Situation Report: In the Name of the Father

[Avaerilon]

Greetings, and welcome to the Council of Leaders.

Situation Report
Quick facts on the issue

Title: In the Name of the Father
-Details-
Description: Sectarian conflict in SLU-governed province
Currently: Large-scale marches and protests, civil unrest, sectarian violence
Why: Disagreements between two large communities over sovereignty and culture of province

First Conference Briefing
Detailed Facts on the Issue

Welcome, fellow leaders, to this Council of Leaders.

The Protectorate of Armocht, also known as South Fernargh, has been governed by the SLU for a considerable amount of time, and is administered as a democratic entity of the region. Originally part of the Kingdom of Fernargh, this area saw considerable SLUan immigration, along with numerous Fernarghians moving for economic reasons.

Map of Armocht/South Fernargh

When the Kingdom of Fernargh had a change of government that wanted to leave the SLU, it agreed with the Union that holding individual referendums in each province was the right thing to do. Every province voted to leave, except for Armocht. Respecting the wishes of the majority, some 67.8%, the Kingdom left the SLU, but Armocht stayed within, administered by the SLU for a variety of reasons.

In recent years, however, the population has become polarised over its future. Fernarghian nationalists claim that the province is a rightful part of the Kingdom, and should be returned to create a united Fernargh. Armochtian unionists claim the result of the referendum is binding and that the SLU administration is best for the area.

At first, these disagreements were largely political and conducted in the halls of parliament in the capital Amlin. However, radicals on both sides have whipped-up bile and rhetoric, and caused a sectarian divide- between the largely Fernarghian nationalists, and the largely SLUan unionists. Lately, the police have had to be deployed to prevent marches and protests form boiling-over and becoming violent.

Sadly, this has now happened in Armocht, and even worse, a number of paramilitary groups on both sides have been created to "defend" each groups' interests. The largest are the nationalist FNLA (Fernarghian National Liberation Army) and the unionist ADA (Armocht Defence Association). These thugs are said to be armed and dangerous, and could cause a civil war. The government of the protectorate has appealed to the states of the SLU for help as soon as possible.

Just yesterday, unionists petrol-bombed a furniture shop in a nationalist area of the capital. Nationalists retaliated by burning the cars in a dealership in a unionist area.


LEADERS, what do you suggest we do?
Post your response to this issue to effect the outcome of the next update!

The situation will be updated randomly sometime. Do not delay your move!

[Deleted]

Franco-Lowlands would support a new referendum on whether Armocht should remain in the SLU, or leave to be in full communion with Fernargh. If the government of Armocht would like us to do so, we are willing to send a peace keeping operation while the referendum takes place.

[The Commonwealth of Feebland]

Perhaps the territory should be split into two; in a way similar to North Ireland. A border should be erected and manned with combined SLU forces. Two capitals, one for each nation, will be erected. Neutral mediators should be consulted to fairly divide the nation.

[Azerzia]

Perhaps there is the possibility of a joint solution?
-It rejoins Fernagh control for foreign policy and military matters.
-It does maintain semi-independence, with absolute control of domestic policy, as a free territory within the SLU so long as it maintains SLU standards.
-Referendums could then be held every 4 years in Armocht about keeping free territory status, fully joining Fernagh or joining the SLU as a fully sovereign nation and state. Change of status would mean a division of greater than 50% in favor of one of the options.

In exceptional circumstances:
-In the event that less than 10% of the population is in favor of maintaining the free territory status, but neither of the other two options gets a majority, discussions can begin about dividing the territory between SLU governed free territories and Fernagh-ish territories.
-In event of war between the SLU or any state within it, the territory would be immediately occupied by the SLU until the end of the conflict. All terms would then be renegotiated.

[Millyland]

We join the call of Franco-Lowlands to hold a referendum.

[The Commonwealth of Feebland]

Do keep in mind, no matter how many referenda are had, there will always be a large percentage of the minority that are dissatisfied, and may cause trouble. These groups should be separated to ease the ethnic tensions of the region. Take, for example, the erection of the border between the two sides of Cyprus (Turkish and Greek) by the UN. It's been relatively peaceful since.

