throne was revealed as being Rashid Arslani, of the Imperial House of Arslani, while His Imperial Majesty Tahmaseb Abakhtari, former Shah of Babkha and current Shahan-Ri of the Grand Commonwealth, is now the third in the line of succession.

The new heirs to the throne said they were very honoured in being chosen and wished the Shah of Babkha a long reign.

Commonwealth celebrates one year

2006-04-29T10:23:00.000+01:00

Tara, CCT, Grand Commonwealth- Celebrations have been kicked off in the Commonwealth Capital Territory, with the Shahan-Ri of the Grand Commonwealth delivering the birthday address celebrating the Commonwealth?s first anniversary.

With the forums adorned in their new birthday banner, citizens from the many nations have begun festivities both in the capital and in cities around the nations, heralding in the second year of existence. The closure of the fourth session of the Majlis-i-Dharma is also imminent, with the voting on two final bills set to close in hours.

The past year has not been without troubles for the Commonwealth, who startled the microworld with its launch on April 29th last year. Nations were shocked that the planning for the merger could have gone on in secret without being leaked or uncovered by anyone. This caused many nations to see the Commonwealth as a threat, a perception that some still hold to this day.

The Commonwealth welcomed two new members into the fold over the past year; firstly the Republic of Karnali in the middle of 2005 and the Imperial Kingdom of Interland at the start of 2006. Interland?s joining occurred at the same time as one of the founding nations, the Empire of Lemuria, left to be refounded as the Confederated Rianites of Lemuria.

Having now been in existence for a year, the Commonwealth has proven to the microworld that large mergers are a possibility between nations, and that it is possible for nations with even the most distinctly different cultures to unite. Having surpassed the tenure of Tymaria now by 39 days, the prospects are only looking up for the burgeoning Commonwealth.

From Shirefox to Moogle, and iGlobe

2006-04-01T17:36:00.000+01:00

Shireroth Plans New Search Engine

SHIREKEEP, SHIREROTH - Hot on the heels of Shirefox, the Shirithian toolbar for Firefox created by Fax Celestis, we can exclusively reveal the development of a new micronational edition of Google, to be called Moogle.

Based on the Google Web API for developers, the Moogle home page will feature special search features for micronations, based on those already included in Shirefox, and some other unique features that are still under development.

Moogle will also continue Google's tradition of displaying special versions of its name banner to celebrate special days. The banner system will initially be tested with Shirithian holidays, but will be expanded to show the holidays of other micronations that want to be included at an appropriate milestone during beta testing.

MCS To Go Global With iGlobe

THE MCS - News of other technical innovations has also come from the MCS, where an insider has informed us that the new activity index formulae are but the first part of a more ambitious plan for the MCS Map to accurately reflect the sizes of its members on a daily basis.

The MCS will set up an interactive database called iGlobe with special software that will allow each nation to be redrawn every day to an appropriate size, based on its citizen and activity levels. To achieve this, each nation will be required to include a very complex piece of javascript on its forum for the software to recognise, so that it can automatically monitor board activity and census statistics. At the end of each day the MCS map will then be updated with the amended borders and republished. This system will also allow random skins to be applied to the map each day. Apparently suggestions received for them so far include skins in the style of Shireroth, Aronphei, the People's Republic of Hell, and Pokey the Penguin.

It also is believed that the MCS will work in partnership with intelligence agency SHINE to include a more efficient way to remove unwanted nations. This will include reclassifying these nations as non-nations, and recalibrating their activity with a negative activity index number. That way, when an official non-nation is inactive, only a small land area for it will appear on the map, and when it is actually active, it will disappear altogether. It is believed that a preliminary test of this system has already been used on parts of the latest version of the map against unspecified "enemies of the Republic".

It is understood that the iGlobe database will be very resource intensive and as a result require external funding to secure its long-term survival. To do this the MCS will trademark iGlobe as a brand and develop a number of commercial services, which would include applying the system to the mapping of Planet Earth (ultimately being linked to surveillance satellites and cctv systems for an comprehensive automated global census) and producing pulsating luminous globes, which will be sold through IWOOT and also called the iGlobe, and that people would be able to customise with their own real or fictional maps, and set to interact with a selection of external influences, such as music or clapping, as well as real-time population data.

Experiments with producing "real maps" of Planet Earth have already begun, although apparently there is some way to go before the MCS will be able to put actual countries on them.

In Other News...

- Shireroth has denied that the MCS's ruthless reduction of land claims was the only way it could be guaranteed enough land for the anticipated expansion it will undergo as a result of a secret new recruitment plan and its subsequent effect on its MCS activity index rating.

- MCS Head Cartographer Bill Dusch has rubbished claims that he has followed Ryan Caruso's example and registered the entire copyright of Shireroth in his name with the State of New York, as part of a plot to revitalise the ailing nation as a new home for Soloralism and to create a fourth incarnation of Menelmacar.

- Film director Mike Newell has stated that allegations that his latest production, "Sealand the Movie", is an elaborate April Fool, are completely unfounded.

MNN Denies MCS Deletion Claim

2006-03-31T18:58:00.000+01:00

Following claims made yesterday about threats that were allegedly made to delete the MNN-hosted forum of the Micronational Cartography Society, MNN has issued a statement denying that such had ever been made.

MNN said any claims of deletion would be "completely untrue", as the deletion of any forums it hosted would be impossible as its policy has always been to archive forums that are no longer required, and that this would have been the case even if it had decided to take action against the MCS in 2004 as part of the general protests that occurred when "the MCS removed the historic Apollo Foundation territories from their map".

MNN added that it believed that the true reason for the MCS's move was to remove its disputed owner Ryan Caruso from any obligations following his withdrawal from private negotiations that he was holding with MNN's founder Iain de Vembria at the beginning of this year.

Dreesbach's Interland to Stay with the Grand Commonwealth

2006-02-25T14:20:00.000Z

Interland's Kaiser, Daniel Dreesbach, has vowed that it will remain a member of the Grand Commonwealth for the foreseeable future, and that it would not rejoin Attera if the latter "came back from the dead".

So far, due to the lack of a public internet presence, the only evidence of this has been the frequency of articles published by the state journal, the Red Shield III. It recently reported that Emperor Mik?el Tzion I had approved the creation of a new "East Interland" in Attera to "teach" Dreesbach how to establish a "viable entity". It will be interesting to see if this can be achieved, given that Interland was allowed to languish for many years under Atteran control.

The Kingdom of Interland voluntarily joined the Grand Commonwealth at the beginning of this month, following its independence from Attera after the change of government that saw founder Emperor Mik?el Tzion I (aka Diga Makonnen) retake control and refocus its presence away from the internet-based nation it had been for a number of years. Kaiser Daniel said that Interland was better off in the Grand Commonwealth as it "retained its sovereignty and own identity".

Commenting about Makonnen and the recent changes in Attera, Dreesbach added: "He has a very defined view of what Attera should be and not be, which has not changed over the years. On the other hand what has changed is how he deals with others, especially within Attera. Diga has been more unbending toward Atterans who disagree with him. That in itself may not be a bad thing but how he dealt with those issues did cause problems."

