[center][h2][b]The Republic of Samgola[/b] ([i]1993[/i]-)[/h2][/center] [h1][center]RULES OF DEMOCRACY https://discord.gg/f7kuc5[/center][/h1] [hider=Election Rules][b][u]ELECTION[/u][/b] [Pending.][/hider] [hider=Political Rules][b][u]Administrative Rules[/u][/b] 1. Every Turn is 4 Months. Every 24 hours, 1 Month advances. 2. The more you post and how good your posts are give you additional bonuses. [b][u]Political Rules[/u][/b] 1. Voting [b][color=green]Yes[/color][/b] on a bill that passes with an Amendment of your Party's value increases support with your [b]Base*[/b] by 1%. (Base is defined as 3 demographics with highest support percentage). 2. The [b]Cabinet[/b] and [b]Budget[/b] are the beginning of every election are automatically [b]Proposed[/b]. They do not require any actions. They cannot be [b]Delayed[/b]. [b]Legislative Actions[/b] 1. [u][b]Propose Bill[/b][/u]: This introduces a [b]Bill[/b] to the [b]National Assembly[/b]. This Bill should explain, in one or two sentences, what it's intended goal is [b]OR[/b] change an existing law. [hider=Example Bill] 1. [b]Preamble[/b]: Whereas the Community Policing Act is designed to make rural communities a safer place to live. [WHAT IS THE INTENTION OF THE BILL]. 2. [b]Article I[/b]: Every neighborhood will hire a Community Safety Officer who patrols the neighborhood. [Cooperation]. [Every Bill begins with 1 Article with a specific implementation. The value you attach to it must line up with the article.] 3. [b]Projected Cost[/b]: Projected Cost is [Insert your Projected Cost Here.] [Projected Cost does not cost any Actions and is included in any new bill.][/hider] [u][b]A New Bill[/b][/u] [i]Example Bill 1[/i]: [i]The Community Policing Act is designed to make rural communities a safer place to live[/i]. or [u][b]Change an Existing Law[/b][/u] [b]Law[/b]: The nation's defence industry. [b]Current Law[/b]: The state owns national defence industries but these exist alongside privately owned defence industries. [b]Proposed Law[/b]: Defence industries are privately owned but subsidised by the state. 2. [b]Propose Amendment[/b]: This is used by the [b]Owner[/b] of the Bill or another Member of the National Assembly (with the consent of the Owner), to add an amendment to the Bill. By doing this, the amendment is either named or numbered (John Smith Amendment, Amendment I, etc) and briefly described in one or two sentences with the desired value added. [i]Example Amendment 1[/i]: The Member of the National Assembly John Smith, adds the [b]Smith Amendment[/b] to the [b]Community Policing Act[/b], it reads the following: [i]The Smith Amendment requires non-violent offenders of basic misdemeanors to commit to community service to clean up their communities[/i]. [[b][color=orange]Cost Saving[/color][/b]]. This will now win the support of those with that value. [b][color=green]Proposal Stage[/color][/b]: When you use the [b]Propose Bill[/b] stage, it becomes a [b]Proposal[/b] and is free for all MNA's to discuss in the Assembly and negotiate. It will exist here for 3 Turns. [b][color=red]Voting Stage[/color][/b]: When the [b]Call to Vote[/b] stage is used, it goes to this stage. Political Parties will then vote on it based on their values and direct influences. 3. [b]Call to Vote[/b]: This will call a Bill that is in a [b]Proposal[/b] stage to a vote at any time. You must be the Owner of the bill to use this. The [b]Political Party[/b] with the [b]Prime Minister[/b] may use this Action, for free, at any time, on any bill, not requiring an [b]Action[/b]. 4. [b]Special Provincial Election[/b]: Select a Province. An election for all the seats in the National Assembly will be held here. You immediately lose 10% of your votes in that Province preceding the election. [hr][hr] [b]Non-Legislative Actions[/b] (Each can be done once per month). 1. [b]Political Stunt[/b]: Select [b]Strength, Compassion[/b] or [b]Trustworthiness[/b]. Success rate is 80%, 75%, 70%, 65%, 50%. On a success increase the chosen characteristic by 5. On a failure decreases that chosen characteristic by 3. Can use this action a maximum of five times per election cycle. [Example: 5 times between September, 1993-September, 1996][/hider] [hider=Constitution of the Samgolan Republic (1993)] [b]The Constitution of the Samgolan Republic[/b] [u]Preamble[/u] We, the people of the [b]Samgolan Republic[/b], do hereby ordain and adopt this Constitution for the [b]Samgolan Republic[/b]. [b]Article 1[/b]: The Samgolan Republic (1) The Samgolan Republic is a Sovereign and Democratic Nation and the Sovereign Power belongs to the people of the Samgolan Republic. Sovereign Power shall be exercised in the manner provided for in this Constitution. (2) The Samgolan Republic shall be structured as a parliamentary democracy with a unicameral legislature and an elected Head of State. (3) The National Flag and Motto shall be the flag and the motto adopted by two-thirds of the total number of members of the National Assembly in accordance with the procedure set out in Article 3. (4) This Constitution is the Supreme Law of the Land. [b]Article 2[/b]: The National Assembly (1) There shall be a legislature for the Samgolan Republic, called the National Assembly, in which all legislative powers under this Constitution shall be vested. The National Assembly shall have a maximum of 228 members elected by each State in accordance with the provisions of Article 13 for a term of office of 36 months. (2) The National Assembly shall have the power to make laws, to pass bills and legislation, to ratify treaties and international agreements, to amend this Constitution in accordance with the provisions of Article 14, and to ratify Cabinet Proposals in accordance with the provisions of Article 7. (3) Each member of the National Assembly shall be enlisted in a political party and shall be entitled to one seat only. Political parties shall represent their voters in the National Assembly and cast their votes on their behalves. [b]Article 3:[/b] Legislative Process (1) All political parties shall have the right to propose Bills. (2) A Bill shall be passed by a simple majority of the members of the National Assembly present and voting, except in cases where the Constitution provides otherwise. (3) A Bill shall lapse from voting should an election intervene, in which case it shall be returned to the National Assembly for debate. (4) A Bill that has been passed by the National Assembly shall enter into effect immediately upon its passage. [b]Article 4:[/b] The Executive (1) The executive power shall be vested in the President of the Republic and the Cabinet. [b]Article 5:[/b] The President of the Republic (1) The President of the Republic shall be the Head of State of the Samgolan Republic. He shall represent the Nation, guarantee its independence and see to it that this Constitution is observed. (2) The President of the Republic shall be elected for a term of office of 36 months in accordance with the procedure set out in this Article and subject to the provisions of the sections 1 and 3 of Article 13. (3) The President of the Republic shall be elected using a two round system. Each party shall have the right to register one candidate for elections for the office of President of the Republic. A primary round of election shall be held to select the two candidates for the second round. (4) The two candidates having the largest number of votes in the primary election shall participate in the second round, the candidate having the highest number of votes in the second round shall be declared the new President of the Republic. [b]Article 6:[/b] The Cabinet (1) The Cabinet shall aid and advise the President of the Republic and conduct the policy of the Government. (2) The Cabinet shall consist of one member per Bureau. Each member, aside from the Head of Government, shall direct an administrative department and is responsible for the tasks and functions entrusted to his or her department. (3) The Head of Government shall represent the Cabinet and the Government both at home and abroad. He shall chair the Cabinet and shall be responsible for the conduct of public business and the general government policy. [b]Article 7:[/b] Formation of Cabinet (1) There shall be a Cabinet to assist the Head of State in the proper discharge of executive powers. (2) Any cabinet must be ratified by the agreement of more than a half of the National Assembly, according to Article 3 of the Constitution. (3) It is the exclusive responsibility of the President of the Republic to propose a list of Cabinet members to assist him. (4) Until such a time as a cabinet is formed, the President of the Republic will hold executive power alone, subject to the agreement of the National Assembly, according to Article 3 of the Constitution. [b]Article 8:[/b] The Judiciary (1) The judicial authority shall be vested in a system of courts, both lower and constitutional. These courts shall have absolute power to ensure enforcement of the laws and constitution of the Samgolan Republic. [b]Article 9:[/b] Political Parties (1) Political parties shall ensure that the will of the people prevails and, for this purpose, shall represent their voters in the National Assembly. (2) A political party shall be registered in accordance with the national laws may be dissolved in cases of inactivity or for violations of national law. (3) Representation in the National Assembly shall be determined through a general election in which all political parties may participate in accordance with the provisions of Article 13. [b]Article 10:[/b] Opposition Parties (1) The opposition parties shall play a constructive role to ensure that the government and the ruling parties function in accordance with the provisions of this Constitution, provide good governance and strive to promote national interest and fulfil the aspirations of the people. Their aim must be to make the Government responsible, accountable and transparent. (2) The opposition parties shall have the right to oppose the elected Government and to question the Governments conduct of public business. [b]Article 11:[/b] The Provinces (1) The territory of the Samgolan Republic comprises the Province of Makumbe, Ziwa, Soussiam, Onige, Dabrado, Djidan and Nambé. The national territory and the international territorial boundary of the Samgolan Republic is inviolable. [b]Article 12:[/b] Local Governments (1) Certain powers may be devolved to the Local Governments by the National Assembly in accordance with the procedures set out in Article 3. [b]Article 13:[/b] Elections (1) Under this Constitution, the general will of the people shall be the basis of government and it shall be expressed through periodic elections in which all political parties shall have the right to participate. (2) The method used to determine the number of seats each State receives in the National Assembly shall be laid down by law in accordance with the provisions of Article 3. (3) All political parties shall have the right to call for an early election at any time. A call for early elections shall require the vote of a majority of the total number of members of the National Assembly in order to pass. Elections shall be scheduled upon the passage of such call for early elections. [b]Article 14:[/b] Amendment (1) Subject to the provisions of Article 3, the National Assembly shall have the power to amend this Constitution. Amendments shall require a vote of two-thirds of the members of the National Assembly in order to pass and may only apply to certain areas of this constitution.[/hider] [hider=Laws of Samgola] [b][u]Retirement[/u][/b] 1. [b]The professional retirement age.[/b] - [i]60[/i] 2. [b]The way adulthood is determined.[/b] - [i]Adulthood is determined by age.[/i] [u]Alternatives:[/u] Adultood is determined by a test. Everyone is considered an adult. Adulthood is determined by religion. 3. [b]The number of proposals a party can introduce per year (will be handed out as a monthly quota).[/b] - [i]20[/i] 4. [b]The constitutional right and responsibility to propose a cabinet to the legislature.[/b] - [i]Each party can propose a cabinet coalition.[/i] [u]Alternatives:[/u] Only the Head of State can propose a cabinet coalition. Only the largest party can propose a cabinet. 5. [b]Public financing of political campaigns[/b] - [i]All candidates receive public funds, and can still accept donations.[/i] [u]Alternatives:[/u] Campaigns are never publicly financed. Candidates that accept public funds cannot accept donations. Candidates receive public funds unless they have raised more than a certain amount of money. The government decides which candidates can receive public funds on a case-by-case basis. All candidates receive public funds but are not allowed to accept donations. 6. [b]The nation's capital city.[/b] - [i]Kamidye[/i] 7. [b]Government policy concerning granting citizenship.[/b] - [i]Citizenship is granted to all nationals.[/i] [u]Alternatives:[/u] Citizenship is granted only to landowners. Citizenship is granted based on race/religion/gender. Citizenship is gained by passing a qualifying exam. 8. [b]Legality of multiple citizenship.[/b] - [i]Multiple citizenship is allowed without further regulations.[/i] [u]Alternatives:[/u] Multiple citizenship is allowed, but must be registered. Government permission is required for multiple citizenship. Multiple citizenship is not allowed, the country's citizenship is exclusive. Multiple citizenship is not allowed, and considered a criminal offense. 9. [b]The salaries of members of parliament and/or government.[/b] - [i]Members of parliament and/or government are entitled to a comparatively average salary.[/i] [u]Alternatives:[/u] Members of parliament and/or government are not entitled to a salary. Members of parliament and/or government are entitled to a nominal salary only. Members of parliament and/or government are entitled to a comparatively small salary. Members of parliament and/or government are entitled to a comparatively large salary. Members of parliament and/or government have all their expenses paid for by the state. Members of parliament and/or government receive the highest salaries in the country, far above the salaries of other citizens. 10. [b]Appointments and requirements for government employees.[/b] - [i]All government employees have to promise political independence.[/i] [u]Alternatives:[/u] Government employees are selected and appointed in a political way. 11. [b]The title of the head of government, who chairs the cabinet.[/b] - [i]President of the Republic[/i]. 12. [b]Government-issued identity card policy.[/b] - [i]All citizens are issued with identity cards but are not required to carry them.[/i] [u]Alternatives:[/u] Citizens are not issued with identity cards. Citizens are issued with identity cards on a voluntary basis. All citizens are issued with identity cards and are required to carry them at all times. 