[Azerzia]

But we also have to consider the India-Pakistan partition or the North/South Vietnam divide. One led to genocide and the other to over a decade of civil war. I would hesitate to suggest partition as the first option

[The Commonwealth of Feebland]

It simply matters if the partition is done fairly. Some work, some don't. But i do see your point.

[Deleted]

I think that separating ethnic groups when it isn't absolutely necessary only leads to isolation, racism, hate, and conflict. If we could keep the groups together, and if the government follows through with acceptance and diversity based education programs, the people will, eventually, be able to look past ethnicity.

[Kanoria]

I agree with Franco-Lowlands, integration is the way to go. I would set up a regional task force, with a small force of peacekeepers to prevent violent clashes whilst encouraging protest, and a diplomatic attachment to seek leaders of the groups and attempt discourse. Once we know what the issues with the state of affairs are, we can move in a more informed way.

[Deleted]

The Oceanian people feel that it is important to remember the place of the Kingdom in Fernargh. Diplomatic dispatches should be sent from the SLU to both Armocht and the Kingdom of Fernargh, to determine whether a re-integration would be feasible at this point. Armocht has been removed from Fernargh for some time, and there is nothing at this point to suggest that an annexation would be peaceful or practical.

[Newhalla]

The Allied States of Newhalla supports Azerzia proposal. But we are highly against the deployment of foreign soldiers on Armocht and Fernargh soil.

[Avaerilon]

Greetings, and welcome to the Council of Leaders.

Situation Report
Quick facts on the issue

Title: In the Name of the Father
-Details-
Description: Sectarian conflict in SLU-governed province
Currently: Violent, disruptive protests, tit-for-tat attacks by paramilitaries, attacks on government buildings
Why: Disagreements between two large communities over sovereignty and culture of province

Second Conference Briefing
Detailed Facts on the Issue

Welcome, fellow leaders, to this Council of Leaders.

Sadly, the conflict in Armocht has deepened, despite our best efforts. It seems talks of referenda has incited both FNLA and ADA, as well as many radical members of the two communities. The nationalists claim the talks "are a smokescreen for the continued cultural and political genocide of Fernragh," while unionists speak of "a plot by the government of Fernargh to oppress those of SLUan origin and institute a puppet-state of violence."

Any peaceful protests have disappeared; the political have either been silenced into fear by the radicals or joined them as agitators. The government of Armocht is loathed by both sides. What's more, paramilitary attacks have escalated. Shootings and murders have occurred, and even worse, civilians are now being actively targeted by both FNLA and ADA.

Furthermore, a bomb was exploded in the Ministry of Transport's offices, which thankfully killed no-one, but destroyed several million sluan worth of equipment, and has forced the ministry to seek offices elsewhere. FNLA has claimed responsibility, and has stated that "SLUan citizens, should they remain on Fernarghian soil, are giving ourselves permission to use them as targets. If they know what's good for them, they'll get out."

The Kingdom of Fernargh has now waded-into the conflict. However, there is a crisis within the nation itself. The Queen of Fernargh, Aoife Conncoille, wishes to share power with the SLU, but says she "respects the legal sovereignty of the SLU in terms of Armocht." The First Minister, Lindsay Boyd, disagrees, and has suggested "the SLU should be condemned for continuing to occupy South Fernargh," It looks like reaching a deal with Fernargh will be another challenge for us to deal with.

Map of Armocht/South Fernargh

Franco-Lowlands: You were one of the first to call for a referendum, and both the Armochtian government and the Queen of Fernargh have beseeched you to send a diplomatic mission to their respective centres. Meanwhile, you suggested an education programme, which has been undertaken by some more liberal local authorities in wealthier areas of cities, and is already effecting young children positively. Unfortunately, a Francish-born citizen was nearly killed in an attempted murder. It seems your nation is not popular with ultra-nationalists or ultra-unionists.

