NS6 || Gadalland and Aspern

[Gadalland and Aspern]

12 November 2021
International Edition

Council of Innovation Passes New, Lower Tax Rates

The historic 70.4% total tax rate for Sertian citizens is due to see a decrease in the coming weeks.

The new Sertian Tax Act 2021 was just passed by a unanimous vote by those voters registered with the Council of Innovation. A unanimous vote on a law has not been seen since 1981, when the Council of Diplomacy proposed funds to rescue the stranded Sertians on the Isle of Precia.

The law will affect the three major tax sectors in Gadalland and Aspern: Income, Property and Healthcare.

The law will see the Healthcare tax completely eradicated, with the legislation also regulating the affairs of private healthcare corporations so as to make both options the most affordable. Non-citizens who need a visa to come to Gadalland and Aspern will still be required to pay a one-time fee for access to healthcare.

The funds to support the Health system will come from the significant backlog of unused money the government has from the old tax system. Because private healthcare will become more accessible, the government hopes every Sertian will have access to efficient health services.

On savings accounts, taxes will be applied only after the funds accumulated exceed |B| 580,000, or less if your bank's interest rate is higher, and will not exceed 3%.
The new tax rates will be as follows:

Non-Taxable Amount (NTA): |B| 90,000

Tax Bands

Band 1: |B| 90,000-250,000
Income Tax: 5%

Band 2: |B| 250,000-500,000
Income Tax: 7%

Band 3: |B| 500,000-1,000,000
Income Tax: 30%

Band 4: |B| 1,000,000-250,000,000
Income Tax: 35%

Band 5: |B| 250,000,000-500,000,000
Income Tax: 40%
No NTA

Band 6: |B| 500,000,000+
Income Tax: 50%
No NTA

The maximum Property Tax for Bands 1-3 will be 4%, whilst Bands 4-6 will be 18%.

[Gadalland and Aspern]

What You Need to Know About Christmastide in Gadalland and Aspern

30 November, 2021

Tomorrow begins the religious recognition of Advent in Bothorism, which is the lead up to the great Christmas celebration.

In Gadalland and Aspern, cities, farms, and people are preparing for Advent the traditional Sertian way.

In Bothorism, Christmas is usually celebrated a week earlier than in other Christian countries. This is because up until 1882 Christmas always fell on the last day of the Gallish year. The Gallish calendar, unlike many things, was not changed by Verna II of Osperfey on her 'Efërmaias Forsutrum', or "Union Walk" in the 11th century as it was one thing the seven islands never fought over.

In 1882, Head Councillor Renet Poirsom turned the Gallish calendar into antiquity in order to organise events and policy with other nations. However, in a patriotic move, Poirson kept the original date Sertians celebrate Christmas.

Since 1882, Christmastide starts on 1 December and ends 16 December, even though the calendar is now normalised.

After Christmas is the time when young people, who have come of age, move away from Gadalland and Aspern to start a new life elsewhere, which is why the first half of December is a celebration of family and life.

Cities will host Poorschendren Haywyt, an equivalent of Christmas Markets, where vendors will sell decorations, traditional food such as Goritha, flying fish and eggs, and Poorschwieth, Christmas Fruit Mash.

In the university tradition, students usually return home during the month of December, except at the ancient Dredthe University, where examinations are held on 17 December.

Later in Christmastide, the country will quiet down, and on 16 December many places are completely closed.

On 16 December, at dawn, the country will wake up and go to the docks to celebrate Seeing In the Mast. In ancient tradition, the Sun of a new year is welcomed over the horizon, and those who arrive in Sertia at sunrise will have one year of God's good faith.

In the afternoon, families will go home and gather for conversation. As today is the day the young workers leave, this is the last chance to speak as an entire family. With new online video calling, this tradition is left to the older folk. But nonetheless, it is recognised by those who remain in Gadalland and Aspern.

In the evening, it is time for Seeing Out the Mast, where the young people are set aboard their vessel and depart with the setting Sun, but not before eating a last Sertian feast. It is also ancient superstition that your boat must leave at sunset on Christmas to be on God's good side.

Some will go as close as Nofoaga, and some as far as Spain or Inquista. In Bothorist tradition, it is said the leavers who depart on Christmas now have the Blessing of the Isles, which is important for a safe sea voyage.

Many of the Leavers still travel to those foreign lands by sea, a last signal of respect for the old Sertian tradition before entering the cosmopolitan world. Seeing Out the Mast is a heavily advertised event, and tourists come from all over the world to take part.