NEWS FLASH: Lemurian Ramu Assassinated!

2006-02-02T01:36:00.000Z

Nista Ramure, Lemuria- The second Ramu of the Empire of Lemuria, Ramu Taiçardainre I, was found dead in his palace this morning, when attendants failed to rouse him from a strong night of celebrations last evening.

The Mu was rushed by ambulance motorcade to the Ramure Central Hospital at around 6:30am this morning, after failing to rise for a meeting with the new Government of the Empire. After spending an hour trying to revive the beloved leader, the Ramu was declared dead at 7:47am.

It was soon announced to the media by Meran Aauberman, who was to be sworn in today as the Officer for State Affairs, that the Ramu had died silently in his sleep from what appeared to be a poison inserted into his food or drink sometime during the previous night. The slow acting agent did not affect the Mu until well after he had returned to the palace last night. He had not complained of any pain or injury before retiring for the night, so it can only be assumed that he died peacefully once asleep.

Rumours are already circulating that the assassination may have been the work of a small splinter group who were unhappy with the nations withdrawal yesterday from the Grand Commonwealth. Police have not yet released a statement to the media, but an unusual amount of activity at police headquarters today show that they may have a number of leads on the case.

The Council of Elders has been called into emergency session this afternoon for the arduous task of appointing a new Ramu to the Lemurian throne. There is currently no clear contender amongst the Lemurian families to take the role, who were all very fond of the now deceased leader. Being the youngest Ramu to date, at just 28, there has been little previous discussion about a possible successor for Taiçardainre. A spokesman for the Aféñ family said that ?Mu Taiçardainre has been a uniting force for the Empire, just as Ségirdair was before him. It is hard to believe that we have lost two great leaders in as many years.?

A memorial service for Taiçardainre I will be held next Monday in the national capital. It has been declared that all flags will fly at half mast till this date.

Apollo Inquisitor will keep you up to date on the latest in this breaking story as it comes to hand.

Lemuria Leaves; Interland Joins

2006-02-01T00:54:00.000Z

Meredosa, Lemuria- The Majlis-i-Dharma today voted 6-2 to allow the Empire of Lemuria to leave the Grand Commonwealth.

In one of the quickest votes to date by the council of Commonwealth states, the vote was proposed by Lemuria?s Ramu Taiçardainre I. All members of the Majlis voted in favour of the vote except for Babkhan delegate Osman Shahanshan, who was interested in seeing the Commonwealth stay preserved with its original membership.

On the home front, Lemurian?s began rejoicing in the streets when news of the vote reached the national capital. A vox pop on the streets of some citizens found, however, that there was a small minority of the population not happy with the outcome of the vote.

The passage of the vote marks the end of a remarkable third session of the Majlis, where it has admitted just its second new member state, the Imperial Kingdom of Interland, after the fall of the Atteran Empire. It also saw the introduction of numerous key pieces of legislation, such as the recently passed Banking Act, which has seen the introduction of a Commonwealth currency.

The third session of the Majlis has now retired, awaiting the swearing in of members of the fourth session, and the election of a new Taoiseach.

Interland Joins, Lemuria Leaves

2006-01-14T10:09:00.000Z

CCT, GC- The Grand Commonwealth looks set to change its face, with the Imperial Kingdom of Interland applying for membership of the Commonwealth, and the Empire of Lemuria seeking to secede from the union.

Interland, which recently left the Atteran Commonwealth, immediately took up protectorate status within the Grand Commonwealth upon its withdrawal from Attera. Kaiser Daniel von Dreebach has been quick to move, applying for full membership within the Grand Commonwealth almost immediatley. Full membership will give Interland voting status in the Majlis-i-Dharma; an equal say with any of the other member nations.

On the other side of the post, the Empire of Lemuria, has presented a motion to the Majlis-i-Dharma to allow its secession from the Commonwealth. The Ramu of Lemuria, ejen ranti taicardainre, has presented a motion amending the Charter to remove the nation from the Commonwealth. What the plans are for the nation are yet unknown, and being the first nation to apply to leave the Commonwealth it is unsure how delegates will vote. The motion requires two-thirds support to pass.

Depending on how delegates cast their votes in the Majlis, the Commonwealth could have a very different face by the end of the week.

Norton Awards Revived!

2006-01-08T04:12:00.000Z

Following his special appearance at last year's FNORD Awards as Guest of Honour, President Kevin Baugh of Molossia has decided to revive the original Norton Awards this year, at the suggestion of Carson Smith, the King of Ronen, among many other things.

As before, the Norton Awards are held to celebrate Emperor Norton Day on January 8th, to commemorate the anniversary of his death in 1880. A short biography of his life and achievements may be found here.

The winners of the 2005 Norton Awards are:

Cultural achievement: President Kevin Baugh - for developing the Republic of Molossia's culture.
Intermicronational achievement: Marjorie Boodlesmythe of the NFA - for getting Micro-Net back on the Internet.
Political achievement: Northern Forest Archipelago - for being mentioned in 2 articles in the macronational press, one article focusing mainly on the NFA.
New micronation of the year: Utopia - for its promotion of individual sovereignty, and Interlingua as a common tongue.
Personal achievement: Kieran Bennett, Julian Starr, and Richard Shears - for the founding of Kallidéa.

Blast From the Past: Micro-nations.org Returns!

2006-01-08T01:20:00.000Z

After an absence of several months, the latest incarnation of the what is arguably the mother-of-all-micronational boards of recent years is in the process of returning.

Originally set-up as an alternative to the long-defunct Micronations Today by Lars-Erik Bryld of Corvinia, the last incarnation was in the care of Alteria's Chas Jago, under the name of Micro-Nations.Net (not to be confused with Micronations.Net), under his internet service provider ceased trading last year.

In the intervening period the missing forum was replaced by a temporary blog, and then by two successive boards provided by Majorie Boodlesmythe of the Northern Forest Archipelago. Meanwhile the actual archive of the micro-nations.org and micro-nations.net era boards had come into the possession of Richard Shears, once of the Democracy of Cherusken-Insonomia, but now of Kallidéa.

Following extensive negotiations with Chas Jago, and a meeting in Paris on January 4th, a skeleton site has been set-up, with the domain name of www.micro-nations.com, to host a revived board, plus eventually all the available archives. The actual site is hosted by Kallidéa, with the webmaster being Martì-Páir Furxheir, Foreign Affairs Minister of the Republic of Talossa and co-founder of ESTO, and while former MNO moderators Sogoln yg Ysca and Kevin have been invited to resume their former positions.

FNORD! Malarbor Green with Envy as 2006 Winners are Announced!

2006-01-07T15:21:00.000Z

THE NORTON LOUNGE, MNN - This morning His Majesty the King of Gotzborg presented the 2006 FNORD Awards, in association the Royal Institute of Micronational Antiquities (RIMA), but the Shireroth's Evil Tree God (TM) Malarbor (TM) was so jealous at the winner of the journalism award that he created his own.

