Legislative Council of Angeles

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Cortes Generales (Nueva Andalucía)

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Legislative Assembly of Napa

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Why is there a referendum in Sertia?

You may have heard the reports that the polls have opened for a referendum in Sertia to determine how the government should react to Spain's purported attempt to annex the Republic of Nofoaga.

But why is there a referendum?

Well, that's an interesting question for an interesting scenario. There are no doubts, among experts on politics, that Sertia would condemn an attempt to annex Nofoaga by countries other than Spain. Furthermore, Nofoaga is Sertia's closest ally, with the two countries sharing an unconditional customs union, equipped with free movement of citizens between countries.

However, Spain is also a close ally of Sertia and Nofoaga. The two countries' militaries are supported by Spanish personnel. In Sertia, the government almost completely controls these personnel, although this is by convention rather than formal agreement.

So what is the government to do?
The underlying purpose behind this referendum is to collect public opinion not only on Spanish annexation of Nofoaga, but to determine whether there will be significant civil unrest against the Spanish military personnel. Depending on the result, the Brætha could potentially take action to limit Spanish influence in Sertia, or expel the military entirely. However, this is only likely if the referendum indicates a condemnation of Spain's actions. And the Spanish have been popular with the Sertians consistently throughout the time since they've arrived.

But a result affirming consent to Spanish annexation effectively condemns Sertia's alliance with Nofoaga.

Would Nofoagans see Sertian consent to annexation as a betrayal? Would other European powers see Sertia's consent as a symbol of it's weaknesses as a nation?

Ultimately, the Brætha has the power to override the results of the referendum. But this risks making the current government extremely unpopular and calling another election in April. And the Brætha don't want this due to the rising sympathy to right-wing Aspernian extremism.

To put it succinctly, this is an incredibly important moment for Sertian-Nofoagan, -Spanish and -EU relations. Expect the Brætha to tread very carefully around the results of the referendum.

Politics of Fayrrendel

Fayrrendel is a Republic (Ostridish: Bylawship) under the framework of a theocracy which was established by the overthrow of the Old Bylawship in 1979. The official state religion is Hallowdom, the ethnic religion of the Ostridish population. Minority religions are legally tolerated, but are reported to be under constant surveillance. Regular and frequent elections are held in local offices as well of the Lower House of the Greatmoot, the Sondrede. However much of the high executive political positions are controlled by the Alderrede, which consists mostly of appointees from the Hallow Clergy.

The Head of State and Government in the Republic is the Steward, who is elected by the Alderrede alongside all other high executive offices. The Steward is always, but not legally required to be, a member of the Hallowed Society’s ruling council, the main clerical organ of Hallowdom. The Steward is the Commander-in-Chief of all of the military forces in Fayrrendel, heads the executive organs of the state, the chief diplomat of the Republic, as well has the ability to issue decrees on foreign policy and religious issues. The Steward serves with the confidence of the Alderrede, but generally, the Alderrede gives deference to the priorities of the Steward, thus making it in practice a lifetime appointment.

The Greatmoot is the Legislature of the Republic. The Lower House, the Sondrede, is elected by universal suffrage by all citizens of Fayrrendel every 3 years. It the the sole house that can propose laws and Acts of the Greatmoot, as well as propose new taxes. The Sodrede’s consent is also required in cases of Declaring War, as well as approving the annual budget made by the Alderrede. All constitutional changes must be approved by the Sondrede by a 2/3rds majority. The Upper House, the Alderrede, is a council of current and sometimes former government ministers, appointees from the Hallowed Society, and occasionally respected experts on niche issues. They appoint all of the ministers of the government, as well as recall them, are the highest Judicial Organ in the country, as well have veto-power over any laws the Sondrede proposes.

Political Parties

Torchbearer’s Society of the Holy Revolution
Political Position: Center to Right-wing
This party is the dominant party in the Sondrede and is regarded as an extension of the Hallowed Society. They have always been the ruling party of the Sondrede since the founding of the current regime. Their ideology supports the theocratic system and generally supports the agenda of the ruling Steward. The Party has two factions, the Moderates and the Hard-Liners. The Moderates have been the majority of the Party since the partial liberalisation in the 2000’s, although the Hard-liners have significant influence in the clergy. Moderates typically are more conciliatory towards other European powers and prefer a more open Fayrrendel while the Hard-liners are more isolationist and prefer Fayrrendel to make more unilateral decisions.

Hallow Democratic Group
Political Position: Center-Left
This party was founded as a coalition of dissident clergy and the surviving liberals from the Old Bylawship. They are a small minority in the Sondrede but are the only political party in the Sondrede receiving representation besides the Torchbearer’s Society. They advocate reform to the system and the complete liberalisation of the country, including the end of the prohibition of non-Ostriders from entering Norshire and Sudshire. Though they do not openly oppose the theocratic system, they are regarded as the party that dissidents to the system flock to. Their views on the European Union are mixed, but generally supportive.

The Structure of the Leagioan Education System

Education in the Commonwealth of Leagio has evolved significantly over the years, adapting to the needs of a growing and diverse society. Through various reforms and initiatives, the nation has established a robust education system aimed at fostering academic achievement, personal growth, and preparation for post-secondary opportunities. The Leagioan education system is organized into three main levels: Elementary, Middle, and Secondary education, with a strong emphasis on post-secondary planning at the high school level.

Elementary Education

Elementary education in Leagio typically begins at age six and spans six years, covering grades 1 through 6. This foundational stage is designed to instill basic literacy, numeracy, and critical thinking skills in students. The curriculum includes core subjects such as mathematics, Leagioan history, science, and language arts, as well as supplementary subjects like physical education and the arts. Teachers aim to create a nurturing and inclusive environment to encourage curiosity and a love for learning. Additionally, early standardized assessments are introduced to identify areas where students may need extra support.

