Elthize, officially The State of Elthize, is a country located in Southern Europe with a coastline on the Atlantic Ocean, sharing borders with Yosai in the north and Leagio in the south and east. Factbook - News Media
It is an honour to be elected to serve as your thirty-third Internal Affairs Commissioner. After weeks of campaigning and debating, I am delighted that you have chosen me, Wirt Harland, as a part of the next commission. While no language I know is enough to express my gratitude, I will make up for it with my actions, moving forward like how I presented myself as a candidate: A man who wants to introduce systemic reform to the European Union for the good of its citizens.
Before February, I am planning to bring several amendments to our Constitution to the European Council, most of which will concern the political and electoral systems of the EU. During this time, I will collaborate with councillors from all sides of the political spectrum to ensure that the reforms I bring will last for decades.
In addition, I am also planning to take trips to various countries and meet with their leaders and listen to their concerns regarding the EU and their membership. In a political institution as immense as the European Union, it is expected for every member state to have differing opinions on how it should be run. I will take every concern seriously and make sure to not compensate for what I believe in.
Once again: Thank you. Thank you a thousand times, Europe. You gave me this opportunity for four months and I will try my best to make every month count.
Wirt Harland 33rd Internal Affairs Commissioner of the European Union
Elthize now meets requirements to join the EMUzone, says Minister of Finance
by Frances Irving - September 9, 2022
El Castillo de San Carlos in Finisterre, Spain, where the Treaty of Finisterre was signed in October 2020.(image credit)
Elthics received wonderful news this morning when Finance Minister Tobias Walters announced that Elthize has fulfilled all of the requirements to become a signatory to the Treaty of Finisterre, meaning that the country can now join the EMUzone. He further stated: "We are now confident that our nation will enter the EMUzone well before President Greenwich Grimwald's deadline of January 2024."
The EMU, an acronym for European Monetary Unit, is a currency that was established with the Treaty of Finisterre in October 2020. The signatories are Spain, Inquista, Vayinaod, Fremet, Montenbourg, the United Dominions of Icholasen and Leagio, which was previously an observer state that joined the treaty in April this year. The agreement focuses on the economic cooperation between European states and was a breakthrough moment in economic integration within the European Union.
The use of the EMU within Elthize has been a discussion topic since January 2021, when President Greenwich Grimwald said that Elthize would use a "special circulation status" with the EMU, accepting the currency alongside the florin. Grimwald claimed that this move would improve tourism in Elthize, which is a prominent sector in our economy. The move was approved by the parliament, despite some opposition regarding the move's reality.
Since then, the EMU has been considered a de facto legal tender in Elthize. While the EMU is not the currency of Elthize by law, many shops and stores accept the currency alongside the florin. It is observed that many Elthics are ready for an eventual transition to the EMU. The process is also approved by many: According to the Polling Institute of Elthize (PIE), a survey conducted on the EMU in April 2022 found that 56% of those interviewed agreed that the implementation of EMU would be beneficial to their lives. This number is expected to be higher today, as Elthize gets one step closer to adopting a common monetary unit.
It was expected that President Greenwich Grimwald would announce an exact date for the transition from the florin to the EMU in the coming days, though this is uncertain now, due to Grimwald's current recovery from a very recent assassination attempt. He still has not made a statement regarding that incident.
After much deliberation, the European Court of Justice has decided on the validity of the last European Commission elections.
It should be understood that while The Constitution of the European Union does not set a clear precedent for write-in candidates, it has set very clear boundaries on certain aspects of commission elections in Article III, Section II. I would like to quote Clause II from the aforementioned article:
The nomination period for each Office shall run for seven days, to be followed by a seven-day debate period, in turn, followed by a seven-day voting period.
Following the precedent established in previous court decisions, including one where an election was cancelled due to the debate period not being up to standards, The Court is concerned about the fact that both gentlemen, Kevin Cotilla and Jean-Claude Juncker, who were elected using write-in votes, could not participate in the seven-day debate period, as they did not nominate themselves in the seven-day nomination period.
Both of these periods are very clearly set by the Constitution, which is the paramount law of the European Union, and the European Court of Justice is responsible for ensuring that the political activities of the European Union are not conflicting with the Constitution, as mentioned in Article IV, Section II, Clause I:
The European Court of Justice is responsible for determining whether an Act or Amendment of the European Council is in line with the Constitution.
Therefore, The Court unanimously finds that:
A) Write-in notes can not be used in European elections, as they are incompatible with the precedents set by the Constitution,
B) The non-proper execution of the periods clearly set by the Constitution in the last elections is problematic.
Therefore, to ensure that these elections do not erode the validity of the succeeding elections made by the European Union as a whole, The European Court of Justice orders a new election under this legal understanding.
——
Dayo Faith Mwangi Chief Justice of the European Court of Justice
Elthize ([ɛlθiːz], EL-theez, or [ɛlfiːz], EL-fees), officially The State of Elthize(Elfiz: Palata Eltiki), is a country in Southern Europe. It borders the Atlantic Ocean to the west, Yosai to the north, and Leagio to the east and south. With a population of approximately 4.8 million, Elthize is one of the least populous members of the European Union. The capital is Forecoaster, while St. Lucas, located in the south, is the largest city, with a metropolitan population of 1.2 million. St. Lucas serves as the center of Elthize’s economy, entertainment, and contemporary culture. Montgomery, the second-largest city with 520,000 residents, is considered the birthplace of modern Elthize and was its capital until 1972. Around half of the population lives south of Forecoaster, and 70% resides within 25 kilometers of the coast. English is the common and administrative language, though not officially recognized as such.
Modern Elthize was founded in 1828 by trading companies and philosophers seeking to create a liberal utopia. The Montgomery Territory, established after an agreement with the indigenous Kingdom of Elfiz, is seen as the precursor to the nation. Although relations between the territory and the kingdom began friendly, tensions grew due to economic instability in the kingdom and rising xenophobia in the territory. These tensions culminated in 1870 when the king declared war, ultimately losing in 1874, leading to the kingdom’s annexation.
This annexation paved the way for the formation of the Commonwealth of Elthize. The commonwealth frequently displaced indigenous communities from the coast, and slavery was widespread. After neighboring Leagio gained independence in 1896, many colonial politicians and British elites from Leagio fled to Elthize. In 1905, Elthize was annexed by Britain and granted dominion status. By the late 1920s, the Elthic independence movement gained momentum, supported by an independent Leagio and led by revolutionary William Lee Marchand. Elthize gained independence from the United Kingdom in May 1937, with Marchand becoming its first president. However, this First Republic was short-lived, as Yosai annexed Elthize in 1954 shortly after Marchand’s resignation. Elthize regained independence in 1968, following widespread riots that toppled the Yosainese regime, leading to the formation of the Second Republic under President Theodore Ackerson.