13. [b]The age at which a person is considered an adult (limited between 12 and 24).[/b] - 18 14. [b]The official title of the legislative assembly.[/b] - [i]National Assembly[/i] 15. [b]The appointment of mayors.[/b] - [i]Citizens elect their mayor directly in a local election.[/i] [u]Alternatives:[/u] The Head of State oversees the appointment of all mayors. Mayors are elected by their municipal councils. The municipal councils exercise mayoral powers. Local governments determine the method of appointment. 16. [b]Government policy concerning granting nationality (national of this state without implication of having citizenship rights).[/b] - [i]Anyone receives nationality but immigrants must pass a test to gain nationality.[/i] [u]Alternatives:[/u] Only those born to nationals become nationals. Only those born in this country or to nationals receive nationality. Anyone is able to claim nationality. 17. [b]Titles of nobility.[/b] - [i]Titles of nobility are not granted, but their use is not forbidden.[/i] [u]Alternatives:[/u] No titles of nobility are granted or recognised, their use is forbidden. Titles of nobility may be granted only by the Head of State. Titles of nobility may be granted only by the nation's religious leaders. Titles of nobility may be granted by the government and any other political body designated by it. 18. [b]Privileges of nobility (if nobility is recognised by the government).[/b] - Nobility confers only titles and certain minor rights, but no political powers, and is not hereditary. [u]Alternatives:[/u] Nobility confers only titles and certain minor rights, but no political powers, and can be hereditary. Nobility confers titles and minor political rights, but no direct control over people or land, and is not hereditary. Nobility confers titles and minor political rights, but no direct control over people or land, and can be hereditary. Nobility confers major rights, but is not hereditary. Nobility confers major rights, and can be hereditary. 19. [b]Racial and religious registration of nationals.[/b] - [i]The government does not require nationals to register their race or religion.[/i] [u]Alternatives:[/u] All nationals are required to register as a member of a race. All nationals are required to register their religion. All nationals are required to register their race and religion. 20. [b]The official title of subnational entities, also known as regions.[/b] - [i]States[/i]. 21. [b]The method used to determine the number of seats each region receives in the national legislature.[/b] - An algorithm that provides seats representative of population. [u]Alternatives:[/u] A proportional algorithm that gives a very small advantage to larger regions. A pseudo-proportional algorithm that gives considerable advantage to smaller regions. Equal representation, regardless of region population. 22. [b]The length of a legislative and executive term, in months. Should be between 24 and 72.[/b] - 36 23. [b]The total number of seats in the legislative assembly. Should be between 75 and 750.[/b] - 228. 24. [b]The government's policy concerning biological and chemical weaponry.[/b] - [i]The nation shall never develop, purchase or store biological or chemical weaponry.[/i] [u]Alternatives:[/u] The nation reserves the right to develop, construct and store biological and chemical weapons. The nation shall never purchase, produce, or store biological or chemical weaponry, for military purposes. Research and development of the technology is permitted. 24. [b]The government's policy concerning the use of chemical and biological weaponry in warfare.[/b] - [i]The nation shall never use chemical or biological weaponry in warfare.[/i] [u]Alternatives:[/u] The nation shall never use chemical or biological weapons in warfare unless another nation uses them first. The nation reserves the right to use chemical or biological weapons in warfare for any reason. The nation can only use chemical or biological weapons on non-civilan areas. 25. [b]Civil defence is the government's policy on providing shelters to be used in the event of attacks on major cities, mainly nuclear attacks and bombing.[/b] - [i]The government makes no provision for civil defence.[/i] [u]Alternatives:[/u] The government builds and maintains a network of shelters across the nation. Local authorities are responsible for building and maintaining shelters. Every public building is required to feature provisions for civil defence, but there is no requirement for shelters to be open to the public. Every public building is required to feature provisions for civil defence and at least 50% of spaces must be allocated to private citizens. No new buildings may be constructed unless they feature provisions for civil defence. 26. [b]The government's policy towards civilians who conscientiously object to being required to perform military service (if applicable).[/b] - [i]Conscientious objectors are exempted.[/i] [u]Alternatives:[/u] Conscientious objectors can be exempted, but only on religious grounds. Conscientious objectors can be exempted from combatant roles, but not from non-combatant roles. It is a criminal offence to refuse to perform military service. 27. [b]The nation's defence industry.[/b] - [i]The state owns national defence industries but these exist alongside privately owned defence industries.[/i] [b]Alternatives:[/b] The state owns all defence industries. Defence industries are privately owned but subsidised by the state. Defence industries are privately owned and not subsidised. Defence industries are banned. 28. [b]Military stance on homosexuality.[/b] - [i]Homosexuality is not tolerated in the military. The military actively seeks to remove homosexuals from it.[/i] [u]Alternatives:[/u] Homosexuality is allowed in the military. Open homosexuality is not tolerated in the military. The military has a "don't ask, don't tell" policy. info 29. [b]Nation's policy with regards to an intelligence agency.[/b] - [i]The nation has an intelligence agency, but it is limited to counter-intelligence and surveillance of other countries.[/i] [u]Alternatives:[/u] The nation maintains no intelligence agency. The nation has an intelligence agency that is permitted by law to undertake all types of covert operations in other countries. 30. [b]The government's policy towards the use of land mines by the army.[/b] - [i]The use of land mines is allowed.[/i] [u]Alternatives:[/u] The use of land mines is prohibited. The use of land mines is allowed but restricted. The Government leaves this to the army to decide upon. 31. [b]Discrimination in the military on grounds of race/religion.[/b] - [i]Any adult citizen can serve in the military, discrimination for racial or religious reasons is prohibited.[/i] [u]Alternatives:[/u] Candidates must be of a certain race/religion to be armed or take part in combat. Candidates must be of a certain race/religion to have any place in the military. The government does not interfere with the military over who can serve in it. Candidates must be of a certain race/religion to hold positions of command. 32. [b]The nation's policy on the separation of the police and the military.[/b] - [i]A civilian police force is in place and the military may be called in to help in serious emergencies.[/i] [u]Alternatives:[/u] The military acts as a de-facto police force, with powers of arrest. A civilian police force is in place, backed up by the military. A civilian police force is in place and the military is not allowed to play any part in it. 33. [b]National service.[/b] - There shall be no mandatory military or civilian national service. [u]Alternatives:[/u] All adults upon completion of schooling must serve a term in the military. All adults upon completion of schooling can be required in times of war to serve a term in the military. All adults upon completion of schooling must serve either a term in the military or a lesser paid term of civilian national service, at their option. All adults upon completion of schooling must serve a term of civilian national service. All adults upon completion of schooling must serve a term in the military, but can shorten their term/forego it completely by paying a certain amount of money. 34. [b]National military policy.[/b] - The nation retains a full time, professional army, navy and air force. [u]Alternatives:[/u] The nation retains a part time, professional army, navy and air force as part of a reserve group. The nation retains a volunteer army, navy and air force based on population enrollments. The government assigns military control to local governments The government retains a part time, professional army, navy and air force in alignment with paramilitary groups The government subcontracts semi-military control to private groups. The nation does not maintain any professional or voluntary army, naval or air force 35. [b]The government's policy concerning the use of nuclear weaponry in warfare.[/b] - The nation reserves the right to nuclear weapons in retaliation to a nuclear, chemical or biological attack. [u]Alternatives:[/u] The nation shall never use nuclear weapons in warfare. The nation shall never use nuclear weapons in warfare unless another nation uses them first. The nation reserves the right to use nuclear weapons in warfare for any reason. The nation reserves the right to use nuclear weapons if victory is not feasibile by other means. The nation reserves the right to use nuclear weapons in retaliation to any attack. The nation reserves the right to use nuclear weapons on non-civilian areas. 36. [b]The policy with respect to nuclear weaponry.[/b] - The nation reserves the right to develop, produce and store nuclear arms. [u]Alternatives:[/u] The nation shall never develop, produce or store nuclear weaponry. The nation shall never produce or store nuclear weaponry for military purposes. Research and development of the technology is permitted. The nation shall never develop or produce nuclear weaponry but is permitted to allow allied nations to use its territory to store nuclear weapons or conduct nuclear weapons research. 37. [b]Government's position on paramilitaries.[/b] - Paramilitaries are illegal and the recognized government may intervene freely to stop any possible activity. [u]Alternatives:[/u] Paramilitaries are not officially acknowledged but are allowed to exist. Paramilitaries are allowed but are heavily regulated by the government. Paramilitaries are allowed as part of each political party. Paramilitaries are allowed with full privileges, with the right to intervene when necessary. 38. [b]Appointment of military officers[/b] Military officers are only appointed through battlefield commission. [u]Alternatives:[/u] The head of state is responsible for the appointment of military officers. The head of government is responsible for the appointment of military officers. The national legislature is responsible for the appointment of military officers The Ministry of Defense is authorized to appoint military officers. Only members of the nobility can be appointed to military officer positions. Individual units elect their officers. 39. [b]The government's policy regarding the treatment of prisoners of war.[/b] - Prisoners of war must be treated well, according to internationally-accepted standards. [u]Alternatives:[/u] Prisoners of war are immediately returned to their own government. Prisoners of war are treated according to the national laws of the captor power. Prisoners of war may be mistreated without legal sanction. Prisoners of war are enslaved. Surrendering enemy combatants are summarily executed. 40. [b]Policy on the usage of drones and UAV's[/b] - The government approves of the usage of armed drones and UAVs for reconnaissance and military operations. [u]Alternatives:[/u] The government approves of the usage of unarmed drones and UAVs for reconnaissance. The Government leaves this to the army to decide upon. The government has no official policy on the use of drones and UAVs. The government does not permit the use of drones and UAVs. 41. [b]The government's policy concerning the export of weapons to other nations.[/b] - The government must approve all arms sales on a case by case basis. [u]Alternatives:[/u] The government allows all arms to be exported freely. The government allows conventional arms to be exported freely. The government allows arms to be sold only to close allies. The government does not allow arms to be exported. 42. [b]Women in the military.[/b] - Women have no place in the military. [u]Alternatives:[/u] Women serve alongside men. Women can only serve in non-battle positions. Women serve in segregated units. Only women can serve in the military. 43. [b]The right to perform an abortion for a pregnant woman.[/b] - Abortion is allowed during the first trimester. [u]Alternatives:[/u] All abortions are illegal. Abortions are only allowed in medical emergencies. Abortion is allowed during the first and second trimesters. Abortion is allowed during the entire course of the pregnancy. Abortion policies are established by local governments 44. [b]Government policy concerning funding for abortions[/b] - The government does not provide funding for abortions. [u]Alternatives:[/u] The government provides funding for abortions. The government provides abortion funding only for low-income earners. The government only funds abortions for medical emergencies. The government does not provide funding for abortions. The government leaves the funding for abortions up to the local governments. 45. [b]Regulation of advertising of substances classified as addictive and harmful (if the sale is legal).[/b] - Advertising is restricted and has to carry strong warning messages. [u]Alternatives:[/u] Advertising is legal and unregulated. Advertising is restricted. Advertising is banned. Policy on advertising is determined by local governments. 46. [b]Government policy towards alcoholic beverages.[/b] - Alcoholic beverages may be purchased only from licensed sales outlets, and can only be available to adults. [u]Alternatives:[/u] Alcoholic beverage regulations are not imposed by the government. Alcoholic beverages may be purchased and consumed anywhere, but only by adults. Alcoholic beverages may be purchased only from licensed sales outlets, but consumed by anyone. The sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages is outlawed. Alcoholic beverages are regulated by local governments. The state has a monopoly on the sale of alcoholic beverages. 47. [b]Compulsory detainment of the mentally ill[/b] - The mentally ill can be compulsorily detained if they are deemed to pose a threat to themselves or others. [u]Alternatives:[/u] The mentally ill can be compulsorily detained for any reason. The mentally ill can be compulsorily detained if they are deemed to pose a threat to others. The mentally ill cannot be compulsorily detained. Local governments decide policy on the compulsory detainment of the mentally ill. 48. [b]Government policy on subsidising contraception.