Middle Education

Middle school in Leagio lasts three years, encompassing ages 12 to 14 and covering grades 7 through 9. This stage bridges the gap between elementary and secondary education. During this stage, students delve deeper into core academic subjects while also exploring new areas such as foreign languages, technology, and career awareness. The Lifejumper Administration introduced the Leagioan End of Year Exam (LEYE) at this level to assess student proficiency in key subjects such as mathematics, science, and Leagioan history. These assessments help teachers and policymakers tailor educational strategies to enhance student outcomes. Middle school also begins to prepare students for the transition to secondary education, emphasizing study skills and personal responsibility.

Secondary Education

Secondary education in Leagio spans four years, from ages 15 to 18, and covers grades 10 through 12. High schools are designed to cater to a wide range of academic interests and career goals, offering a combination of mandatory and elective courses. The curriculum ensures students have a solid foundation in traditional subjects while allowing for specialization in areas such as STEM, the humanities, or the arts.

The Leagioan End of Year Exam (LEYE) is also a critical component of secondary education. Administered annually, the LEYE assesses students’ mastery of core subjects and helps guide them toward appropriate post-secondary pathways. Performance on the LEYE can influence opportunities for enrollment in Merit Enrichment Courses (MEC) and other advanced programs. The exam serves as a benchmark for both academic progress and readiness for higher education or vocational training.

A distinctive feature of Leagioan high schools is their strong focus on post-secondary planning and development. This includes programs and initiatives to help students identify and pursue their career aspirations. Career counseling is a cornerstone of the high school experience, with counselors working closely with students to develop personalized post-secondary plans. Options include preparing for higher education, trade schools, military service, or direct entry into the workforce. Schools often host career fairs, college visits, and workshops on resume building and financial literacy to equip students with the tools they need for success.

Post-Secondary Preparation Programs

In alignment with national education goals, Leagioan high schools provide multiple pathways to support students in achieving their post-secondary ambitions. Merit Enrichment Courses (MEC) and dual enrollment opportunities allow students to earn college credits while still in high school.

The MEC program is a hallmark of the Leagioan commitment to academic excellence. These courses are designed for high-achieving students who wish to challenge themselves with advanced content. MEC classes cover a wide range of subjects, from advanced mathematics and sciences to in-depth studies in literature and social sciences. They emphasize critical thinking, independent research, and rigorous assessment. Successful completion of MEC courses often grants students credits that can be applied to higher education institutions in Leagio and abroad, giving them a competitive edge in college admissions.

Vocational training programs are also widely available, offering certifications in fields such as healthcare, information technology, and skilled trades. Examples of vocational training institutions include the Leagioan Technical Institute for Advanced Manufacturing (LTIAM), which specializes in CNC machining and robotics; the Commonwealth Academy of Healthcare Professions (CAHP), which offers certifications for nursing assistants, paramedics, and medical technicians; and the National Center for Renewable Energy Trades (NCRET), which trains students in solar panel installation, wind turbine maintenance, and energy efficiency technologies. Additionally, trade schools such as the Leagio School of Culinary Arts (LSCA) and the Federal Institute of Automotive Technology (FIAT) provide hands-on training for aspiring chefs and automotive specialists, respectively. These programs ensure students have the skills and credentials necessary to enter high-demand careers directly after graduation.

Higher education in Leagio is supported by a network of community colleges and universities. Examples of community colleges include the Eastern Commonwealth Community College (ECCC), which focuses on associate degrees in business administration and computer science, and the Muale Regional Technical College (MRTC), known for its programs in engineering technology and healthcare. Universities such as the University of the Commonwealth (UC), the nation’s flagship institution, and the Western Commonwealth University (WCU) offer a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Specialized institutions like the Leagio Institute of the Arts (LIA) and the Commonwealth Agricultural and Technical University (CATU) provide focused education in fine arts and agricultural sciences, respectively. These institutions play a vital role in fostering innovation and preparing students for advanced careers in their chosen fields.

For students pursuing higher education, preparatory courses for university entrance exams are integrated into the curriculum. Additionally, internships and cooperative education programs provide hands-on experience in professional settings, further bridging the gap between secondary education and the workforce.

News TV channels

Channel /Syndicate Channel Broadcaster Language Focus Free to Watch/Listen Adverts RTD 24 RTD English News and current affairs Y N RTD 24 Deutsch RTD German News and current affairs Y N RTD 24 Dutch RTD Dutch News and current affairs Y N RTD Parliament RTD English Parliamentary Proceedings Y N RTD Parliament Deutsch RTD German Parliamentary Proceedings Y N RTD Parliament Dutch RTD Dutch Parliamentary Proceedings Y N RTI 24 RTI English News and Current Affairs Y Y RTI D24 RTI German News and Current Affairs Y Y ART 24 ART English News and politics Y Y ART D24 ART German News and politics Y Y CNN Warner Bros Discovery Inc. English News Y Y CBN 24 CBN English News and Politics N N CBN D24 CBN English News and Politics N N CBN 24 Dutch CBN Dutch News N N CBN Supseaxe Dutch CBN Dutch Parliamentary Proceedings N N CBN Cair Para Senate CBN English Parliamentary Proceedings N N CBN Supseaxe Senate CBN English Parliamentary Proceedings N N CBN Doornevale Senate CBN English Parliamentary Proceedings N N CBN Aranvale Senate CBN English Parliamentary Proceedings N N CBN Cair Para Senat CBN German Parliamentary Proceedings N N CBN Supseaxe Senat CBN German Parliamentary Proceedings N N CBN Doornevale Senat CBN German Parliamentary Proceedings N N CBN Aranvale Senat CBN German Parliamentary Proceedings N N EBS 24 EBS English News and Politics N N EBS D24 EBS German News and Politics N N EBS 24 Dutch EBS Dutch News and Politics N N EBS Albion Senate EBS English Parliamentary Proceedings N N EBS Baltica Senate EBS English Parliamentary Proceedings N N EBS Albion Senat EBS German Parliamentary Proceedings N N EBS Baltica Senat EBS German Parliamentary Proceedings N N RTW 24 RTW English News and Politics N N FRW 24 RTW German News and Politics N N RTW Senate RTW English Parliamentary Proceedings N N FRW Senat RTW German Parliamentary Proceedings N N CBC News CBC English News Y N KBS International KBS Korean News N Y Yonhap News Yonhap Korean News N Y Arirang News Arirang Korean News N Y BBC News(International) BBC English News Y N Aba samācāra Surya Media Hindi News N Y Baagh caubīsa Baagh Media Hindi News N Y CNBC NBCUniversal English News N Y LBC News 24 Leagioan Broadcasting Company English News Y N Palico News Palico News English News Y Y Canal Internacional Canal Spanish News Y N TVE Internacional TVE Spanish News Y N EU News EU News English News Y Y