Elthize is a liberal democracy with high levels of personal and economic freedom, low tax rates, and a market-based economy, with major industries in resource extraction, services, and tourism. It became a member of the European Union in April 2022, as well as a signatory to the Treaty of Finisterre in January 2023, adopting the European Monetary Unit (EMU) as its currency, alongside seven member states. However, the country suffers from high economic inequality, corruption, above-average crime rates, and significant environmental pollution.
I - Fact summary
Official country name: The State of Elthize Short name: Elthize Pronunciation: El-fees Demonym: Elthic (noun and adjective), Elthizian Country codes: EZ, ETZ Top level domain: .co.ez, .ez Drives on the: right Time zone: UTC Date format: MM-DD-YYYY Power plug type: Type C, Type E, Type F Calling code: +90 National motto:None National anthem:None National colours: Blue and yellow
Population: 4,828 million (2024 estimate) Life expectancy: 72,4 years (2024 estimate) Literacy rate (aged 14 and over): ~85% Official language:None(De jure. While no language is specified as the official language of Elthize, English is used by the national government for administrative reasons.) Languages spoken: English (~99%), Elfiz languages (~10%), Spanish (~5%), Elthic Sign Language (~5%), Japanese (~3%), French (~1%) Religion: Unaffiliated (~50%), Christianity (~40%), Elfiz indigenous religions (~5%), Judaism (~3%), Other (~2%) Ethnicity: Non-specific Elthic (~40%), European Elthic (~35%), Black Elthic (~10%), Indigenous Elthic (~10%), Other (~5%)
Info
The term "Non-specific Elthic" is used for Elthic people who simply identify as Elthic and refuse to elaborate on their ethnicity.
Info
Indigenous Elthic, also called the Elfiz, are Elthic people who descended from the Elfiz tribe, which ruled most of modern-day Elthize prior to British arrival. However, not all Black people in Elthize identify as Indigenous. These people are classified under the term "Black Elthic" instead.
Capital city: Forecoaster Largest city: St. Lucas Government type: Unitary presidential republic Legislature branch: Parliament of The State of Elthize (unicameral) Executive branch: President and the cabinet Judicial branch: The High Court, Provincial courts, federal courts, family and civil courts, criminal courts, and administrative courts Head of State and Government: President Melissa Chai (assumed office July 10, 2024) Ruling party: Congress for Social Democracy & UnitedLeft alliance European Councillor: Councillor William "Wilko" Moreland (since November 11, 2024)
Location: Located in Southern Europe, west and north of the Commonwealth of Leagio and south of the Federal Republic of Yosai. Terrain and landscape: Mostly flatlands and hills, with more mountainous terrain in the south. Highest point: Mt. Wintercroft (1643 m), Southern Counties Lowest point: Sea level (0 m) Climate: Mediterranean climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. Average daily high: 36.6 °C Average daily low: 10.3 °C Record high: 48,4 °C, August 1938, near Bricksport, The Midlands Record low: -25,4 °C, February 1980, near Mananfra, Southern Counties Average annual precipitation: 646 mm per year
II - Administrative divisions of Elthize
Map of administrative divisions in Elthize
As of May 2023, Elthize is divided into eleven provinces: Ackerson, Brownell, Forecoaster, Liamville, Marchand, The Midlands, Montgomery, Northern Counties, Port Nelson, Southern Counties and St. Lucas.
While the country is recognized as a unitary state, it is considered a "devolved government", meaning that the administration in Forecoaster has transferred substantial power to the provinces, to varying degrees. Provinces are also further divided into counties for administrative purposes.
Most provinces have a devolved government except three: Forecoaster, The Midlands and Northern Counties. These provinces are directly legislated by the national parliament, with their governor appointed by the president.
Administrative divisions
Province
Largest city
Population
Governor
Parties in provincial government
Ackerson
Theodorburg
215,000
Franklin Parker
Congress for Social Democracy
Brownell
Brownell
380,000
Rowan Holmwood
Congress for Social Democracy
Forecoaster
Forecoaster
735,000
Jess Udo
No devolved government
Liamville
Liamville
126,000
Robin Platuck
Business Party
Marchand
Marchand City
185,000
Bell Marsh
Congress for Social Democracy
The Midlands
Petersfeld
83,000
Oliver York
No devolved government
Montgomery
Montgomery
840,000
Hunter Vance
Progressive Conservative Party
Northern Counties
Augusta
98,000
Kamau Williams
No devolved government
Port Nelson
Port Nelson
376,000
Nick Thorburn
Moderates
Southern Counties
Mananfra
240,000
Pat Mwangi
Elfiz Party, Green Party of Elthize
St. Lucas
St. Lucas
1,550,000
Martha Krystoff
Congress for Social Democracy & UnitedLeft alliance
III - President of Elthize
The President of Elthize is the head of state, government and executive branch in The State of Elthize.
According to the Constitution of Elthize, the president holds supremacy over all other government institutions in Elthize and is responsible for enforcing laws passed by the parliament.
The president can issue executive orders, which are directives and guidelines that are given to the Elthic government and the president's cabinet. The president can withdraw an executive order at any time, though it can be revoked by the Parliament of Elthize or declared unlawful or unconstitutional by a high court in the country.
The president and their cabinet can also issue provisional laws, temporary laws that only last for six months. A provisional law can be extended with parliament's approval a maximum of four times, after which the provisional law needs to become actual law.
The presidency was suspended between 1954 and 1968 by the Yosainese military, which occupied the country at the time.
List of presidents in The State of Elthize
Name
In office
Affiliated party
Government and elections
William Lee Marchand (1906 - 1952)
May 20, 1937 - November 8, 1950
Unaffiliated
Marchand I (1938), Marchand II (1942), Marchand III (1946)
Florence Maitland (1923 - 2017)
November 8, 1950 - June 20, 1954
Unaffiliated
Maitland I (1950)
Theodore Ackerson (1939 - 2018)
December 1, 1968 - December 7, 1978
Labour - On coalition with New Democracy from 1973-1978
Ackerson I (1968), Ackerson II (1973)
Alika Mbanefo (1950 -)
December 7, 1978 - November 29, 1983
New Democracy - On coalition with Labour
Mbanefo I (1978)
Benjamin "Benny" Kalzer (1955 - 2024)
November 29, 1983 - December 1, 1992
Liberal Democrats - On coalition with New Democracy from 1988 - 1992
Kalzer I (1983), Kalzer II (1988)
Roy Harper (1940 - 2011)
December 1, 1992 - November 4, 1999
Labour - On coalition with New Democracy
Harper I (1992), Harper II (1996)
Gloria Dietrich (1957 - 2002)
November 4, 1999- February 8, 2002
Labour - On coalition with The Greens
Dietrich I, Dietrich II (2000)
Archie Franklin (1952 - 2016)
February 8, 2002 - July 24, 2014
Liberal Democrats - On coalition with New Democracy (2002 - June 2013), Unaffiliated (June 2013 - July 2014)
Franklin I (2002), Franklin II (2004), Franklin III (2008), Franklin IV (2012)
Greenwich Grimwald (1944 -)
July 24, 2014 - July 10, 2024
The Third Option - On coalition with New Democracy & The Nationals
Grimwald I (2014), Grimwald II (2018), Grimwald III (2022)
Melissa Chai (1984 -)
July 10, 2024 - present
UnitedLeft alliance - On coalition with Congress for Social Democracy and Moderates
Chai I (2024)
IV - Parliament of Elthize
The Parliament of The State of Elthize is the legislative body of the Elthic government. Following the parliamentary elections in July 2024, the parliament is unicameral and consists of 52 seats, distributed among provinces proportional to their population.