It was normal up until this past century that those who left Gadalland and Aspern never once returned. Now, however, many come and visit for the Holidays due to the accessibility of air travel.

Many workers who used to have only half of December as a holiday now have all of December as holiday.

[Gadalland and Aspern]

5 December 2021
International Edition

CLC votes 13 December Election Decision Date

The polls for the 2021 Customary Logistics Council Elections have opened today, after the current Council voted on 13 December for a decision to be made on the new council members.
Each year, the CLC votes for a date to hold the election, usually in December, in order to make adjustments as needed. Candidates can also request extra time to campaign.

Most notably this election cycle, the 'Stay Out of Europe (SOOE)' campaign has been run by a number of candidates who seek less association with the European continent. The frontrunner of this campaign is the Social Conservative Party member Holerth Nunnen, who began his campaign with staunch anti-immigrant, rather radically conservative and nativist views, but has since modified his message to more moderate standpoints.

At this point, it is too early to tell who is projected to become Head Councillor, but Nunnen has led the strongest in the polls since the spat between Spain and Yosai and the rise of SOOE.

The CLC has indicated they will release public information about the election, including facts about each candidate and what they hope to achieve as councillors. This information will be available for free to the general public.

In tradition, election day is heavily regarded as one of the most important holidays in Gadalland and Aspern. It is generally viewed as an honour and privilege to vote, but there is a large number of people each year who do not cast a ballot.

[Gadalland and Aspern]

23 December 2021
International Edition

UPSET VICTORY FOR GUTHRUN WOND, NATIONALIST PARTY

Guthrun Wond To Be New Head Councillor In 2022

In what seemed to many a shocking upset of an election, on 13 December it was announced that Guthrun Wond, the figurehead of the Nationalist Party for Gadalland and Aspern, has been popularly elected to the seat of Head Councillor for the next term.

The Nationalist Party Association spokesperson, Emmy Gwynath was 'admittedly a bit surprised' after hearing the news, but she attributes it to 'the popular opinion of the state at this moment in time'.

Meanwhile, some expressed shock and dismay over this upset victory, one of whom being Councillor Dína, the current Head Councillor.

"I am shocked people in Sertia feel so strongly about some issues, enough to elect a nationalist leader. I can only speculate the things which may happen in the future." Many others are not optimistic about what Mr. Wond may do to Sertia, calling him 'corrupt' and 'embarrassing.'

Mr. Wond began his political career, after graduating from Dredthe University in Hemberdale, as an outspoken member of the Customary Logistics Council. He was ousted in 2021, just before Gadalland and Aspern joined the EU. However, when such deliberations came about in early 2021, Mr. Wond vehemently opposed membership, calling it 'illegal' and 'pointlessly expensive'.

As Interior Councillor from 2014-2017, Mr. Wond made a concerted effort to prevent rail development across the country, calling it 'inefficient and crowded', and that 'taxpayers will absolutely think us monsters'.

In 2018, Mr. Wond was arrested and tried by Council Alcalde over suspected money-laundering whilst he was Interior Councillor. To the dismay of many, he was acquitted.

'I want to thank everyone who helped me get here. You're all truly great', he said in his victory speech. 'Now we start what should have started long ago'.

[Gadalland and Aspern]

Head Councillor Guthrun Wond Instates Berrá Nacar as European Councillor, Ousts Dína

New Head Councillor Guthrun Wond continued his overhaul of the Sertian government Tuesday by ousting longtime European Councillor Édutitalle Dína and replacing her with Berrá Nacar.

Nacar to this date has no history in politics, and was installed by Mr. Wond on the basis of their mutual 'positive working relationship'.
Mr. Nacar is known by many for his fiery rhetoric regarding immigration, healthcare and calling former Head Councillor Henry Spiggens kidnapping and subsequent death 'the best reform ever'.

Today, Mr. Nacar is expected to vote against the current bill up for voting in the European Government, regulating employment contract formation and termination. However, this has not been confirmed.

There is significant outrage regarding Mr. Wond's shocking CLC victory and his appointments, many of whom have no political background. Ms. Dína has, and is expected to remain silent on this matter.

[Gadalland and Aspern]

Wond Recommended for Expulsion Vote by Third Party

---

13 January 2022

Head Councillor Guthrun Wond has been recommended for expulsion in the upcoming Vote of Expulsion, set by the Customary Logistics Council for 15 January, 2022.