[/b] - The government offers free contraceptives in pharmacies and public toilets. [u]Alternatives:[/u] The government does not supply free or discounted contraceptives. The government subsidises a considerable discount for contraceptives. Contraceptives are banned for religious reasons. 49. [b]The right to euthanasia.[/b] - Euthanasia is allowed with consent from the patient and the treating doctor. [u]Alternatives:[/u] Euthanasia is illegal and considered murder. Euthanasia is only allowed with consent from the patient and a court order. Euthanasia is mandated for the old and sick Euthanasia is illegal but not considered murder. 50. [b]Food and beverage labeling regulations.[/b] - Companies must clearly label food and beverage products, in a manner that can be easily understood. [u]Alternatives:[/u] There are no laws concerning food and beverage labeling. Companies are encouraged by the government to label food and beverage products. Companies are required to label food and beverage products somewhere on the package. 51. [b]Listing of controversial ingredients, such as genetically modified (GM) ingredients (if food labelling is applied).[/b] - Any chemicals used in agriculture or processing, and any GM ingredients must be listed. [u]Alternatives:[/u] Any chemicals used in agrigulture or processing must be listed. There is no requirement to disclose GM ingredients. Any GM ingredients must be listed. There is no requirement to disclose chemicals used in agrigulture or processing. There is no requirement to disclose GM ingredients, or chemicals used in agrigulture or processing. 52. [b]Scope of food ingredient labeling (if present).[/b] All ingredients and corresponding nutritional information must be listed. [u]Alternatives:[/u] Only the major ingredients need to be listed. Only the major ingredients and those with specific labelling requirements must be listed. All ingredients must be listed. 53. [b]Food safety policy.[/b] The government introduces, and actively enforces, food standards provisions. [u]Alternatives:[/u] The government recommends food safety standards, but they are not enforced upon businesses. Local governments determine food safety standards. There are no food standards provisions. 54. [b]Licensing of food sales.[/b] Food may be sold by licensed vendors only. [u]Alternatives:[/u] The sale of food is unregulated. Anyone may sell food, but shelf lives of foods are enforced. The licensing of food sale is left for local governments to decide. Food may be sold by licensed vendors only, and shelf lives of foods are enforced. 55. [b]Government policy concerning sex reassignment[/b] - Gender reassignment surgery is illegal. [u]Alternatives:[/u] There is no policy on gender reassignment surgery. The government funds gender reassignment surgery for people with low incomes. Gender reassignment surgery is legal but regulated. Local governments decide on this. 56. [b]Health care policy.[/b] - There is a public health care system, but private clinics are allowed. [u]Alternatives:[/u] There is a free public health care system and a small number of private clinics, which are heavily regulated to ensure they treat their patients well and provide good care. Health care is entirely public and free; private clinics are banned. There is a public health care system, but private clinics are allowed. Health care is private, but is paid for by the state for people with low incomes. Health care is entirely private. Health care is private, but the government subsidises the cost of it for all citizens. Professional health care is prohibited for religious reasons. Local governments decide about healthcare policies 57. [b]Health and safety legislation for industry.[/b] - The government introduces and actively regulates health and safety legislation in all areas of industry. [u]Alternatives:[/u] The government recommends health and safety legislation, but they are not actively enforced on industry. Health and safety laws are to be determined by local governments. There are no set health and safety regulations for industry. 58. [b]Legality of in-vitro fertilisation.[/b] -IVF is illegal. [u]Alternatives:[/u] IVF is legal and unregulated. IVF is legal, regulated and only available to married couples. IVF is legal and regulated in terms of the applicant's condition and procedural circumstances. info 59. [b]The use of cannabis for medicinal purposes.[/b] - Cannabis is legal as a sedative for patients in pain. [u]Alternatives:[/u] The medicinal use of cannabis is illegal. The legality of medicinal cannabis is established by local governments. 60. [b]The government's policy concerning organ donations.[/b] - Organ donations are legal with personal consent. [u]Alternatives:[/u] The government enforces no regulation whatsoever. Organ donation is prohibited. Organ donations are only legal with personal consent, next-of-kin may override personal consent. Unless otherwise stated, consent is assumed. Organ donation is universal and compulsory. 61. [b]Pharmaceutical drugs policy.[/b] - The government pays partially for all citizens' pharmaceutical drugs, and pays entirely for those of low income citizens. [u]Alternatives:[/u] The government pays for all citizens' pharmaceutical drugs. The government supplies free pharmaceutical drugs to those on low incomes. The government subsidizes the cost of pharmaceutical drugs for people on low incomes. The government does not subsidise the cost of pharmaceutical drugs at all. Pharmaceutical drugs are banned for religious reasons. 62. [b]The recreational drug policy.[/b] - Recreational drug use is forbidden. [u]Alternatives:[/u] All naturally occurring drugs are legal. There are no laws regulating what citizens can put into their bodies. Recreational drug use is regulated by local governments. The use of cannabis is legal. 63. [b]Government policy towards smoking.[/b] - Smoking is legal outdoors and in private homes and clubs, but illegal indoors in places of employment, with the exception of places that primarily serve liquor. [u]Alternatives:[/u] Smoking is legal everywhere, at the discretion of the property owner, and is legal in government-owned buildings. Smoking is legal everywhere, at the discretion of the property owner, but is illegal in government-owned buildings. Smoking is legal everywhere, at the discretion of the property owner. However, service/employer property owners that allow smoking must provide a separate non-smoking section. Smoking is legal outdoors and in private homes and clubs, but illegal indoors in all places of employment. Smoking is only allowed in private homes and clubs. Smoking is prohibited. Smoking regulations are to be determined by local governments. 64. [b]Sale of tobacco products[/b] - There are no regulations on the sale of tobacco. [u]Alternatives:[/u] There are certain restrictions on the sale of tobacco products but everyone is allowed to buy them. There are certain restrictions on the sale of tobacco and only adults may purchase tobacco. Only adults may purchase tobacco. The sale of tobacco products is prohibited. The sale of tobacco products is regulated by local governments 65. [b]The funding of sports clubs.[/b] - The government does not fund sports clubs; only private ones are allowed. [u]Alternatives:[/u] All sports clubs are government owned and run. The government funds some sports clubs side-by-side with private ones. Sports clubs are banned. Local governments decide the funding policy of sports clubs. 66. [b]Government policy on surrogacy[/b] - Surrogacy is legal, but surrogacy agreements are not enforceable. Altruistic and gainful surrogacy is legal. [u]Alternatives:[/u] Surrogacy is illegal. Surrogacy is legal, and surrogacy agreements are enforceable. Only altruistic surrogacy is legal. Surrogacy is legal, but surrogacy agreements are not enforceable. Only altruistic surrogacy is legal. Surrogacy is legal, and surrogacy agreements are enforceable. Altruistic and gainful surrogacy is legal. 67. [b]The government's stance on vaccinations.[/b] - The government mandates vaccination for all children, but parents may opt out for religious or ideological reasons. [u]Alternatives:[/u] The government mandates vaccination for all children. The government takes no stand on vaccinations. Vaccinations are banned. The government encourages vaccinations for children, but does not enforce them. 68. [b]The government's policy on advertising[/b] - All advertising is permitted. [u]Alternatives:[/u] All advertising is prohibited. Only governmental organisation advertising is permitted. Only advertising that meets certain set standards is permitted. 69. The banking system. -The government operates a central bank and all other banks are private. [u]Alternatives:[/u] All banks are privately owned. The government operates large, national banks, but small community based private banks are allowed. The government operates and owns all banks. 70. [b]Central Bank oversight and regulation (if a central bank exists)[/b] - The central bank is underneath the direct oversight of the Ministry of Finance. [u]Alternatives:[/u] The central bank is an entirely independent agency of the government. The government appoints the head of the central bank and an executive board to manage the central bank but does not otherwise interfere in its operations. The government appoints the head of the central bank and an executive board to manage the central bank and can interfere with its operations. The central bank is underneath the direct oversight of the head of state. The central bank is underneath the direct oversight of the head of government. The central bank is underneath the direct oversight of the national legislature. 71. [b]The government's policy concerning child labour.[/b] Child labour is forbidden. [u]Alternatives:[/u] Child labour is allowed and it is subjected to the same regulations as adult labour. Child labour is allowed, but with additional regulations to those of adult labourers. Child labour is allowed and unregulated; adult labour laws do not apply. Child labour is mandatory; all children must seek employment. Child labour is regulated by local governments. 72. [b]Closed shops are places of employment where only members of a specific union are allowed to work; union shops can hire non-members, but these have to become members after a certain time; agency shops can hire non-members, who have to pay a fee to cover the unions costs.[/b] - All three are erected by union agreements. (Only valid if unions are legal) [u]Alternatives:[/u] Closed shops, union shops and agency shops are legal. Union shops and agency shops are legal, but closed shops are not. Agency shops are legal, but closed shops and union shops are not. Only open shops are legal. This issue is decided by local governments. 73. [b]Collective Bargaining[/b] -Public and private sector employees have the right to collectively bargain [u]Alternatives:[/u] Only public sector employees have the right to collectively bargain No employees may engage in collective bargaining Local governments decide whether to allow collective bargaining 74. [b]The government's policy towards daily working hours.[/b] - Daily working hours are regulated by the government. [u]Alternatives:[/u] The government obligates trade unions and employers to negotiate the daily number of working hours. The government has no policy concerning daily working hours. Local governments regulates the daily working hours. 75. [b]Energy regulation.[/b] - Energy is provided by private companies but the prices they can charge are regulated. [u]Alternatives:[/u] Energy is provided by nationalised companies. Energy is provided by private companies which are not subject to any special regulations. Energy provision is left to local governments. Energy is provided by private, unregulated companies but subsidies are given to those on a low income. 76. [b]Sales tax on essential goods such as food and non-luxury clothing.[/b] - 5 76. [b]Exchange rate regime[/b] - The exchange rate of the national currency is kept within a defined band of fluctuation. [u]Alternatives:[/u] The exchange rate of the national currency is fixed by the government. The exchange rate of the national currency is allowed to float, but the government is permitted to intervene when necessary. The exchange rate of the national currency is allowed to float, and the government does not intervene at all. 77. [b]The government's policy towards fireworks.[/b] - Professionals may run licensed fireworks shows, small fireworks are legal to the general public. [u]Alternatives:[/u] Fireworks of all sorts are illegal. Only adults are allowed to purchase fireworks The sale of fireworks is unregulated, anyone may buy them. Local governments determine fireworks laws. Only professionals may run licensed fireworks shows, fireworks are illegal to the general public. 78. [b]Employer's rights in regards to firing striking workers.[/b] - Government approval is needed before strikers can be fired. [u]Alternatives:[/u] Employers are free to fire workers who go on strike. Employers can fire workers who are deemed to have gone on strike without reasonable reasons. Employers cannot fire workers who have gone on strike. 79. [b]The government's policy towards foreign workers.[/b] Foreign nationals may seek employment but with inferior legal employment protections and benefits to native citizens. [u]Alternatives:[/u] Foreign nationals are treated the same as native citizens when searching for employment. Foreign nationals may only be employed in circumstances where the government has determined there is a labour shortage. Foreign nationals are forbidden to seek employment. Local governments determine the law with regards to the employment of foreign nationals. 80. [b]The government's policy regarding foreign investments.[/b] - Foreign investors may invest in national companies, but may not get a majority share. [u]Alternatives:[/u] Foreign investors may freely invest in national companies. Foreign investors need to obtain government approval for all investments in national companies. Foreign investors are not allowed to invest in national companies. Local governments regulate foreign investments. 81. [b]The right to gamble.[/b] Gambling is illegal unless taking place in a licensed casino. [u]Alternatives:[/u] Gambling is illegal. Gambling is legal across the nation, no regulation whatsoever. The legality of gambling is a matter of local governments. Only small-scale gambling is allowed, involving limited amounts of money; casinos are illegal. Gambling is legal, but only in private homes and casinos with special licences. 82. [b]Policy concerning industrial hemp.[/b] - Only regulated agribusinesses may produce industrial hemp. [u]Alternatives:[/u] There are no regulations on industrial hemp. Production of industrial hemp is illegal, sale of foreign hemp products is legal. Industrial hemp is illegal. Industrial hemp regulations are left up to local governments. 