Feebland: You called for a division of Armocht and the deployment of SLUan troops. This has found support from unionists, who demand troops to be send to suppress nationalists. Quite a few of your military advisers suggest you send troops in, regardless of SLU decisions, since citizens seem concerned about terrorist attacks.

Azerzia: You suggested some power-sharing and devolution. Nationalists now rally with your flag in-hand, and have begged your government to help their cause. Prominent Fernarghian celebrities in your nation have set-up a charity with nationalist politicians to provide funds for "good causes." It is alleged this fund supplies FNLA with weapons.

Millyland: You also support a referendum. In doing so, you have incensed some small number of separatists in your own nation, who are gaining support. They demand a referendum, also. Meanwhile, many SLUan citizens have flooded your diplomatic mission in Amlin, applying to emigrate.

Kanoria: Your cautious and encompassing approach has won favour from non-sectarian liberal groups, and from moderates in both unionist and nationalist circles. However, religious leaders from both communities have begun denouncing you for "propagating hatred," and your military advisers feel your nation could soon experience a terrorist attack.

Oceanic Atolls: You suggested sending delegations of diplomats to both Armocht and Fernargh. Your international standing has thus increased, but so has the pressure applied by the Fernarghian government. They are threatening to cut trade links worth billions if you send any to Armocht or to their own queen.

Newhalla: You support the same idea as Azerzia, but without the use of troops. Unionist Armochtian businessmen and women are suggesting cutting commercial ties to your nation, which relies on Armocht for some key luxury items.

Avaerilon: We echo calls for an education programme and devolution, and have set-up a fund to include cultural studies in schools, colleges and community centres, since we have the money to spare at present. This has alienated us with both unionist and nationalist politicians, however, who accuse us of meddling in their affairs, and have even suggested we pan to claim Armocht as an overseas territory. Avaerilonians have been threatened and attacked, making our government feel it necessary to establish a small peace-keeping force, with Fernarghain soldiers as well.

LEADERS, what do you suggest we do?
Post your response to this issue to effect the outcome of the next update!

[The Commonwealth of Feebland]

I no longer support a division of Armocht. Feebland shall send diplomats to assist Azerzian and Francish representatives. If necessary, we will support a military presence, but only as a last resort. I offer The Feeblish aircraft carrier Endeavor to serve as a safe, neutral meeting place for SLUan and Fernarghian diplomats.

[Deleted]

Oceanic Atolls is an entirely pacifistic nation. Our military stands only as a last resort to fend off invaders, and we will push for a diplomatic solution until such time as it is provably impossible. In light of the Fernarghian response, we hereby withdraw our offer of sending delegations to both sides of the dispute. We do, however, pledge our support to the Commonwealth of Feebland, in their offer of the aircraft carrier Endeavor. We also beseech the Queen of Fernargh to make clear her stance on whether a reintegration of the Armochtian territory would be possible, should the SLU renounce its claim to the land.




((EDITed to change: Previously, the first sentence referred to OA as a region. I corrected this.))

[Kanoria]

We, the people of Kanoria, Will not be frightened by shadows and ghosts.
We will do our best for all peoples in the archipelago, the SLU, and beyond.
To this end, we will not bow to any that would deny freedom, rights, or truth to another.
No matter what extremists threaten us with, we will not lower ourselves to their level.
We stand strong. We stand with the innocent.
And we stand free without arms or violence.

The kanorian people will be establishing safe areas where those that wish to escape conflict can do so.
Where ANY who wish to speak on either side will be free to do so in the comfort of the law and order they are accustomed to, and deserve.
Any will be free to come and go as they please.

With the blessings of the government and the people, if they will give it, we will re-establish our diplomatic mission, and the first safe zone at Castle Doireat, which will also ensure that neither side can entrench themselves there, or Subvert Amochat's history.

Kanoria would also seek blessing and support of other nations within the SLU in our endeavor to protect the civilians in the conflict.

[Newhalla]

The Allied States of Newhalla sees many benefits in Kanorias decision. And we support such endeavours. Furthermore we advise the both parties and SLU to resolve the issue peacefully whit out an military intervention.