The recommendation was given by the Interim Leadership Authority, responsible for maintaining stability in the event that something happens to the head councillor.

Guthrun Wond has been formally charged by the ILA with Obstruction of Custom, which is not a charge to be taken lightly. A charge of Obstruction of Custom doesn't simply mean tradition has been broken, but that a crucial part of CLC protocol has been intentionally overlooked for the purposes of circumventing justice and a fair CLC vote.

Wond is charged with Obstruction of Custom for unlawfully appointing a new EU councillor without a public vote. According to EU law, a public vote is required to instate a new EU councillor. The reasons for Wond's actions are unclear, but many are certain it is due to his 'aggressive political nature', as dubbed by his aides.

Wond is known for his deep dislike of the European Union as a community creation on the basis that it is too controlling of EU countries. "We are not here to be controlled, we're here because some dummies voted on it", Wond previously said.

Mr. Wond has been in the process of upturning immigration law in Gadalland and Aspern before the recommendation by the ILA came in. For now, Mr. Wond is on probationary call and is unable to pass new orders without a full CLC vote.

On 15 January, the CLC will vote on Mr. Wond's charges. If a majority decide he is guilty, he will be ousted and Édutitalle Dína will return to Head Councillor position effective immediately. If he is found not guilty by the CLC he will be excused and his full powers as head councillor will return.

Either way this goes, the ILA has also found that Mr. Wond will be eligible for formal Layeonic charges in a court of law.

[Gadalland and Aspern]

GUTHRUN WOND REINSTATED BY CLC VOTE

---

Passes Action to Curtail Refugee Admissions
24 January, 2022
International Edition

In a decision that seemed a shock to many, Guthrun Wond, who was charged with Obstruction of Tradition, has been reinstated to his position as Head Councillor of the Customary Logistics Council.

This afternoon, Cllr. Wond passed a number of orders aimed at curtailing the number of refugees admitted to Gadalland and Aspern under the pretense of 'putting citizens first'.

"We cannot, and will not, treat our people like second class citizens. They will always be our first priority", Mr. Wond said in a statement.

This comes after Mr. Wond was placed on leave by the Independent Leadership Authority, after an assessment that Mr. Wond violated EU Constitutional law by ousting Édutitalle Dína, the current European Councillor for Gadalland and Aspern without a public vote.

However, he has been found not guilty of this offence, and the Customary Logistics Council has voted him to remain as councillor.

[Gadalland and Aspern]

Government Offices, Historic War Room to be on display

Exhibitions and tours beginning 20 February

9 February

After a plan was put in place almost 15 years ago, the Customary Logistics Council sessions will now be open to the public, in person and through a live-streaming service.

The CLC building, also known as Myrwray hn Daqer ("highest seat" in Old Sertian), will now be host to the Museum of Gadalland and Aspern, which will feature exhibitions downstairs. Upstairs, the notorious War Room, where the Customary Logistics Council has met since August 1227, will also be on display whilst CLC deliberations are not in session.

Exterior of Myrwray hn Daqer from Eldren Street

The CLC War Room, in use since 1227

[Gadalland and Aspern]

25 April, 2022
International Edition

Horse-drawn street carriages to expand to the countryside

Sertians living in cities are very familiar, and reliant upon, horse-drawn, rail guided street cars.

The government has approved funding for long-distance horse-drawn carriages, which will be run primarily by an incentive-based system. Those who volunteer to operate this new form of public transport will receive special tax breaks, as well as increased loan forgiveness and inflated Elders' Care and Health

The new scheme, which the government announced just today, includes about 2,000 miles of rail laid across the country, in the scheme's first phase, for these carriages to follow. They will mainly be city-oriented. In other words, they will connect the countryside to the cities.

In more recent months, since Gadalland and Aspern has joined the EU, there have been more Election Day celebrations within cities. Traditionally, country folk are meant to make pilgrimages to the cities for elections. However, EU elections are more frequent, and thus this tradition may not apply to these elections in the future.

There have also been reports that, when the time comes, the rail and stations built for horse-drawn carriages will double as rails for high-speed electric trains. However, these reports are unconfirmed.

Currently, the horse carriages that are common land transport throughout most of the country are self-guided, and result in more occurrences of delayed journeys because of lost drivers and slow progress.

