https://idugov.com/forum/ Sat, 23 May 2026 03:02:43 +0000 MyBB https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=1975 Tue, 01 Oct 2019 17:55:08 -0500 Gardavasque]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=1975 I'm hoping to submit my first NS issue and I'd appreciate some constructive feedback to help maximize my chances of getting it selected. Your feedback would be appreciated.

This topic builds upon issue #532 Desert Island Risks (Warning: potential spoiler: https://nsindex.net/wiki/NationStates_Issue_No._532)

Title: Shell No! Covert Corporations Have Got To Go!

Issue Summary
Legal battles continue over the “Manamana Memos,” a cache of leaked documents detailing how various world leaders used shell corporations in that tiny island nation to engage in all kinds of shady dealings. You return from a ribbon cutting ceremony at a kitten orphanage to discover your personal legal team waiting for you. They inform you that your regularly scheduled “Lunch with Mom” has been bumped due an urgent matter: you’re about to be implicated by court testimony linked to a shell corporation in Manamana.

Option 1
“No need to panic,” assures your lead personal attorney and fixer, Scott Free, as he slithers up next to you. “We can just draft a press release that the corporation was established for legit purposes to protect your personal trade secrets and intellectual property. If the press goes snooping around and asks for details, we can just reply coyly, ‘It’s a secret’ and leave it at that. By the way, if anyone asks how you learned so much about vat-grown meat, just smile politely and change the subject.”

Result: Political pundits on TV are taking bets on how long @@Leader@@ can keep playing the shell game with the public.

Option 2
“Um- Do you really think that will be enough?” chimes in Patsy McFall, your loyal Personal Accountant of several years. “I mean the people are really upset about corruption at the highest levels; they are tired of seeing bigwigs at the top constantly getting away with bad behavior. If your name comes out in court tomorrow, I guarantee the scandal won’t go away until some goes to jail or gets fired.”

Result: In recognition of her years of loyal service, Patsy has been quietly reassigned to a turkey farm on the outskirts of @@Capital City@@. You send a card, unsigned, that reads: Wishing all the best in this exciting new career opportunity.

Option 3
“It’s like you’re purposely trying to do everything besides fix the problem,” accuses your Deputy Minister of Justice, Gung Ho. “Look, in order to separate yourself from other ethically-compromised leaders already tainted by scandal, you need to extract your assets from shell corporations and pay any legal penalties. Then tell the legislature you will sign a law requiring transparent disclosure of the names of all officers of corporations and make all tax returns a matter of public record. Why not call the law the Shell Manipulation Anti-Corruption and Kleptocracy Act?

Result: Passing the SMACK Act is one of @@Leader@@’s signature accomplishments this year.

Option 4
“I can’t believe what I’m hearing,” exclaims your jilted mother, lurking from the hallway with hunger in her eyes. “I taught you better than that. You need to do what’s morally right. Apologize for anything you knew or should have known was wrong, and accept responsibility for your consequences. If the people accept you as their leader, you might still keep your job, but if not, well, I’ll still visit you in prison.” She sighs. “Now, how about I just heat up some soup for us, huh Dear?”

Result: Investigative reporters reveal the “sincere” apology delivered on live TV was actually authored by @@Leader@@’s mother.]]> I'm hoping to submit my first NS issue and I'd appreciate some constructive feedback to help maximize my chances of getting it selected. Your feedback would be appreciated.

This topic builds upon issue #532 Desert Island Risks (Warning: potential spoiler: https://nsindex.net/wiki/NationStates_Issue_No._532)

Title: Shell No! Covert Corporations Have Got To Go!

Issue Summary
Legal battles continue over the “Manamana Memos,” a cache of leaked documents detailing how various world leaders used shell corporations in that tiny island nation to engage in all kinds of shady dealings. You return from a ribbon cutting ceremony at a kitten orphanage to discover your personal legal team waiting for you. They inform you that your regularly scheduled “Lunch with Mom” has been bumped due an urgent matter: you’re about to be implicated by court testimony linked to a shell corporation in Manamana.

Option 1
“No need to panic,” assures your lead personal attorney and fixer, Scott Free, as he slithers up next to you. “We can just draft a press release that the corporation was established for legit purposes to protect your personal trade secrets and intellectual property. If the press goes snooping around and asks for details, we can just reply coyly, ‘It’s a secret’ and leave it at that. By the way, if anyone asks how you learned so much about vat-grown meat, just smile politely and change the subject.”

Result: Political pundits on TV are taking bets on how long @@Leader@@ can keep playing the shell game with the public.

Option 2
“Um- Do you really think that will be enough?” chimes in Patsy McFall, your loyal Personal Accountant of several years. “I mean the people are really upset about corruption at the highest levels; they are tired of seeing bigwigs at the top constantly getting away with bad behavior. If your name comes out in court tomorrow, I guarantee the scandal won’t go away until some goes to jail or gets fired.”

Result: In recognition of her years of loyal service, Patsy has been quietly reassigned to a turkey farm on the outskirts of @@Capital City@@. You send a card, unsigned, that reads: Wishing all the best in this exciting new career opportunity.

Option 3
“It’s like you’re purposely trying to do everything besides fix the problem,” accuses your Deputy Minister of Justice, Gung Ho. “Look, in order to separate yourself from other ethically-compromised leaders already tainted by scandal, you need to extract your assets from shell corporations and pay any legal penalties. Then tell the legislature you will sign a law requiring transparent disclosure of the names of all officers of corporations and make all tax returns a matter of public record. Why not call the law the Shell Manipulation Anti-Corruption and Kleptocracy Act?

Result: Passing the SMACK Act is one of @@Leader@@’s signature accomplishments this year.