Addressing the assembled audience, His Majesty thanked the awards committee and applauded the new awards, commending this year's changes and improvements, and declaring that they "represent the best examples of the people, efforts, projects and micronations which make up... the most dynamic community in our online world".

He added that, irrespective of the numerous reasons for people coming together to participate in micronations, in the end everyone walks away from their experiences "better for the interaction, better for the opportunities and better for the time spent".

The official award winners are:

Best New Micronationalist - Carson Smith
Best Revolutionary Concept - The Kingdom of Lovely
The Bill Dusch Award for Micronational Cultural Development - Ric Lyon
The Odlum Award for Individual Achievement - Ryan Caruso
The Norton Award for Excellence in the Field of Journalism - Novaya Zemlya
The Peter Little Award for Excellence in Micronational Literature - Greg Russell
The RIMA Award for Excellence in Micronational History - The Staff of Microwiki

Meanwhile, Malarbor's (TM) Malarbor Award for Journalistic Nift (TM) went to Nick "Foghorn" Leghorn.

Babkhan Crown Pushes Agenda

2006-01-07T05:45:00.000Z

KAMALSHAHR, BABKHA - After weeks of relative quiet on the home front following the passing of a new Constitution thatgreatly expands the role of the Babkhan Crown vis-a-vis the Babkhan legislature, Shahanshah of Babkha - Osman Shahanshah - in a series of Imperial Farmans, has effectively sealed the dominance of the Throne over the domestic agenda even as the Royal Shahiyar Palace secured a major legislative victory in Majlis.

Between Christmas and New Year's Day, the Palace has issued seven Imperial Farmans ranging in scope from setting up a new government, establishing an economic system and awarding titles to friends abroad.

His Highness the Sultan of Hatay, Muhammed al-Baqir, a relative newcomer to the Kingdom of Babkha, but one who has seen great advancement in a relatively short time, assumed the Grand Viziership under Imperial Farman 031205. He replaced Amir Shervanis, also of the Behsaz Party. Sultan al-Baqir has been a unwavering supporter of the Palace, and critics claim that his appointment to the Grand Vizierate only cements the Palace's hold over all political power outside of its immediate grasp. To his credit, Sultan al-Baqir quickly moblized the Kingdom's various ministries and helped guide the Subjugation Bill through the Majlis despite the vehement protests of Satrap and former Grand Vizier, Rakesh Maziar Ackbar. It is widely rumored that Sultan al-Baqir will be named as Crown Prince when Osman Shahanshah announces the line of succession on Saturday January 7th.

The infamous nation-state of Aryez along with its founder Aryeztur formally joined the Kingdom of Babkha as a Sultanate held in direct fief to the Imperial Crown under Farman 051205. After a short stint as part of Lavalon, rejection by both the Dinarchy of Antica and the Imperial Republic of Shireroth - Aryez has finally found a resting place in Babkha, even as its founder Aryeztur was stripped of his Sultanate less than 24 hours after joining the Kingdom.

Following the tradition of past Shahanshah's, New Year's Awards were presented by and through Farman 081205. While eight prominent micronationalists were awarded for their various accomplishments, no Babkhan were recognized, which was seen as a significant departure from previous New Year's Awards. King Danny I and presenters of Radio Lovely, all of the Kingdom of Lovely, were awarded the Grand Collar of the Order of the Rastakhiz and the Order of Merit respectively. Novaya Zemylan citizens were also recognized as Premier Vladimir Alexi was also awarded with the Grand Collar and Krasniy Yastreb was honored with the Nishan-i-Liaqat for his unique approach to space exploration.

The Palace was unavailable for comment on any of these Farmans.

Two Lovely Awards for the Inquisitor!

2005-12-30T01:56:00.000Z

The Apollo Inquisitor has picked up two Lovely gongs at the 2005 Lovely Broadcasting Corporation Media Awards.

The Inquisitor won the award for Foreign Newspaper of the Year, while co-owner and editor Sir Iain de Vembria was named Foreign Reporter of the Year.

The is the first year of the LBC Media Awards, which were founded by the Lovely Broadcasting Corporation to honour the best national and micronational newspapers, and radio and television productions, as a means of "inspiring, promoting, and supporting creativity".

Chancellor Vembria Speaks!

2005-11-13T14:58:00.000Z

SECURE UNDISCLOSED LOCATION, SAHANSARI-TARA; The Apollo Inquisitor is pleased to announce that it has secured an exclusive interview with the Chancellor of Internal Affairs, Sir Iain Vembria, the saviour of Treesia and scourge of Shirerithian Imperialism.

Apollo Inquisitor: Now, Sir Iain, how do you feel now that you are returned to the office of Chancellor of Internal Affairs?
Sir Iain: I am flattered by the honour and will continue to serve the Grand Commonwealth to the best of my abilities.
Apollo Inquisitor: Sir Iain, what plans do you have to raise the profile of your department compared to say defence or external affairs?
Sir Iain: I will continue to ensure that my department's creations are seen by each and every visitor to the Grand Commonwealth, and to encourage innovative contributions from all citizens.
Apollo Inquisitor: Do you consider the creation of a synthesis culture based on contributions from GC citizens to be a priority for your department?
Sir Iain: That has indeed been the inspiration behind all that we've done so far, and we anticipate that will continue in the foreseeable future, not least because that is one of the fundmental facets of the Grand Commonwealth itself.
Apollo Inquisitor: Ok and finally, it is being reported in Shireroth that a dipcorps are looking to make you an offer to renounce Treesia, and by extension the Grand Commonwealth's, wholey legitimate claim to Lac Glacei. What is your stance on the matter?
Sir Iain: I have not been made aware of any such plans, but in any case, such a matter would have to go through the normal diplomatic channels first.
Apollo Inquisitor: Herr Chancellor, thank you for your time.

We at the Apollo Inquisitor have every confidence that with Sir Iain as part of the Taoiseach's team the Grand Commonwealth will continue to assert its dignity and sovereignty across Micras.

Taoiseach Announces New Cabinet: Builds Fences

2005-11-13T11:28:00.000Z

THE APADANA, SAHANSARI-TARA; Newly elected Taoiseach, Lachlan Powers, has announced the new line up of Chancellors to administer the Micras spanning Grand Commonwealth. To tackle the mission the Taoiseach has set himself of bringing new life to the sprawling empire Lachlan has appointed the same familiar faces from the preceeding Ackbar Administration, the only ommission being Rakesh Ackbar himself, whose career is believed widely to be suffering from an excessive social life at university. Otherwise the continuity in personnel is striking.

Executive Order 006 was issued on Sunday 13 November 2005/Yekshanbeh 22 Aban 1384/2291 ASC. The appointments made are as follows:

Ardashir Khan Osmani, the Osman Shahanshah of Babkha, continues in the post of Protector of the Grand Commonwealth, a position that makes him defacto ruler of the Grand Commonwealth if the Taoiseach is absent from duty for any longer than a specified period of time; Darius Rugahi remains at the Gate of All Nations as Chancellor of External Affairs and Sir Iain de Vembria consolidates the control of his Secretariat over the internal workings of the Commonwealth as Chancellor of Internal Affairs.