Statehood matters
French name: Archiduché de Bajor-Lorraine [aʁ.ʃi.dy.ʃe də ba.ʒɔʁ lɔ.ʁɛn]
English name: Archduchy of Bajor-Lorraine
Demonym: Lorraine(s) (Lorrainian(s))
Capital city: Kaÿr [ka.iʁ]
Time zone (offset): Bajor-Lorraine Time (UTC)/Bajor-Lorraine Summer Time (UTC+1)
Motto: Vive le Archiduc (Long live the Archduke)
Currency: Guyare(s) ([gjaʁ]) (Ꞡ) (exchange rate: €1 = Ꞡ20)
Founding: 955 (basic roots/Bajor); 1201 (Lorraine); 1481 (Union des couronnes (Union of the Crowns))
Founding document: Constitution de Bajor-Lorraine (Constitution of Bajor-Lorraine)
National festivals/holidays: 25 March (Jour Fondation (Foundation Day))

Royal matters

Royal titles and styles
Regent: Altesse Souveraine {Name}, Archiduc de Bajor-Lorraine, Grand-Prince de Lorraine, Duc de Bajor (Sovereign Highness {Name}, Archduke of Bajor-Lorraine, Grand Prince of Lorraine, Duke of Bajor)
Consort(s): Altesse Souveraine {Name}, le Dauphin Royal [dofɛ̃ ʁwa.jal] (first concurrent marriage), Altesse Souveraine {Name}, la Vidame [vidam] (second concurrent marriage)

Past royal houses

Maison de Dandenault (955-1481; Bajor) Maison de Rosenkreuz (1201-1481; Lorraine)

Current information
Royal house: Maison de Robespierre [ʁɔbɛspjɛʁ] (House of Robespierre)
Ascension: 1481

Thee most recent rulers

Archiduc Yochanan V (1972-1988) (death) Archiduc Noëlle II (1988-2003) (death) Archiduc Chaim I (2003-2024) (was Noëlle’s consort; abdicated due to age)

Monarch: Altesse Souveraine Jacques III (b. 1980)
Consort: AS Avril, le Dauphin (b. 1982)

Archducal election eligibility criteria

Aged 25-58 Holder of former noble title in Corse, Sainte-Jeanne, or Anvre
a. Restricted to one candidate per family
b. Titles rotate by election (if Yehoshua becomes Yehoshua I, his line becomes [Name] de Corse while Jacques' becomes [Name] d'Anvre)
c. If a line goes extinct, the junior lines move up one place in seniority No eligible descendants

Prior line of succession's current generation

AS Jacques III's line (via Yochanan's sister Amélie)
a. Altesse Royale Yehoshua de Corse (b. 25 Sep. 1982; Jacques’ brother) (election-eligible until 4 March 2027)
b. AR Patrice de Corse (b. 4 March 2002) AS Noëlle II's line
a. AR Thierry de Ste. Jeanne (b. 18 June 1990) (Antoinette de Ste. Jeanne's (sister) line inherits unless he and Roger de Ste. Jeanne adopt)
b. AR Michael de Ste. Jeanne (ineligible due to age; b. 17 May 2016; Thierry's nephew) d'Anvre line (via Yochanan's sister Miriam)
a. AR Hannah d’Anvre (b. 11 Aug. 1979) (election-eligible until 11 Aug. 2035) (Yehudit d'Orléans' (fourth cousin) line inherits upon passing without issue)

Geographic and demographic matters
Region: European Union
Population: 62,510,000
Urbanisation: 68%
Nationality: Lorraine

Governmental matters
Election cycle and terms: Every five years unlimited terms

The parties
Coalition Unioniste (CU) (Unionist Coalition): Deeply Eurosceptic
Front Republicain National (FRN) (National Republican Front): Anti-royalist and want to force the sitting monarch to abdicate in favour of a democratically-elected president.
Jèntarim [ʒɛ̃.ta.ʁɛ̃]: Deeply royalist and want to abolish parliament
Ligue Communiste (LC) (Communist League): Gagnonist (Dengist without modernization and opening up)
Mouvement pour l’indépendance Nationale (MIN) (National Independence Movement): Anti-EU
Parti Vert (PV) (Greens): Environmentalists
Travailliste (Labour): Eurosceptic, trade unionist

Parliament
Maison des Domaines (House of Estates): 750-seat legislature that's headed by a Président (Speaker). (For translation reasons, legislative actions are known as Projets de loi du Sénat, or Senate Bills.)