Option 4
“I can’t believe what I’m hearing,” exclaims your jilted mother, lurking from the hallway with hunger in her eyes. “I taught you better than that. You need to do what’s morally right. Apologize for anything you knew or should have known was wrong, and accept responsibility for your consequences. If the people accept you as their leader, you might still keep your job, but if not, well, I’ll still visit you in prison.” She sighs. “Now, how about I just heat up some soup for us, huh Dear?”

Result: Investigative reporters reveal the “sincere” apology delivered on live TV was actually authored by @@Leader@@’s mother.]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=1927 Fri, 10 May 2019 14:02:08 -0500 Christos]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=1927
Let me know what you all think. Feedback is appreciated.
I got this idea from the recent ad scare of Momo.

During a cabinet meeting your press secretary (Random Name) informs you and your cabinet ministers of several news stories that detail a disturbing ad called “Me-Me” popping up on video sites. Your press secretary says that there is an uproar in the country and that people have been contacting the administration about this “Ad Scare Problem” One voice mail message left by a concerned parent says “This ad popped up while my 7 year old son was watching a video on how to count to 10 and now he refuses to watch any form of video. Fix this or a new leader will when election season comes by.” You tell the press secretary to play the ad to see how scary this ad could be. As the ad ends, Horrified and a little wet your cabinet minister’s stare at each other and then turn to you to address this ad scare problem.

Option 1: The press secretary gives you a solution, I think we should put pressure on these ad companies and video sites to have them better screen what ads pop up on certain videos by taking away their tax breaks. This is inappropriate and I feel like holding them accountable would be get them to act, especially if we do it with money.
Outcome 1: Websites are held hostage to screen ads themselves instead of AI algorithms.

Option 2: The minister of commerce (random name) stands up with sweat dripping down his forehead, I do think that ad was of poor taste but in the name of business, economics, and numbers we cannot put interfere in other people’s business practices. This is how business works, this is how ads work. Yes, it was quite terrifying but imposing pressure on that ad company would spit in the face of the capitalist ways.
Outcome 2: Children's nightmares are fueled for money's sake.

Option 3: The Minister of Defense (random name), who is standing and clapping with a tear in his eye, says “this is one of the greatest forms of hypnotic suggestion. We could hire these ad makers and have them create an ad that makes the populace love you. I mean after that whole recession debacle I think this the solution we need to get the people on your side again.
Outcome 3: Love for country is seemingly not from the heart but from the eyes.

Option 4: Your 7 year old nephew who was playing in the back of the meeting room, now is cowering in fear saying “Uncle (leader name) please make the bad figures go away. I want to eat my veggies.” Your nephew passes out at the thought of not eating his vegetables.
Outcome 4: Video Ads have been banned from all websites as letters written by children bear your likeness and talk about how happy they are about eating their vegetables.]]>
Let me know what you all think. Feedback is appreciated.
I got this idea from the recent ad scare of Momo.

During a cabinet meeting your press secretary (Random Name) informs you and your cabinet ministers of several news stories that detail a disturbing ad called “Me-Me” popping up on video sites. Your press secretary says that there is an uproar in the country and that people have been contacting the administration about this “Ad Scare Problem” One voice mail message left by a concerned parent says “This ad popped up while my 7 year old son was watching a video on how to count to 10 and now he refuses to watch any form of video. Fix this or a new leader will when election season comes by.” You tell the press secretary to play the ad to see how scary this ad could be. As the ad ends, Horrified and a little wet your cabinet minister’s stare at each other and then turn to you to address this ad scare problem.

Option 1: The press secretary gives you a solution, I think we should put pressure on these ad companies and video sites to have them better screen what ads pop up on certain videos by taking away their tax breaks. This is inappropriate and I feel like holding them accountable would be get them to act, especially if we do it with money.
Outcome 1: Websites are held hostage to screen ads themselves instead of AI algorithms.

Option 2: The minister of commerce (random name) stands up with sweat dripping down his forehead, I do think that ad was of poor taste but in the name of business, economics, and numbers we cannot put interfere in other people’s business practices. This is how business works, this is how ads work. Yes, it was quite terrifying but imposing pressure on that ad company would spit in the face of the capitalist ways.
Outcome 2: Children's nightmares are fueled for money's sake.

Option 3: The Minister of Defense (random name), who is standing and clapping with a tear in his eye, says “this is one of the greatest forms of hypnotic suggestion. We could hire these ad makers and have them create an ad that makes the populace love you. I mean after that whole recession debacle I think this the solution we need to get the people on your side again.
Outcome 3: Love for country is seemingly not from the heart but from the eyes.

Option 4: Your 7 year old nephew who was playing in the back of the meeting room, now is cowering in fear saying “Uncle (leader name) please make the bad figures go away. I want to eat my veggies.” Your nephew passes out at the thought of not eating his vegetables.
Outcome 4: Video Ads have been banned from all websites as letters written by children bear your likeness and talk about how happy they are about eating their vegetables.]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=1850 Wed, 20 Jun 2018 22:33:40 -0500 Libertas Omnium Maximus]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=1850
"I can't believe it!" Shouts your extreamly paranoid seceratary. "I never would have thought that a man I worked with, a man I trusted, would be one of Marche Noir's. I'll bet he is a Spy! Trying to steal all of our secrets and give them to Marche Noir!"
Your secretary then begins to chant "Jail Him! Jail Him!" and runs from the room.

"So maybe he is Marche Noirian, our arch rival nation, that doesn't mean we have to lock him up." Exclaims Elle Everwood, the president of All the People, a civil rights group. "We should show compassion to all beings on this planet. Leave this poor man alone. I'll bet he never meant any harm by it."

"No indeed I don't!" Finally yells your Defense Minister, who is now red with rage. "I believe that this DNA testing stuff is a scam! Shut it down! Ban all of these services from our fine nation forever. I will not stand for these lies. At that he collapses into a chair, crosses his arms, and stops talking.



Outcome 1 = The Defense Minister of @@Nation@@ is charged with treason.