The biggest shake up has been to the most active Chancellery, that of Defence in the Plaza of the Army. The office of the Chancellor of Defence has been replaced by two new positions - Chancellor of the Northern Fences and Chancellor of the Southern Fences, with the Chancellor of the Northern Fences taking responsibility for the defence of Treesia, Alteria, Zemlya and Karnali, while the Chancellor of the Southern Fences will take responsibility for the defence of Aerlig, Aundentia Nova, Babkha, Palastina and the Skerries. Defence of the Northern Fences falls to Tribune Extreme Double-O Seven of Karnali, while defence of the Southern Fences becomes the responsibility of Protector and Shahanshah Ardashir Khan Osmani of Babkha.

With this reorganisation Babkha and Karnali will continue to be at the forefront of creating an aggressive, assertive and Shireroth beating armed force, building on the glorious victories in the Jaris War and the defence of Elwynn.

"Lonely Planet" to Publish Guide to Micronations

2005-11-11T15:29:00.000Z

A travel guide to micronations is due to be published next year by Lonely Planet, according to Khamsin Molossia News. The proposed guide is intended to feature micronations with actual territory, such as Hutt River, Seborga, Sealand, and Molossia itself.

Lonely Planet was founded in the early 1970s by Tony and Maureen Wheeler when they decided to publish a travel guide following a trip from London to Asia and Australia. Today, it is the world's leading independent travel publisher, with over 400 staff in offices in the UK, Australia and the USA.

The Molossian government has been asked by Lonely Planet to provide them with high-quality images and additional information about the country, and believes that this could "mean the beginning of a whole new era for landed micronations, one of actual tourism, and we are all looking forward to the possibility."

Commonwealth swings into electoral mode

2005-10-25T02:54:00.000+01:00

Tara, CCT- Electoral debate has flared up in the Commonwealth Capital with the current Taoiseach, Rakesh Ackbar, announcing his intention to run for a second term as Taoiseach against Aerlish Protector Lachlan Powers, who announced his candidacy some days earlier.

Ackbar and Powers made their first campaign speeches in the capital's Great Plaza during the week, with Powers speech "Plans for the Summer" followed by Ackbar's launch "Plans for the Winter". Whether the differences in proposed weather conditions will swing some voters is still undecided.

Powers stated in his speech that he wished to capitalise on the EIFA events coming to the Commonwealth over the summer to attract new visitors, while overhauling the electoral systems for both the Shahan-Ri and the Majlis-i-Dharma. He has also announced plans for the creation of a High Court and wishes to draw Commonwealth citizens back from Shireroth, where their participation is "...a sin to the rising sun itself...".

Ackbar focused in his speech on strengthening the power of the Commonwealth, and indicated taking action against nations of the Commonwealth who have recently moved away from democracy. He also seconded a number of the ideas put forward by Powers in his proposal. Powers was quick to attack the Taoiseach's proposal however, claiming it was a violation of the rights of the individual member states to run their affairs as they see fit.

It appears that, should no other candidate step up, this election may turn into a battle between those fighting for individual liberty in all nations and those fighting for the liberty of the member nations. Who will win, the National Liberals or the Individual Liberals? Find out by keeping tuned to the Apollo Inquisitor...

Treesia Celebrates Its Fifth Anniversary

2005-10-20T22:52:00.000+01:00

HALBERD LIGHTHOUSE, SOVEREIGN ORDER OF TREESIA - Treesia celebrated its fifth anniversary today and the event was celebrated in style with key supporters being honoured with some unique awards.

Although it was originally founded back in the mists of micronational history by the infamous Thomas Hubert, it was refounded as the Barony of Treesia and Fabon on October 20th 2000 by Eoin Dornan, following a successful coup backed by the long-defunct Republic of Blackrock. Following a very successful period of expansion as the United Baronies, the focus in recent months has been as the Sovereign Order of Treesia, concentrating on preserving its heritage and co-founding the Grand Commonwealth.

The celebratory awards comprised the following honours:

The Medallion of the Orchids was awarded to Sir Thomas Cutterham in "recognition of his creative work for the Treesian Unorthodox Church", the Collar of Carradu was awarded to Sir Cesare Agosto for his "tenacious talents in the footballing arena", the Standard of the March Breeze was awarded to Sir Ardashir Osmani, for his efforts in "daring to invade Treesia every year for four years", the Golden Belt of Cynos was awarded to Squire Lachlan Powers for co-creating the Grand Commonwealth, while the Shield of the Silver Hind was awarded to Sir Eoin Dornan for "making it all possible in the first place".

World Cup Host Announced

2005-10-19T03:33:00.000+01:00

Trenton-Corio, AU, Aerlig- EIFA Chairman Lachlan Powers today announced that the Republic of Karnali will host the fourth annual EIFA World Cup.

The Chairman made the announcement at the EIFA Headquarters in Trenton to a packed room, who were eagerly waiting to find out the host of the years biggest intermicronatonal event. The event has grown in past years with some 28 teams participating in last years Cup, which was held in Babkha.

Karnali is expected to get underway almost immediately with planning for the event, before calling for entries in early November. Powers stated that he was expecting around the same number of teams to participate in the competition again. It is believed that should large numbers of nations enter again, entry may be restricted to English speaking nations, after German nations invaded last years Cup.

Favourites for this yearâ€™s cup will remain Karnali, especially now that they have the home ground advantage. Traditional number ones Treesia are also expected to present a challenge for the cup, along with Babkha, who failed to make the finals when they hosted the tournament last year.

Camel Revolution Gives Democracy the Hump?

2005-10-17T20:40:00.000+01:00

They call it the Camel Revolution. Named they say after the most distinctive traditional sights of Babkha, the omnipresent dromedary seen violating the traffic regulations of every souk and bazaar the length and breadth of the Kingdom, though cynics have questioned whether this represented an official branding exercise cashing in on the recent trend in naming illegal regime changes after objects or colours as part of an effort to make the changes seem popular.

His Imperial Majesty has been out in the bazaar addressing a band of loyal followers promising to turn around the Kingdom's fortunes by slaughtering one of the sacred cows of his majestic herd, the democratic constitution of Babkha.

For those browbeaten by the heady rhetoric of the Rakesh years and the bitter rivalry of the Behsaz and Rastakhiz parties the debate about ending the long established democratic traditions of the Kingdom must seem something of an anticlimax. That in some respects is the entire point.

Administrations have come and gone, some popular like the Grand Vizierate of Tahmaseb, some competent like the Namvari governments, some visionary like the first Ackbar term of office. However all since the heady days of the first Rastakhiz, engineered by the well-nigh deified Abbas Namvari, have been to a greater or lesser extent treading water. Structurally the Kingdom remains stuck in 2003, the bills are paid and the infrastructure maintained, but the laws that have been passed by successive Majlis-i-Mellats have been only indifferently observed and the Babkhan populace has more often than not opted to favour Behsazi opportunism over high-minded ideals.

