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RE: Baltusia - Elena1012 - 08-05-2025
Agreement to a Constitutional Convention; The end of Syndicalism in Baltusia.
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June 2nd, 5640
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The SAUS, born in revolution has died in revolution. After weeks of negotiations between Cole and representatives of the Silver Movement, Trade Unions, Student Unions and other key groups, a conclusion has been reached. Syndicalism will come to an end. But several things are worth noting.
First things first, the promise of a Constitutional Convention. It's been several decades since liberalism has been in Baltusia, and the last time it was in Baltusia, it was under a libertarian state. However, since that time, new visions for Baltusia have emerged. So much so that a Constitutional Convention is needed. The CC will focus on determining the new type of government, the fate of the economy, democracy, organization of the government, federalism and other topics. Representatives from all across the country have been gathered as what remains of the CCC is dissolved and a temporal government is established, still governed by Lauren Cole. The Provisional State of Baltusia. With the Provisional Congress of Baltusia being organized and focusing on stabilizing the situation whilst the Constitutional Convention prepares itself, the flag of the SAUS flies over Johnston for the last time.
So far, what is guaranteed is that democracy will be established after the Constitutional Convention. As such, no political parties are allowed to organize yet, much to the disappointment of more radical elements in the Silver Movement. But the fact that the Convention is even happening shows that the negotiated results are genuine. It's likely that the restrictions on other parties organizing is in place to prevent them from potentially conflicting with what the Convention comes up with for the fate of the country such as federalism.
In any case, the Constitutional Convention will take place in a few months, and following that, free and fair elections. As syndicalism falls in Baltusia, the North Seleyan Revolutions finds itself taking another nation with the Silver Revolution (Revolution of 39-40) being successful. Despite the issues that remain, the future may perhaps be bright again. But there is a lot of work to be done to get there. We can only hope that the Constitutional Convention is successful and proceeds with no issues.
RE: Baltusia - Doc - 08-05-2025
Lady Anya Waltrip reports Baltusian Government is recognized
Her Imperial Majesty wants to support reform without supporting Revolution
RE: Baltusia - Elena1012 - 09-05-2025
Constitutional Convention reaches stalemate; Despite stalemate, progress is made.
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September 20th, 5640
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For the past week, the Constitution Convention has been ongoing and it's received mixed results. Various factions have sent representatives determined to mold the future of Baltusia. Moderate syndicalists, libertarians, liberals, paternalists, you name it. As expected, the convention has reached stalemates several times. But progress has been made. So let's focus on that for now.
The most notable compromise came between moderate socialists and liberals on the economy. It was always clear that the syndicalist union based economy was going to go away. But the question was how? Should capitalism return outright? If so, how much? On one end, the libertarians argued for a full return to the old United States model, keeping regulations minimal or even non existent and allowing the private market full freedom. On the other side, moderate socialists argued for a worker directed market economy. Combining the delegates of the socialists and liberals, a compromise was reached. Baltusia will reject full laissez-faire economics, but it will also reject full socialism. The Social Market Compromise was made. The government will maintain key regulations and ensure that the private market doesn't deprive the average Baltusian of a decent living, but the government will also give room for private enterprise to not just exist but thrive. This will allow for an adequate balance of state control and market freedom.
Besides that compromise, it was almost unanimous in maintaining a federal model. This was to be expected as fee delegates opposed federalism. Each province will have guaranteed rights and the authority for self autonomy. They shall pass laws they deem adequate, and regulate themselves in how they see fit. While not to a confederal level in that the central government is essentially for show, it can be argued that the line between federation and federal state is blurred heavily. But the federal government will still be the end all, be all factor.
However, that's as far as compromises have gotten. The biggest issue has been on democratization. Obviously all delegates endorse democracy. But what kind? Some delegates have pushed for a parliamentary democracy, arguing that Congress should have the power over the executive to prevent tyranny. Others argued for the executive to have more power to ensure stability and progress. A compromise was attempted for a Semi-Presidential System but that compromise fell short of a few dozen votes. The biggest issue has largely been on the fate of the head of state and head of government. No one wants a government that does nothing like the United States did. But no one wants a government that is too strong like SAUS was. However, with no compromise in sight, it seems that this part of the Convention will have to be shelved for now and pushed back to a later date. Should no compromise come about in the meantime, delegates may outright walk out or look abroad for ideas. Despite the stalemate however, progress is progress. No matter if it gets stuck at times.