82. [b]Government policy on industry and subsidies to industrial operations.[/b] - The government acts as an investor of last resort, by nationalizing failing industries that provide vital goods or services. [u]Alternatives:[/u] All industry is owned and operated by the state. The state owns the commanding heights of the economy and all major industries, but private ownership is allowed in the minor industries. Certain industries are owned by the state, all others are under private ownership. The government subsidizes private enterprises that face bankruptcy. The government does not intervene in the market nor provide any form of subsidies/relief to industries. 83. Government policy towards labor unions. - Trade unions may exist and worker membership is voluntary. [u]Alternatives:[/u] Trade unions are illegal. Trade unions may exist and all workers must have membership in one. Only government-run trade unions exist and membership in them is compulsory. Only government-run trade unions exist and membership in them is voluntary. 84. [b]Sales tax on luxury goods.[/b] - 25 85. [b]The government's stance on a salary cap.[/b] - The government has no stance on a salary cap. [u]Alternatives:[/u] The government enforces a salary cap. Labour unions and organizations of employers negotiate a salary cap. There is a national maximum wage but local governments may enforce stricter salary caps. Local governments decide on salary cap laws. 86. [b]The nation's policy on minimum wage regulation.[/b] - There is no provision for a minimum wage. [u]Alternatives:[/u] There shall be a minimum wage at a level that a single full time worker on it can adequately subsist. There shall be a minimum wage at a level considered a "living wage," well above the poverty line for a full time worker. There shall be a minimum wage at a level that a full time worker on it can support a family of four without falling under the poverty line. 87. [b]Policy on monopolies.[/b] - Monopolies are only forbidden in specific sectors of the economy. [u]Alternatives:[/u] Monopolies are actively enforced in all sectors of the economy. Monopolies are only actively enforced in specific sectors of the economy. There is no policy on monopolies, they are unregulated. Monopolies are forbidden, and are actively broken up. 88. [b]A law on employers' obligations with regards to social security contributions.[/b] - All enterprises are required to cover basic payroll contributions for their employees. [u]Alternatives:[/u] Only large enterprises are required to cover payroll contributions for their employees. Employers are not required to cover payroll contributions. Payroll contributions are not mandatory but the government grants tax incentives to providers. Employer payroll contributions are a matter for local governments. 89. [b]The government's policy concerning phone services.[/b] - There are no regulations on phone service. [u]Alternatives:[/u] There are no regulations on phone service. The state regulates the rates providers can charge for phone service. Telephone lines are provided free of charge to all citizens. 90. [b]The distribution, purchasing and possession of material depicting pornographic acts.[/b] - Pornography depicting consenting adults is legal for adults. [u]Alternatives:[/u] All forms of pornography are illegal. Pornography depicting consenting adults is legal for everyone. All forms of pornography are legal, but only for adults. All forms of pornography are legal for everyone. 91. [b]The government's policy with respect to the production of pornography.[/b] - The production of pornography is legal, but regulated. [u]Alternatives:[/u] Pornography may not be produced in the nation. The production of pornography is treated as any other business. Local governments establish policies on the production of pornography. 92. Positive discrimination. - No form of positive discrimination is permitted. [u]Alternatives:[/u] The government sets compulsory quotas for hiring women, minorities and marginalized groups. The government encourages positive discrimination and enforces it for government hiring. Hiring policies are regulated by local governments. The government discriminates against minorities in its hiring. The government does not regulate hiring policies. 93. [b]The right for a person to prostitute himself or herself.[/b] - Prostitution is illegal. Prostitution is legal and a recognized profession. [u]Alternatives:[/u] Prostitution is legal and a recognized profession. Prostitution is legal but not recognized under government employment regulation policy. Prostitution regulation decisions are left up to local governments. There is a state monopoly on prostitution. 94. [b]Government law concerning the sales of recreational drugs.[/b] - Sales of recreational drugs within the nation are prohibited by the law. Recreational drugs sales are handled by private foundations which are heavily regulated by the government. [u]Alternatives:[/u] Recreational drugs sales are handled by private foundations which are heavily regulated by the government. There is no policy concerning the sales of recreational drugs. The government is entirely responsible for the controlled sales of recreational drugs through operating stores and other locations. Sales of recreational drugs is completely unregulated. The matter of sales of recreational drugs is handled by local governments. 95. [b]Secondary strike action.[/b] - Only closely related trade unions can walk out on a sympathy strike in support of other striking workers. [u]Alternatives:[/u] Any trade union can go on a sympathy strike in support of other striking workers. Secondary strike action is illegal. Workers and unions can only go on strike for their own pay and conditions. 96. [b]The government's position towards the stock exchange(s).[/b] - Stock exchanges are allowed but are regulated. [u]Alternatives:[/u] Stock exchanges are banned. Stock exchanges are allowed and are unregulated. The government has no position on the proliferation of stock exchanges. This is left to the local governments. The government owns the stock exchange(s). 97. [b]The workers' right to strike.[/b] - All workers have the right to strike but certain categories of workers regarded as critical to society have to ensure a minimal service. [u]Alternatives:[/u] All strikes are illegal. All workers, except public employees, have the right to strike. All workers, except certain categories of workers regarded as critical to society, have the right to strike. All workers have the right to strike. 98. [b]Trade union strike ballots.[/b] - Trade unions must by law hold a ballot of all members before going on strike, majority approval of those that vote is needed from its members. [u]Alternatives:[/u] Trade unions are not required by law to hold a ballot before striking. Trade unions must by law hold a ballot of all members before going on strike, a majority of all members, regardless of if they vote or not must approve the strike action. 99. [b]Government policy on Democratic Workers' Councils.[/b] - Democratic Workers' Councils are not permitted to run a business. [u]Alternatives:[/u] The government encourages the formation of Democratic Workers' Councils through subsidies and tax exemptions. The government requires all businesses to be run by Democratic Workers' Councils. The government requires most industries to be fully run by Democratic Workers' Councils. The government does not intervene in the marketplace with regards to Democratic Workers' Councils. 100. [b]The right to appeal against a judgement rendered by a court.[/b] - Every person has the right to appeal to the Minister of Justice to have a judgement reviewed by another court. [u]Alternatives:[/u] Every person has the right to appeal against a judgement and to have it reviewed by a higher court. Judgments may only be appealed against for grave procedural errors. All judgements are final and binding; appealing against them is not possible. 101. [b]The government's position towards the administration of law.[/b] There are regional courts, but decisions of regional courts may be appealed to national courts (if the right to appeal exists). [u]Alternatives:[/u] There is a uniform system of courts across the nation. There are regional courts that have jurisdiction over questions of regional law and national courts that have jurisdiction over questions of national law. There are no courts, the Head of State will determine what's right or wrong. There are no courts. 102. Voting rights of criminals. Criminals released from jail are allowed to vote after a certain period of time. Alternatives: Criminals released from jail are not allowed to vote. Criminals released from jail are allowed to vote. Criminals are always allowed to vote, regardless of whether they are in jail or not. The decision is left to the local governments. infoCurfew policy (curfew time to be determined in the bill description). The national government may impose curfews, but only if a state of emergency has been declared. Alternatives: No curfew policies may be established. Local governments may set curfews, but national government does not. Minors may not use streets or public property beyond the curfew time. No-one may use streets or public property beyond the curfew time. Local governments may impose curfews, but only if a state of emergency has been declared. infoGovernment policy with respect to the death penalty. The death penalty is not applied, except for terrorism, treason and crimes against mankind. Alternatives: The death penalty is illegal and is never to be applied. The death penalty is applied for capital crimes. The death penalty is applied to most minor and all major criminal offences. Religious doctrine determines the death penalty. Local governments may choose whether or not to administer the death penalty for capital crimes infoThe government's position towards the use of forensic DNA databases. DNA from persons accused or convicted for a crime is recorded. Alternatives: All citizens' DNA is recorded. Only DNA from persons convicted of crime is recorded. No DNA is recorded. The decision on forensic DNA databases is left to local governments. infoThe terms of extradition. The law bars the government from extraditing anyone who is a citizen of the state. Alternatives: The law does not limit the power of the government to pursue extradition treaties. Extradition to nations with capital punishment is not allowed, unless there are assurances that the death penalty will not be imposed. Extradition to nations that practice cruel or inhumane treatment of suspects or in punishment is not allowed. Extradition to nations with capital punishment or with cruel or inhumane treatment of suspects and convicts is not allowed. infoThe government's policy concerning gated communities. The private sector can set up gated communities. Alternatives: No gated communities are allowed. The government sets up gated communities. Both the government and the private sector can set up gated communities. Only gated communities are allowed. info The government's stance on illegal aliens. The government does not actively search for illegal aliens, but puts them in integration centers when discovered. Alternatives: The government actively searches houses for illegal aliens and expels them from the country. The government does not actively search for illegal aliens, but expels them from the country when discovered. The government actively searches houses for illegal aliens and puts them in integration centers when discovered. The government ignores illegal aliens. Dealing with illegal aliens is left to local governments. infoThe legality of dueling. Dueling is illegal. Alternatives: The government has no policy concerning dueling. Dueling is legal and unregulated. Dueling is legal and regulated. This matter is left for the local governments to decide upon. infoGovernment provision of legal aid to the accused. Legal representation for defendants in criminal trials is paid for by the state. Alternatives: Legal representation for defendants in criminal trials is paid for by the state for defendants with low incomes. Legal representation is never paid for by the state. infoMalpractice suits. Malpractice suits may be brought against doctors. Alternatives: Malpractice suits may not be brought. Malpractice suits may be brought against doctors only if death occurs. Malpractice regulations are left to the locality of the practicing doctor. Only a medical regulatory body can prosecute a doctor for malpractice. infoTort reform on non-civil lawsuits. There is no cap on monetary damages awarded to patients in lawsuits. Alternatives: There is a cap on monetary damages awarded to patients in lawsuits. Lawsuits may only provide money for medical and legal expenses. Lawsuits may only be filed to force the defendent to revise their actions. infoParliamentary privilege. Members of the legislature are not exempt from any civil or criminal liability for their speech or actions during their term of office. Alternatives: Members of the legislature are exempted from any civil or criminal liability for their speech or actions related with the performance of their duties during their term of office. Members of the legislature are exempted from any civil or criminal liability for their speech or actions related or unrelated with the performance of their duties during their term of office. Members of the legislature are exempted from any civil or criminal liability for their speech or actions, but this immunity can be overruled by a vote in the nation's legislative body. infoLegality of judicial physical punishment All forms of physical punishment are illegal. Alternatives: Judicial corporal punishment (eg. caning or flogging) is legal. Judicial corporal punishment that causes permanent injury (eg. mutilation) is legal. infoOrganisation of the police. There is a national police department funded by the national government and there are local police departments, funded by local governments. Alternatives: There is a national police department, funded by the government. The government competitively subcontracts security management to private security firms. The operation and funding of the police is left to local governments. The government does not operate or fund any police. info X. [b]The weapons used by police forces.