Indeed in recent months the Majlis-i-Mellat ceased to function as an organised body. When asked to consider dissolving the Majlis and calling for yet another round of elections the Shah replied

"At the present time I do not believe democracy in Babkha is fit to survive."

And with that the Camel 'Revolution' had begun.

Three days of level headed discussion in the Kamalshahr bazaar preceded to whittle down the options for replacing the democratic system. Both Grand Commonwealth intervention and a state of emergency have been more or less ruled out. The solution, which has the support of the Grand Vizier, the Attorney General and several Satraps appears to centre around appointing new delegates to the Majlis-i-Mellat to vote the constitution out of existence and replace it with a new text which provides for a new merged executive-legislature based on the Shahanshah who would be granted greater powers of rule by decree and an assembly of the satraps, appointed by the Shahanshah on account of their activity and loyalty, the Majlis-i-Satrapan.

A farman appointing the new delegates to the Majlis-i-Mellat is expected shortly.

Istvanistan's Independence War

2005-10-16T09:43:00.000+01:00

VLADOGRAD, COMMONWEALTH OBLAST [CHAOCRACY] OF ISTVANISTAN - In the wake of a spate of mutual annexations worthy of Yardistan itself the conflict between Istvanistan and the Grand Commonwealth is settling down into a more familiar story of a plucky anarchic and eccentric community waging a liberation war against the dry bureaucracy of an evil empire. A tale of nuclear eclairs and sandworms being pitched against each other in epic combat.

In spite of the resistance led by the self appointed Minister of Entropy Increasement Spetzjoe, the Commonwealth led by Protector AK Osmani has continued the pacification and reorganisation of the oblast by appointing an Oblastsatrapfuhrer and the patriation of Istvanistan's Liber Laws to the Hall of Six Pillars, the legislative archive of the Grand Commonwealth in its capital Sahanshai-Tara.

In other news Oblastsatrapfuhrer Stjepan Veliki, whose motto is 'they pretend to pay me and I pretend to work' has announced in his first 'five-minute plan' a reorganisation of Istvanistan set around the Municipality of Vladograd.

Meanwhile Commonwealth occupation forces are rumoured to be terrified by reported sightings of Granny Spetzjoe's radioactive bloomers in the Barents Sea.

Elwynn Pays Tribute to Babkha's Anniversary

2005-10-12T21:51:00.000+01:00

Today the Shah of Babkha was honoured as a new Count in Elwynn as tribute to Babkha's fifth anniversary celebrations. Elwynn is a Barony of Shireroth, and the Shah was created the Count of Lesser Zjandaria by the Baron of Elwynn, RicLyon, and was bestowed a new County of the same name, incorporating three detached communes within Elwynn.

In his decree, the Baron of Elwynn said: "In honouring the foundation of the Babkhan nation and recognizing that so many people of this great Land of ours feel affection for their Babkhan nationhood and ethnicity, the Baronial Authority of this State feels that it is with all right that a county shall be created for them in the areas in which they form a distinct majority."

Shah Ardashir Osmani, in an exclusive interview with the Apollo Inquisitor, said: "We have been pleasantly surprised and honoured by this unexpected and most generous award from the Baron of Elwynn. As Count we promise to rule wisely and firmly with traditional Babkhan humour and fair play, and also to demonstrate the respect and hospitality towards our neighbours for which we are so rightly famous."

Babkha Celebrates Fifth Anniversary With Multitudinous Honours

2005-10-12T21:21:00.000+01:00

The Kingdom of Babkha celebrated its fifth anniversary today by awarding Honours to many prominent micronationalists, past and present. The Honours were announced in an Imperial Farman issued by His Majesty the Shah, Ardashir Osmani, to celebrate Foundation Day.

His Majesty said: "May all who have received these awards be rightly celebrated for their achievements and their contributions to the continued prosperity of the Kingdom and the Micronational community in general, as is their right. Let us also remember that Babkha has had a long and varied history and that this fifth anniversary of the declaration of sovereignty by the revered and immortal Babak Shahanshah back in October of 2000 is far from being the end of the Babkhan story. Gentlemen I pray I shall see you all for the sixth anniversary of our glorious kingdom, a leading light of the Grand Commonwealth of nations, the vibrant cultural legacy of our sector."

The Honours awarded consist of five different ranks, relating to specific fields of achievement and loyalty. The foremost Honour is that of the Nishan i-Rastakhiz, awarded to foreign Heads-of-State, who best reflect the spirit and positive values of the Babkhan Rastakhiz on the international stage, and who are considered warm allies of the Kingdom.

The Nishan i-Rastakhiz was awarded to King Charles Augustus II of the Kingdom of Gotzborg, Emperor Harald Thorstein of the Sovereign Empire of Stormark, Kaiser Yarad I of the Imperial Republic of Shireroth, Emperor Edgard Portela of the Empire of the Alexandrians, King Chas Jar'go of Alteria, Ramu TaiÃ§ardainre I of Lemuria, Tribune Extreme of the Republic of Karnali, Protector Lachlan Powers of the Republic of Aerlig, and Chancellor Sir Iain de Vembria of the Sovereign Order of Treesia.

The next Honour is that of the Nishan-i-Taj, awarded for services to the Kingdom. The recipients were Shahan-Ri and Satrap Tahmaseb Abakhtari, Sultan Mohammed al-Baqir, the Amir Shervanis, Mirza Satrap Darius Rugahi, Satrap Yaghoub Ahmad Vembriani, Satrap Edward Benazir Shahzamini, Satrap Rashid Arsalani, Satrap William Bagram, Satrap Rakesh Ackbar, Satrap Yuri Zhivago, and the Honourable Hesam Jahandar.

The Honour of Nishan-i-Khurshid is a miltary order for service in the face of the enemy, and was given to the Amir Shervanis, Admiral Dugobert Wurmster, and Tribune & Commonwealth Defence Chancellor Extreme007.

Nobility is rewarded with the Nishan-i-Shir, for notable gallantry in the face of the enemy. King Charles Augustus II of the Kingdom of Gotzborg and Tribune & Commonwealth Defence Chancellor Extreme007 were the recipients.

Finally, the order of the Nishan-i-Liaqat, for those who deserve to be rewarded for their contributions to Babkhan and Micronational culture, arts and literature, was conferred upon Kaiser Yarad I of the Imperial Republic of Shireroth, Mirza Satrap Darius Rugahi, Satrap Yaghoub Ahmad Vembriani, Protector Lachlan Powers of the Republic of Aerlig, Satrap Rakesh Ackbar, the Honourable Hesam Jahandar, and the Honourable Arch-Infidel Scott Alexander.

Shireroth Gets Paranoid Over and Suspends Immigration

2005-10-12T19:16:00.000+01:00

SHIREKEEP, SHIREROTH - Shireroth's much-vaunted recent recruitment campaign seems to have spectactularly backfired this evening, when the entire immigration process was suspended indefinitely as a result of the growing realisation that acquiring as many new citizens as it did was useless if they had nothing to do and kept disappearing as a result.