Members of the parliament are elected with the proportional representation system, using the D'hondt method. Elections are done once every three years, though elections can be called by the president at any given time.
Distribution of the seats in the Parliament of Elthize by province
(as of July 25, 2023)
Province
Amount of seats
St. Lucas
18
Montgomery
9
Forecoaster
8
Port Nelson
4
Brownell
4
Marchand
2
Ackerson
2
Southern Counties
2
Liamville
1
Northern Counties
1
The Midlands
1
Distribution of the seats in the Parliament of Elthize by party
(as of July 7, 2024)
Party
Amount of seats
Congress for Social Democracy
16
Moderates
12
Progressive Conservative Party
10
Elfiz Party
3
Harmony
3
Business Party
3
Green Party of Elthize
2
Democrats for Elthize
1
Democratic Socialists for Elthize
1
Communist Party of Elthize
1
V - Judiciary of Elthize
The judicial system of The State of Elthize consists of various courts, ranging in focus.
The High Court, officially The High Court of The State of Elthize, is the highest in Elthize, established on May 1, 2023, following the merge of the Constitutional Court and Supreme Court following a referendum in February 2023. The High Court is responsible for overseeing laws, decrees, and other decisions; made either by the government, private institutions, or individuals in The State of Elthize and analysing whether they violate the Constitution of Elthize or Elthic law.
The High Court can also oversee the verdicts of other courts and revoke, amend, or affirm them at their will. As the highest court in Elthize, only the High Court itself can challenge its previous decisions, as well as other international courts above it, such as the European Court of Justice. The High Court consists of eleven judges, one from each province. The judges are elected by the bar associations of each province, without approval from the legislature. Judges in The High Court may serve for ten years, starting from the moment they assume office.
The Chief Justice of The State of Elthize oversees and administers the High Court and decides on which cases to give a verdict on. This position is elected by the judges in the High Court.
In addition, there are provincial high courts in all provinces except The Midlands and Northern Counties, as well as various civil courts, criminal courts and administrative courts.
List of current justices in The High Court of The State of Elthize
The Chief Justice is highlighted with a star (★)
Judge
Province
Assumed office
Term expiration date
Daniel Marchwill
Ackerson
March 1, 2024
March 1, 2034
Julian Fairchild
Brownell
May 1, 2023
May 1, 2033
William Huddleston
Forecoaster
May 1, 2023
May 1, 2033
Naomi Cobb
Liamville
May 1, 2023
May 1, 2033
Lazlo Pelletier ★
Marchand
May 1, 2023
May 1, 2033
Florence Reid
The Midlands
May 1, 2023
May 1, 2033
Isabelle Ramsey
Montgomery
May 1, 2023
May 1, 2033
Erik Hamilton
Northern Counties
May 1, 2023
May 1, 2033
Ashanti Asamanta
Port Nelson
May 1, 2023
May 1, 2033
J. L. Masso
Southern Counties
May 1, 2023
May 1, 2033
Mason Garland
St. Lucas
May 1, 2023
May 1, 2033
VI - Councillor of Elthize
The Councillor for The State of Elthize represents the country in the European Council in Europolis. The position was established when Elthize joined the European Union in April 2022.
The councillor is elected in accordance with the Elected and Accountable Council Act, a requirement when the country joined the European Union. Although this law was repealed in September 2023, Elthize continues to hold elections for its councillor. Interim councillors, however, are appointed by the President to prevent vacancies.
List of councillors from Elthize
Name
Assumed office
Left office
Length of tenure
Affiliated party
Elections
Liam Zachary (1994 -)
April 15, 2022
February 24, 2023 (removed from office)
10 months, 10 days
The Third Option - Additional support from New Democracy & The Nationals
2022
May Hobbes (1962 -)
February 24, 2023 (interim)
July 1, 2023
4 months, 7 days
New Democracy - Additional support from The Third Option & The Nationals
None
Rebel Kofi (1981 -)
July 1, 2023
July 5, 2024
1 year and 4 days
Independent
2023
Devon Albert (1971 -)
July 5, 2024 (interim)
November 11, 2024
4 months, 6 days
Moderates
None
Wilko Moreland (1984 -)
November 11, 2024
Present
Incumbent
Congress for Social Democracy - Additional support from the Green Party of Elthize
2022 Elections: A fine day for Grimwald and his friends. For others? Not so much.
by Janice Kyou - April 14, 2022
Image: Greenwich Grimwald speaking to the public in his election campaign, February 24th, Hunnicutt. (original source)
The election season commenced in Elthize, with millions going to the polls to vote for candidates and parties. Held between April 1st to April 8th, the elections saw nonsignificant, but not unnotable changes for President Greenwich Grimwald, incumbent since July 2014, and the ruling coalition. One would probably think there would be more grand changes across the board, as this election season was easily the most heated and controversial in a very long time, with intense debates about the country's ascension to the European Union, its internal affairs, and its adoption of the EMU, short for European Monetary Unit, a common currency for various nations across the European Union.
The incumbent president Greenwich Grimwald, his party The Third Option and the other two parties of the ruling coalition, New Democracy and The Nationals, the latter of which changed their name from Liberal Democrats in September 2019, fully supported the Elthic ascension to the European Union. President Grimwald claimed that the country "has nothing to lose and everything to gain with joining the EU". He also created the temporary position of Ministry of Membership to the European Union, which is expected to be abolished by the end of June at the latest.
The Labour Party and The Greens remained neutral, instead proposing a nationwide referendum to decide on EU membership, while For The People, Future Together / Socialist Alliance and the communist party Crimson opposed membership. The isolationist far-right party For The People stated that the European Union would destroy the Elthic economy and "put Elthic society into unstoppable decay", while FT-SA and Crimson opposed the EU as a principle for their anti-neoliberal stance.