Outcome 2 = Spies are often released from prison on the basis that they were just "looking out for the good of their county" by stealing state secrets.

Outcome 3 = 22 and You is banned forever.]]>
"I can't believe it!" Shouts your extreamly paranoid seceratary. "I never would have thought that a man I worked with, a man I trusted, would be one of Marche Noir's. I'll bet he is a Spy! Trying to steal all of our secrets and give them to Marche Noir!"
Your secretary then begins to chant "Jail Him! Jail Him!" and runs from the room.

"So maybe he is Marche Noirian, our arch rival nation, that doesn't mean we have to lock him up." Exclaims Elle Everwood, the president of All the People, a civil rights group. "We should show compassion to all beings on this planet. Leave this poor man alone. I'll bet he never meant any harm by it."

"No indeed I don't!" Finally yells your Defense Minister, who is now red with rage. "I believe that this DNA testing stuff is a scam! Shut it down! Ban all of these services from our fine nation forever. I will not stand for these lies. At that he collapses into a chair, crosses his arms, and stops talking.



Outcome 1 = The Defense Minister of @@Nation@@ is charged with treason.

Outcome 2 = Spies are often released from prison on the basis that they were just "looking out for the good of their county" by stealing state secrets.

Outcome 3 = 22 and You is banned forever.]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=1792 Wed, 22 Nov 2017 13:00:55 -0600 Laeral]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=1792 https://forum.nationstates.net/viewtopic...3&t=429083

Ambassador In-extraordinary and Plenimpotentiary

The Issue
It has recently been discovered that your predecessor had filled numerous ambassadorial positions with under-qualified candidates in an attempt to reward @@HIS@@ followers and supporters. As a result, the ambassador to Wezeltonia was your predecessor's personal masseuse and the ambassador to Brancaland is a shady crime lord with incriminating evidence against your predecessor. It's clear to many that @@NAME@@ could use a change in the ranks of its diplomats.

Validity: Nation has international relations.

1a. (Option Validity: Capitalistic/Democratic Nations) "This is a splendid opportunity to put in our own, far superior, ambassador picks!" says your Political Adviser, @@RANDOMNAME@@, gleefully. "It's obvious that we can't let those incompetents keep their positions any longer, so we sack them all and replace them with our own people. I've prepared a list for you to look at- we've got great, talented people like that first MP to endorse your candidacy, the @@MAJORINDUSTRY@@ tycoon who donated millions to your campaign, and my younger brother. It'll be wonderful!"

Effect: @@LEADER@@'s childhood friends are living it large abroad at the taxpayers' expense.

1b. (Option Validity: Communist/Non-democratic Nations) "This is a splendid opportunity to put in our own, far superior, ambassador picks!" says your Political Adviser, @@RANDOMNAME@@, gleefully. "It's obvious that we can't let those incompetents keep their positions any longer, so we sack them all and replace them with our own people. I've prepared a list for you to look at- we've got great, talented people like that first Party Secretary to endorse your candidacy, the arms dealer who provided us with such useful equipment, and my younger brother. It'll be wonderful!"

Effect: @@LEADER@@'s childhood friends are living it large abroad at the taxpayers' expense

2. "We need to abolish the entire system of ambassadors as political appointees," says @@RANDOMNAME@@, who has worked in the Foreign Ministry for the past three decades. "Over my 16 tours of duty in the Foreign Service, I've been posted to hellholes like Brasilistan, Marche Noir, and Maxtopia. And then I see some champagne-sipping flunky waltz on in to become the ambassador, despite having never worked a day in their life. Every ambassador should have as much diplomatic experience as I do before being considered for the job."

Effect: Most ambassadors from @@NAME@@ retires only a few years after being appointed

3. @@RANDOMNAME@@, the sole survivor of the infamous Embassy Bombing in Marche Noir, limps into your office with a cane. "It's war out there, @@LEADER@@," @@HE@@ rasps in a broken voice. "The things I've seen, the horrible things I've had to do, the countless nights I've spent awake working on that free-trade agreement have left me a broken @@MAN@@." @@HE@@ pulls out a locket containing a small picture of @@HIS@@ beloved and a lock of @@HIS@@ hair, and gazes at it. "I lost the love of my life, @@RANDOMFIRSTNAME@@ in the line of duty, valiantly fighting a rear-guard action against insurmountable enemies. Bring us home, @@LEADER@@, shutter our embassies abroad and bring us all home."

Effect: News articles are full of heartwarming stories featuring long-time diplomats reuniting with their families and pets.

4. "I spy an opportunity..." says your seldom-seen Minister of Whispers, who has somehow appeared besides you. "What our nation needs is for our ambassadors to be trained and equipped for- specialized operations - in foreign nations. Imagine our most elite black-ops agents, striking under cover of darkness to promote my- I mean, your- goals. Think about it. I know you'll make the right choice."

Effect: @@NATION@@'s ambassadors all have steel-gray eyes and an empty soul.

First DraftThe Issue
It has recently been discovered that your remarkably incompetent predecessor had filled numerous ambassadorial positions with under-qualified candidates in an attempt to reward @@HIS@@ followers and supporters. As a result, the ambassador to Wezeltonia is your predecessor's personal hairdresser, the ambassador to Brancaland is a shady crime lord with incriminating evidence against your predecessor, and the ambassador to Brancaland is the mysterious @@MAN@@ in Red who featured prominently in a sex scandal involving your predecessor. It's clear to many that @@NAME@@ could use a change in the ranks of its diplomats.

Validity: Nation has international relations.

1. "This is a splendid opportunity to put in our own, far superior, ambassador picks!" says your Political Adviser, @@RANDOMNAME@@, gleefully. "It's obvious that we can't let those incompetents keep their positions any longer, so we sack them all and replace them with our own people. I've prepared a list for you to look at- we've got great, talented people like that first MP to endorse your candidacy, the @@MAJORINDUSTRY@@ tycoon who donated millions to your campaign, and my younger brother. It'll be wonderful!"