RE: Baltusia - Elena1012 - 11-05-2025
A Shocked Compromise; A Regency in Baltusia?
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March 2nd, 5641
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After several delegates threatening to walk out and more stalemates, many started losing faith in the Constitutional Convention. It was unlikely that it would come to an end. Not without failure. Yet somehow a compromise was met. In the most shocking way possible. A regency. One delegate, Toby Price managed to present the offer of a monarchy as a compromise. Arguing that the stability of surrounding states such as Gaduridos, Lodamun and Kalistan under monarchist influence was sorely needed. Immediately, it was rejected due to the implications of selling out to the Anantonese Empire or installing a foreign monarch. However, the proposal did have some merits. It couldn't be denied how much more stable monarchist nations were in comparison to republican states. The republican system was vital to Baltusia. It's defined Baltusia for so long. Yet no one wanted a repeat of the instability of the United States. Or the factors leading up to the syndicalist revolution. Price would once again offer a compromised version of his proposal. A regency. They would be elected by Congress, and would be strictly ceremonial. True power would lie in the proposed First Minister. The First Minister would be directly elected by the people. The Regent would remain until a suitable monarch could be found, but it's worth noting that there is no time limit on finding a monarch, and given that there is hardly any chance a foreign monarch will be put on the throne so it essentially ensures that the Regent remains indefinitely, and no monarch comes about. Royal Republicanism or what not.
In a shock, the compromised watered down proposal would pass narrowly by 4 votes. This essentially means that the Provisional Government is over. Or rather, it will be over soon. With the rest of the Constitutional Convention having success following this compromise, elections have been scheduled for later this year. October. As such, political parties will be allowed to form now. Before we go into that, what about the remaining months to October? The Provisional Government will remain and continue managing affairs, but will determine a Regent and manage day to day affairs until the elections. It is worth noting however that the Regent will have to be appointed before January of next year. Alongside this, the public will be invited for helping in the designing of a flag for this new direction. While hardline republicans grumble at this controversial compromise, there's no harm in trying it. No foreign monarch is being appointed so technically there's no harm in trying the regency system. If the public feels the system is useless or an insult to the core of Baltusia, it can be dissolved.
Now, onto the main political parties that have formed.
Starting off from left to right, we have the remnants of the Silver Left. Consisting of moderate socialists, moderate reformist syndicalists, social democrats and anything in-between, the Non-Partisan League. Positioning itself as a broad left to Centre-left party, the NPL has found strong appeal amongst rural Baltusia due to its support of Left-wing Agrarianism. Alongside that, the NPL has largely supported social democratic ideals and supports strong government intervention in the economy. But it is worth noting that it is a broad alliance essentially. Progressives, socialists, social democrats, and syndicalists working together is a hard sell. Both for voters and the party itself. Not to mention the fears of syndicalism now.
Moving to the centre left to centre, we have the Radical Party, advocating for Social Liberalism. Presenting itself as a more moderate alternative to the NPL ironically enough, the Radicals advocate for maintaining the mixed market system and restoring liberalism to Baltusia. Popular in cities and amongst reformists, the Radicals present a safe choice.
Inhabiting the Centre to Centre-Right, the Constitutional Reform Party advocates for Liberal Conservatism, calling for slow measured reforms and preventing extremism on both sides. What makes the CRP unique however is its sister party, the Movement of 39-40, advocating for populist centrism and centrist politics. Both parties present a moderate choice for Baltusia. Liberal on civil rights, conservative on economics in the direction of supporting the free market.
The final party, and the most furthest right party is the Baltusia First Party. A Paleoconservative, Nationalist party, the BFP is nothing short of controversial like the NPL, but it is popular amongst nationalists, staunch anti-socialists and conservatives who feel the CRP is too liberal. A controversial choice for Baltusians, but one that will ensure sovereignty.