Regardless, Elthize’s membership in the European Union was confirmed on April 14th. Following the European Accountable Council Act, the first-ever councillor elections were done on April 18th, with Liam Zachary, candidate of The Third Option and New Democracy and the third Minister of Membership to the European Union, winning the election with 35,9% of the vote. Nolan Brunson of the Labour Party and The Greens came second with 30,1% of the vote. Independent candidates Tara Dianne and Alexander Clarke came third and fourth, getting 10,3% and 9,4% of the vote respectively. National candidate Devon Albert came fifth with 8,5% of the vote, while Leon den Hollander, the joint candidate of FT-SA and Crimson came sixth with 3,3% of the vote.
Taxation was another heated topic this election season. The Labour Party, The Greens, FT-SA and Crimson rallied for a progressive tax rate, something which Grimwald heavily opposed. However, the coalition didn't completely back Grimwald this time, with The Nationals supporting the idea and New Democracy opposing it. This is possibly the reason why inside the coalition there was a shuffle in seat count between the two parties: The Nationals won ten seats at the National Assembly and four seats in the Senate, while New Democracy lost ten seats at the National Assembly. While New Democracy didn't lose any seats in the Senate, The Third Option lost three seats there, possibly also connected to this issue. The People also opposed progressive tax rates and asked to join the ruling coalition, something Grimwald didn't accept.
The adoption of the EMU was a large issue, too. On January 1, 2021, President Grimwald announced that he would make EMU legal tender alongside the florin, obtaining a “shared circulation status” by the Treaty of Finisterre. Grimwald stated that this move was made to improve relations and trade with Leagio, however, its legality has been questioned by the opposition. Recent polls show that around a quarter of Elthize opposes the adoption of EMU, about a third, supports its adoption, while the rest either did not know or refused to answer. Regardless, many businesses in Elthize accept the EMU today.
Overall, in legislature elections, the ruling coalition successfully kept their majority, winning a seat in both Senate and the National Assembly.
The Third Option got 29,2% of the vote in the National Assembly elections and 29,9% of the vote in the Senate elections, getting 73 seats in the Assembly and 30 seats in the Senate respectively.
New Democracy got 15,8% and 15,6% of the votes in the legislature elections, which translated to 40 seats in the Assembly and 16 in the Senate. The Nationals, the biggest winners of this election, got 5,9% and 6,1% of the votes, getting 15 assembly seats and 6 senate seats.
The Labour Party lead the opposition front by gaining 25,7% and 20,1% of the votes, getting 63 assembly seats, and losing one, and 21 senate seats. The Greens followed them, getting 9,1% and 7% of the votes, which translated to 23 assembly seats, gaining three, and 7 senate seats.
FT-SA got 4,4% and 3,4% of the votes, they got 11 assemblies and 3 senate seats, losing a senate seat on the way. For the first time in history, Crimson joined the Senate race, stopping their two-decades-long boycott of the institution. They got 1,4% of the vote and one senate seat. In addition, they got 2% of the vote in assembly elections, gaining five seats, two less than in the last election.
The presidency remained in Greenwich Grimwald’s hands, though it was a closer race than he would usually be comfortable with. He got 43,3% of the vote. The main opposition candidate, Matthew François, supported by Labour, The Greens and FT-SA, got 40,3% of the vote. Bernard Lee of For The People got a surprising 7,6% of the vote. Independent candidate Latifah Marques followed with 5,5% of the vote, and the Crimson candidate Alfred Phillips got only 1,3% of the vote.
In general, these elections were an utter disappointment for the opposition, expecting to boot Grimwald out this year, whose popularity had been steadily declining for a few years. Instead, the status quo remained. It is unclear what kind of path the opposition will take next, as it doesn't seem to be united as the ruling coalition.
Elthic nationality and citizenship are governed by a comprehensive legal framework.
Since 1984, Elthize has adopted a policy of jus soli, which grants citizenship to any person born within the borders of the State of Elthize after January 1, 1985. This principle extends to the airspace and territorial waters of the State of Elthize, as well as aircraft and vessels registered under the flag of Elthize that are engaging in international travel. Additionally, children born outside Elthize with at least one parent holding Elthic citizenship or permanent residency are also eligible for citizenship. Individuals who can provide sufficient evidence of their Elfiz (indigenous) descent are also entitled to citizenship.
Citizenship can also be acquired through naturalization, which is administered by the Department of Migration and Residence, under the administration of the Ministry of Internal Affairs. To obtain Elthic citizenship, individuals must reside in the country continuously for five years. However, this requirement is reduced to three years for certain individuals, including:
Refugees
Stateless persons
Individuals in a civil union with an Elthic citizen (including engagement, marriage, etc.)
Individuals deemed “significant contributors” by the Department of Migration and Residence (such as scientists, business professionals, medical practitioners, etc.)
Citizens of the Commonwealth of Leagio
Additionally, the individual applying for citizenship must have conversational proficiency in English or Elfiz. As of February 2025, individuals who can provide sufficient evidence for their indigenous Elfiz descent are exempt from this requirement.
Elthize also grants permanent residencies, which can be granted to:
Refugees
Stateless individuals
Partners in civil unions with citizens of Elthize (engagement, marriage, etc.)
Students enrolled at universities in Elthize
Individuals with work permits in Elthize
Individuals selected by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs due to exceptional circumstances
Permanent residency, unlike citizenship, is subject to revocation for various reasons, including, but not limited to, criminal convictions or a continuous absence from Elthize for more than a year.
Since 1985, Elthize has permitted multiple citizenship. Elthic citizens who wish to acquire citizenship of another country that does not allow multiple citizenship (e.g. Czech Slavia, Istkalen) are eligible for a special travel document that facilitates unrestricted travel to Elthize and access to consular assistance from Elthic embassies.
Elthic passport
The Elthic passport(Elfiz: Pazapot Eltiki) is a travel document issued to the citizens of The State of Elthize, serving as proof of Elthic citizenship and allowing for international travel. It also facilitates access to Elthic consulates or embassies abroad. The passport is distributed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Biometric passports were first introduced for diplomatic and official use on January 1, 2013, and later became available for ordinary citizens on January 1, 2015. These passports feature advanced security measures and have a maximum validity of ten years for adults. Passports issued to citizens under 18 years of age are valid for three years or until the child turns 18.
Non-biometric Elthic passports remain available following a Supreme Court decision in January 2022. The Elthic passports were last redesigned in February 2025, with the addition of the Elfiz language.
Elthize also issues a special travel document(Elfiz: Tirekaratani) for refugees, stateless people, as well as non-citizens who reside in Elthize that cannot renew their passport for various reasons.
Types of Elthic passport
Image
Passport
Description
Ordinary passport
Issued to all eligible citizens of The State of Elthize for personal and business travel. Available in both biometric and non-biometric versions, it has a maximum validity of ten years for adults.
Emergency passport
A non-biometric document issued in urgent situations, such as lost or stolen passports, expired passports, or sudden travel needs. It is valid for one year and can be replaced for free with another Elthic passport before its expiration.
Diplomatic passport
Issued to high-ranking government officials, including the President, members of Parliament, High Court judges, ambassadors, and senior diplomats. These passports grant certain privileges and immunities while traveling abroad on official duties.