Current government
AS Government: Coalition Unioniste (note: Travailliste has the second most seats but is allied with CU.)
AS Loyal Opposition: Jèntarim-Mouvement pour l’indépendance Nationale
Prime Minister: Renée Messier
Président des Domaines (Speaker of the Estates): Ts. Hon. Monsieur (M.) le Président Rafa'el Bonaparte

Apparel/Sportswear Market

Apparel Retailer Owner Country Marketshare % Revenue from Apparel/Sportswear and Equipment Stores Roscoes Roscoes United Duchies 9.50% €14,983,522,750.57 2,248 Sainsburys Tengelmenn Group United Duchies 3.01% €4,747,410,892.55 809 C&A Tengelmenn Group United Duchies 2.78% €4,384,651,920.69 558 Klauser Schuhe Tengelmenn Group United Duchies 1.46% €2,302,730,864.82 432 KIK Tengelmenn Group United Duchies 1.44% €2,271,186,606.40 1020 WE Tengelmenn Group United Duchies 1.30% €2,050,376,797.45 567 Suitsupply Tengelmenn Group United Duchies 0.45% €709,745,814.50 345 Breuninger Tengelmenn Group United Duchies 1.24% €1,955,744,022.18 94 M&S M&S Duchies UK 3.23% €5,094,397,735.19 378 House of Fraser Frasers Group Duchies UK 1.50% €2,365,819,381.67 78 Sports Direct Frasers Group Duchies UK 1.20% €1,892,655,505.33 268 USC Frasers Group Duchies UK 0.83% €1,309,086,724.52 258 Jack Wills Frasers Group Duchies UK 0.67% €1,056,732,657.15 224 GAP Inc GAP INC California 1.90% €2,996,704,550.11 309 Old Navy GAP INC California 1.35% €2,129,237,443.50 278 ASOS ASOS UK 1.70% €2,681,261,965.89 - Zara Inditex Spain 1.50% €2,365,819,381.67 245 Pull and Bear Inditex Spain 0.70% €1,104,049,044.78 87 Bershka Inditex Spain 0.65% €1,025,188,398.72 103 Massimo Dutti Inditex Spain 0.45% €709,745,814.50 59 Stradivarius Inditex Spain 0.34% €536,252,393.18 34 TK Maxx Amalgamated Retail Brands United Duchies 2.41% €3,801,083,139.88 758 Alsterhaus Amalgamated Retail Brands United Duchies 1.31% €2,066,148,926.66 112 De Bijenkorf Amalgamated Retail Brands United Duchies 0.60% €946,327,752.67 34 Jack Wolfskin Amalgamated Retail Brands United Duchies 0.67% €1,056,732,657.15 178 Mountain Warehouse Amalgamated Retail Brands United Duchies 0.80% €1,261,770,336.89 278 Deichmann Amalgamated Retail Brands United Duchies 1.55% €2,444,680,027.72 898 Intersport Amalgamated Retail Brands United Duchies 1.70% €2,681,261,965.89 387 Regent Amalgamated Retail Brands United Duchies 0.65% €1,025,188,398.72 511 Peek & Cloppenburg Peek and Kloppenburg United Duchies 3.00% €4,731,638,763.34 206 Primark Primark Group UK 2.87% €4,526,601,083.59 409 Very Very Group UK 1.70% €2,681,261,965.89 0 Littlewoods Very Group UK 1.40% €2,208,098,089.56 0 Adidas Adidas Inc United Duchies 2.41% €3,801,083,139.88 512 John Lewis John Lewis Group UK 2.04% €3,217,514,359.07 144 Spadi Spadi Inquista 1.89% €2,980,932,420.90 535 Tesco Tesco UK 2.10% €3,312,147,134.34 409 Puma Puma United Duchies 2.02% €3,185,970,100.65 505 Next Next UK 1.57% €2,476,224,286.15 564 Reiss Next UK 0.29% €457,391,747.12 187 JD Sport JD Sport UK 1.93% €3,044,020,937.75 513 Matalan Matalan UK 1.90% €2,996,704,550.11 467 Levi Strauss & Co. Levis California 1.70% €2,681,261,965.89 224 Pep&Co Poundland Group UK 1.63% €2,570,857,061.41 2,277 Zalando Zalando Group United Duchies 1.61% €2,539,312,802.99 0 Reyali Reyali Brickston 1.57% €2,476,224,286.15 2,444 Clarks Clarks UK 1.55% €2,444,680,027.72 664 Uniqlo Uniqlo Yosai 1.42% €2,239,642,347.98 278 Skechers Skechers California 1.30% €2,050,376,797.45 304 About You Otto GmbH United Duchies 1.11% €1,750,706,342.43 0 BonPrix Otto GmbH United Duchies 0.87% €1,372,175,241.37 0 Grattan Otto GmbH United Duchies 0.56% €883,239,235.82 0 Freemans Otto GmbH United Duchies 0.45% €709,745,814.50 0 SportsCheck Signa United Duchies 1.10% €1,734,934,213.22 313 G-Star Raw Signa United Duchies 0.90% €1,419,491,629.00 211 Galeria Karstadt Kaufhof Signa United Duchies 0.99% €1,561,440,791.90 66 Shoe Zone Shoezone UK 1.09% €1,719,162,084.01 697 Birkenstock Birkenstock United Duchies 0.89% €1,403,719,499.79 109 Mango Mango Group Spain 0.87% €1,372,175,241.37 567 Superdry Superdry UK 0.82% €1,293,314,595.31 167 Hugo Boss Hugo Boss United Duchies 0.74% €1,167,137,561.62 178 Trespass Tresspass UK 0.70% €1,104,049,044.78 198 Other: - - 4.11% €6,482,345,105.77 5861 Total: - - 100.00% €157,721,292,111.25 31,070

Tools/DIY Market

Chain Country of Owner Owner Marketshare Revenue from DIY/Tools Stores OBI United Duchies Tengelmann Group 13.90% €6,197,989,761.32 453 Toom United Duchies REWE 12.40% €5,529,141,945.35 399 Bauhaus United Duchies JHB Group 11.11% €4,953,932,823.62 356 Globus Baumarkt United Duchies B&M Globus 10.32% €4,601,672,973.87 345 Hornbach United Duchies Amalgamated Retail Brands 9.75% €4,347,510,803.81 311 B&Q United Kingdom B&Q 7.90% €3,522,598,497.44 213 Praxis United Duchies AH Group 7.20% €3,210,469,516.66 207 Bol.com United Duchies Otto Group 3.40% €1,516,055,049.53 - Hubo United Duchies Hubo 6.30% €2,809,160,827.07 354 Travis Perkins United Kingdom Travis Perkins Group 3.90% €1,739,004,321.52 96 Wickes United Kingdom Travis Perkins Group 2.10% €936,386,942.36 178 Toolstation United Kingdom Travis Perkins Group 1.90% €847,207,233.56 256 Homebase United Kingdom Homebase Group 4.50% €2,006,543,447.91 167 Bathstore United Kingdom Homebase Group 1.10% €490,488,398.38 141 Topps Tiles United Kingdom Homebase Group 0.90% €401,308,689.58 89 Other - - 3.32% €1,480,383,166.01 2099 Total - - 100.00% €44,589,854,398.00 5664