However, you'll notice we've missed one party. Because it is not a new one, but a reformation. The Libertarian Party. It's defined itself by immediate hostility to socialism, big government and the regency as a whole. Being incredibly liberal socially, the Libertarians have proudly supported small government management and slashing the social market system, calling for laissez-faire economics. Controversial to some, sane to others, the Libertarians will certainly shake things up.
With elections later this year, there is much work to be done. Determining the name of this new government after the Provisional Government is dissolved, determining a flag, preparing Congress and the public for elections, and most importantly, finding a Regent. As the public is wearily and cautiously optimistic for the future, the biggest questions asked is, will the Regency last long? Or will Baltusia's republican history kick the regency to the curb? Time will tell, but it seems like it'll have to provide stability to prove it's worth.
RE: Baltusia - Elena1012 - 12-05-2025
Preparing the Commonwealth of Baltusia for elections; Electing a Regent and defining the Electoral System.
![[Image: XEOIjO4.png]](https://i.imgur.com/XEOIjO4.png)
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June 1st, 5641
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With elections looming, the Provisional Government has had the task of defining the future government. To that end, several things are to be discussed. The flag, the formation of the Commonwealth, the powers of the First Minister, how elections will be handled, and the Regent himself. Starting off with the easiest and simplest, the flag. After a referendum on the flag using public designed flags, it was clear that many rejected the eagle. It was too stained with the past. Too stained with the fears of instability and syndicalism. This lead many to drift towards either a flag with no animal on it or an alternative. The top contender was a flag with a turkey with it. The eagle has died. And the Turkey stands over its corpse. This flag will be the official flag of Baltusia going forward, replacing the Provisional Flag.
Next, the Commonwealth itself. No one wants a name like the "Kingdom of Baltusia" or anything implying monarchism. That's too extreme. The Regency Compromise barely passed the Constitutional Convention. But the Commonwealth of Baltusia? That's a more suitable name for Republicans, moderates and supporters of this Regency Compromise.
Now onto the bread and butter. Elections and the First Minister. As was defined in the Constitutional Convention, the First Minister will not be elected by Congress, but instead by the people directly. This doesn't mean that the First Minister can ignore Congress, and they will have to work with Congress, but Congress will also have to work with the First Minister. The First Minister will have the power to appoint a cabinet (Congress will still vet them to ensure stability), and the First Minister will have the ability to veto any legislation from Congress. Congress can override the veto however. Overall, the First Minister will be powerful enough to not be dependent on Congress, but not powerful enough to be the equivalent of a dictator. The First Minister will be largely responsible for governing the nation.
As for elections themselves, they shall be proportional. This ensures coalitions are required and ensures that the First Minister has to work with their own party, and their coalition partners.
But the biggest thing worth noting is the Regent. Regent of the Commonwealth (notice the lack of formal titles), Sir James Hamilton has been nominated by the Regency Council. Regent Hamilton will act as a symbolic figure to ensure stability for all of Baltusia. They will serve until a monarch is found. Legally at least. In reality, with how unlikely it is to find a monarch, Regent Hamilton will serve indefinitely as the Regent of the Commonwealth. The Regent will have little powers as per the Regency Compromise. Overall, good progress is being made for Baltusia. As elections near and parties go to campaigning, so far, polls are showing a toss up between the social liberal minded Radical Party and the liberal conservative Constitutional Reform Party/Movement of 39-40. The NPL, BFP and the Libertarians are polling solidly but not well enough to be in a solid bloc. Certainly kingmakers, but not their own bloc. In any case, we'll see results when the elections come about, whether it be under a liberal ministership, or a conservative one.
RE: Baltusia - Elena1012 - 14-05-2025
Constitutional Reform Party prevails in elections; A moderate liberal conservative mandate.
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November 3rd, 5641
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The recent elections have been nothing short of exciting. The first elections after the Silver Revolution have been watched eagerly domestically. Whether it be the socialist NPL or the Nationalist BFP, the entire political spectrum has been largely involved in the elections. But many expected the election to come down to two parties. The centre-left Radical Party advocating for social liberalism with the candidate, Messiah Marks, advocating for a Baltusia that is reintegrated into the world, supporting the social market economy, and interestingly enough, a green deal. Applicability aside, the Radicals have certainly looked it promote a moderate progressive liberal agenda for the future.