Official passport
Issued to government employees who do not qualify for a diplomatic passport but require a travel document for official duties.
Travel document
A specialized travel document offered to refugees, stateless individuals, and others who cannot obtain a passport from their country of origin due to political, legal, or humanitarian reasons. It allows them to travel internationally and seek consular assistance from Elthic embassies. This biometric document is valid for up to five years, or three years for those under 18 years of age, or until the child turns 18.
Travel document for overseas citizens
A specialized travel document offered to Elthic citizens that must give up their citizenship to acquire another citizenship. It allows them to travel to Elthize with no restrictions and seek consular assistance from Elthic embassies. This biometric document is valid for up to ten years, or five years for those under 18 years of age, or until the child turns 18.
Price of passport
Passport Type
Fee
Ordinary Passport, 10 years
69 ₠ – No fee for the first passport or for those earning less than 1,500 ₠ per month
Ordinary Passport, less than 10 years
49 ₠ – No fee for the first passport or for families earning less than 3,500 ₠ per month
Ordinary Passport reissued within 3 years
99 ₠
Emergency Passport
No fee
Ordinary Passport replacing Emergency Passport
No fee if replaced within one year, otherwise 49 ₠
Additional 64-page option
+19 ₠
Diplomatic, Official Passport, or Travel Document
No fee
Shipping fee (home delivery)
+9 ₠
Renewal outside Elthize (Consulate or embassy)
+19 ₠
Visa requirements of The State of Elthize by country - ordinary passports
Country
Description
Angleter
Visa required
Brickston
Visa-free for up to 21 days
California
Visa-free for up to 30 days
Czech Slavia
Visa required
Duxburian Union
Visa-free for up to 30 days
Fremet
Visa-free for up to 6 months
Hellas
Visa-free for up to 21 days
Icholasen
Admission refused to UNSR passports, visa required for other Nicoleizian passports
President Grimwald promises that Elthize will enter the EMUzone before 2024
by Janice Kyou - July 29, 2022
President Greenwich Grimwald and The Spanish Minister Of Social Affairs Barack Obama visiting the El Prado Museum in Madrid, November 2019. (image credit)
In his address to the nation last Tuesday, President Greenwich Grimwald announced that Elthize will switch to EMU no later than January 2024. The EMU, short for European Monetary Unit, is the common currency of six countries: Spain, Inquista, Vayinaod, Fremet, Montenbourg and Leagio. It was introduced in October 2020 after the Treaty of Finisterre, whose talks started three months earlier in July that year. In addition to all countries listed, the exiled free government of Icholasen also signed the treaty. However, the illegitimate communist government currently occupying the country doesn't recognize the said treaty, so no one in Icholasen uses the currency. Regardless, the treaty focuses on economic cooperation between the European nations and was a landmark moment in economical integration within the European Union.
One of the most asked questions leading up to the general election this year was whether or not Elthize would ditch the florin and use EMU as its currency going forward. In January 2021, Grimwald stated that Elthize would use a "special circulation status" with the EMU, accepting the currency alongside the florin. He explained that this move would improve relations with neighbouring Leagio, which is a member of the EMUzone. Grimwald also claimed that the move would improve tourism, a large sector of the Elthic economy. The move was approved by both houses of the parliament, the National Assembly and the Senate, and was approved by Grimwald himself in February of that year. While some MPs in the opposition questioned the action's legality, not much came of it, and while it is not technically the official currency of Elthize, many stores in Elthize accept the EMU today.
And it doesn't seem like President Grimwald is going to back down from embracing the EMU any time soon. In fact, in his latest address to the nation on July 26th, he made a promise: "I will make sure that Elthize meets the requirements and becomes a signatory of the Treaty of Finisterre before January 2024."
He also said: "We have been rejected from joining the treaty because we didn't meet the standards. I disagree. I believe that Elthize is a perfect country. However, my job is not to bicker and whine about it, it is to ensure that Elthic people have more convenient lives. It is also to keep my promises, as I have done in the past eight years as your president. So once again, I promise to put Elthize to EMUzone no later than January 31st, 2024. Mark that date."
This statement comes after the summit with Spain last month, in which Grimwald participated, alongside Minister of Foreign Affairs Oscar Crofton. Crofton stated that the EMU was one of the main discussion topics with the Spanish delegation. He also assured that Spanish President Jesús Aguilar and the rest of the Spanish government looked forward to Elthize joining the EMUzone in the future: "So far, we do not see any blocks in the way of Elthize completely switching to the EMU."
The country being a signatory to the Treaty of Finisterre is supported heavily across the political spectrum. The polls right before the 2022 election showed that only one-third of the country saw Elthize switching from the florin to EMU as a positive change. Today, that number has grown substantially, with 52% of the polled Elthics saying that Elthize switching to the EMU would be beneficial to their lives. 39% of the polled said they didn't mind a currency change, and only 7% of the polled said that the change would be negative for them.
Oscar Crofton says expanding of parliament "inevitable"
Minister of Foreign Affairs reaffirmed his support of expanding both houses for the first time since 2000 August 9, 2022
On his way to a regular cabinet meeting this afternoon, Minister of Foreign Affairs Oscar Crofton spoke with journalists. During the conversation, one of the cameramen mentioned his support for expanding the parliament, and he took advantage of the opportunity to reiterate his support: "It's inevitable. I mean, increasing the size of the parliament is a natural progression of Elthic democracy. As the country grows, so does its legislature. This is a bipartisan idea, I've never seen any opposition to it."
The proposal, which is part of a series of political reforms that will be put to a referendum no later than 2025, would increase the number of seats in the National Assembly from 250 to 300. The number of senate seats, currently 100, would remain unchanged. The amount of the increase was debated in parliament for months until today when President Greenwich Grimwald approved the proposals. If the referendum is successful, this will be the first time that both houses will expand since Former President Gloria Dietrich approved an expansion in 2000, which doubled the size of both houses.
"These reforms' fate will be decided by the Elthic people. They will have a voice in changes like these, as they always have," Grimwald spoke about the upcoming referendum. As stated in the Elthize Constitution and affirmed by the Constitutional Court four times (in 1951, 1971, 1983, and 2006), any changes to the Elthic political system require a referendum.
Other political reforms that Elthics will vote for in this referendum include restoring the position of Prime Minister, which Former President Archie Franklin abolished in 2007, giving the legislature absolute supremacy over all government institutions (also known as parliamentary sovereignty), combining the Supreme Court and the Constitutional Court, and limiting the terms of the judges who serve on these courts.
These reforms were first submitted to the National Assembly by New Democracy MA Ronald Lorenzen in November last year. He stated that he had been writing the motion since April 2019, and over time had tweaked the bill thanks to help from other New Democracy MAs.