[/b] - Police officers carry standard firearms. Alternatives: Police officers carry standard firearms. Police officers may only carry non-lethal weapons. Police officers carry military-grade equipment. Police officers may only carry standard firearms apart from specially trained firearms units. Government's policy towards the powers of the police. The police may arrest crime suspects. Alternatives: The police may arrest citizens for any reason. The powers of the police are not restricted. Powers of police are left to the local government . The government has no policy towards the powers of the police. infoThe government's policy towards police presence. Presence of the police is left to the local governments. Alternatives: The police do not actively patrol public property. The police patrol public property at all times. The police patrol all property at all times. infoPolice searches. The police cannot search a person or their property without their consent unless the police have obtained a warrant from a court or have reasonable grounds to suspect that a crime was committed. Alternatives: The police cannot search a person or their property without their consent unless the police have obtained a warrant from a court. The police cannot search a person or their property without their consent unless the police have obtained a warrant from a court or in cases of imminent danger. The police can search a person or their property without restrictions. Local governments deal with this issue. infoThe use of torture for obtaining information. Torture is never allowed. Alternatives: It is at the discretion of the police officer to torture suspects for information. Suspects can only be tortured under grave emergencies where the information is vital. infoEducation in prisons. An education plan for prisoners is provided to improve rehabilitation. Alternatives: Prisoners are not given any form of education. infoPrison policy concerning prisoner labor. Prisoners can do certain jobs in prison, voluntarily, for a small wage. Alternatives: Prisoners are interned and do not work in prisons. Able-bodied prisoners have to work during the day. infoPublic executions (if death penalty is legal). Executions are always carried out in private; however, family members, the victim and the victim's relatives are allowed to be present. Alternatives: Executions are always carried out in private; only necessary personnel are allowed to be present, which might include spiritual advisers. Executions may be carried out in public and/or be broadcast on television. Executions are always carried out in public and/or broadcast on television. Local government decide the legality of public executions. Education infoCharter school policy (free, privately run, publicly funded schools). Only non-profit organizations may establish charter schools. Alternatives: Charter schools are not allowed. Charter schools must be non-profit and have a specific focus. Charter schools must have a specific focus. Charter school funding, regulation, and development is left up to local governments. infoEducation for children under adult age. Education is compulsory, but home schooling is permitted. Alternatives: Education is entirely voluntary. Education is compulsory and has to happen at school. infoThe age until which students, if education were to be compulsary, are required to be educated (limited between 16 and 21). 16 infoHigher education institutions. The government maintains a system of universities, vocational schools, and colleges nationwide. Alternatives: The government maintains a system of universities nationwide. The government leaves the development and funding of vocational schools and colleges up to local governments. The government leaves the development and funding of all higher education institutions up to local governments. The government does not maintain any forms of higher education. infoThe regulation of higher education. The government allows private higher education but regulates it to meet nationally set standards. Alternatives: The government allows public and private higher education institutions to coexist with self-regulation for those that are private. The government does not allow private higher education institutions. The government does not fund any public higher education institutions, permitting only private higher education institutions to exist. The government provides local governments with funding to operate higher educational institutions. infoHigher education tuition policy. The government fully subsidizes tuition. Alternatives: The government subsidizes higher education tuition to a certain amount, the rest is covered by the individual students. This includes scholarship programs. The government subsidizes tuition only for students from families classified as low-income or poor. The government does not subsidize tuition, students must pay for higher education themselves. This does not include scholarship programs. The government introduces means tested loans for higher education tuition, to be paid back by students after earnings reach a certain amount. infoGovernment policy on political education The Government requires all secondary school students to receive an advanced political education. Alternatives: The Government requires all secondary school students to receive a basic political education. The Government requires all secondary school students to receive a political education that is biased towards the government. The Government does not require secondary school students to receive a political education, but actively encourages it. The Government does not allow any form of political education. The Government leaves political education policy to local governments. The Government has no specific policy on political education. infoPre-school education. The government maintains a system of free publically owned nursery and pre-school educational centres. Alternatives: The government maintains a system of free publically owned nurseries alongside heavily regulated private establishments. The government maintains a system of free publically owned nurseries alongside unregulated private establishments. The government leaves the pre-school education policy to local governments. The government leaves development of nurseries to the private sector. Pre-school education is private, but the government covers the schoolcosts of poor families. infoGovernment funding for private schools. Private educational institutions receive no government funding whatsoever. Alternatives: Only charter schools are given government funding. Only religious schools receive government funding. Government funding for private schools applies only to charter and religious schools. All private schools, even for-profit private schools, are given government funding. Private schools are given funding on a case-by-case basis. The funding of private schools is the responsibility of local governments. infoThe education system. There is a free public education system and a small number of private schools, which are heavily regulated to ensure they teach adequate skills and information. Alternatives: Education is entirely private and schools run on a for-profit basis. Education is private, but the government issues vouchers to pay for the schooling of disadvantaged children. There is a free public education system alongside private schools. Education is entirely public and free; private schools are banned. Education is private, but the government subsidises the cost of it for everyone Education is a matter of local governments. infoSinging the national anthem in schools. Children are not made to sing the national anthem, but are required to show respect when it is played at the commencement of school each day. Alternatives: Children are only made to sing the national anthem on special occasions. Children are made to sing the national anthem at the commencement of school each day. Children are never made to sing the national anthem. infoGovernment policy on selective schools Selective schools are allowed. Alternatives: Selective schools are not allowed. Only selective schools are allowed. Local governments decide policy regarding selective schools. Schools decide on policy regarding pupil selection. infoSexual education in schools. Schools have an obligation to give sexual education at some point in puberty, but individual students have an opt-out option. Alternatives: Schools should not educate students in sexual matters. This decision is up to the schools themselves without government regulation. Schools have an obligation to give sexual education at some point in puberty. infoNational Curriculum There is a National Curriculum which all government schools are obliged to follow; non-government schools are partially exempt. Alternatives: There is a National Curriculum which all schools are obliged to follow. There is a National Curriculum which all government schools are obliged to follow; non-government schools are fully exempt There is a National Curriculum which is advisory only and is not binding on any schools. There is no National Curriculum; curriculum policies for all schools are determined on a local level by local governments. There is no National Curriculum; the curriculum is set by the schools themselves. infoThe teacher's right to discipline children. Teachers are forbidden from striking children and may only use non-contact discipline (detention, expulsion etc). Alternatives: Teachers may use corporal punishment at their discretion. Discipline levels are set by schools. Discipline levels are set by local governments. No forms of direct discipline are allowed. Media infoRadio stations. The government subsidises a national radio station for educational and informational purposes; other private non-subsidised radio stations are allowed. Alternatives: All radio stations are private. All radio stations are owned by the state. All radio stations are owned by independent non-profit-making cooperatives which are subsidised by the government. All radio stations are owned by independent non-profit-making cooperatives which receive no subsidies from the government. The government subsidises independent non-profit-making cooperatives for educational and informational purposes; other private non-subsidised radio stations are allowed. infoTelevision stations. The government subsidises a national TV station for educational and informational purposes; other private non-subsidised TV stations are allowed. Alternatives: All television media are private. All television stations are owned by the state. All TV stations are owned by independent non-profit-making cooperatives which are subsidised by the government. All TV stations are owned by independent non-profit-making cooperatives which receive no subsidies from the government. The government subsidises independent non-profit-making cooperatives for educational and informational purposes; other private non-subsidised TV stations are allowed. infoInternet regulations. The government allows anyone to use the internet but the police can run investigations concerning illegal activities conducted by using internet (child abuse, illegal filesharing, ...) Alternatives: Use of the internet is prohibited. The government runs its own internet with government approved content only and no connection to the rest of the world. There is major censorship of the internet by the government. The government has no position on who may use or what is published on the internet. infoThe government's policy regarding regulation of media content. There are laws against the publication of false information; everything else may be published freely. Alternatives: There are no content regulations; the media may publish anything, even proven falsehoods. There are laws against the publication of false information and hate speech. There are laws against the publication of false information, hate speech, and subversive anti-government material. It is forbidden to criticize the government, or publish any material that the government does not approve of. infoInternational media content regulation. International media content undergoes the same regulation as domestic media content. Alternatives: International media content is banned. International media content is heavily censored for political purposes. International media content is free from regulation infoPrivacy protection for those in the public eye. There are no restrictions on the media for pursuing personal stories and photos relating to the lives of public figures. Alternatives: The media may publish personal stories and photos relating to public figures, but only if deemed in the interest of the public. The media may only publish personal stories and photos relating to public figures with their explicit permission. The media is forbidden from publishing any personal stories and photos relating to public figures, content is restricted to their professional lives. Local governments may determine levels of protection for public figures. infoThe government's policy regarding sexually explicit material on broadcast television. Sexually explicit material is not allowed, but nudity that is not sexually explicit is. Alternatives: All sexually explicit material is allowed on television. Sexually explicit material is allowed, but violent or hard core pornography is banned. Nudity on television is banned. infoThe time at which sexually explicit content may be shown on broadcast television (if allowed). Sexually explicit content or nudity may only be shown during hours that very few children watch television Alternatives: Sexually explicit content may be shown all day long. Sexually explicit content may only be shown during hours that very few children watch. Nudity may be shown all day long. infoThe government's policy regarding regulation of video games. The government does not maintain laws as to age limitation for purchasing video games, although it does require a content rating to be clearly displayed on the box. Alternatives: The government does not regulate video games. The government maintains strict age limitation laws that require proof of age before sales of video games may be made. Video games are prohibited, except those that pass strict government content ratings. All video games are prohibited. Culture infoArt subsidies The government subsidises artistic institutions and some artists on a case by case basis. Alternatives: The government never subsidises or commissions art. The government never subsidises art, but may commission artworks for its own use. The government subsidises artistic institutions such as art schools and galleries, but does not subsidise individual artists. The government subsidises artistic institutions and all artists. The government only subisdises art that is religious in nature. The subsidisation of art is left to local governments. infoProtection of original works of technology and arts. Works of technology and art are protected by copyright. Alternatives: Technology and art are part of the commons and are not protected by copyright. Works of techology and art have limited copy protection. infoNational, cultural and historic sites and monuments. The state actively protects scenery, localities, cultural, and historical sites; it maintains an agency to preserve them untouched if public interest so