Effect: @@LEADER@@'s childhood friend is living it large abroad at the taxpayers' expense.

2. "We need to abolish the entire system of ambassadors as political appointees." says @@RANDOMNAME@@, who has worked in the Foreign Ministry for the past three decades. "I joined the Foreign Service as soon as I graduated college as the Assistant Deputy Undersecretary of Public Relations at our embassy to East Lebatuck, and I've been serving our nation loyally ever since. I've been posted to hellholes like Brasilistan, Marche Noir, and Maxtopia for every one of my 16 tours of duty. And then I see some champagne-sipping flunky waltz on in to become the ambassador, despite having never worked a day in their life. Do I sound bitter? That's probably because I have every right to!"

Effect: The typical ambassador from @@NAME@@ fought through a baptism of fire in order to get there.

3. @@RANDOMNAME@@, the sole survivor of the infamous Embassy Bombing in Marche Noir, limps into your office with a cane. "It's war out there, @@LEADER@@," @@HE@@ rasps in a broken voice. "The things I've seen, the horrible things I've had to do, the countless nights I've spent awake working on that free-trade agreement have left me a broken @@MAN@@." @@HE@@ pulls out a locket containing a small picture of his beloved and a lock of @@HIS@@ hair, and gazes at it. "I lost my @@RANDOMFIRSTNAME@@ in the line of duty, valiantly fighting a rear-guard action against the tide of paperwork. Bring us home, @@LEADER@@, shutter our embassies abroad and bring us all home."

Effect: The internet is full of heartwarming videos featuring long-time diplomats reuniting with their families and pets.

4. "I spy an opportunity..." says your seldom-seen Minister of Whispers, who has somehow appeared besides you. "What our nation needs is for our ambassadors to be trained and equipped for- specialized operations - in foreign nations. Imagine our most elite black-ops agents, striking under cover of darkness to promote my- I mean, your- goals. Think about it. I know you'll make the right choice."

Effect: @@NATION@@'s ambassadors all have steel-gray eyes and an empty soul.]]> https://forum.nationstates.net/viewtopic...3&t=429083

Ambassador In-extraordinary and Plenimpotentiary

The Issue
It has recently been discovered that your predecessor had filled numerous ambassadorial positions with under-qualified candidates in an attempt to reward @@HIS@@ followers and supporters. As a result, the ambassador to Wezeltonia was your predecessor's personal masseuse and the ambassador to Brancaland is a shady crime lord with incriminating evidence against your predecessor. It's clear to many that @@NAME@@ could use a change in the ranks of its diplomats.

Validity: Nation has international relations.

1a. (Option Validity: Capitalistic/Democratic Nations) "This is a splendid opportunity to put in our own, far superior, ambassador picks!" says your Political Adviser, @@RANDOMNAME@@, gleefully. "It's obvious that we can't let those incompetents keep their positions any longer, so we sack them all and replace them with our own people. I've prepared a list for you to look at- we've got great, talented people like that first MP to endorse your candidacy, the @@MAJORINDUSTRY@@ tycoon who donated millions to your campaign, and my younger brother. It'll be wonderful!"

Effect: @@LEADER@@'s childhood friends are living it large abroad at the taxpayers' expense.

1b. (Option Validity: Communist/Non-democratic Nations) "This is a splendid opportunity to put in our own, far superior, ambassador picks!" says your Political Adviser, @@RANDOMNAME@@, gleefully. "It's obvious that we can't let those incompetents keep their positions any longer, so we sack them all and replace them with our own people. I've prepared a list for you to look at- we've got great, talented people like that first Party Secretary to endorse your candidacy, the arms dealer who provided us with such useful equipment, and my younger brother. It'll be wonderful!"

Effect: @@LEADER@@'s childhood friends are living it large abroad at the taxpayers' expense

2. "We need to abolish the entire system of ambassadors as political appointees," says @@RANDOMNAME@@, who has worked in the Foreign Ministry for the past three decades. "Over my 16 tours of duty in the Foreign Service, I've been posted to hellholes like Brasilistan, Marche Noir, and Maxtopia. And then I see some champagne-sipping flunky waltz on in to become the ambassador, despite having never worked a day in their life. Every ambassador should have as much diplomatic experience as I do before being considered for the job."

Effect: Most ambassadors from @@NAME@@ retires only a few years after being appointed

3. @@RANDOMNAME@@, the sole survivor of the infamous Embassy Bombing in Marche Noir, limps into your office with a cane. "It's war out there, @@LEADER@@," @@HE@@ rasps in a broken voice. "The things I've seen, the horrible things I've had to do, the countless nights I've spent awake working on that free-trade agreement have left me a broken @@MAN@@." @@HE@@ pulls out a locket containing a small picture of @@HIS@@ beloved and a lock of @@HIS@@ hair, and gazes at it. "I lost the love of my life, @@RANDOMFIRSTNAME@@ in the line of duty, valiantly fighting a rear-guard action against insurmountable enemies. Bring us home, @@LEADER@@, shutter our embassies abroad and bring us all home."

Effect: News articles are full of heartwarming stories featuring long-time diplomats reuniting with their families and pets.

4. "I spy an opportunity..." says your seldom-seen Minister of Whispers, who has somehow appeared besides you. "What our nation needs is for our ambassadors to be trained and equipped for- specialized operations - in foreign nations. Imagine our most elite black-ops agents, striking under cover of darkness to promote my- I mean, your- goals. Think about it. I know you'll make the right choice."

Effect: @@NATION@@'s ambassadors all have steel-gray eyes and an empty soul.