"I believe that all of these changes are beneficial for the Elthic people," Lorenzen told NET. "We have many cracks and flaws in the system, and while this referendum will not fix all of them, it will be a remedy for a large portion of them. President Grimwald's approval of the motion is appreciated greatly and I am glad he sees my vision of improving Elthize."
Most of these reforms have been viewed positively by the Elthic public and are expected to pass with ease. According to the PIE, more than half of the eligible Elthic voters intend to vote yes on all of the reforms, and more than 70% intend to vote yes on a majority of the reforms. If approved, the reforms will go into effect after the next election, which will happen no later than April 2026.
Governing coalition clashes over possible ban on insider trading
The agreement between CSD and UnitedLeft may collapse February 21, 2025
Tensions within Elthize’s governing coalition are rising substantially as the Congress for Social Democracy (CSD) and the UnitedLeft alliance clash over the Political Etiquette Act’s insider trading ban. The law aims to prevent elected officials from using confidential government information, such as upcoming policy changes, economic forecasts, or regulatory decisions, to influence their personal financial investments. Lawmakers found guilty could face removal from office, hefty fines, and imprisonment, making it one of the strictest measures against political corruption in Elthize’s history.
Zoe Allen, leader of CSD, the largest party in Parliament, has raised concerns about the law’s broad scope, arguing it could unfairly punish lawmakers for routine financial decisions. “We all support transparency and accountability, but we cannot create a system where politicians are afraid to make standard investments,” Allen stated in a press briefing. Sources within CSD suggest some members are pushing for amendments to clarify what constitutes insider information, introduce exemptions for certain financial activities, weaken penalties, or simply remove the ban altogether.
UnitedLeft, meanwhile, rejects any changes. President Melissa Chai, also leader of the Democratic Socialists of Elthize (DSE), called public office a “position of trust,” stating that "any lawmaker who prioritizes personal wealth over the people should have no place in government". Leon den Hollander, leader of the Communist Party of Elthize (CPE), took an even stronger stance, accusing CSD of “protecting corrupt elites".
The insider trading ban is part of Section 5 of the Political Etiquette Act, titled "Prohibition of Political Favoritism Toward Corporate Interests".
"No elected official, government employee, or political candidate shall propose, support, or enact policies that prioritize corporate profits, private financial interests, or economic entities over the fundamental rights and well-being of Elthic citizens."
The law considers the following to be a violation of this principle:
Supporting legislation that provides financial benefits, tax breaks, or deregulation for corporations at the direct expense of public services such as healthcare, education, workers' rights, or environmental protections.
Accepting bribes, gifts, or financial incentives from corporate entities in exchange for favorable political treatment, including campaign donations that result in policy influence.
Engaging in insider trading or using privileged government information for personal financial gain.
Allowing private entities to monopolize essential public services or infrastructure in ways that diminish affordability, accessibility, or public oversight.
Entering into government contracts with private businesses without transparency, competitive bidding, or consideration for public interest.
Section 5 of the Political Etiquette Act has become a major point of contention among Elthize’s political parties. While it has seen full support from the UnitedLeft alliance, other political parties have various issues with what is considered a violation of the proposed principle. Liam Zachary, leader of the Business Party, argued that the law is "anti-growth" and proposed the removal of Section 5 altogether. Wirt Harland, leader of the Progressive Conservative Party (PCP), stated that they would observe the discussions around Section 5 "with great concern".
The most interesting reaction came from Lorraine Devi, leader of Harmony, who has recently got in legal trouble over her role in recent lethal protests against the Political Etiquette Act. While Devi reiterated her staunch opposition to the proposed act, she stated that she fully supports an insider trading ban, calling it "a betrayal of the people". Devi also stated that she would vote for an insider trading ban if it were delivered separately from the Political Etiquette Act.
With both sides of the governing coalition stubborn over their vision on the bill, the future of the bill is uncertain. it is rumoured that the bill may be withdrawn from consideration, at least until the next general election. Nonetheless, the Political Etiquette Act does seem to enjoy popularity among Elthics: According to recent polling from the Polling Institution of Elthize (PIE), 45% of responders thought of the bill positively, compared to 27% of responders who thought of the bill negatively.
State of emergency declared in Montgomery and St. Lucas as protests against recent political etiquette law escalate February 3, 2025
The protests against the proposed Political Etiquette Act have escalated in violence, resulting in at least thirteen fatalities, and more injured. Ten people have lost their lives in the province of Forecoaster, with at least seven deaths attributed to police brutality. Two individuals were killed in St. Lucas by police, while a man accidentally self-immolated in Montgomery in an attempt to burn down the provincial headquarters of Congress for Social Democracy.
The Forecoaster Police Department has asserted that they resorted to force in self-defense, alleging that the men were armed with pistols and shotguns. Harrison Faulkner, the Minister of Internal Affairs, has further claimed that “various armed militias have seized the opportunity and are attempting to terrorize the streets”.
More than five hundred people have been arrested, with at least seventy-two people detained. Most of the arrested are charged with damage to personal property or businesses, as well as assault and causing injury. At least one person in Montgomery has been detained under charges of attempted murder during a clash between protestors and counter-protestors.
A state of emergency has been declared in Montgomery and St. Lucas, following a similar move made in Forecoaster a couple of days ago. In St. Lucas, Governor Martha Krystoff declared the protests "the most violent uprising we have had to endure in the last fifteen years". In Montgomery, Governor Hunter Vance also declared a state of emergency, asking all citizens to "calm down", while declaring disapproval of the proposed law, claiming that President Melissa Chai is "fueling the fires of disorder".
In response to the disorder, the government has released a statement guiding its citizens on how to stay safe during the riots. The statement recommends that people do not go outside unless absolutely necessary, particularly if within the downtown area, plan an escape route in case of emergency, avoid being involved with the protests as much as possible, and refrain from crowded areas.
NEW PASSPORT DESIGN ANNOUNCED, TO BE DISTRIBUTED IN FEBRUARY
by Alfred Ingham - January 31, 2025
The new passport (left) comes with the addition of the Elfiz language, compared to the old passport (right).
Joanne Bird, Minister of Foreign Affairs, has unveiled the new design for the Elthic passport, marking the first update in a decade. The most notable changes in second edition of the biometric passports, which are the first edition since Elthize joined the European Union in 2022, is the inclusion of the Elfiz language on both the cover and pages of the passport.
The new design also features the phrase "European Union" alongside its Elfiz translation, Eruberni, appearing for the first time. Additionally, the passport now incorporates silver accents instead of gold, for the first time in fifty years.
There are changes to passport pricing as well. For the first time, people earning less than 1,500 EMU per month will not pay the passport fee. Additionally, families who earn less than 2,500 EMU per month will be exempt from passport fee for their children.
Repeat passports have become more expensive, however. Those who request a new passport less than three years before their previous passport was issued will have to pay 99 EMU, instead of the standard 69 EMU fee.