Technology Retail Market

Chain Country of Owner Owner Marketshare Revenue from Technology Sales Stores Roscoes United Duchies Roscoes 17.07% €18,405,159,710.59 2,248 Saturn United Duchies Amalgamated Retail Brands 12.10% €13,043,554,230.08 609 Alsterhaus United Duchies Amalgamated Retail Brands 2.22% €2,393,114,908.33 112 De Bijenkorf United Duchies Amalgamated Retail Brands 0.78% €840,824,156.98 34 Mediamarkt United Duchies Tengelmenn Group 9.10% €9,809,615,164.77 534 Woolworth United Duchies Tengelmenn Group 0.23% €247,935,328.34 716 Sainsburys United Duchies Tengelmenn Group 1.11% €1,196,557,454.16 809 Argos United Duchies Tengelmenn Group 3.01% €3,244,718,862.19 809 Breuninger United Duchies Tengelmenn Group 2.39% €2,576,371,455.36 94 Otto United Duchies Otto Group 8.30% €8,947,231,414.02 - Amazon California Amazon 7.90% €8,516,039,538.64 - Bestbuy Calfornia BestBuy 6.30% €6,791,272,037.15 322 Coolblue United Duchies Coolblue 5.90% €6,360,080,161.77 - Euronics United Duchies Euronics 3.10% €3,341,737,034.15 4098 Currys United Kingdom Currys 2.84% €3,061,462,315.16 311 Spadi Inquista Spadi 2.30% €2,479,353,283.40 535 Tesco United Kingdom Tesco 2.10% €2,263,757,345.72 409 John Lewis United Kingdom John Lewis Group 1.90% €2,048,161,408.03 144 Globus United Duchies B&M Globus 1.80% €1,940,363,439.18 404 B&M United Kingdom B&M Globus 1.43% €1,541,510,954.46 1,435 Dixons United Duchies Dixons 1.72% €1,854,125,064.11 497 Very United Kingdom Very Group 1.56% €1,681,648,313.96 - Littlewoods United Kingdom Very Group 1.40% €1,509,171,563.81 - The Range United Kingdom The Range 0.23% €247,935,328.34 340 Other - - 3.21% €3,456,268,370.89 3876 Total - - 100.00% €107,797,968,843.60 16,087

Furniture Market

Chain Owner Marketshare Revenue Stores Ikea Ikea 24.97% €27,433,379,839.91 104 Höffner Tengelmenn Group 22.52% €24,740,390,675.75 189 Breuninger Tengelmenn Group 0.87% €955,828,612.76 94 SCS Tengelmenn Group 4.74% €5,209,191,277.77 409 Habitat Tengelmenn Group 3.94% €4,326,683,461.83 156 Manufactum Otto Group 2.20% €2,417,037,871.36 - Galeria Karstadt Kaufhof Signa 6.10% €6,701,786,825.13 66 Furniture Village Amalgamated Retail Brands 5.56% €6,104,478,871.61 154 Dwell Amalgamated Retail Brands 3.97% €4,357,481,628.47 134 DFS Amalgamated Retail Brands 5.12% €5,625,106,318.80 343 Alsterhaus Amalgamated Retail Brands 0.55% €605,680,421.47 112 De Bijenkorf Amalgamated Retail Brands 0.34% €373,542,216.48 34 M&S M&S 0.89% €977,801,684.32 387 Oak Furnitureland Oak Furnitureland 3.10% €3,405,826,091.46 187 Manufactum Otto Group 2.20% €2,417,037,871.36 - House of Fraser Fraser Group 0.79% €867,936,326.53 78 John Lewis John Lewis Group 0.67% €736,097,897.19 144 Other - 11.48% €12,610,069,896.80 3,523 Total - 100.00% €109,865,357,789.00 6,114

Top Ten Retail Groups:

Top Ten Companies Grocery Revenue % of Grocery Market Non-grocery revenue Revenue Stores Roscoes €64,749,308,134.30 13.89% €77,317,193,719.20 €142,066,501,853.50 4,483 Tengelmenn Group €30,343,214,176.83 6.51% €96,065,337,309.88 €126,408,551,486.71 10,555 Amalgamated Retail Brands €578,798,276.55 0.12% €56,567,200,265.57 €57,145,998,542.13 4,707 Coop Group €31,086,149,316.22 6.67% €17,111,572,188.78 €48,197,721,505.00 21,044 JHB Group €24,169,282,281.15 5.18% €22,818,471,739.86 €46,987,754,021.01 9,496 Schwarz Group €37,714,317,308.50 8.09% €8,806,749,907.50 €46,521,067,216.00 2,544 REWE €25,056,603,892.23 5.37% €17,128,156,627.20 €42,184,760,519.43 7,210 AH Group €22,141,078,851.11 4.75% €20,002,265,599.75 €42,143,344,450.86 5,012 Aldi €34,763,571,277.79 7.46% €6,572,423,107.22 €41,335,994,385.00 2,709 Edeka Group €24,556,029,341.41 5.27% €5,514,451,454.59 €30,070,480,796.00 3,467 Top Ten total €295,158,352,856.07 63.31% €327,903,821,919.57 €623,062,174,775.64 71,226