The unprecendented panic measure was introduced this evening by Minister of the Interior and
Director of Tourism, and Steward, Fax Celestis, who in a statement, said: "Due to the large influx of new immigrants who have yet to show their faces more than twice, and due to the recent additions of citizens for the express purpose of obtaining a means to an end, instead of the betterment of the nation, there is now a freeze on all immigration to Shireroth."

The Minister's statement also hints at Shireroth's first rejection of an immigrant application for many months, if not years. This evening he denied citizenship to Stormarkian Lady Vesteralen, on the grounds that he feared that she was only wanting to join in order to "join the nation simply [to] fight in the War of Vengeance and then become inactive." However, vigourous lobbying by the RicLyon, Baron of Elwynn and Lac Glacei, later convinced the Minister to make an exception to the new immigration regime, by permitting a decree by the Baron allowing her a "chance of proving herself", who explained that the decree "has no legal effect anywhere else. The decree simply states that in Elwynn she is to be regarded as a companion. That means that she can engage with us other Elwynnese on an equal basis in our community".

Both decisions were roundly condemned by many fellow Shirerithians, but it highly unlikely that the situation will be resolved until after the true Kaiser (who unfortunately is ill) is able to return.

Istvanistan takes over the Grand Commonwealth and Shireroth?

2005-10-09T11:54:00.000+01:00

VLADAGRAD, CHAOCRACY OF ISTVANISTAN - After an unprecendented display of diplomatic showmanship, no-one now is certain whether Istavnistan controls the Grand Commonwealth, or the Grand Commonwealth controls Istvanistan.

Whatever the conclusion might, it is certain that there is no doubt that yesterday, the Cause of Istvanistan, Stjepan Veliki, issued a statement in which he granted "the Grand Commonwealth and the Imperial Republic of Shireroth the status of Autonomous Oblasts, under the ultimate sovereignty of the Chaocracy. This status entails that they shall have the the right to hate and kill each other, as well as to print their own postage. "

In response, the Protector of the Grand Commonwealth, Ardashir Osmani, decreed that: "As a Oblast of the supreme Chaocracy of Istvanistan the Grand Commonwealth in obedience to the precepts of the primordial hereby declares Istvanistan overthrown and to be an Oblast of the Oblast and accordingly the Grand Oblastoblast Commonwealth hereby annexes the Oblasts of Istvanistan and Shireroth to be held for all eternity, backdated to the beginning of time until this decree is countermanded by one even more ridiculous. May all who disobey be chewed for a millenia by a sandworm with chronic indigestion."

No response from Shireroth has yet been received, as they are believed (at time of press) to still be asleep and blissfully unaware of their unexpected fate.

Protector Enacts Section Three

2005-10-06T05:57:00.000+01:00

Statesman House- Adelwin, Aerlig- For the first time in the history of the Republic of Aerlig, the Protector of the Republic, Lachlan Powers, has enacted Section Three of the Constitution, enabling him to take up the responsibilities of the Parliament.

The section, which has existed in the constitution since it was written in 2001, enables the Protector to take over the responsibilities of any national office that fails in its duties to the nation. Since the branch of government that the Protector says has failed is the Parliament, the Protector may take on the full legislative and executive functions of the Government, powers which were recently strengthened in the constitutional referendum.

The Protector declared today at 12:30 on the steps of Statesman House that the Parliament had fallen into inactivity, and had therefore failed the people, and as a result he would be taking over the Government of the nation.

The believed cause of this action is the fact that two pieces of legislation have been sitting in the Parliamentary chamber for debate for over a week now. The Protector was quick to rush through the National Gazette Act of 2005 and the Re-enactment Act of 2005 as soon as he assumed power.

How long the Protector will retain office for is yet to be seen, but his actions are expected to stir up some debate within the Aerlig community.

Beginnings of the Grand Commonwealth (Part I)

2005-10-01T12:31:00.000+01:00

It has been suggested by a number of micronationalists that the Grand Commonwealth was designed from the outset to be a counterweight to Shirerothian supremacy in the microworld. Others have also resorted to referring to the Commonwealth as Greater Babkha, unaware of the true history that lies behind the formation of the grand nation. The first thoughts of a Commonwealth started a little under a year ago, when Lachlan Powers (Aerlig) and Sir Iain de Vembria met during an online conversation to discuss the direction of their two nations.

Powers and de Vembria had often discussed the plights of their two nations, which had suffered greatly from inactivity over the preceding months. It was time that some action should be taken. All of micronationalism was in a lul, and something was needed to create some activity and draw new blood into the hobby, but what? October 9th, 2004 was the birth of discussions for a new nation. While it took nearly six months from this date for the dream to become a reality, the wheels were put in motion that night for an idea that would grow much beyond the original dreams.

The removal of Apollo Foundation lands from the Micronational Cartographic Society Map was an action that was loudly criticized by micronationalists around Micras, from Shireroth to Treesia. One must often wonder how Ryan Caruso can continue his job at the top after all the hard decisions and criticism he has had to make. The decision had been made, however, and Treesiaâ€™s long lives existence on the map was being threatened. So on the 9th October, the Round Table was presented with two options- threaten the MCS or leave the Foundation and resume sovereignty over the traditional lands. Treesia had once covered lands ranging as far as Shireroth of the day, and the prospect of the nation being wiped off the map altogether was one that de Vembria couldnâ€™t bare contemplate.

Powers, a member of the Round Table, came up with the initial laughable suggestion of Treesia becoming and Aerlish state. The suggestion though, however ridiculous it may have seemed at the time, was to give rise to what is arguably the largest, most powerful nation Micras has ever seen.

Not long after the suggestion of the Treesian state, de Vembria first floated the idea of a loose union between Treesia, Aerlig and Lemuria- A â€œNew Apolloian [sic] Empireâ€�. United for economics, foreign affairs and security in the first place. The laughable idea of admitting Antica was floated (which we shall see later was not so laughable), along with flooding Micras in the violent lime green colour which Aerlig possessed. Apollo fever took over, and notions were raised of contacting Harvey about the Flying Islands, Trevon about Istavanistan and considering how many different acronyms could be formed including the word Apollo.

By the 10th, Powers had spoken with Delphi Augustus of Antica, who was willing to join in discussions about the formation of a new Empire. For the next day, things stood idle, probably as life interceded, as it does. Something was clearly brewing though. With Aerlig, Treesia, Lemuria and Antica having expressed interest, there was a possibility of something big occurring. Note though that Babkha was not mentioned, nor was it even considered. As we will see, it was many months before Babkha was even associated with the project. Other nations will come and go before then, and yet the whole project will remain under wraps from Micrasâ€™s supposed top security agencies.

It was on the 9th of October that, what was so eloquently referred to at the time as the "Imperial Whatever of Thingummy" came into life as an idea.

To be continued...