requires. Alternatives: The state encourages and funds private efforts towards the protection of cultural and historical heritage. The state does not undertake any action towards the protection of cultural and historical heritage. The state actively removes or modifies cultural and historical heritage which are considered "inappropriate", or if public interest so requires. This matter is left up to the local governments. infoThe government's policy towards the funding of libraries. The national government controls a vast and comprehensive system of public libraries. Alternatives: The national government contracts with private companies to maintain a system of libraries. The national government provides local governments with funding to operate libraries. Funding and operation of libraries is left entirely to local governments. Books may only be obtained through private dealers. infoGovernment regulation of the viewing of movies. The viewing of movies is not regulated by the government. Alternatives: The government sets a range of standards (to be determined) but these only apply to movie theaters. The government sets a range of standards (to be determined) and these apply to cinemas and private homes. Only government approved movies are allowed to be viewed. The viewing of movies is illegal. infoThe government's policy concerning museum funding. The national government maintains a system of museums nationwide. Alternatives: The government does not fund or manage museums. This is left to the private sector. The government leaves funding and operation of museums to local governments. The government gives monetary grants to organizations which have established or are looking to establish museums. The national government provides local governments with the funding to operate museums. Science infoThe use of animals in cosmetics research. The use of animals to test cosmetic products is regulated. Alternatives: The use of animals to test cosmetic products is unregulated. Animals may not be used for testing cosmetics products. infoThe research and development of pharmaceutical drugs. The government subsidizes research and development of prescription drugs and regulates their prices. Alternatives: The government subsidizes research and development of prescription drugs but does not regulate their prices. The government does not subsidize research and development of prescription drugs but regulates their prices. The government neither subsidizes research and development of drugs nor regulates their prices. infoThe use of animals in medical research. Animal research projects must apply for a license and submit to regulation. Alternatives: Animals may not be used for any research. The use of animals in research is subject to basic regulations. There are no restrictions on the use of animals for research. infoLegality of stem cell research All stem cell research is legal. Alternatives: All stem cell research is illegal. Only stem cell research with adult stem cells is legal, stem cell research with embryonic or fetal stem cells is forbidden. Technology infoGovernment policy towards the cloning of human beings. Research in cloning technologies is legal, but regulated. Alternatives: Research in cloning technologies is not regulated. The cloning of human beings is illegal. infoThe government's policy on internet service providers (ISPs). There is a national state-owned internet service provider, but small private ISPs are allowed, which are heavily restricted to ensure that they stay small. Alternatives: Private companies provide internet service throughout the nation, without government interference. There is a single privately-owned internet service provider, whose monopoly is guaranteed by law. The state owns and operates a national internet service provider, alongside private ISPs. The government controls and provides internet service throughout the nation. Private ISPs are banned. Internet service providers are banned. infoThe government's stance on the source code of software. The government allows both open and closed source software. Alternatives: The government has no stance on the source code of software. The government requires that all source be opened. The government does not require that all source be opened but heavilly regulates closed source software. The government requires that all source be closed. The government requires that all source be closed and owned by the government. infoThe patenting of software techniques. Software designs, techniques, formulae and algorithms cannot be patented. Alternatives: Software patents can be obtained from the patent office. infoGovernment policy towards space exploration. The government shall fully fund a state-owned space agency which controls all national space-related activity. Alternatives: The government shall operate a space agency that contracts with and oversees private space-exploration companies. The government shall issue permits to private space-exploration companies. Space exploration and use shall be totally unregulated. Space exploration and use is totally prohibited. Ecology infoThe right to kill animals. Killing animals is legal but regulated. Alternatives: Killing animals is illegal. Killing animals is legal and unregulated. infoThe government's policy regarding the ownership of domestic animals as pets. There are no laws regarding domestic animal ownership. Alternatives: People must register domestic animals with the national government. People must register domestic animals with the local government. Ownership of domestic animals is banned. infoThe government's policy towards hunting endangered animals. Hunting endangered animals is illegal. Alternatives: The government enforces no regulations. Only licensed people may hunt endangered animals. The govenment maintains a list of endangered and threatened species, which it enourages hunters not to shoot. Local governments decide about this. infoThe government's policy regarding the keeping of endangered animals. Only zoos or zoological institutions are allowed to keep endangered animals; all other forms of keeping or trading in endangered animals are forbidden. Alternatives: Keeping endangered animals, or trading therein, is forbidden. Everyone may keep endangered animals, but the trade in, and the ownership of, endangered animals is strictly regulated by the government to prevent their extinction in the wild. Everyone may keep endangered animals, without any restrictions whatsoever. Local governments decide about this. infoThe government's policy regarding the keeping of exotic animals. Only zoos or zoological institutions are allowed to keep exotic animals. Alternatives: Keeping exotic animals is forbidden. Everyone may keep exotic animals, but the trade in exotic animals is regulated by the government. Everyone may keep exotic animals, the trade in exotic animals is unregulated. Local governments decide about this. infoForest management. There is a national agency which owns and manages all forest land. Alternatives: There is a national agency which owns all forests, but subcontracts the work to private companies. There is a national agency which exists side-by-side with commercial forestry companies. All forestry is performed by private companies. Local governments may set up forestry agencies. Where they do not, forestry is on a commercial basis. Local governments are required to operate forestry agencies, which own and manage all forest land. infoThe government's policy concerning forest protection. Forests have strictly enforced protection. Felling is limited to fire breaks. Alternatives: Forests are protected. Logging is allowed by licence only. The government has no policy on forest protection. The government promotes forest clearance. The government promotes and subsidises forest clearance. Forest protection is left to local governments. infoGovernment regulation of hunting. Hunting and fishing activities are restricted to designated areas and periods. Alternatives: Hunting and fishing is not regulated. Private hunting and fishing practices are banned. The matters of hunting and fishing are handled by local governments. infoGovernment policy regarding a national park system. The government funds and maintains a network of national parks and/or marine protected areas. Alternatives: The government outlaws designation of property for public parks. The government does not have a national park system policy. The government devolves park policy to local governments. The government designates ecological preservation zones but does not fund their oversight. infoGovernment regulation of pollution in industry. The government enforces highly restrictive industrial pollution standards. Alternatives: Industrial pollution is not regulated by the government. The government provides pollution prevention guidelines, but does not enforce them. The government enforces moderate pollution restrictions. infoThe government's policy concerning private cars. Private cars are allowed, but people are encouraged to travel collective and tax incentives are provided for cars using environmentally friendly fuels. Alternatives: There are no regulations on the ownership of private cars. Only one car allowed per household, people are encouraged to travel collective and tax incentives on cars using environmentally friendly fuels. Only cars using environmentally friendly fuels are allowed. Private cars are not allowed. infoGovernment-sponsored recycling programs. The government funds recycling facilities and enforces mandatory recycling for residents, commercial enterprise, and industry. Alternatives: There is no national policy regarding recycled garbage. The government funds recycling facilities for public use. The government funds recycling facilities but enforces mandatory recycling for industry only. Local governments decide about this. infoThe government's policy on tree plantation. The government requires tree plantation at higher than replacement levels for all logging or clearance operations. Alternatives: The government requires tree plantation at replacement level for all logging or clearance operations. The government encourages, but does not require new and replacement plantation. The government does not intervene with regard to the replantation of trees. The government discourages tree plantation. Local governments may set plantation policy. infoWaste disposal responsibility. Private companies are responsible for disposing of their own waste. The government disposes of residential waste. Alternatives: The government is responsible for waste disposal. Government disposes special waste only. It is the responsibility of local governments to decide on waste disposal regulation. Waste disposal is left entirely to the private sector and is unregulated. Waste disposal is left entirely to the private sector but is regulated. infoRegulation of the quality of drinking water. The government sets a single standard to ensure all tap water is drinkable. Alternatives: The government does not regulate the quality of drinking water. Local government is responsible for drinking water quality regulation. The government sets a range of standards dependant on water usage. (grey water regulation, etc.) infoThe government's stance on whaling. Whaling is illegal. Alternatives: Commercial whaling is legal and not subject to restrictions. Commercial whaling is legal, but the government establishes whaling quotas. Commercial whaling is illegal, but whaling for scientific purposes is allowed. Local governments decide about whaling. The government has no position on this. infoThe government's policy regarding the keeping of wild animals as pets. The government maintains a list of dangerous wild animals which may not be kept as pets; other wild animals may be kept as pets. Alternatives: The ownership of wild animals as pets is banned. Wild animals may be kept as pets; the owners of dangerous wild animals must take the necessary measures to ensure they can't escape. All wild animals may be kept as pets, without any restrictions or precautions whatsoever. This matter is left up to the local governments. Agriculture infoGovernment agricultural and farming subsidies policy. Agricultural crops which are considered beneficial to the enviroment or to the continued ecological safety of the state are subsidized. Alternatives: The government denies subsidy assistance to farmers. The government allows local governments to craft agricultural subsidy policy. The government subsidises the operations of low-income farming families. The government subsidises agriculture based on market demand for the crop being grown. All agricultural operations are state-owned and operated. Strategic crops are produced on State owned farms. All other produce is left to the Private sector. infoThe government's policy concerning farm size. Farm size is not regulated. Alternatives: Small farms are encouraged to merge together into larger ones. Farms that grow too large are broken up and the land redistributed. Farm size regulations are determined by local governments. infoCommercial fishing regulation. Local governments can establish fishing quotas Alternatives: There are no limits on the amount of fish that may be caught. The government establishes fishing quotas. The fishing industry is nationalised, and the government sets production levels. Commercial fishing is completely banned infoThe government's policy concerning genetically modified (GM) crops. All activities related to production, selling or researching of GM crops are allowed. Alternatives: Production and selling of GM crops is banned. Research is allowed. Research and selling imported GM crops is allowed. Production is prohibited. All activities related to production, selling or researching of GM crops are banned. There is no policy concerning GM crops. infoGovernment policy on animal welfare in livestock farming. The government enforces high animal welfare standards. Alternatives: The government has no policy concerning animal welfare in livestock farming. The government enforces religious codes for livestock farming. The government enforces moderate animal welfare standards. Animal livestock farming is banned. Animal welfare laws for livestock farming are set by local governments. infoGovernment policy concerning the use of pesticides. The government approves and regulates agricultural chemical use. Alternatives: Chemical pesticides, herbicides and fungicides are banned. Farmers are required to list chemicals used on their crops. There is no government oversight or regulation of pesticides. Local governments may choose to regulate pesticides certification programs. Civil liberties infoThe government's policy concerning adoption. Adoption is strictly regulated by the government. Only by passing several tests and by following an intensive program applicants can adopt children. Alternatives: Adoption is illegal. Adoption is