As for the unionist threat of cutting the economical ties whit use will only hurt themselves.

Signed Miranda Keane

[Azerzia]

The Azerzian government will continue its course, but will track all funds going to support either paramilitary force. We will send government funding to support the native Armocht police force. We send overseers to ensure the proper disbursement of resources, provided the government in Armocht approves.

We ask for military support, provided our solution gets put into effect. It is possible that, without threat of force, that Fernargh will simply fully integrate Armocht.

We invite all parties form the SLU, including Armocht, and Fernargh to hold talks in Rotae City. we will also invite representatives of the Unionist and Nationalist factions not involved in the government to ensure legitimacy of the talks.

[Deleted]

Our nation has released an official statement saying that our nation will NOT be sending military forces to Armocht. However, we have dispatched a diplomatic mission of 100 people to Fernargh. The mission will be headed by our Minister of Foreign Affairs. We will also be sending two teams of 20 diplomats, one to the FNLA and one to the ADA. Our foreign aid program has given the government of Armocht money to finance cultural studies programs in primary and secondary schools throughout the country.

Finally, we are warning First Minister Lindsay Boyd to respect the Queen's decisions, and to take a more moderate approach to the situation.

[The Commonwealth of Feebland]

All of this discussion seems to point towards diplomacy. We must find a neutral meeting place. Again I offer the Feeblish aircraft carrier Endeavor to be put to use for diplomatic talks.
Also, if this were to unfold into a military conflict, Feebland will be glad to lend a hand. We will offer monetary support to Kanaria to assist in their enterprise.

[Kanoria]

We thank Newhalla and Feebland for this generous support.


Due to the chronicity of the situation, we will now be providing amenities to the safe zones and surrounding areas. The primary focus of this will be self-sufficiency. To this end, we are providing farming equipment, and pre-fab buildings. Several of these are set aside for education. And others for inter-community relations, and medium-term housing.

If the conflict does not abate, we will of cause provide the more full infrastructural requirements for a permanent settlement in three months time.

[Avaerilon]

Greetings, and welcome to the Council of Leaders.

Situation Report
Quick facts on the issue

Title: In the Name of the Father
-Details-
Description: Sectarian conflict in SLU-governed province 
Currently: Paramilitary bombings and revenge killings in SLU area, civil war in Fernargh
Why: Disagreements between two large communities over sovereignty and culture of province, nationalism vs internationalism in Fernargh

Third Conference Briefing
Detailed Facts on the Issue

Welcome, fellow leaders, to this Council of Leaders.

It seems that when good people close a door, bad people open a window. 

Thanks to the surge of diplomats, advisors, experts and other such men and women from SLUan nations being sent to Armocht, there has been a genuine reduction in violence. The more prominent paramilitaries have expressed a desire to reach a settlement eventually, even though they have still targeted civilians and government officials for assassination and bombings, although there has been a 55% reductions in these things since last we looked. More and more are leaving these terrorist groups to assist with peace-making and the political process.

However, this fragile hope is threatened by what is happening north of the border.

Fernargh has been marked by division between its moderate, cooperative queen, and its staunchly pro-unification and anti-SLUan first minister. Tension have been running-high for weeks, and have now come to a head. Lindsay Boyd, along with a troop of republican supporters, marched into the Royal Palace to demand the resignation of Queen Aoife, and announced her intention to turn Fernargh into a presidential republic. She proclaimed an emergency rule under her. This was met by the Queen's Guard attempting to arrest Ms. Boyd. A firefight ensued, with 32 men dead.

As of now, Fernargh is in the midst of a civil war. The Army for the Liberation of the Republic, under Lindsay Boyd and Colonel James McTaggart has taken control of roughly 50% of the country, and are making excursions into SLUan territory. Meanwhile, the government of Fernargh loyal to the Queen has been dissolved, with an emergency cabinet and the Queen now governing and preparing the defence of the realm. The map below shows government-held (purple) areas and rebel-held (yellow) areas.

This is radicalising paramilitaries in Armocht, and may lead to a civil war within the province. We must act now!