This new scheme will put Sertia at an advantage, with respect to future development of railways, in that any contracts agreed upon will not need to include the price of building the railway.

The project completion date has not yet been released.

[Gadalland and Aspern]

21 June 2022
International Edition

In this edition:

• Council Mulling Family Separation Scheme for Traumatised Soldiers
• Outrage over United Duchies airspace closure as Summer travel begins

Council Mulling Family Separation Scheme for Traumatised Soldiers

The Customary Logistics Council is currently considering a new law that would require mandatory separation and rehabilitation for soldiers diagnosed with PTSD or other syndromes related to wartime stress.

This comes as many veterans of Sertia's war, primarily that with the People's State of Precia in 1988, continue to suffer from wartime trauma, the symptoms of which can range from simply bad dreams to extreme, violent behaviour.

According to a study composed by the University of Galaetha, rates of family trauma in Gadalland and Aspern are much higher, 78%, with returned veterans than with normal families.

The scheme would entail a returned veteran residing in public housing with support staff, therapists, and doctors until they are deemed safe to rejoin their families. Under the law, soldiers would be allowed to go out and conduct their daily routine, but they would not be allowed to stay with their families overnight.

The time it takes for a soldier to be deemed 'safe' can take anywhere from 6 months to a lifetime, but the law caps the amount of separation time at 2 years, at which point they must be released.

This law, according to its supporters in the government, would also help soldiers receive the assistance they need to overcome wartime trauma, while promoting the safety of their families.

There is a considerable amount of controversy in the CLC regarding this proposal, and opponents, like Mr. Norton Reow, say "sometimes, what a soldier needs to cure his trauma...is to be home with his family".

Outrage over United Duchies airspace closure as Summer travel begins

Travellers have been left stranded at airports across Sertia and the rest of Europe as the United Duchies announced that their airspace would be closed for an entire week. This follows the tragic plane collision that cost 400 lives today.

Summer holiday travellers have just started packing their bags when the announcement was made that it would be another week until they reached their destination.

Sertians going on holiday to the United Duchies were stranded at the airports yesterday as they scrambled to rearrange travel plans.

Amory Yedman, 56, of Herebanden says:
I was on my way to see my son, who moved there five years ago. I haven't seen him in two years, and now I have to wait another week.

Poria Glessic, 5, of Cownin, says:
I was going to meet my pen pal today from United Duchies. He was so excited and I was too but now I don't know if I'm ever going to meet him.

"We understand that this is a result of that awful tragedy," said Glessic's mother, Awarain, "but it doesn't stop Poria being, and me as well, quite frankly, a little disappointed and upset. We hope Poria will be able to meet her pen pal as she was really excited about it".

United Duchies is the 7th most popular destination for Sertian travellers, preceded by Spain in 4th and Nofoaga in 1st. UD is also a popular spot for Sertian expats, which means those visiting home will be slightly delayed in doing so. However, most travellers to the United Duchies are in good spirits, some setting up tents in airports, and many, many others in queues, chatting, texting, and even singing little songs to pass the time.

[Gadalland and Aspern]

WOND APPROVES LAW TO SEVERELY LIMIT PROTESTING

21 July, 2022

If you have just joined us, Councillor Wond is expected to approve a major anti-protesting law.

The law would ban peaceful protests greater than 1000 persons in major cities, including in the greater municipalities and suburbs. All cities in Gadalland and Aspern would be affected.

Gatherings that aren't considered to be protests (i.e., Election Festivals or Seeing In the Masts) would still be permitted, but this law does not specifically protect these.

In many cities across Sertia, there are currently peaceful protests underway advocating against the passage of this law. If the law is signed, the police will have permission to dissolve any protests in which over 1000 people are taking part.

This law takes effect after Wond, who is becoming increasingly unpopular in Sertia, took office and has been in the process of passing laws limiting refugee and immigrant quotas, as well as attempting to lower taxes for the wealthy.

Continue to follow this story with us for the next few weeks, as there is sure to be much controversy.

[Gadalland and Aspern]

29 August 2022

Special Edition

Spanish Military Arrived at Sertian Bases, Experiencing Some Culture Shocks

The Spanish military arrived a few weeks ago to the newly prepared bases around Gadalland and Aspern, received by many volunteer hosts and friendly faces welcoming them at airports and into their homes.

Sertia has been strengthening its bond with Spain, with the Spanish and Sertian governments continuing to develop a very valuable alliance.