Additional services now come with extra fees: A 64-page passport (instead of the standard 32-page costs an additional 19 EMU, home delivery of passports requires an extra 9 EMU fee, and passports issued outside Elthic borders, such as in embassies or consulates, will cost an additional 19 EMU.
The new passport has also been adjusted to fit various international security standards. For example, the sex marker, which was removed with the 2015 passport, has been reintroduced, following various issues at security checks. Three options will be available: M (male), F (female), and X (other).
The updated design is set to be distributed starting in February, though certain locations may prioritize to offer the old passport design to deplete stocks. You can learn more about the new passports on the factbook.
MASS PROTESTS ROCK ELTHIZE AGAINST POLITICAL ETIQUETTE ACT
by Alfred Ingham - January 30, 2025
Police presence in downtown Forecoaster substantially increased following Lorraine Devi's calls to protest the new law. Image credit
Law enforcement in Elthize has been on high alert as protests against the proposed Political Etiquette Act spread across the country. Lorraine Devi, leader of Harmony, called for nationwide demonstrations on Tuesday, urging citizens to reject the bill, which seeks to restrict political speech deemed discriminatory or harmful. Right-wing politicians have slammed the legislation, claiming it will suppress free speech and eliminate opposition to President Melissa Chai, who introduced the proposal during her presidential campaign.
"Did William Lee Marchand and his countrymen fight for Elthize's independence just for it to become a communist dictatorship?" Devi shouted at a rally in Montgomery, where approximately 10,000 people gathered in Douglas Park. "To our so-called president, how will you explain to your children that you want this country to think only how you allow them to think? How will you explain to our children that they cannot speak their minds freely anymore?" The crowd erupted in boos directed at the government.
While Devi's rally remained largely peaceful, other demonstrations descended into chaos. Sid Breisler, head of the Montgomery Police Department, reported that thirty-four individuals were arrested for attacking police officers, vandalizing businesses, and assaulting bystanders. "While we may have our disagreements, I urge everyone to remain civil in these times," Breisler stated during a press conference.
In St. Lucas, two men, aged 22 and 25, were detained after attempting to set fire to the Governor’s House. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. Meanwhile, in Forecoaster, Governor Jess Udo declared a state of emergency as protests escalated. Local authorities confirmed the arrests of sixty-five individuals involved in demonstrations near Carrewich Park. Minor protests also took place in other provinces.
Counter-protests in support of the bill have also emerged. In St. Lucas, around 5,000 people participated in a "No Hate in Politics" event, rallying in favour of the legislation. Similar events have taken place in Forecoaster, as well as Brownell, where counter-protestors outnumbered protestors ten-to-one.
President Melissa Chai did not remain silent to recent developments, expressing her thoughts on social media: "Every democracy has a right to defend itself from ideologies that want it to be destroyed, its people to be oppressed, its freedoms to be curtailed. We will not back down."
Referring to a recent PIE poll that indicated that the law was more unpopular with younger voters, she continued: "Unfortunately, there is a new generation of Elthics that do not know anything besides lawlessness. They expect politicians to insult, lie, and cheat. The only Elthize they know is an cold, uncaring Elthize. While it is easy to feel sad about this, it is also easy to believe that nothing can change minds faster than love. And I know what I will believe in."
CHAI'S PROPOSED POLITICAL ETIQUETTE LAW IGNITES FIERCE DEBATE
by Janice Kyou - January 28, 2025
The law was first proposed during President Chai's electoral campaign.Image credit
An intense debate in Elthize was ignited once again after President Melissa Chai reiterated her support for the Political Etiquette Act during a press conference last Thursday. Chai, who first proposed such a law during her electoral campaign, stated that such law was "essential for keeping civility in Elthic politics".
"In an ideal Elthize, no politician can make statements, or build their whole political ideology, at the expense of other people, particularly those who are vulnerable," Chai stated. "We will not stand for the attempts at creating culture wars and inciting hatred." The bill, currently in draft form, aims to restrict political speech deemed discriminatory, harmful, or insulting, with a specific focus on attacks against minorities.
Zoe Allen, leader of the Congress for Social Democracy, the largest party in the Parliament, voiced cautious support for the law, stressing the importance of protecting vulnerable communities. “This law can help us build a more inclusive political environment,” Allen said. “However, in its current form, the punishments are disproportionately harsh, especially compared to punishments against violent crime. We will be in dialogue with the UnitedLeft coalition regarding our concerns with the law."
The law has also seen support within the UnitedLeft coalition, as well. Meti Adebayo, who is the leader of the Elfiz Party, expressed support for the law. “The Elfiz have endured hateful rhetoric for generations,” Adebayo said. “This law could offer us protections, but there is always potential that malicious actors could use it to prevent legitimate debate or scrutiny. That must not be allowed.”
Freddie Abbey, leader of the Moderates (who are in a confidence and supply agreement with the government), also expressed concern for the law. "We disagree with the idea that insults should be criminalized," Abbey claimed. "For us, that is an overstep. Respect in politics is vital, however, we must make sure that this law does not become a tool for political suppression.” Wirt Harland, leader of the Progressive Conservative Party, expressed support for Abbey's statements, stating that they will observe the bill "with great caution".
Harsh criticism came from right-wing politicians. Liam Zachary, the leader of the Business Party, stated that the law was "political censorship under the guise of social justice and protecting minorities," suggesting that the law should be "struck down as soon as possible".
Harmony was extremely aggressive towards the proposed law. Lorraine Devi, the leader of the hard-right party whose political platform will likely be most affected from this law, stated that the law was "an assasination attempt on democracy". Devi also called for Elthics to protest the law on social media: "First, it's us. Next, it will be you. Make sure your voice is heard in the streets against leftist authoritarianism!"
The draft law is set to be introduced in Parliament within the next couple months, before a potential vote later this year.
Elthize narrowly misses a top five finish at EuroVoice 46
Red Croatia wins the Christmas themed contest in the city of Málaga December 30, 2024
After months of waiting, the forty-sixth edition of EuroVoice has finally came to a close, with Red Croatia adding another win thanks to Lepa Brena and her song "Boliš i ne prolaziš" ("You hurt me and you're not going away"). The results show was rather intense, with around five countries, including Elthize, coming close to victory, with the winner unknown until the last moment.
During the results, it became clear that what mattered was consistency. Despite not receiving twelve points from any country, Red Croatia took the victory by receiving eight points or more from five countries, those were Inquista, California, the Mishar Republic, Fremet, and Istkalen, as well as the guest region of Portugal. Lepa Brena received seventy-four points in total.