First DraftThe Issue
It has recently been discovered that your remarkably incompetent predecessor had filled numerous ambassadorial positions with under-qualified candidates in an attempt to reward @@HIS@@ followers and supporters. As a result, the ambassador to Wezeltonia is your predecessor's personal hairdresser, the ambassador to Brancaland is a shady crime lord with incriminating evidence against your predecessor, and the ambassador to Brancaland is the mysterious @@MAN@@ in Red who featured prominently in a sex scandal involving your predecessor. It's clear to many that @@NAME@@ could use a change in the ranks of its diplomats.

Validity: Nation has international relations.

1. "This is a splendid opportunity to put in our own, far superior, ambassador picks!" says your Political Adviser, @@RANDOMNAME@@, gleefully. "It's obvious that we can't let those incompetents keep their positions any longer, so we sack them all and replace them with our own people. I've prepared a list for you to look at- we've got great, talented people like that first MP to endorse your candidacy, the @@MAJORINDUSTRY@@ tycoon who donated millions to your campaign, and my younger brother. It'll be wonderful!"

Effect: @@LEADER@@'s childhood friend is living it large abroad at the taxpayers' expense.

2. "We need to abolish the entire system of ambassadors as political appointees." says @@RANDOMNAME@@, who has worked in the Foreign Ministry for the past three decades. "I joined the Foreign Service as soon as I graduated college as the Assistant Deputy Undersecretary of Public Relations at our embassy to East Lebatuck, and I've been serving our nation loyally ever since. I've been posted to hellholes like Brasilistan, Marche Noir, and Maxtopia for every one of my 16 tours of duty. And then I see some champagne-sipping flunky waltz on in to become the ambassador, despite having never worked a day in their life. Do I sound bitter? That's probably because I have every right to!"

Effect: The typical ambassador from @@NAME@@ fought through a baptism of fire in order to get there.

3. @@RANDOMNAME@@, the sole survivor of the infamous Embassy Bombing in Marche Noir, limps into your office with a cane. "It's war out there, @@LEADER@@," @@HE@@ rasps in a broken voice. "The things I've seen, the horrible things I've had to do, the countless nights I've spent awake working on that free-trade agreement have left me a broken @@MAN@@." @@HE@@ pulls out a locket containing a small picture of his beloved and a lock of @@HIS@@ hair, and gazes at it. "I lost my @@RANDOMFIRSTNAME@@ in the line of duty, valiantly fighting a rear-guard action against the tide of paperwork. Bring us home, @@LEADER@@, shutter our embassies abroad and bring us all home."

Effect: The internet is full of heartwarming videos featuring long-time diplomats reuniting with their families and pets.

4. "I spy an opportunity..." says your seldom-seen Minister of Whispers, who has somehow appeared besides you. "What our nation needs is for our ambassadors to be trained and equipped for- specialized operations - in foreign nations. Imagine our most elite black-ops agents, striking under cover of darkness to promote my- I mean, your- goals. Think about it. I know you'll make the right choice."

Effect: @@NATION@@'s ambassadors all have steel-gray eyes and an empty soul.]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=1789 Mon, 13 Nov 2017 21:06:54 -0600 Laeral]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=1789
Diplomatic Impunity
Validity: Nations with foreign relations, nations with cars, nations with police.

As you are walking down @@CAPITAL@@'s Embassy Row en route to a 'diplomatic reception' at the Brancalandian Embassy, you see a heated argument between a police officer and a well-dressed man gesturing angrily at the diplomatic license plates on a sleek sports car. You approach to see what the commotion is...

1. "I clearly have diplomatic immunity!" yells aggrieved Maxtopian diplomat @@RANDOMNAMEMALE@@. "I am a diplomat, from the proud nation of Maxtopia. In order to prevent me from being arbitrarily arrested in foreign nations, I am granted immunity from persecution. Uphold my rights, and send this intrusive police officer away. What's more, I have been so impeded by this illegal investigation, I demand an official statement from your government, upholding my rights as a diplomat. Some trade concessions would be nice, too."

Effect: Gangs of off-duty foreign diplomats go on crime sprees while the police are forced to look on.

2. "He's parked illegally, so I'm just giving him a parking ticket, @@LEADER@@," says earnest young police officer @@RANDOMNAME@@. "I need to lay down the law on him. Look, I get that he's from a foreign nation, but we can't let people get away with crimes like this! We should punish him just as the law demands."

Effect: Foreign nations' diplomats have placed @@NAME@@ in the same category of danger as war zones.

3. "Why do we need diplomats, anyway?" asks @@RANDOMNAME@@, a violent isolationist who has just crawled out of the car's trunk with a knife in @@HIS@@ hand. "They just make more problems for us, anyway. @@NAME@@ should focus on itself, not those pesky foreigners! Deport all those foreign diplomats! @@NAME@@ First!"

Effect: @@CAPITAL@@'s Embassy Row is strikingly empty.

4. "I spy an opportunity..." says your seldom-seen Minister of Whispers, who has apparently been following you this entire time. "If diplomats can't be arrested by foreign law enforcement, then we can establish an elite team consisting entirely of diplomatic personnel for- specialized operations - in foreign nations. Imagine that- our national enemies- um, neutralized, and enemy law enforcement unable to life a finger. Imagine that- I'll be waiting for your decision."

Effect: @@NATION@@'s ambassadors all have steel-gray eyes and an empty soul.]]>
Diplomatic Impunity
Validity: Nations with foreign relations, nations with cars, nations with police.

As you are walking down @@CAPITAL@@'s Embassy Row en route to a 'diplomatic reception' at the Brancalandian Embassy, you see a heated argument between a police officer and a well-dressed man gesturing angrily at the diplomatic license plates on a sleek sports car. You approach to see what the commotion is...