But however close these two nations are as allies, there will always be some differences. We've interviewed some Spanish soldiers and some Sertian locals and volunteers who have involved themselves in warmly receiving new guests to our shores.

We've spoken with Laran from Antem Combever, near Hemberdale, who was a volunteer escort for the soldiers to their new homes:
"I've been to Spain a few times in my life, and always was impressed by the lovely people there. Lots of public transport and not as much idiocy in their government. Always very kind, and it seems nothing has changed. They looked especially impressive in their uniforms. We don't often get to see that".

Kaantos, from Listerna in the West Olves, said:

"They were very imposing figures, very strong and they were dressed well-sharply. But they were gracious and very easy to talk to. One soldier asked me about the protesting law and how we were getting on. I just said we Sertians don't really protest anyway, it's not really a custom here like it is in some other parts of Europe. It was definitely a questionable decision but we're still here, aren't we?"

Children reported that the Spanish had brought along some sweets with them which they offered.

Kagamil, aged 7, said: "I want to go to Spain someday so I can eat all the sweets." The good news for her is she might only need to travel within this country to get those yummy things!

Others also said the uniforms were very foreign to them. Local Osperfey shopkeeper Pedro, originally from Spain, said even he was so shocked to see military uniforms after not seeing them for over 10 years, he had to remember his Spanish!

We then interviewed some Spanish military soldiers a few weeks later, once they'd had some time to adjust to their new life. It's safe to say had some very interesting observations about their new home away from home:

José, from outside Madrid, had trouble with navigating his daily life at first:
I wanted to go to the supermarket, but all of the signs are in Sertian. We are being tutored in Sertian but it is an impossible language. I saw a sign which said Íonas, which happened to be by this restaurant. The waitress ushered me to a backroom and said "Íonas". I eventually realised "Íanas" is a supermarket, and "Íonas" is the toilet. I needed vegetables, but not from Íonas".

We're glad there were no leeks in the toilet, José.

Another soldier, Alfonso, was startled when he heard the Clwysan, which is a traditional call to a meal:

"I heard this...sound, like screaming, and I thought I'd need to break up a fight or chase a thief. I must have looked very startled because the man screaming came over to me and said "Don't worry, it just means it's time to eat". He then invited me in to eat with his family, and I had some delicious oysters with edible flowers. So there ended up being no worry. Sertians like to shout and be merry, and I was very startled at first."

We do love our merriment, Alfonso. Suppose you still can't spell Clwysan. We don't blame you.

Some soldiers did share some very significant concerns with us, such as their dislike of the new anti-protesting bill.
I think it limits the fundamental rights of citizens, which is not good," one soldier said.

The current legal limit on protesting is 5,000 people, but festivals are exempt and the police will only be allowed to break up the protest rather than arrest or fine any participants. This comes as a compromise, with Wond's original plan far more limiting. However, the CLC threatened to vote him into removal if he signed it without the compromise.

The Spanish have set up makeshift Catholic churches on their bases, but locals in Osperfey and the West Olves have stated their interest in setting up permanent places of worship for our new guests. Conversely, the Spanish were very interested in Bothorism, a form of Christianity solely practised by Sertian cultures, including the Rondalies, the folk culture of Sertians descended from what is now Duchy folk.

There will definitely be more stories from the Spanish as they adjust to our strange little island. And we'll be the first to publish them.

Until then, we'd like to let our new friends know that there will be a Seeing Out the Masts festival on Saturdays and Sundays through the month of September. You are as usual welcome to join us, but make sure you grab a dance partner!

And to all Sertians! The government is offering financial support if you wish to host a Spanish soldier in your home. It can really help them adjust to daily life. And who knows? Maybe you'll get a best mate out of it, as well as an excuse to go to Spain!

[Gadalland and Aspern]

2 November 2022
International edition

Spanish military will not enforce protest law

The Braetha, by overwhelming vote, has again scuppered Wond's plans to curtail the capacity of protests, many of which have been occurring in Hemberdale. They have been overwhelmingly directed at Mr. Wond for his hardwired determination to curtail the rights of protesters.

Most recently, the Braetha has advised the Spanish military not to enforce any curtailment on peaceful protests, advising that they had voted in a majority against all of Mr. Wond's attempts to do so.

A spokesman for the Spanish military said "We have considered the request from the Braetha not to enforce the rule on protests. Given that it was decided by a majority of the Braetha members, and upon consultation with our government in Spain, we have decided to abide by the rules of majority".