Ceramics/Pottery

Company Brands Duchy City/Region Denby Group Denby , Burleigh,Emma Bridgewater Supseaxe Stoc-on-Trent PS Group Pimpernel, Spode Supseaxe Stoc-on-Trent Regal Doulton Regal Doulton,Wedgwood Supseaxe Stoc-on-Trent Churchill Group Steelite , Flux, churchill China Supseaxe Stoc-on-Trent Rosenthal Hutschenreuther , Thomas,Arzberg,Arthur Krupp Westseaxna - Villeroy & Boch Villeroy & Boch,Könitz Porzellan,Waechtersbach ceramics Westseaxna - W&W&W Wagner & Apel Porzellan,Wallendorfer Porzellan,Weimar Porzellan Westseaxna - DKP Group De Koninklijke Porceleyne Fles,De Delftse Pauw Supseaxe Hollandshire

Banking Groups

Bank Marketshare Brands % Owner Accounts: Deposits Deposit % LDR % Revenue Roscoes Bank: Roscoe Bank 22.40% Roscoes 43,742,022 €3,771,770,985,912.96 17.20% 80.00% €28,198,241,840.92 7 Duchies-Duchies Merchant Bank 7 Duchies, Duchies Merchant Bank 13.20% Union Bank 25,776,549 €3,749,842,084,832.07 17.10% 85.00% €36,034,032,034.00 TSB TSB 11.65% New Chartered Bank 22,749,757 €2,477,965,822,140.49 11.30% 77.00% €22,203,452,304.00 Coop Bank Coop Bank 10.85% Coop Group 21,187,542 €2,339,813,745,330.89 10.67% 70.00% €19,409,853,300.00 CaspiaBank Caspia Bank 9.60% Bank of the Commonwealth ,BDO 18,746,581 €1,929,743,295,118.26 8.80% 86.00% €17,390,876,543.00 ING Bank ING Bank 6.10% ING Group 11,911,890 €1,776,240,987,552.03 8.10% 83.50% €16,865,504,340.00 Hanseatic Bank Hanseatic Bank, Sainsburys Bank 5.89% Tengelmenn Group 11,501,808 €1,184,160,658,368.02 5.40% 81.70% €14,567,886,570.00 Edeka Bank Edeka Bank 5.32% Edeka Group 10,388,730 €1,116,181,065,017.27 5.09% 80.90% €12,908,643,670.00 Commerzbank -Radobank Commerzbank, Radobank 4.57% Commerzbank -Radobank Group 8,924,154 €1,245,561,581,394.51 5.68% 83.10% €15,719,356,354.00 Lloyds Banking Duchies Lloyds Bank 3.75% Lloyds 7,322,883 €1,074,516,152,963.58 4.90% 85.00% €13,986,463,565.00 Wells Fargo Wells Fargo 2.10% Wells Fargo 4,100,815 €701,724,834,588.46 3.20% 84.00% €11,579,876,508.00 Other: 4.57% - 8,924,154 €561,379,867,670.77 2.56% 83.00% €2,907,532,908.00 Total: 100.00% - 195,276,884 €21,928,901,080,889.30 100.00% 78.90% €211,771,719,936.92

Tour operators

Tour operator: % Holidays Sold: Revenue TUI TUI-Abbott 34.10% 24,076,408 €29,108,377,662.51 TUI, First Choice, TUI Cruises, Marella ,Crystal,Hapag Lloyd Cruises,Leger The Holiday Group 17.79% 12,560,683 €12,673,729,554.33 Jet 2, Shearings Der Touristik 11.90% 8,402,031 €10,998,258,653.61 DerTour,ITS,Kuoni Just Go Travel Group 10.10% 7,131,136 €5,769,088,702.83 Just Go, National Holidays, Omega Holidays Neckermann 9.30% 6,566,293 €6,697,619,042.58 Neckermann Reisen,Neckerman Travel,Sunwing Play Holidays(formerly Wow Holidays) 7.10% 5,012,977 €4,125,679,670.20 Play Holidays Alltours 6.87% 4,850,584 €4,258,813,029.54 Alltours, Alltoura Other: 2.84% 2,005,191 €1,221,161,078.57 - Total: 100.00% 70,605,303 €74,852,727,394.16 -

A study of the use of carrier birds as a means of communication in modern Sertia

from 'The World's Oddities Registry' by Deras Marlynn, 1958
The Kingdom of Sertia is not known well for the modernisation of its government infrastructure, which until quite recently has not seen extensive renovation since the early 1930s. The rather shameful neglect of its once brilliantly coloured ancient monuments, which to this day stand headstrong in the centres of its lively towns and cities, has experienced a steady volte-face in the direction of progress. This alternation is consistent with its changes in leadership, which are notoriously slow due to the government's reliance on the whims of its various guilds (known as Braetha, pl.).

However, a more modern visitor to the Kingdom of Sertia will notice this change of sentiment within the Braetha, especially when visiting the vast, sprawling metropolis of its capital in Hemberdale. What once was a centre for low-spirited, serious office workers and aristocrats has expanded to incorporate Hemberdale's historic and cultural significance as one of the major trade centres, alongside Osperfey, in the eastern part of the nation.

Were you to visit Hemberdale as a tourist anytime up until 1930, you would notice a spectacular sensory overload, owing to the contradicting blend of wondrous architecture and colour, combined with the unsavoury smells and characters about the streets. Should you have acquainted yourself with a resident of Hemberdale, you would notice no shortage of, first of all his family and personal business, and including this a curiously high number of birds flying in and out of his office window. The latter statement is the subject of this section, a vitality of Sertian identity, one of the only connections between modern, cosmopolitan Sertia and its curmudgeonly yet inspiring past.

Carrier birds are, in their most simple essence, birds trained extensively in the art of navigation. You may first think of pigeons before anything. Yet in Sertia, pigeons are hardly commonplace, which has forced the Internal Communications Order (ICO) to resort to the use of predatory birds. The decision to train these large flying animals was taken on the basis of their superior eyesight and intelligence, and their ability to, in their time off, keep away common disease-spreading pests. The ICO has recorded that carrier birds have been used since at least the founding of Gadalland and Aspern some 750 years ago, and ironically were responsible for multiple epidemics. Now, the ICO regulates the health and safety of these birds, and has increased focus on their individual well-being. Thus, one bid will not complete an entire cross-country journey to deliver post to a very rural area. Instead, the bird will deliver to an ICO outpost, where the post will be assigned to another bird who is based within that outpost. There, they are cleaned and fed, put up and treated for disease.