Shireroth: Future Less Ugly

2005-09-13T22:19:00.001+01:00

Shirekeep, Imperial Republic of Shireroth:

Kaiser Los III's brave and controversial decision to overturn a long standing Shirerithian tradition of horrendous forum designs has met with partial success with a new and undeniably beautiful banner replacing the old and rather unsightly Shirerithian 'jack' - the flag of a globe spanning empire that looked as though it was drawn by an eight year old on ritalin when in fact it was designed by Erik, the founder of Shireroth, sometime in the dim and distant past though presumably not when he was eight and on ritalin (disclaimer).

The Shirerithians have also enaged robustly with their infamous forum background replacing the infamous tiled Malabor effect with a stretched forest village scene that while not exactly pretty is at least not quite as queasy and unsettling as its predecessor.

However Kaiser Los, for his efforts to prevent foreigners and new citizens (of whom there are now a considerable number thanks to a recent advertising campaign) being physically sick whilst they browse, has come under a certain amount of criticism from Shirerithian traditionalists, of who there is, predictably, a substantial minority that considers an alteration to the appearance of the forum to be an unpardonable slight against all that is right and holy in Shireroth. However it is hard to tell whether the Yardistanis have oppossed the redesign just to be bloody-minded and eccentric.

So controversial has the thorny issue of removing Malabor been that Kaiser Los, who is blessed with a degree of absolute authority that Anticans can only dream of, has had to resort to finding consensus (the Kaiser incidentally says that he always favours reaching a consensus, but then he would say that wouldn't he) via opinion polls in the Temple of Lumina. The result of the poll appears to have given a landslide in favour of the redesign but rumours persist that the result was slightly skewed on account of a certain unnamed member of the Almagro family voting a dozen times.

It seems likely that the new forum design will survive the reign of Kaiser Los III though whether it will do so without bloodshed is entirely another matter.

Shireroth Convulses the World

2005-08-24T07:45:00.000+01:00

These are strange days, and things have just gotten a whole lot stranger. Shireroth has now done something that it has always vowed never to do (i.e. consider changing its forum design), while simultaneously a semi-senior micronationalist was last seen turning into a goose and subsequently plotting a campaign against some of his allies. Coincidence, or consequence?

So just what is going on? The Kaiser of Shireroth has apparently cracked under the overwhelming pressure of foreign opinion and published not one, but two polls regarding the future look of the Imperial Republic's message boards.

Shirerithians have resisted for many years any changes their look, inspite of some brave but (in hindsight) foolhardy attempts to do so (resulting in people being exiled, for example), relying instead on potential visitors and citizens to be of strong enough mind to overcome such visually-challenging issues as under-contrasted (blue on blue) and over-contrasted (red on blue) text (and sometimes both together), uncoordinated background patterns, over-enlarged (and thus horribly pixelated) background images, decorative images in a cornucopia of differing styles and quality, and various banners that take up almost as much screen space as the boards themselves. The national symbols have been subtly improved in recent months, although a garish anti-aliased flag has only been replaced by one just as garish (although at least aliased now), but with most un-flag-like 3-dimensional bevelled edges.

Such fundamental changes are never without unforeseen consequences, and the global convulsions resulting from this improbable change in the status quo have seemingly been so great that they have managed to turn the mind of a once-respected micronationalist, so that he is convinced that he is a goose on a one-bird crusade to rule the world, making everyone a vegetarian on the way and creating a glut of fermented apples in the process, while allegedly accompanied by an army of pecking moorhens.

In the meantime, new forum designs are being tested in a new Temple of Lumina, surreptitiously hidden away in an isolated corner of Shireroth. The current proposal is a rather smarter design full of reds and blues, but the opinion polls remain divided on the subject. Malarbor, as yet, doesn't seem too bothered about it though, preferring to bask in the glory of making public appearances instead.

New Protector for the Commonwealth

2005-06-23T23:51:00.000+01:00

Taoiseach's Winter Office- Adelwin, Aerlig (GC)- The Taoiseach today announced the first Protector of the Commonwealth, and extended his cabinet by one with the appointment of Thomas Cutterham to two positions this morning.

In a statement in the Apadana, Taoiseach Powers announced that Mr Cutterham would take up the role of Deputy Foreign Affairs Advisor, to help clear some of the backlog of Foreign Relations currently plaguing the nation. In the same statement, Powers also announced that Cutterham would take up the position of Protector of the Commonwealth.

The Protector of the Commonwealth is empowered under the Protector of the Commonwealth Act to act as the Taoiseach while the Taoiseach is on a Leave of Absence. Taoiseach Powers shall be taking a leave of absence next week.

This will be only the second head of government in the country, with Powers serving as the Taoiseach since the nations founding in March this year.

Karnali joins the GC

2005-06-23T23:45:00.000+01:00

Protector's Office, CCT (GC)- The Republic of Karnali has finally completed the process of becoming a member state of the Grand Commonwealth, with Tribune extreme007 today accepting the Charter of the Grand Commonwealth on behalf of the Republic.

The Commonwealth's Majlis-i-Shahan-Ri voted three weeks ago to admit the Republic to the Commonwealth, but the representatives from Karnali have only just accepted the offer to the nation. One of the conditions of the union, the renaming of the Majlis-i-Shahan-Ri to the Majlis-I-Dharma, has also taken place effective today.

Taoiseach Lachlan Powers and Shahan-Ri Tahmaseb Shah Abakhtari welcomed Karnali to the Commonwealth early this morning, and since the union the Commonwealth has seen a surge in activity unseen in any other nation.

Karnali is the sixth member state to join the Grand Commonwealth.

Aryez threatens Commonwealth, exposed as fraud

2005-06-11T13:11:00.000+01:00

MZM CAPITAL OFFICE, CCT (GC) - The Aralanic Empire of Aryez has been exposed today trying to lure Antica into an attack on the Grand Commonwealth with false and misleading information.

Aryez approached the Antican Foreign Office yesterday declaring that "war between Aryez and the GC seems to be imminent" and claiming that unidentified members of the Grand Commonwealth had made derogatory remarks about the nation. The approach followed similar comments at Aryez's own forums. The slanderous rampage then continued into the Grand Commonwealth's own foreign affairs headquarters, with Aryez calling for death to the Commonwealth and calling for the trial of the Commonwealth's Taoiseach, for crimes against humanity, although these claims were backed up with neither examples nor evidence.

A quick conference between leaders of the Commonwealth and Antica soon laid down fears of any conflict, and it was almost instantly apparent that the claims had all been falsified. Aryez then tried to jump on the back foot by claiming that their account had been hacked after it became clear that Antica would not get involved, even though there was an abundance of evidence to the contrary. Nothing has been heard of since from the Aryezian government.

For all the latest news, keep reading the Apollo Inquisitor.

Aerlig Elects New Parliament

2005-06-11T12:53:00.000+01:00

ADELWIN, AERLIG - The Aerlig Electoral Commission returned results today for the twelfth session of Parliament of the Republic of Aerlig.