This comes as welcome news for those protesting this weekend in Hemberdale against Mr. Wond. Previously, protests have been shut down for exceeding the capacity of 5,000 people, with almost £ 25,000 in total fines being doled to the mass of protesters.

The Braetha, contrary to Mr. Wond, has also advised the public that 'you do not need to pay any fines you've received by being peaceably involved in a protest this past weekend'.

While peaceful protest is well-established in Sertian society, the Braetha advises that you can still be fined if you are found not to be protesting peacefully, for example if you engage in violence. To our knowledge these fines still remain in place.

[Gadalland and Aspern]

13 November 2022
International edition

Government to pilot the Personal Insurance scheme

The government will introduce the Personal Insurance (PI) scheme in pilot form next month. It is a reform of the current benefits system wherein recipients will receive monthly payments to help them with their daily lives.

In a big step, the Braetha and Mr. Wond have agreed to pilot PI in the hope of making the benefits system easier to navigate for everyday Sertians.

It's been hailed as a major step toward helping those most in need, while critics say it's too objective and not flexible enough for those who may have specific needs.

Unlike the current benefits system, Personal Insurance does not come in categories and is not determined by household income. Instead, recipients will receive a sum of money each fortnight.

The determinants for need also have changed. The amount you receive would be based on your total hourly income each week, and it would consider the number of hours you work and how many dependents you have.

If either you work over 40 hours or under 10, have more than 3 dependants or make under 3 Euros/hour, you could be considered for Personal Insurance payments.

PI would be paid for through income tax as well as other taxes. These also support other welfare infrastructure such as the Sertian Health Service.

Only Sertian citizens would qualify, but those who aren't citizens and wish to be partially covered by the scheme can do so by contributing a given amount to the government each month.

The scheme will be piloted through April 2023, and a decision will be made depending on its success.

[Gadalland and Aspern]

Braetha votes to call general election

17 November, 2022

In their usual meeting date yesterday, the Braetha has formally approved a motion for a general election. As a result, the polls will open tomorrow, 18 November 2022 and close on Thursday, 1 December 2022.

Mr. Wond has faced an uphill struggle with his government since the very beginning of his tenure, when the Independent Leadership Authority investigated claims of malfeasance in office. Since then, the Braetha have blocked almost every piece of his legislation.

Most recently, the Braetha have asked the Sertian Police Service, including those officers serving in the Spanish military, not to enforce any capacity limits on peaceful protest.

The automatic candidates are all members of the Braetha, including Mr. Wond. Anyone who wishes to opt for election as Head Braetha may go to their local registration office.

How can I vote?

Sertia Horserail will be operating through the night to transport voters to cities.

Election trolleys will also be circulating in the next two weeks to every household in Gadalland and Aspern, including those in the West Olves.

The government has also scheduled Official Pilgrimages to the nearest election stations if you live in the countryside, the schedules for which can be found on Sertia.gov.ser.

The government has asked that if you have the means to host an Official Pilgrimage caravan, any and all help would be appreciated.

Please bring your National Identity Card or Gadalland and Aspern passport to prove your right to vote.

A bit about Gadalland and Aspern elections

In Gadalland and Aspern, elections for Head Braetha are generally called by the Braetha (formerly, the Customary Logistics Council). The Braetha consists of seven highly ranking officials who have been voted into office by government workers and officials. In other words, they are not directly elected by the people.

The Head Braetha, who is currently Mr. Guthrun Wond, is elected directly by Sertian voters. The Head Braetha is subject to the whims of the Braetha in general, but they do have powers to issue actions to be implemented immediately. An example of this was the protesting rule Mr. Wond issued, which severely limited capacity. After its grace period of six days lapsed, however, the Braetha immediately blocked it.

Under certain circumstances, the Braetha may call a general election for members of the Braetha, such as if one has committed a malfeasance of the law. Under most circumstances, however, Braetha members must resign if they are in breach of any conventional rules.

[Gadalland and Aspern]

25 November 2022
International edition

New powers to deal with unacceptable speech -ILA

The Independent Leadership Authority (the ILA) has granted the government new powers to deal with hate speech and other unacceptable behaviour. This includes stiffer penalties for speech "which incites or implies violence".

The new rules come as there have been more acts of civil disobedience and protest concerning the leadership of Head Braetha Guthrun Wond. While such protesting and civil disobedience is protected, sometimes events can turn into street riots which cause destruction to businesses and property.