A recent vote by the Customary Logistics Council [now the Braetha] almost saw the birds out of fashion in Sertia, namely by the Councillor for Defence, who argued that this would increase the chance of internal failure during a time of war. However, he was ultimately defeated because of the sentimental nature of seeing these birds everyday. A local Sertian will be able to tell you the name of their carrier birds over the ages, the various affections they held for them, and will usually keep a record of the bird's visit. Nowadays, and undoubtedly in future this will contribute no less than seminally to the knowledge of Sertia's past.

I mentioned that the tradition of carrier birds is one of the sole connections to Sertia's past. This means that when you go to Sertia, look up and look out for the occasional swooping fowl, which croons and caws as it flies through the narrow mazes of temples, drying clothing, and into the sunset, as the chimes of Hemberdale's many bells signal the end of an idyllic Sertian day.

Briekish Achievements:
Largest FDI Investment [Current Fiscal Year]
Highest diversity of immigrants in the world [at least 100 residents from each country except 2]
Highest Median Wealth after taxes, deductions, living costs, etc by purchasing power parity
Triple A Credit Rating according to S&P
Universitat Neue Amsterdamme ranked as 3rd best university in the world
Strongest Surveillance and Cyber Intelligence
Highest Economic Freedom
1st in Ease of Doing Business Index
Highest percentage of those who have obtained tertiary education
One of the highest trade-to-GDP ratios
6th in Global Innovation Index
One of the highest Export to Import Ratios in Europe
2nd Lowest GINI Coefficient
Most number of urban public transport networks
Very low corporate taxes
8th highest life expectancy
Highest number of police officers per capita in Europe excluding microstates
Highest number of drones specifically for military usage per capita in Europe
Lowest House Price to Income Ratio
Most affordable Northern European country
0% poverty rate [considering those living with less than $6.85 a day]
8th by Purchasing Power Parity
4th highest number of patent holders per capita
Highest in Social Mobility Index

Major News Papers and Group:

Newspapers: Average Sales Price In Euros Owner Stance Language Circulation Marketshare Total Revenue DuchiesTimes 2.00 €3.08 Times and Mail Group Neutral English 407,771 1.48% €716,335,150.87 Duchies Mail 1.30 €2.00 Times and Mail Group Neutral English 625,463 2.27% €564,237,871.81 Die Presse 1.60 €2.46 Times and Mail Group Neutral German 213,456 0.77% €220,123,489.00 Trouw 1.80 €2.77 Time and Mail Group Neutral Dutch 198,623 0.72% €198,245,035.00 Duchies Telegraph 2.00 €3.08 News Duchies Group Neutral English 294,277 1.07% €502,546,884.42 Blick 2.00 €3.08 News Duchies Group Neutral German 198,765 0.72% €502,546,884.42 Dux Post 1.40 €2.16 The Post and Courier Group Neutral English 835,757 3.03% €986,466,348.09 De Telegraaf 1.65 €2.54 The Post and Courier Group Neutral Dutch 224,560 0.81% €230,460,430.00 Kurier 2.00 €3.08 The Post and Courier Group Neutral German 203,456 0.74% €198,764,560.00 The Independent 2.00 €3.08 Independent Group Neutral English 224,967 0.82% €532,819,534.24 Der Bund 2.00 €3.08 Independent Group Neutral German 145,678 0.53% €204,564,678.00 Business Times 2.50 €3.85 Business Times Group Capitalist English 259,612 0.94% €568,863,134.46 WirtschaftsBlatt 2.50 €3.85 Business Times Group Capitalist German 210,234 0.76% €456,745,670.00 De Tijd 2.50 €3.85 Business Times Group Capitalist Dutch 140,350 0.51% €345,023,569.00 Financial Telegragh 2.50 €3.85 - Capitalist English 194,280 0.70% €397,995,426.17 The i 0.85 €1.31 Independent Group Liberal English 505,367 1.83% €412,054,825.07 Able Times 0.75 €1.16 - Disability news English 194,135 0.70% €217,610,551.05 Socialist Star 1.25 €1.93 Socialist Press Group Left Wing English 792,803 2.88% €819,268,201.79 Volksstimme 1.25 €1.93 Socialist Press Group Left Wing German 102,475 0.37% €89,785,740.00 The Courier 0.75 €1.16 The Post and Courier Group Neutral English 805,569 2.92% €529,617,349.67 Christian Post 1.25 €1.93 - Christian English 152,770 0.55% €135,729,013.79 Orthodox Post 1.15 €1.77 - Orthodox English 141,990 0.51% €130,040,696.26 Hope Times 1.00 €1.54 Hope Media Christian English 105,691 0.38% €72,965,839.60 Metro 0.00 €0.00 Times and Mail Group Neutral English 1,431,610 5.19% €499,618,633.94 Morning Standards 0.00 €0.00 News Duchies Group Neutral English 1,355,991 4.92% €282,068,115.78 Express Post 0.75 €1.16 News Duchies Group Populist English 1,069,532 3.88% €770,847,222.14 De Standaard 0.85 €1.31 News Duchies Group Populist Dutch 310,203 1.13% €278,534,500.00 Stimme 1.00 €1.54 Alternative Press Group German langauge/German Speaking World German 304,223 1.10% €319,780,357.30 20 Minuten 0.00 0.00 Alternative Press Group Communter Newspaper German 1,210,234 4.39% €801,023,400.00 De Volkskrant 1.10 €1.69 Alternative Press Group Dutch interest Dutch 201,024 0.73% €245,674,509.00 Sawt Alhaqiqa 1.00 €1.54 - Islamic Arabic 101,409 0.37% €82,265,705.80 Alnabiu Alyawmiu 1.00 €1.54 - Islamic Arabic 116,765 0.42% €79,045,892.08 Jewish Star 1.00 €1.54 - Reform Judaism Hebrew 175,686 0.64% €116,072,001.70 Yated Duchies 1.00 €1.54 - Orthodox/Haredi Hebrew 79,148 0.29% €74,870,912.77 National Cryer 0.90 €1.39 National Duchies Press Centrist English 808,309 2.93% €569,030,918.35 Der Tagesspiegel 1.50 €2.31 National Duchies Press Centrist German 189,756 0.69% €189,757,906.00 Algemeen Dagblad 1.15 €1.77 National Duchies Press Centrist Dutch 320,340 1.16% €320,340,500.00 Cair Para Times 1.50 €2.31 National Duchies Press Centrist English 571,973 2.07% €753,431,379.44 Gouda Post 1.50 €2.31 The Post and Courier Group Centrist English 332,029 1.20% €446,737,466.44 Northern Journal 1.10 €1.69 Northern Media Group Leaning Centre Right English 519,539 1.88% €458,372,781.60 Salvation Post 0.00 €0.00 ICS Church ICS English 1,415,256 5.13% - Christian Today 1.00 €1.54 - Pentecostal/Charismatic English 36,546 0.13% €35,307,112.14 The Messenger 1.00 €1.54 Northern Media Group Catholic English 346,827 1.26% €348,084,467.99 Only Good News 1.00 €1.54 Alternative Press Group Only good news reported English 469,590 1.70% €445,424,678.48 First News 1.40 €2.16 Alternative Press Group Child Focused English 125,807 0.46% €14,104,474.38 Duchian Patriot 0.85 €1.31 PMG National Conservative English 466,341 1.69% €344,825,966.00 Täglich Alles 0.80 €1.23 PMG National Conservative German 346,460 1.26% €278,567,405.00 Other Newspapers/Local - - - - - 8,090,875 29.34% €4,099,875,320.00 Total/Average 1.26 €1.95 - - 27,573,523 100.00% €20,886,472,509.02