1. "I clearly have diplomatic immunity!" yells aggrieved Maxtopian diplomat @@RANDOMNAMEMALE@@. "I am a diplomat, from the proud nation of Maxtopia. In order to prevent me from being arbitrarily arrested in foreign nations, I am granted immunity from persecution. Uphold my rights, and send this intrusive police officer away. What's more, I have been so impeded by this illegal investigation, I demand an official statement from your government, upholding my rights as a diplomat. Some trade concessions would be nice, too."

Effect: Gangs of off-duty foreign diplomats go on crime sprees while the police are forced to look on.

2. "He's parked illegally, so I'm just giving him a parking ticket, @@LEADER@@," says earnest young police officer @@RANDOMNAME@@. "I need to lay down the law on him. Look, I get that he's from a foreign nation, but we can't let people get away with crimes like this! We should punish him just as the law demands."

Effect: Foreign nations' diplomats have placed @@NAME@@ in the same category of danger as war zones.

3. "Why do we need diplomats, anyway?" asks @@RANDOMNAME@@, a violent isolationist who has just crawled out of the car's trunk with a knife in @@HIS@@ hand. "They just make more problems for us, anyway. @@NAME@@ should focus on itself, not those pesky foreigners! Deport all those foreign diplomats! @@NAME@@ First!"

Effect: @@CAPITAL@@'s Embassy Row is strikingly empty.

4. "I spy an opportunity..." says your seldom-seen Minister of Whispers, who has apparently been following you this entire time. "If diplomats can't be arrested by foreign law enforcement, then we can establish an elite team consisting entirely of diplomatic personnel for- specialized operations - in foreign nations. Imagine that- our national enemies- um, neutralized, and enemy law enforcement unable to life a finger. Imagine that- I'll be waiting for your decision."

Effect: @@NATION@@'s ambassadors all have steel-gray eyes and an empty soul.]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=1143 Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:29:00 -0600 Gerainia]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=1143
A skills agency in @@NAME@@ has brought up the idea of several large companies being able to award academic qualifications.

[option] ?This is a great idea!? says middle-level manager, @@RANDOMNAME@@. "We have so many skilled people about, but we can only mark it with training certificates and low-level awards. If we could award them diplomas, degrees and doctorates, it would really mark their skills and would show them for what they are. The educational spectrum shall become less divided!"
[effect] fast-food managers are being awarded degrees at world benchmark rate
[stats] major industry grows

[option] ?This won?t work!? says academic, @@RANDOMNAME@@. ?These people will be trapped in those companies; other employers may not recognise such qualifications. What?s more, this would cheapen qualifications, contributing to ?dumbing down?. Keep important study to independent bodies.?
[effect] universities have hit new power
[stats] economy strengthens

[option] ?Don?t give in to snobs!? yells communist Tony Baugh, as he jumps into your office with a gun. ?We must cut out all divides in our society! Abolish all universities and qualifications! Now the people shall be truly free from these delusional smarty-pants.?
[effect] all people have been stripped of merit in the name of ?equality?
[stats] economy weakens a lot

What do you think?]]>
A skills agency in @@NAME@@ has brought up the idea of several large companies being able to award academic qualifications.

[option] ?This is a great idea!? says middle-level manager, @@RANDOMNAME@@. "We have so many skilled people about, but we can only mark it with training certificates and low-level awards. If we could award them diplomas, degrees and doctorates, it would really mark their skills and would show them for what they are. The educational spectrum shall become less divided!"
[effect] fast-food managers are being awarded degrees at world benchmark rate
[stats] major industry grows

[option] ?This won?t work!? says academic, @@RANDOMNAME@@. ?These people will be trapped in those companies; other employers may not recognise such qualifications. What?s more, this would cheapen qualifications, contributing to ?dumbing down?. Keep important study to independent bodies.?
[effect] universities have hit new power
[stats] economy strengthens

[option] ?Don?t give in to snobs!? yells communist Tony Baugh, as he jumps into your office with a gun. ?We must cut out all divides in our society! Abolish all universities and qualifications! Now the people shall be truly free from these delusional smarty-pants.?
[effect] all people have been stripped of merit in the name of ?equality?
[stats] economy weakens a lot

What do you think?]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=1052 Sat, 14 Apr 2007 16:05:26 -0500 Mikitivity]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=1052 Long Lines at Election Time

Description:
Long lines caused by a limited number of polling places and slow volunteer poll workers have helped contribute to a record low voter turnout. ?What good is a democracy if you have to wait in line 4 hours to vote!?

Options:
[option] ?You get what you pay for. Since our poll workers are all volunteers (most of whom are retired), they don?t feel the need to move along quickly,? argued @@RANDOMNAME@@ of the @@NAME@@ Citizen?s League of Voters. ?Let?s pay people to work the polls. That would encourage more people to volunteer and would shorten the wait time.?
[effect] ballots are frequently misplaced each election by 10-year old poll workers,
[stats] political freedoms increase slightly, voter apathy decreases slightly, tax rate increases slightly

[option] ?Good things come to those who wait,? answered volunteer poll worker @@RANDOMNAME@@. ?A democracy is not a fast food restaurant! It takes time to check to make sure people haven?t voted twice. Voting is a responsibility, so if people aren?t happy with long lines, they should just stay at home.?
[effect] polling place lines wrap around buildings as voters wait for hours to cast their ballots,
[stats] voter apathy increases significantly, political freedoms decrease slightly, civil freedoms increase slightly

[option] ?Why do we even need polling places? Why not simply allow us to mail our ballots,? asked voter @@RANDOMNAME@@. ?Naturally to be fair to the poor, the government should pay the cost of postage.?
[effect] mail-in ballots are often misplaced with junk mail,
[stats] tax rate increases slightly, voter apathy increases slightly, political freedoms increase slightly

[option] Local judge @@RANDOMNAME@@ suggested, ?We require people to serve on jury duty. If it were up to me, I would make a lottery where people are randomly selected and required to serve election duty.?
[effect] poll workers often show up late to election duty,
[stats] civil freedoms decrease slightly, voter apathy decreases slightly, political freedoms increase slightly]]> Long Lines at Election Time

Description:
Long lines caused by a limited number of polling places and slow volunteer poll workers have helped contribute to a record low voter turnout. ?What good is a democracy if you have to wait in line 4 hours to vote!?