On the flip side, the Constitutional Reform Party (and it's sister party, the Movement of 39-40) found themselves advocating for centre-right policies with the candidate, Gabriel Barrett (who would go on to win First Ministership) calling for moderation, moderate market liberalism, joining the SEC, and promoting a "Seleyan Centric" foreign policy. With the M39-40 campaigning on the coastline on a centrist platform, the Constitutional Reform Party has profoundly won this election.
The other parties are worth noting however. The Non-Partisan League found itself campaigning on a "soft landing" out of syndicalism and largely promote support for agrarian rural communities who may have been left behind by syndicalism. However, the NPL found itself opposing the SEC as well. Being the only left wing party to oppose the SEC, it can be argued that the issue of the Seleyan Economics Community did split the left vote between the NPL and Radicals. The Libertarians did run a good campaign, but nonetheless was controversial. Calling for full laissez-faire economics, full economic sovereignty away from the SEC, diplomatic isolation, arguing that Baltusia needed to focus internally on the economy first, and drastically expanding the power of federalism. The most right wing party in Baltusia, the Baltusia First Party was nothing short of controversial. Campaigning strongly against the SEC, for economic nationalism, isolationism and strong social conservatism, the BFP found itself to have little appeal. It seems Baltusians want stability and moderation, not extreme nationalism.
In any case, the elections have been largely successful. While anomalies were reported, we can say that, legally, the Constitutional Reform Party has prevailed, and Gabriel Barrett will now be the First Minister of the Commonwealth.
RE: Baltusia - Aethan - 14-05-2025
Valruzia will propose to its neighbors the construction of a monument for those “fallen for freedom” on the border between the three nations
RE: Baltusia - Elena1012 - 15-05-2025
Relations established with Kalistan; Baltusia joins the SEC.
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March 13th, 5642
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In terms of foreign policy, Baltusia has always been isolative ever since the SAUS. When First Minister Barrett was elected on a platform of "Seleyan Centric Diplomacy", many saw immense potential. Relations with Seleya would be restored. However, one question often asked was, "what about the Anantonese Empire?". With the claims on the coastline, many expected the worst. Until Princess Margaret visited. Not only did the visit go smoothly, but it alleviated most fears. As such, First Minister Barrett has announced that, starting today, trade restrictions with Kalistan will be fully lifted. Arguing that trade is necessary for economic growth and Kalistan has shown itself willing to engage in talks of good faith, the Barrett Administration has shown strong interest in establishing economic ties not just with Kalistan, but neighbouring Seleyan states.
While the relationship between Baltusia and Kalistan has always been... Terse to say the least, this effort has been applauded back home for making strides in maintaining peace and establishing diplomatic relations. But diplomacy doesn't stop with Kalistan. As such, with the help of the Radical Party, and a few moderates within the NPL, the vote on joining the Seleyan Economics Community passed Congress. This will not only remove trade barriers with the rest of Seleya (as a majority of Seleya remains in the SEC), but it'll allow the free movement of capital. With the threat of recession hanging over the head of Baltusia, joining the SEC will likely help in countering the possibility of a recession. While the NPL and BFP have bashed the Barrett Administration, and the members of Congress who voted in favour of joining the SEC, this hasn't stopped momentum.
The Barrett Administration has also made it clear that these efforts don't stop here however. It's likely that we'll see further economic ties establishing with other Seleyan states but it remains to be seen. In any case, the efforts to get the economy on its feet, and establishing diplomatic relations are likely to bear fruit soon. However, many are optimistically looking to Kalistan and the rest of Seleya for economic ties. While nationalists in the BFP warn of the country being sold out to globalists or neo-monarchists in Kalistan, and socialists in the NPL (at least the actual socialists, as social democrats in the NPL have been supported of the SEC) have warned that the working class is being abandoned in favour of neoliberalism, and foreign interests. Whatever the case, the Barrett Administration will have to manage the rope between sovereignty, and economic recovery.