The rule change is a major overhaul to this area of the law, which in the past has had no such rules regarding hate speech.

The ILA, who is responsible for tiding over the government during transitions of power, has said that they will assess the new laws during the mandatory six-day pilot period.

What are the new rules?

The new rules define hate speech as:

any such expression which poses an evident threat to the right of citizens to engage in ordinary peace.

To secure a successful charge of conviction it must be proven that the normal life of one or more people was in jeopardy, but this can include threatening or harassing speech.

Further, any threatening or harassing speech which directly incites destruction or damage to government property can result in epic fines or time spent in prison.

The government has published specific guidelines for public viewership and more information on the updated penalties for misconduct.

[Gadalland and Aspern]

30 November 2022

Polls to close in one hour as Cranst pulls ahead

Welcome to our coverage of the 2022 Head Braetha election.
As the two-week election comes to a close, Fornithias Cranst has a lead over Guthrun Wond.

This news comes as the polls are set to close in one hour across Gadalland and Aspern. The figures below are from earlier today, with many more votes predicted to have been cast.

87% of votes reported above

Cranst, who is currently a member of the Braetha, has a lead of more than 2% over Guthrun Wond, the current Head Braetha. More votes will be reported before the new leader is announced, and we will keep you updated.

[Gadalland and Aspern]

1 December 2022

13:50 Caribbean Standard Time (CST)

We are still waiting on an update from the government as to the winner of the Head Braetha seat. Votes are currently being counted, with a total of 90% of all votes having been already counted. Cranst now has a lead of 49.1%.

[Gadalland and Aspern]

7 December 2022

Fornithias Cranst elected to lead Braetha

Fornithias Cranst has won the election for Head Braetha, the Braetha has announced. He held a 2% majority over Guthrun Wond by the time the polls closed, which grew as the votes were counted.

The votes have finished being counted just this afternoon, after which it was communicated to the Braetha, and to Mr. Cranst, the outcome.

Mr. Cranst has been favoured to win this election from the start after his short but powerful and resonant campaign centred around bringing wellbeing and happiness to the Sertian people.

Mr. Cranst did not begin in politics. For 25 years prior to his initial Braetha appointment, he was a teacher and an author of children's books. He has been popular in Gadalland and Aspern after his campaign to decrease criminal consequences for "crimes of necessity", such as shoplifting due to poverty.

Mr. Cranst is keen on bringing back policies eliminated by Guthrun Wond, such as increased effort to connect with the rest of the EU, accept more refugees, and increase general welfare and infrastructure.

[Gadalland and Aspern]

26 December 2022

Emotions run high as civilian maritime workers leave for continent

Across Gadalland and Aspern this afternoon, members of the Civilian Maritime Force have been departing from harbours across the country, in a widespread and coordinated effort to give humanitarian relief to the war effort in Svarna Surya. This comes only hours after the government joined Yosai, the United Kingdom and the Kingdom of Reitzmag in declaring war against the Svarnan state.

The Civilian Maritime Force workers registered voluntarily and under full knowledge of the risks. This morning, the ports and marinas across the country had queues out the gates as seafarers bound for the war effort obtained their Humanitarian Licences.

Members of this humanitarian effort include all citizens of Gadalland and Aspern, over the age of 18 who either own a boat or have joined the owner of a boat. They must also have received CMF training. Many members of the force are those who are already fishermen, or spend much of their time at sea.

The first vessels left only hours after the announcement from the government today. Families have been seen saying goodbye to their loved ones, who have quite the journey ahead of them.

We spoke with a family from just outside Rowynnith. Daran Chlay is leaving his wife, Irinna, and their two children Meresy and Balbric. Daran said it was "a difficult decision to make," but he and his family ultimately feel it is "the right thing to do".

"We have a humble home here in Sertia, but at least we're safe. Irinna and I spoke and we believe that the best thing we can do is offer our safety to others. We could use the extra money as well".

Daran and Irinna, like many CMF members, will be compensated for his efforts, and family members back home will be offered living support while the CMF are away.

It is expected that the first CMF sailors will arrive to the continent in 10-20 days' time. What happens next will be determined by whether, and how much, the war escalates.

Today in pictures

Members of the CMF stood in queues this morning to obtain their licences.

Daran says goodbye to his wife, Irinna, before he leaves to the continent.
Three boats leave Rowynnith Harbour, bound for the continent