News Subscriptions:

Subscription News Plans Cost Monthly: Cost Monthly Euros Subscribers Revenue: Revenue Euros Times and Mail 12.00 €18.60 15,204,446 2189440152 €3,393,632,236.14 News Duchies 9.00 €13.95 10,471,381 1130909170 €1,752,909,212.88 The Post and Courier Group 10.00 €15.50 8,795,960 1055515225 €1,636,048,598.69 National Duchies Press 5.00 €7.75 4,769,788 286187280 €443,590,284.00 Northern Media Group 4.00 €6.20 577,048 27698309.28 €42,932,379.38 Alternative Press Group 5.00 €7.75 582,218 34933074 €54,146,264.70 PMG 3.00 €4.65 1,224,946 44098051.68 €68,351,980.10 Socialist Press Group 5.00 €7.75 1,421,972 85318329.6 €132,243,410.88 Total 9.40 €14.56 43,047,759 4854099591 €7,523,854,366.77

Streaming Revenue

Streaming Sector Total Per person Movie Box office Receipts: €3,765,508,679.52 €32.78 Music Revenue: €12,997,078,345.44 €113.15 Streaming Revenue Film/TV €17,466,263,841.60 €152.05 News Subscriptions €7,523,854,366.77 €65.50

Music:
The three most popular genres in Duchies are Rock/Metal , Pop and Folk Music. Christian music is popular for worship with a thriving CCM scene. The music scene of United Duchies has been described as electic and strange with many niche bands and sub cultures. Traditional boyband/girlband music and generic pop has tended to do bad in the charts with Duchians liking something a little different and unique.
Famous Bands/Musicians
Rock:
Guns and Roses
Linkin Park
ELO
Alan and the Ants
The Police
Alestorm
Halestorm
Bad Wolves
Steel Maiden
Black Sabbath
Red Hot Chilli Pipers
Papa Roach
Shinedown
Mumford and Sons
Nothing More
Nickelback
The Killers
Chapter 13
Black Veiled Brides
Muse
Evernessance
Northern Hotpots
Weird Al Yankovic

Pop/Other:
Robbie Williams
UB40
Frank Turner
Scooch
MYouth
Switchfoot
Snow Patrol
Bars and Melody
Aqua
Eiffel 65
(Techno Pop)Crazy Frog
The Script
The Tiger Lillies
The Cranberries

Christian:
Matt Tomlin
Delirious
Chris Redman
Rend Collective
Bluetree
Casting Crowns
Hillsong
Petra

Main Indoor Arenas:

Arena City Capacity Ziggo Dome Goudadam 17,000 Ahoy Porterdam Porterdam 16,500 Cair Para State Hall Cair Para 16,250 Hamborg Arena Hamborg 16,000 Arena Brummagem Brummagem 15,800 NEC Arena Brummagem 15,650 Chamberlain Park Arena Brummagem 15,500 Castcon Arena Castcon 15,155 Westseaxnahallen Flusselgort 13,500 Wunderino Arena Kiel 13,500

Music industry sales and revenue by type:

Music industry sales by type % Rock 36.70% Pop 23.28% Reggae 7.21% Dance 7.02% Comedy 7.00% Classical 6.63% R&B 4.28% Jazz 3.08% Rap 2.42% Other: 2.38%

Company: Marketshare Sales: Kligenberg MG 25.34% 1,049,577 European Automotive Group 21.64% 896,193 JLR 13.81% 572,118 Other Duchian: 0.75% 31,165 Dominion Motors 4.65% 192,468 Negishi 6.61% 273,979 Hyundai -Kia 4.47% 185,071 Tata 3.02% 124,940 Mahindra 1.22% 50,588 Subaku 5.10% 211,321 Mizuiyo 4.59% 190,151 Tesla 3.91% 161,789 Other: 4.35% 180,166 Total: 100.00% 4,142,101

Biggest Parties Regional Councils:
2018-2023
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Dark Blue= UoD
Green=Moderate
Light purple=Unus
2023-Present
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0691d2d1-8731-47b3-99d0-7a01f92f4ce3-image.png
Map with the largest cities of the Grand Duchy of the West-Frisians

Reserved for future use