Other entries, meanwhile, were more polarizing. The Istkalenic entry, "Ever Burn", performed by the Choir of the Arian Apostolic Church, highly controversial due to the extreme views held by the church and the disapproval of the Istkalenic Broadcasters Union, placed second with sixty-seven points, receiving the highest score from three countries- Inquista, the Mishar Republic, and Icholasen (performing under the Nicoleizian Joint EuroVoice Team), as well as the region of Portugal. Outside of an additional ten points from Red Croatia, however, the entry was bombed by other countries, receiving two points or less from six countries, including Elthize, which gave it one point.
The top five was completed with the region of Portugal and Fremet, both receiving sixty-five points. While the latter, Fremet, and their performance "Når himmelen faller ned" ("When the sky is falling down"), performed by Anne Grete Preus, received ten points from Elthize, as well as Reitzmag and the guest region of Conch Kingdom, a surprise twelve points from California was enough to give Portugal the edge, thus placing them third, and Fremet fourth.
Spain, the country which stepped in with hosting after months of no response from Ineland, the country who had won the previous EuroVoice, received fifth place with their song "Todo Es Posible En Navidad" ("Everything Is Possible In Christmas"), performed by David Bisbal. It received eight points from Fremet and the region of Conch Kingdom, as well as ten points from the United Duchies.
Elthize, who finished in sixth place with their song "Merry Christmas, Please Don't Call", performed by the band Bleachers, struggled heavily in the results show at first, receiving no points from California and the Mishar Republic, as well as the region of Portugal. The band quickly picked up the pace, however, following eight points from Reitzmag, ten points from Spain and Istkalen, and twelve points from Fremet and the United Duchies.
However, the comeback was not meant to be. After receiving only three points from the region of the Conch Kingdom, all hopes and dreams were shattered after Elthize received no points from Icholasen, who instead gave its douze-points to Istkalen. Elthize received sixty-three points in total, and fell out of top five for the first time since the forty-second edition of EuroVoice, missing it by one point.
Elthize, meanwhile, gave its twelve points to Reitzmag, who sent boygenius and Ye Vagabonds, performing "The Parting Glass". While the song also received twelve points from the region of Conch Kingdom, it also received no points from four countries: Inquista, Red Croatia, the Mishar Republic, and Istkalen, resulting in a disappointing eleventh place finish with fifty points.
The next edition of EuroVoice will be held in Red Croatia, with Rechroatian representatives stating that the next edition of EuroVoice will be held sometime in February 2025.
Reszelport Jezebel-Swift, the leader of the Arian Church of Reszelport Jezebel-Swift. She will deliver Istkalen's votes for EuroVoice 46.
Istkalen's latest entry to EuroVoice, titled "Ever Burn", has garnered substantial controversy for its fiery and provocative lyrics.
The song, performed by the Choir of the Arian Apostolic Church, includes lyrics such as “Stop praying, stop praying, God will not hear you anymore […] Go devil spawn, you just keep pushin’ on to the hell where you will forever burn.”
Vic Tenson, the president of the National Elthic Television (NET), expressed outrage on social media, stating, “I’m not sure what that song is about, but that’s not true Christianity. That’s a cult masquerading as such. The sensible action would be to disqualify them and their provocative performance immediately.”
When asked if Elthize would withdraw in protest, Tenson rejected the idea, stating that "EuroVoice is an important contest. We cannot let a single country ruin our participation."
Declared a terrorist organization by the United Duchies and Istkalen in February 2022, the Arian Church has a long and controversial history within the country of Istkalen.
"The Istkalenic Broadcasters' Union disavows the Istkalenic act in EV46," says a representative of the Istkalenic Broadcasters Union, upon request for comment by BBC Elthize.
"We would not have willingly chosen to make such a group and such a song, so antithetical to the republican values of our country, our representatives on the international stage; our hand was forced by deteriorating political conditions which have given extraordinary power over the organs of state to Reszelport Jezebel-Swift and the fundamentalist cult that has formed around her figure."
When asked for comment from EUBC (European Union Broadcasters Committee) a representative from EUBC stated that the song did not break any rules: "The EUBC would like to say that EuroVoice is a contest open to everyone and that it is not new to the contest to have lyrics speaking as explicitely about sex as the song from Istkalen does".
The representative further added that certain tweaks would be done to the Istkalenic performance to ensure it breaks no rules: "The EUBC has seen and listened to all entries and the maximum propaganda that they have found is a message saying “Jesus is Lord” at the beginning of the submitted performance. However, that part cannot be displayed during the show."
RTVE (Radiotelevisión Española), the organizers of the 46th edition of EuroVoice, declined to comment, stating that they had no involvement in the matter.
Elthize is set to participate in the fourty-sixth version of EuroVoice, which will be held in the Spanish city of Málaga, with the song "Merry Christmas, Please Don't Call" by the band Bleachers.
Christmas and New Years Eve holidays to be merged to a week-long holiday in nine provinces
The holidays will last continuously from December 25 to January 1
Welcome back to Evening News at LNN! I am William Berwick, and we are returning from our break. As the holiday season approaches, provincial governments across Elthize have agreed on something, for once. They have decided to merge Christmas and New Year’s into a singular, week-long public holiday, commencing on December 25th and concluding on January 1st.
With the exception of Liamville and Montgomery, all provinces will observe this week-long holiday. However, there may be variations in the specific arrangements made by each province. For instance, St. Lucas will implement extensive store closures during the holiday period, while essential services such as supermarkets and pharmacies will remain operational, albeit with reduced hours.
Martha Krystoff, Governor of St. Lucas, has also announced an extension of the holiday to January 2nd this year, thereby accommodating the final day of Hanukkah and welcoming the significant Jewish population within the province.
Forecoaster has adopted a more flexible approach, granting businesses the decision to determine their own operating hours during the holiday week. Port Nelson has also implemented a similar model, as well. Ackerson, meanwhile, has implemented the strictest policies, with all establishments remaining closed for the initial three days of the holiday. So if you live there, we advise you to exercise caution and avoid engaging in potentially hazardous activities during this period.
Now, let us discuss the school closures. In St. Lucas, Port Nelson, Brownell, Marchand, and Ackerson, all schools will be closed for the entire week. In Forecoaster and Southern Counties, they will close only on Christmas, New Year's Eve, and New Year's Day. For the rest of the provinces, the schools will remain open. Sorry, kiddos!
Oh, and also, the week-long break coincides with the 46th edition of the EuroVoice Song Contest this year. Finally! We have been eagerly awaiting the return of the EuroVoice Song Contest after a nine-month hiatus. Spain has graciously agreed to host the contest in the sunny city of Málaga, following the withdrawal of the previous host, Ineland.
Our friends at NET have selected Bleachers to represent our nation with their song, “Merry Christmas, Please Don’t Call". It's rather... melancholic for a Christmas song, but I guess that's what makes it special. Definitely an unique twist on how Christmas songs usually sound like. We'll see if it gives us our first win!
That’s all for now. From all of us here at LNN, I’m William Berwick wishing you a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, and a joyous New Year. Stay safe, and have a wonderful holiday season!
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