Options:
[option] ?You get what you pay for. Since our poll workers are all volunteers (most of whom are retired), they don?t feel the need to move along quickly,? argued @@RANDOMNAME@@ of the @@NAME@@ Citizen?s League of Voters. ?Let?s pay people to work the polls. That would encourage more people to volunteer and would shorten the wait time.?
[effect] ballots are frequently misplaced each election by 10-year old poll workers,
[stats] political freedoms increase slightly, voter apathy decreases slightly, tax rate increases slightly

[option] ?Good things come to those who wait,? answered volunteer poll worker @@RANDOMNAME@@. ?A democracy is not a fast food restaurant! It takes time to check to make sure people haven?t voted twice. Voting is a responsibility, so if people aren?t happy with long lines, they should just stay at home.?
[effect] polling place lines wrap around buildings as voters wait for hours to cast their ballots,
[stats] voter apathy increases significantly, political freedoms decrease slightly, civil freedoms increase slightly

[option] ?Why do we even need polling places? Why not simply allow us to mail our ballots,? asked voter @@RANDOMNAME@@. ?Naturally to be fair to the poor, the government should pay the cost of postage.?
[effect] mail-in ballots are often misplaced with junk mail,
[stats] tax rate increases slightly, voter apathy increases slightly, political freedoms increase slightly

[option] Local judge @@RANDOMNAME@@ suggested, ?We require people to serve on jury duty. If it were up to me, I would make a lottery where people are randomly selected and required to serve election duty.?
[effect] poll workers often show up late to election duty,
[stats] civil freedoms decrease slightly, voter apathy decreases slightly, political freedoms increase slightly]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=928 Mon, 04 Dec 2006 06:27:30 -0600 Gnejs]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=928
"A member of a minor party in the *COUNTRYNAME* parliament recently proposed the idea of a mandatory language test for becoming a citizen of *COUNTRYNAME*

1. "Knowing how to speak *countrylanguage (for example, "gnejsian")* is one of the most vital aspects of being a citizen, says *sillyname*, parliament member and chairman of the "Kick-em-all-out think tank". Just think of the job market, if you can't make yourself understod, you're gonna have a hell of a time getting the job done, am I right? Of course we would provide some education for the newcomers, but if they can't deliver on test day.. Kick em out!

2. "I can't belive you are actually considering this! says *sillyname*, greased haired liberal and member of the civil rights movment "Everybody on the boat!". When you arrive to a new country you need incouragement and help, not the pressure of a test hanging over your head. This is utterly inhumane. If anything we should increase funds to the present education system which helps new arrivals. Of course this would cost a bit, but who are we to but a price on quality of life?

3. "This is the definition of crap, says *sillyname*, Police officer and MENSA member. Lets just do an IQ test on all citizens and kick out all the idiots."


what do you think? could this be something?]]>
"A member of a minor party in the *COUNTRYNAME* parliament recently proposed the idea of a mandatory language test for becoming a citizen of *COUNTRYNAME*

1. "Knowing how to speak *countrylanguage (for example, "gnejsian")* is one of the most vital aspects of being a citizen, says *sillyname*, parliament member and chairman of the "Kick-em-all-out think tank". Just think of the job market, if you can't make yourself understod, you're gonna have a hell of a time getting the job done, am I right? Of course we would provide some education for the newcomers, but if they can't deliver on test day.. Kick em out!

2. "I can't belive you are actually considering this! says *sillyname*, greased haired liberal and member of the civil rights movment "Everybody on the boat!". When you arrive to a new country you need incouragement and help, not the pressure of a test hanging over your head. This is utterly inhumane. If anything we should increase funds to the present education system which helps new arrivals. Of course this would cost a bit, but who are we to but a price on quality of life?

3. "This is the definition of crap, says *sillyname*, Police officer and MENSA member. Lets just do an IQ test on all citizens and kick out all the idiots."


what do you think? could this be something?]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=886 Sun, 12 Nov 2006 02:14:02 -0600 Grosseschnauzer]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=886
The Nudest in International Democratic Union

The following nations have the most liberal attitudes to public nudity

Quote: 1. The Democratic Federation of Grosseschnauzer"
2. The Democratic Federation of Purple Schnauzers
3. The Democratic Federation of Schnauzer States

18. The Democratic Federation of Kinderliebstadt
23. The Democratic Federation of Schnauzer Dominions
44. The Democratic Federation of Schnauzer Homelands
[/quote]

and for comparison:

My TNP puppet (just elected as Prime Minister there yesterday):
7. The Democratic Federation of Neu Grosseschnauzer
The North Pacific contains 5,236 nations]]>
The Nudest in International Democratic Union

The following nations have the most liberal attitudes to public nudity

Quote: 1. The Democratic Federation of Grosseschnauzer"
2. The Democratic Federation of Purple Schnauzers
3. The Democratic Federation of Schnauzer States

18. The Democratic Federation of Kinderliebstadt
23. The Democratic Federation of Schnauzer Dominions
44. The Democratic Federation of Schnauzer Homelands
[/quote]

and for comparison:

My TNP puppet (just elected as Prime Minister there yesterday):
7. The Democratic Federation of Neu Grosseschnauzer
The North Pacific contains 5,236 nations]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=641 Sat, 20 May 2006 13:53:07 -0500 Sober Thought]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=641
Description: The Daily @@TYPE@@ newspaper reports that another pizza delivery driver was assaulted and robbed on the job yesterday, the tenth such attack in recent weeks. Public sympathy is with the pizza drivers, mainly because lazy people don't want to have to pick up their own pizzas.