Already, republican forces have launched raids on the two cities nearest the border; Castle Doireacht, and the heavily-sympathising town of Corlinne. The ALR claims that only by unifying the entire area can everlasting peace and equality be achieved, along with the expulsion of SLUans. Meanwhile the Royal Army claims to be the only legitimate force, and is launching an aggressive attack on republican forces. 

Avaerilon proposes to send a SLUan force to repel any invaders from across the border, and if diplomacy fails, to assist the Royal Army in defeating the clearly violent ALR.

Given the unique circumstances, no unique nation effects have been posted.





LEADERS, what do you suggest we do?
Post your response to this issue to effect the outcome of the next update!

[Deleted]

Fulflood's Police, who also function as a sort of army in times of crisis, are willing to send a few armed units (c. 600 officers) into the Breitheiste area to prevent an influx of republican forces, with the hope of eventually retaking Castle Doireat (hopefully by peaceful diplomatic means) and uniting the land under stable control so a referendum can be held. Ships will be sent in the next few days from Fulflood's government port at Byzvild. Any police sent will be under a strict 'shoot only when under fire' policy, and instructed to keep out of civilian conflicts, maintaining a neutral, even-handed stance when dealing with all three sides in the conflict while respecting the wishes and freedoms of the civilian population.

[Kanoria]

The escalation of this situation calls for mature and responsible action only. We intend to act as a neutral nation in this conflict, only joining active fighting if ABSOLUTELY necessary. For the time being, we recognize neither Feranghen government as legitimate representatives of the people. Until a fully legitimate government is elected to the positions they occupy, we WILL NOT endorse any regime that makes war in this manner. We thus intend to strengthen the peace keeper forces stationed at camps close to the border, especially Castle Doireat. We view incursions over the border into Armocht as renegade militia action against a sovereign nation, and thus highly illegal. We also intend to extend camps into neutral territory to protect citizens from the conflict. No weapons will be allowed near them, including SLU weapons, this will be enforced by Kanorian peace keepers mostly armed with non-lethal weapons. The democratic rule of law shall exist within these camps. Along with basic amenities, we shall endeavour to create proper settlements with all that entails. They will be away from existing strategic positions or settlements with strong affiliation to either side of this civil war.

In addition, we urge that all nations remember the rights of all people, and where possible use non-lethal force. The peoples of Armocht and Fernargh must remain at the forefront of our minds during this conflict, whatever action is taken by those that do not care for either democratic will or the well-being of all.

Kanoria hopes that a speedy return to peace and a good future for all can be achieved.

[Deleted]

Due to the recent escalation in this situation, it has been brought to Alterio's attention. While looking for a peaceful solution, Alterio has sent 2 delegates, one to each side of this conflict. In case of any means of bloodshed, Alterian base camps will be positioned within a 3 kilometer radius of the delegates, to ensure their safety at all costs, and in case Alterio must chose a side in this war. We will also set up a larger base camp near the border, in case any other SLU members positioned in this area are dragged into any violent form of conflict. The protection of all other SLU member states is our top priority.

Alterio wishes peace to be achieved and as little people as possible to be harmed.

[Newhalla]

The Allied States will not watch and stand idly by when two side descend into the madness of war. The Hallan armed forces will offer the 56th Mechanized division "Miran", 8th armoured division "Vinland" and the 113th Kustjägar regiment, a total number of 21.000 combat effective troops to maintain peace in the province.  The troops will hopefully be part of the greater SLU forces. 

[The Commonwealth of Feebland]

Feebland shall fly in its 6th Legion, comprised of the most elite and skilled of all Feeblish soldiers. The 8th Armoured Legion will arrive as well, adding up to a total of 6.000 troops supported by 1.500 tanks and armoured vehicles. The Feeblish forces will stand with other SLU forces to maintain peace in the region. Two Feeblish carriers, 4 cruisers, and a minesweeper will be deployed in the international waters off the coast of Fernargh and Armacht to ensure neutral merchant vessels, SLU fleets, and humanitarian aid convoys are protected.