RE: Baltusia - Elena1012 - 16-05-2025
Beginning of the Concord Deal; Healing Baltusia after years of syndicalism.
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June 13th, 5642
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The economy. It's always the economy. For years, the economy has been in a state of downturn. Syndicalist mismanagement and economic isolation has lead to a severe economic downturn for Baltusia. Combined with the threat of recession, and reduced consumer confidence and you have a recipe for an economic crisis. Fortunately, the Barrett Administration has looked to prevent a recession and enact economic change. To that end, First Minister Barrett has announced the "Concord Deal", looking to unite Baltusia after such an election, remind Baltusians of what the Silver Revolution was about, and bring about economic development.
As such, the First Minister has announced that a focus will be made in urban infrastructure renewal, looking to renew the cities of Baltusia and prevent urban decay. Roads, service buildings, general infrastructure, you name it. However, in symbiosis with the Urban Renewal Initiative, the Rural Renewal Initiative will also occur simultaneously, focusing on connecting rural communities to the Trans-Seleyan Railway, providing development for rural communities and working with local governments to ensure a healthy rural-urban relationship.
The goal is to not have the state act as a paternal caretaker, but have the state work with private enterprise in providing development and economic recovery. Public-Private Partnerships essentially. Alongside this, small businesses will be supported with a one time startup grant. To prevent abuse, it'll be capped but the goal is to support economic development everywhere, not just in specific areas.
The First Minister and the Department of Finance has assured the public that the Concord Deal will not stop here. This first phase is focused on stopping any economic bleeding and providing development. The next phases will focus on social mobility, education reform, and opening the door for a developed, wealthy Baltusia. However, this plan is not without criticism. The NPL, whether it be progressives, social democrats, or socialists, have argued that the Concord Deal is good, but it doesn't go far enough to help the working class. While the Movement of 39-40 is a sister party to the Constitutional Reform Party, they do represent a more centrist if not fiscally conservative agenda and have been worried about financing the Concord Deal. The Libertarians, as expected, have come out in full opposition to the Concord Deal, believing that the state should let go of all regulations in the free market and let local governments handle issues. The BFP has been eerily silent on the issue with individual members of the BFP making their own statements instead of a unified party response. In any case, the Concord Deal presents a new hope for Baltusia and getting the economy on its feet.
RE: Baltusia - Elena1012 - 18-05-2025
Efforts for economic recovery continues on; Exploiting resources before Phase 2.
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February 18th, 5643
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The Concord Deal remains controversial to say the least. Some say it doesn't go too far. Others say it's too expensive and that the country has to be fiscally responsible during this economic situation. And it would seem those concerns about fiscal responsibility have taken priority as the Barrett Administration is looking to exploit Baltusian natural resources. With members of the CRP and the Barrett Administration arguing that the exploitation of natural resources, especially valuable ones will be vital to providing funding for the Concord Deal.
As such, the Barrett Administration has looked to exploit copper. While not as valuable as other resources, it's the best resource available given the economic situation and fiscal concerns. As such, existing facilities will be modernized. Alongside this, grants on private industries to develop smelting and refinery plants. Tax credits will also be offered for industries producing copper goods, such as wires, components and piping. As long as they use Baltusian Copper. While so far, the economy is not plummetting, it isn't thriving either and the fiscal situation isn't any better. As such, the Barrett Administration can't be too liberal in spending without both going into deficit spending, and upsetting the sister party within the CRP, the Movement of 39-40. While it's a precarious situation, it's still manageable.
For new facilities, Private-Public Partnerships will be utilized to expand copper mining facilities. The goal is to produce copper, export it via the Seleyan Economics Community, and produce money and funding for the state to fund the Concord Deal. So far however, it's too early to say what will come of this. Public confidence in the Concord Deal and the Barrett Administration remains high, but it could falter if the Administration gives into fiscal conservatism too much. If the Administration ignores fiscal conservatives too much however, the fiscal situation could become a ticking time bomb for the administration and threaten not only re-election chances in 45, but also harm economic growth.