regulated by private, recognised organisations. Adoption is not regulated. Adoption policy is to be established by local governments. Adoption is regulated by the government. Applicants can adopt after a routine check-up. Regulation is used to screen out only those with a previous history of child abuse. infoThe government's policy concerning who can proceed with adoption; in case adoption is legal. Everyone may adopt children. Alternatives: Only heterosexual couples may adopt children. Only heterosexual couples and singles may adopt children. Only couples may adopt children. infoThe government's policy with respect to adultery. Adultery is legal. Alternatives: There is no explicit government policy on adultery. Adultery is illegal, but not prosecuted. Adultery is a capital offence. Local governments establish policies on adultery. infoRacial segregation of public amenities (eg. drinking fountains, public toilets) Segregation of any public amenity is banned. Alternatives: All public amenities are segregated. All government owned public amenities are segregated, private organisations are free to choose. Government owned amenities are not segregated, private organisations are free to choose. infoArranged marriages Arranged marriages are illegal. Alternatives: Arranged marriages are legal and binding. Only individuals from a certain gender can be forced into marriage. The legality of arranged marriages lies with local governments. infoThe citizens' right to assemble in public. The police may disperse a group if they believe it poses a potential risk to public safety. Alternatives: There are no restrictions on the right of citizens to assemble in groups. The police may disperse a group without giving any reason. The police may only disperse a crowd if a state of emergency has been declared. infoThe government's policy regarding bestiality (performing sexual acts with animals). Bestiality is illegal. Alternatives: Bestiality is legal and unregulated. Bestiality is only legal if it causes no damage to the animals concerned. Bestiality is only legal for the pornographic businesses. The legality of bestiality is decided upon by local governments. The government has no policy concerning bestiality. infoWeapon concealment. People must first obtain a permit in order to carry concealed weapons. Alternatives: Where weapons are carried, this must be done openly. Some categories of weapon must be carried openly, others may be concealed. Any legal weapon may be concealed when carried. Local governments may set and enforce concealed carry laws. infoGovernment position in respect to crossdressing policy. Crossdressing is allowed. Alternatives: Crossdressing is prohibited by the state. Local governments determine the legality of crossdressing. Crossdressing is allowed, but only for one gender. The government has no policy concerning crossdressing. infoThe legality of divorces (if marriages are recognised). Divorces are legal, be it mutual consent, grounded cause or if one partner wants it. Alternatives: Divorces are only legal with grounded cause (such as adultery, or violence). Divorces are only legal with mutual consent. Only divorces that comply with religious doctrine are legal. Divorces are prohibited. The legality of divorces is left up to the local governments. The government has no policy on the legality of divorces. infoThe government's policy regarding the initiation of divorces (if allowed). Either partner may initiate a divorce. Alternatives: Only male partners may initiate a divorce. Only female partners may initiate a divorce. Local governments decide who can initiate a divorce. infoNational policy regarding the desecration of the national flag. The national flag may not be desecrated or dishonoured. Alternatives: The national flag may not be desecrated or used for commercial purposes. The national flag may not be used for commercial purposes. There are no regulations regarding the desecration or use of the national flag. info The government's policy regarding foreign marriages. All foreign marriages are recognised, regardless of domestic policy regarding marriage. Alternatives: Only foreign marriages that comply with domestic policy regarding marriage are recognised. No foreign marriages are recognised. Local governments regulate the recognition of foreign marriages. infoFreedom of information law. Classified files are released after a set period of time. Alternatives: Classified files are released after a set period of time provided doing so is not deemed to endanger national security. Classified files are released after a set period of time provided doing so is not deemed to be against the public interest. Classified files are only released at the discretion of the government. infoGovernment policy concerning the ability to change the legal definition of one's gender The government allows the individual to decide on gender identity. Alternatives: The government takes no position on this. Individuals are allowed to change their legal gender identity, but if they are married, their married partner must consent. Individuals are not allowed to change their legal gender identity. Local governments decide whether individuals can change their legal gender identity. infoOwnership of guns by private individuals. Individuals are allowed to own firearms as long as they do not have a history of dangerous mental illness or a violent criminality. Alternatives: Adult individuals are allowed to own and purchase guns freely. Adult individuals may own guns under strict license conditions. Adult individuals may not own firearms unless professionally required. Individuals are not permitted to own firearms under any circumstances. Ownership of firearms is mandatory for all adults. infoPolicy on incest. Incestuous acts are illegal, but only actively prosecuted if pregnancy results. Alternatives: Incestuous acts are illegal. Incestuous acts are legal, but incestuous marriages are not legally recognised. Incestuous acts are legal and incestuous marriages are legally recognised. Policy on incest is determined by local governments. infoThe government's policy on inheritance There is a strictly regulated inheritance law, private regulation is not allowed. Alternatives: The government inherits everything, private inheritance is outlawed. There is a regulated inheritance law, private regulation of inheritance is allowed but also regulated. There is a regulated inheritance law, but private regulation of inheritance is allowed and not regulated. There are no regulated inheritance laws, inheritance is only regulated by the will of deceased. Local governments establish inheritance laws. infoGovernment recognition of interracial marriages (if marriages are recognised). Mixed race marriages follow the same regulation as other marriages. Alternatives: Interracial marriages are recognised by the government, but with fewer rights than those of same-race couples. Interracial marriages are not recognised by the government. Any form of unofficial interracial marriage or civil union is banned. The government has no policy concerning interracial marriage or civil unions. infoThe legality of interracial sex. Interracial sex is legal. Alternatives: Only heterosexual interracial sex is allowed. Interracial sex is illegal, but not prosecuted. Interracial sex is completely illegal. The government has no policy concerning interracial sex. infoThe confidentiality of letters and correspondence. The confidentiality of letters is inviolable. Alternatives: The confidentiality of letters is inviolable, but the justice dept. can violate it in extreme situations. The confidentiality of letters is inviolable, but the justice dept. can violate the confidentiality of letters with grounded cause. The confidentiality of letters is not inviolable. infoLibel laws. Individuals may sue over falsehoods printed on them. Alternatives: The nation has no laws regarding libel. Individuals may sue over falsehoods and defamatory opinions printed on them. Individuals may sue over all defamatory remarks printed on them, even truthful ones. infoGovernment policy toward marriage. The government allows all consenting adults to obtain civil marriage contracts. Alternatives: The government only recognises civil marriages between a man and a woman. Civil marriages are defined by local governments. The government does not involve itself in marriage or civil unions. Only marriages that comply with religious doctrine are recognised. infoThe government's policy on public nudity. Public nudity is illegal, but private nudist colonies and beaches are permitted. Alternatives: Public nudity is illegal and prosecuted as a civil offence. There are no laws with regards to public nudity, it is allowed. Public nudity laws are left to local governments. infoThe government's policy concerning parental qualifications. The government requires a test for would-be parents, if parents circumvent the test they are allowed to keep the children, but are watched for incompentence. Alternatives: The government does not hold qualifications for new parents. The government requires a test for would-be parents, if parents circumvent the test the government takes custody. The government requires a test for would-be parents, if parents circumvent the test the government requires abortions. Parental qualifications are left to local governments. The state raises all children in state institutions. infoThe government's policy with respect to polygamy. The government does not recognise polygamous relationships. Alternatives: There is no explicit government policy on polygamy. Polygamous marriages are accorded equal recognition to monogamous marriages. The government does not recognise polygamous relationships and prosecute those who pursue a polygamous lifestyle. Local governments establish policies on polygamy. infoThe government's stance on population control. The government does not engage in population control. Alternatives: The government imposes a limit on the number of children per family. The government actively promotes population growth. Population control is left to local governments. The government allows a certain number of births each year, and sells birthrights on the market. The government taxes children beyond a certain number per couple. infoRight to privacy. Individuals have a right to privacy, to keep records and information for themselves. Alternatives: Individuals have a right to privacy, but the courts can force individuals to give information on certain matters if needed. (also known as Habeas Data). The government has the right to monitor information of individuals without letting them know. infoDisplays of public affection and obscenity laws. All sexually implicit actions are illegal in public. Alternatives: All public displays of affection are illegal. All public displays of affection are illegal, except brief greeting exchanges between close relatives. Sexual intercourse is illegal in public. There are no laws regarding obscene public acts. Local governments may regulate laws on public acts of affection and obscenity. infoPolicy concerning racial segregation in educational institutions. Segregation is illegal in all educational institutions. Alternatives: All educational institutions must be segregated. All public educational institutions must be segregated. Public educational institutions cannot be segregated, private institutions can choose to apply a policy of segregation. Segregation policy is set by local governments. infoSlander laws. Individuals may sue over malicious falsehoods spoken about them. Alternatives: The nation has no laws regarding slander. Individuals may sue over falsehoods and defamatory opinions spoken about them, if judged to be malicious. Individuals may sue over all defamatory remarks spoken about them, even truthful ones, unless in court testimony. Individuals may sue over all defamatory remarks spoken about them, even truthful ones. infoApplication of libel and slander laws. Libel and slander laws apply to and may be applied by all individuals. Alternatives: Libel and slander laws apply only to claims about public figures. Private individuals are exempt from libel and slander suits by public figures. infoThe legality of slavery. Slavery and the slave trade are illegal. Alternatives: The slave trade is illegal, but slavery is legal as a punishment. Slavery and the slave trade is allowed. infoLegality of sodomy. Sexual relations of all types are legal for consenting adults. Alternatives: Homosexual relations are illegal, but are not prosecuted. Heterosexual relationships only are legal for consenting adults. Sexual relations are only legal for procreation. Sexual relation laws are set by local governments. Homosexual relations are legal for one gender only. infoWeapons allowed to private citizens. Citizens may own any type of weapon. They may be carried anywhere except as determined by the property owner. Alternatives: Citizens may own any type of weapons, but certain types are restricted to designated places. Only certain types of weapons may be owned by the general public, but these may be carried anywhere except as determined by the property owner. Only certain types of weapons may be owned by the general public, and there are further restrictions on places where they may be carried. infoWomen's working rights. Women are entitled the same working rights as men. Alternatives: Women are not allowed to perform potentially dangerous tasks. Women are only allowed to work in part time jobs. Women are not allowed to work. The state requires them to stay at home. Foreign policy infoThe government's policy concerning diplomatic immunity. The Government grants full diplomatic immunity and foreign diplomats are protected from arrests and prosecution from all laws and are protected from civil lawsuits, but may be expelled. Alternatives: Diplomats are exempt from prosecution for criminal acts but not from civil lawsuits, but may still be expelled because of criminal acts. The government grants no diplomatic immunity and foreign diplomats are subject to arrest and prosecution and civil action under all laws of the host nation. info The government's policy regarding foreign embassies. Foreign countries may establish an embassy after obtaining approval from the Foreign Office. Alternatives: Any other country may establish an embassy on national soil. The government does not allow foreign embassies. infoTravel by nationals to foreign nations The nation issues passports to nationals after a cursory security check. Alternatives: The nation issues passports on demand for any reason to its nationals The nation issues passports to nationals after an invasive security check. The nation does not issue passports to any nationals, except on specific authorisation of the Foreign Minister. infoGovernment policy concerning immigration. Quotas are based on individual applicant's qualifications. Alternatives: No foreigners are permitted to reside permanently in this nation. There are quotas based on nationality to determine how many foreigners may reside permanently in this nation. Everyone is allowed to reside permanently in this nation. infoGovernment policy towards giving aid to foreign countries. The government supplies "tied" aid to poorer nations in return for trading rights. Alternatives: The government never offers international aid. The government only gives aid for disaster relief in foreign countries. The government gives moderate aid to countries in need. The government gives high levels of aid to countries in need. infoInternational trade (this is a default in the absense of a specific free trade agreement or specific trade embargo) The nation imposes reciprocal tariffs on imports, with no tariffs imposed on states which impose no tariffs on our exports. Alternatives: The nation does not allow importation of any goods from any foreign nation. The nation allows for imports, but imposes protectionist tariffs and quotas on all imports. The nation allows for imports, but imposes tariffs and quotas in certain areas. The nation does not impose any tariffs or quotas on imports. infoThe national refugee policy. All refugees are welcome, regardless of their reason, and given aid in integrating them into the country. Alternatives: Only refugees that are victims of extreme circumstances are welcome; no aid is given to them. No refugees are allowed to enter the country. All refugees are welcome but no financial aid is given to them. Only refugees that are victims of extreme circumstances are welcome; they are given integration-aid. Travel by foreigners to the nation. The nation imposes minimal border controls on visitors, with cursory security checks, to confirm visitor identities. Alternatives: The nation imposes no border controls on visitors. The nation imposes strict border control on visitors, with intensive security checks, to maintain law and order. The nation imposes oppressive border control on visitors, with invasive and harassing levels of security checks to discourage visiting the nation. The nation does not allow any visitors unless a specific permit is authorized by the Foreign Minister. Infrastructure infoGovernment policy on airports. The government has some involvement in the ownership and operation of airports, but leaves a role for the private sector too. Alternatives: The government owns and operates all airports. The government leaves airports entirely to the private sector. Local governments determine policy on airports. infoEminent Domain. The government may seize private property for vital government works. Alternatives: The government may not seize private property. The policy regarding eminent domain is left to local governments. The government may seize private property for vital government works and for corporate use. The government may seize private property for any reason. infoEminent domain compensation (if eminent domain is legal). A neutral body appointed by the courts determines the compensation, either party may appeal. Alternatives: The government does not compensate victims of eminent domain. The government determines compensation for victims of eminent domain. The government determines compensation for victims of eminent domain; victims can sue if they deem it unfair. The victim of eminent domain sets compensation, government can appeal to the courts if they deem the cost too high. The victim of eminent domain determines just compensation. infoGovernment policy on energy generation. All power stations are publicly owned. Alternatives: Small scale private electrical generation is permitted but most energy is generated by a government-owned company. Private and public power stations exist side-by-side. Private power stations provide energy for the entire power grid. infoGovernment policy on the nation's power grid. The national grid is fully owned by the state. Alternatives: Each region owns and maintains its own power grid. A single private company owns and maintains the national power grid. Multiple private companies each own and maintain sections of the national power grid. infoFirefighting services. There is a national fire department, funded by the government. Alternatives: The fire department is entirely volunteer, equipment and expenses paid for by the government. The government competitively subcontracts firefighting services. Fire prevention and management is left to the local governments. The government has no fire management policy. infoThe government's policy in respect to highways. There is a national highway system constructed and maintained by the national government, and local systems by local governments. Alternatives: The government has no policy concerning highway infrastructure. A national highway infrastructure is constructed and maintained by the government. This is left to local governments. All highway projects are undertaken by contracted firms. infoGovernment policy on nuclear power. The government encourages nuclear power (subsidies, tax relief etc). Alternatives: The government requires most energy to be generated by nuclear power. The government does not take any position on nuclear power. The decision is left up to local governments. Nuclear power plants are not permitted. infoThe government's policy concerning the post office There is a nationalised post office agency. Private post offices are allowed to exist but the services provided by them are regulated. Alternatives: There is a nationalised post office agency in the nation. Private ones are banned. There is a nationalised post office. Private post office agencies are allowed to exist, and the services provided by them are not regulated. Only private post agencies exist, and the services they provide are regulated. Only private post agencies exist, and the services they provide are unregulated. infoFunding of public transport (where applicable). Public transport is fully subsidised for people with low-income, with the remainder "user-pays". Alternatives: Public transport is fully subsidised by the government. Public transport is partially subsidised with the remainder "user-pays". Public transport is fully user-pays. Local governments decide upon the funding policy. infoPublic works initiatives The government funds a program to build public works. Alternatives: The government has no program for public works projects. The government contracts with private corporations to build public works. Public works projects are left to local governments. infoRenewable energy sources (eg. solar power, wind power). Government subsidies are provided for research and generation of energy through renewable sources. Alternatives: The government does not take any position with regards to renewable energy. The decision on renewable energy sources is left up to local governments. No research into renewable energy is permitted. infoGovernment policy on rent regulation The government sets a cap on housing rents. Alternatives: The government does not regulate rents. The government obligates organizations representing landlords and tenants to negotiate rents. Local governments decide on housing rent regulation. infoThe government policy regarding housing. The state provides public housing to low-income families. Alternatives: The state owns and maintains all housing. The state contracts with private companies to provide public housing. All housing is privately-owned. Housing policy is to be determined by local governments. All housing is private but rent is subsidised for low-income households. infoTrain Operating Companies (TOC). The State owns and operates a national TOC, alongside private TOCs. Alternatives: There is a single publicly owned TOC. There is a single privately owned national TOC. Private companies operate TOCs throughout the country. Private companies operate regional TOC's. The national service is provided by a publicly owned, national TOC. Welfare infoThe government's policy regarding child benefit. The state guarantees child benefit to all families. Alternatives: The state guarantees child benefit to both low-income families and large families. The state guarantees child benefit to families classified as low-income or poor. The state guarantees child benefit to large families. The state does not provide child benefit. Child benefit policies are left to local governments. infoHomeless shelters and reintegration projects There are government-run shelters, but these coexist with privately run shelters. Alternatives: The government runs all homeless shelters and reintegration projects There is no government policy concerning homeless shelters and reintegration projects. Local governments decide on homeless shelters and reintegration projects. Homeless shelters are illegal. infoGuarantee of minimum income. All adults not supported by another person shall be guaranteed a reasonable, though not high, standard of living by the government. Alternatives: All adults not supported by another person shall be guaranteed a very basic subsistence income by the government. All adults not supported by another person shall be guaranteed a very basic subsistence income by the government. However, the provision of this is not to exceed a certian period of time. There shall be no direct cash payments to individuals to guarantee a minimum income. infoThe government's policy concerning the pension system. The state operates a compulsory, public pension system. Alternatives: The state operates a compulsory public system combined with an optional private pension. There is a compulsory private pension system. The state does not operate a pension system. Individuals must save up for retirement on their own. The state offers a voluntary public pension, combined with other voluntary private pensions. Pensions are illegal, and retirements are banned. Individuals must work until point of total and permanent physical exhaustion. [b]State penalties for blasphemy[/b] -No state penalties are issued for blasphemy. [u]Alternatives:[/u] Public blasphemy is considered a minor offense. Public blasphemy is considered a criminal offense. Both private and public blasphemy are considered criminal offenses. Both private and public blasphemy are considered grave offenses, and are heavily prosecuted. Local governments decide on penalties for blasphemy. [b]Government policy concerning the visitation of foreign missionaries.[/b] - The government requires foreign missionaries to register with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. [u]Alternatives:[/u] The government has no policy concerning the visitation of foreign missionaries. The government determines which missionaries are permitted to visit on a person by person basis. The government selectively screens which religions are permitted to send missionaries to the nation. Certain religions are approved and travel is unregulated. Foreign missionaries are not permitted to enter the nation. Foreign missionaries are welcomed and encouraged by the government. [b]The state's intervention in the appointment of ministers of religion.[/b] - The state does not intervene in the appointment of ministers of any religion whatsoever. [u]Alternatives:[/u] The state appoints all heads and other ministers of all religions. The state appoints the head and ministers of the state religion, but does not intervene otherwise. The state nominates ministers of religion, but the appointment is left up to the religious communities themselves. The state has the right to veto the appointment of any ministers of religion. [b]Government policy towards evangelism and religious advertising.[/b] - Religions are permitted to freely promote and advertise themselves. [u]Alternatives:[/u] Religions are not permitted to promote themselves or advertise in any manner whatsoever. Religions are required to obtain government approval before promoting themselves or advertising in any manner. Religious organizations are not permitted to actively promote themselves or advertise, however evangelism is permitted by individuals. [b]Taxation of religious institutions.[/b] - No religions are taxed. [u]Alternatives:[/u] Religions are treated as companies, and all profit is taxed, however, charitable donations are not taxed. Recognized religions are not taxed. All religious income, despite the use, is taxed. Religious taxation policy is left to the local governments. [b]The state's policy concerning religious clothing.[/b] - There are no laws regulating the wearing of religious clothing and the wearing of religious symbols. [u]Alternatives:[/u] It is not permitted to wear religious clothing or religious symbols in public buildings. Wearing religious clothing or religious symbols in public is illegal. People are required to dress according to religious codes Public officials are not allowed to wear religious symbols while exercising their duties. [b]The governments stance on religious schools.[/b] - [i]Religious schools are allowed, but are strictly regulated. Only recognised religions may set up religious schools.[/i] [u]Alternatives:[/u] Religious schools are not allowed. Any religion may set up a school, but they are strictly regulated. Only recognised religions may set up religious schools, with no regulations. Any religion may set up a school, with no regulations. All schools are required to be religious in nature. [b]Remuneration of ministers of religion.[/b] - [u]The state does not intervene in the remuneration of ministers of religion.[/u] [u]Alternatives:[/u] The salaries and pensions of ministers of religion shall be borne by the state and regulated by the law. The salaries and pensions of ministers of religions shall be regulated by the law, but shall be borne by the religious communities themselves. The remuneration of ministers of religion shall be left up to the local governments. Ministers of religion shall receive no remuneration whatsoever. [b]The government's policy with respect to prayer in schools.[/b] - [i]The government leaves this decision up to the schools themselves.[/i] [b]Alternatives:[/b] Teacher-led prayers in schools are forbidden, except in religious schools. The government leaves this decision up to the schools themselves. Teacher-led prayers in schools are encouraged. Teacher-led prayers in schools are forbidden. Teacher-led prayers are mandatory in schools. [b]Government policy concerning religions.[/b] - [i]There is no government policy concerning a state religion.[/i] [u]Alternatives:[/u] There is an official state religion, and membership is mandatory. There is an official state religion, but membership is completely voluntary. Any form of religion is banned. There is no official state religion, but the government only allows recognized religions. 'Cults' are persecuted. There is no official state religion, but the government requires everyone to belong to a religion of some kind.[/hider]