The election saw a record-matching seven candidates run for the five positions available in the Parliament, only the third time that an election has been held for the Parliament. While the campaign this year lacked the ferociousness of the last election campaign, many of the candidates petitioned hard for their positions on the Parliament.

Protector Lachlan Powers announced the results early this morning to a large crowd gathered on the lawns of the Protector's Office. The five returned members were Peter Krembs (Labor), Lachlan Powers (XP), Dugobert Wurmser (XP), Joe Sendler (ANP) and Carson Smith (Ind.). Iain Vembria and Jayce Adryn, both members of the Expansionist Party, missed out in a very tight vote.

So far, only one member has put his hand up for the role of Prime Minister, that being Mr Krembs. Krembs returned to Aerlig recently after a prolonged absence. With no party having a majority in the Parliament, and Powers indicating support of a Krembs ministry, there is a good chance he may get the top job.

For all the latest news, keep reading the Apollo Inquisitor.

MX2 Opens To International Trade

2005-06-01T17:31:00.000+01:00

MX2, the long-awaited replacement for PHP MicroXchange, opened to international trade today. MX2 already has ten member nations signed up, and represents months of programming and testing by its creators, Sander Dieleman and Jouker Sendler.

Some new operating restrictions are in force in order to prevent possible misuse of the system. Firstly, no user may initiate more than 5 international transactions within a period of two hours, and secondly, no more than 15% of a nation's circulating money may be transferred abroad every week.

Jouker Sendler, who also hosts MX2, said: "We hope that these limits will not be too restrictive. However, they might be reviewed and changed if necessary. So anyone who cannot transfer money because of these restrictions should post that information in the MX2 Forums, explaining why they think the restrictions should be changed."

Micronational economics has been in the doldrums for many months, mainly due to the absence of any viable operating system, so it will be interesting to see if MX2 can revive demand back to the levels seen in the days of the old ICEO. Certainly the automation of transactions, developed from the initial system in Sander Dieleman's PHP MicroXchange, should help.

Board Restorations May Take a Week or More

2005-06-01T16:17:00.000+01:00

Some micronational Ezboards may take a week to restore, following a devasting malicious attack on the Ezboard network yesterday.

The attack resulted in a signifcant loss of current and backup data, creating severe problems for most of the Ezboard communities, some with only recent posts missing, while others have all posts missing.

Rob Labatt, Ezboard CEO, said: "We are taking the fastest route to restore data, but it may take up to 48 hours to get data back to approximately 9,000 boards. A more manual method requiring upwards of seven to ten days is required to restore data to the other boards that lost data. Regrettably we may not be able to restore data to all boards that lost data."

Ezboard staff have requested that requests for board restorals and notices of individual board problems are not submitted as all boards will be restored (where possible).

All Ezboard users are advised to regularly check 'All the News You Need to Know' for updates regarding the latest situation.

They are also advised not to post new messages on affected boards as there is a risk that they may be overwritten during the restoration process.

Shireroth Denies Involvement in SPEAR Alliance

2005-05-30T01:19:00.000+01:00

SHIREKEEP, SHIREROTH - Controversy erupted in Shireroth today when an official statement was issued denying any involvement in the SPEAR alliance announced by Attera two days ago.

The Atteran Prime Minister, Johanns fonn Klosso had announced that Attera had signed "the Skiron Pact for Economic and Armed Reinforcement, an agreement between Attera, Shireroth, Natopia, Antica, and the Union of Atteran Monarchies." However, it appears that Attera is the only nation to have actually signed the Pact at the time of press.

Earlier today, the Shirerithian Minister of the Exterior issued the following statement:
"Yesterday, the Prime Minister of the Atteran Empire, HH Johanns fonn Klosso, announced the formation of an organisation called the SPEAR Alliance, apparently an economic and military alliance of which Attera, Shireroth, Natopia, Antica, and the Union of Atteran Monarchies are allegedly members. This announcement was also reported in the news publication Atteran Chronicle World.

"The Imperial Republic of Shireroth categorically states that, contrary to the statement issued by Prime Minister fonn Klosso, it is not a member of the SPEAR Alliance, and that no agreement to join it has either been decreed by His Imperial Highness Kaiser Alejian I, nor approved or even proposed to the Government of Shireroth. Neither has the Shirerithian Minstry of the Exterior received any diplomatic communciations from the Atteran Empire concerning this matter.

"The Imperial Republic of Shireroth therefore requests that the Atteran Empire retracts the issued statement immediately and issues a corrected statement, apologising for the error."

The SPEAR Pact is in for a rough ride in Shireroth if and when it is finally presented there, as it has been designed, through military alliances and a single economic system, to pave the way for potentially closer political ties for the members with the Atteran Empire. This is highly likely to conflict with a number of treaties that Shireroth currently holds with other nations, which is guaranteed to upset a significant proportion of Shirerithians.

Aerlig to hold Elections

2005-05-22T11:59:00.000+01:00

ADELWIN, AERLIG - Aerlish Protector Lachlan Powers early this evening prorogued the Parliament on request of the citizens, calling for nominations for the twelfth parliament of the Republic.

The Protector has called for nominations to the new Parliament, which is to be made up of five members. With eight currently active citizens in the Republic, there is a strong chance of an election occurring for the available seats. During the election period, Prime Minister Carson Smith will continue to head the caretaker government.

Should an election be called, it is expected that the newly renamed Labour Party, led by Peter Krembs, will fight a strong campaign for seats in the Parliament. The new Aerlig National Party should secure at least one seat under original Aerlig citizen Joe Sendler, while the eXpansionist Party will look to gain up to three seats in the election. The Liberal Republican Party, led by former citizen and Prime Minister Kevin, is expected to lose all representation in the Parliament and consequently be stripped of party status.

Nominations are being accepted by the Protector for ten days until June 2.

More the latest news from Aerlig, keep reading the Apollo Inquisitor.

Chaos in Shireroth!

2005-05-22T11:57:00.000+01:00

SHIREKEEP, SHIREROTH - Shireroth descended into anarchy this afternoon with protests raging of the reorganisation of the nations forums.

All PRH has broken loose as the commoners of the Republic have taken to streets demanding that the archives of their former Duchies and Baronies be opened to the public. Minister of the Interior Joseph Strong stood by his decision to lock the forums, stating that the new duchies created under the Duchy Reorganisation Act do not in fact exist until the Kaiser appoints three new Dukes.

This legal basis was not a good enough argument for the Shireroth commoners, who continued bickering until the Minister was forced to bow to the pressure and open up the new forums to the public. Arguments continue to rage, however, over the Ministers use of codenames and images for the new forums, which have quite obviously been put in place temporarily to reorganise the forums. Some citizens, however, appear to believe the Minister has taken it upon himself to rename parts of the nation.

Some visitors to the nation have suggested that the internal brawl may be the work of secret Grand Commonwealth forces infiltrating the Republic to destabilise it, although these rumours appear to be completely unfounded.

More news from Shireroth as it comes to hand, only in the Apollo Inquisitor.