Seko

[Elena1012]

Koiso Cabinet enacts stimulus relief; An attempt at restoring predictability.

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June 3rd, 5705
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One of the first things to establish is the Sekowan economy. It's certainly seen better days, and has been on a constant decline. While less of a crippling depression, it's more of a constant state of stagnation. This isn't to minimize the rather poor state of the economy, or make things appear better then they are, it's clear that the economy has been in a constant downward spiral, whether in a plummet or a slow descent. So, it's no surprise that the Koiso Cabinet's first goal is to focus heavily on the economy. Anything radical is instantly dead in the water as the Imperial Diet will not pass anything extreme. Doubly so with the Liberal Democratic Coalition ranging from social democrats to market liberals.

But, that hasn't stopped the Koiso Cabinet from being able to achieve something. And that something, is providing stimulus relief to Sekowans, whether businesses or workers. Let's face it, the major reason that the far right has appeal is because of the dire economic situation. It's the biggest reason. The state is felt as absent, the economy is inconsistent, jobs are insecure, it's not exactly a welcoming environment for the average Sekowan. The goal of this stimulus relief is to restore predicability, even if it's for a limited amount of time. It's better to have some aid done than stay silent trying to achieve perfection.

So, what will this package entail? First, and certainly not least, cost of living rebates. Automatic rebates will be offered on electricity, heating (especially for the winters), and basic food staples. Warm, well fed Sekowans is the goal. These rebates will be offered via utility bills, tax credits and taking advantage of social insurance systems. No applications, no paperwork. Instant, yet boring aid. Next, is extended unemployment benefit durations. Unemployment benefits themselves will not be extended (as this discussion was quickly shot down amongst the coalition), but the benefits will receive an extension, so Sekowans can have more time. The jobless go to extremes. And finally, wage insurance. For laid off workers, once they find a job, it's usually one that pays less, and they usually leads to downward economic mobility. The state will step up, and temporarily cover parts of that former wage gap. Coverage will decline over time however. 

Within the Liberal Democratic Coalition, this has been surprisingly accepted. Progressives have applauded any progress as good progress, and have pitched the idea of a public works program to get Sekowans reliably employed, bringing some controversy to the coalition. Liberals have supported it, because the state isn't actively stepping on the market, and cynically some presume it's to build up goodwill and public favour for the inevitable vote on the monarchy's fate. Cooperative Democrats have been supportive, both because it's largely their initiative, and it's calm enough to work.

While it's not much in the grand scheme of things, and the road to recovery is long, and certainly arduous, the Koiso Cabinet is trying. And that's more than can be said about past cabinets.