Validity: Valid for major industry Pizza Delivery

[option]@@RANDOMNAME@@ -- chief extortion officer of The Pizza Delivery, Ice Cream Vendor and Roasted Chestnut Workers Union of @@NAME@@ -- wants you to give his comrades in arms real firearms. "We would welcome your support in this matter, and we assure you that the pizza, ice cream and chestnut community won't forget what you do at election time."
[effect] residents live in fear of armed delivery people
[stats]economy [not economic rights] declines, personal rights increase, political rights increase, Pizza Industry declines
[option]"That's ridiculous," says @@RANDOMNAME@@, spokesperson for the Pizza, Submarine and Burger Joints Association. "How could we continue to pay our employees as little as we do if they've got guns? How many customers would call if a gun-toting pizza guy was at the door? Instead you should make all deliveries payable by credit card or electronic payment only. Sure it might take a surcharge of say of 10%, but it is a small price to pay for safety and pizzas."
[effect] couch potatoes grumble about 'service' or 'handling' fees when they order out
[stats]economic freedom decreases, economy increases, Law&Order increases, Pizza Industry strengthens
[option]"I don't wanna to face neither no gun barrel or more fees," says a semi-articulate thirtysomething living in his parents' basement who uses the screen name "RelaxoMan. "Why don't the gummint like, subsidiary pizza? If I ain't got my double @@ANIMAL@@-topping pizza, the gummint is being just like them Nasties!"
[effect] waistlines expand and pay packets contract as the government pays for all fast food
[stats]general economy declines, Pizza Delivery increases, Health decreases
[option]Health Minister @@RANDOMNAME@@ gives you the brightest smile you've ever seen. "I've been trying to get people off fast food for ages. Let's ban pizza delivery on public safety grounds, crack down on public health code violations and put 'quick service' restaurants out of business for good. Think of the money we'll save on health care! Sure people might not like it in the beginning, but no longterm gain without shortterm pain, right?"
[effect] fast walking has replaced fast food as the most popular pastime
[stats]Pizza Delivery disappears as Major Industry, economy as a whole remains stable, economic freedom declines, personal freedom declines, Health increases]]>
Description: The Daily @@TYPE@@ newspaper reports that another pizza delivery driver was assaulted and robbed on the job yesterday, the tenth such attack in recent weeks. Public sympathy is with the pizza drivers, mainly because lazy people don't want to have to pick up their own pizzas.

Validity: Valid for major industry Pizza Delivery

[option]@@RANDOMNAME@@ -- chief extortion officer of The Pizza Delivery, Ice Cream Vendor and Roasted Chestnut Workers Union of @@NAME@@ -- wants you to give his comrades in arms real firearms. "We would welcome your support in this matter, and we assure you that the pizza, ice cream and chestnut community won't forget what you do at election time."
[effect] residents live in fear of armed delivery people
[stats]economy [not economic rights] declines, personal rights increase, political rights increase, Pizza Industry declines
[option]"That's ridiculous," says @@RANDOMNAME@@, spokesperson for the Pizza, Submarine and Burger Joints Association. "How could we continue to pay our employees as little as we do if they've got guns? How many customers would call if a gun-toting pizza guy was at the door? Instead you should make all deliveries payable by credit card or electronic payment only. Sure it might take a surcharge of say of 10%, but it is a small price to pay for safety and pizzas."
[effect] couch potatoes grumble about 'service' or 'handling' fees when they order out
[stats]economic freedom decreases, economy increases, Law&Order increases, Pizza Industry strengthens
[option]"I don't wanna to face neither no gun barrel or more fees," says a semi-articulate thirtysomething living in his parents' basement who uses the screen name "RelaxoMan. "Why don't the gummint like, subsidiary pizza? If I ain't got my double @@ANIMAL@@-topping pizza, the gummint is being just like them Nasties!"
[effect] waistlines expand and pay packets contract as the government pays for all fast food
[stats]general economy declines, Pizza Delivery increases, Health decreases
[option]Health Minister @@RANDOMNAME@@ gives you the brightest smile you've ever seen. "I've been trying to get people off fast food for ages. Let's ban pizza delivery on public safety grounds, crack down on public health code violations and put 'quick service' restaurants out of business for good. Think of the money we'll save on health care! Sure people might not like it in the beginning, but no longterm gain without shortterm pain, right?"
[effect] fast walking has replaced fast food as the most popular pastime
[stats]Pizza Delivery disappears as Major Industry, economy as a whole remains stable, economic freedom declines, personal freedom declines, Health increases]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=625 Thu, 11 May 2006 03:01:51 -0500 Sober Thought]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=625
I don't this has been touched on before, and I like the fact that it isn't an either/or one like many others. Infact, I thought one or two other options might be fun too, but decided I was already pressing my luck at five.


Title: No @@ANIMAL@@ Left Behind?
Description:

Recently when a @@MAJORINDUSTRY@@ pensioner and champion @@ANIMAL@@ fancier decided to travel abroad for a pet show, the border guards on Skull Island insisted that "Fluffikins" had to be quarantined for six months. Shocked by this ill-mannered treatment, the pet human indignantly returned home.
Validity: Valid for all nations
Options:
[option]"Why do they hate my widdle Fwuffikins so? She's the cutest @@ANIMAL@@ in the whole @@TYPE@@ and I have the ribbons to prove it," says @@RANDOMNAME@@ tearfully after the experience in an interview with the @@NAME@@ Broadcasting Corporation. "I say we embargo Skull Island until all animals are wanted on the voyage! No animal left behind!"
[effect] international trade policy is set by @@ANIMAL@@ owners and @@MAJORINDUSTRY@@ pensioners
[stats]economic freedom and commerce decrease; political freedom increases because the animal lover winds and major industry increases since its OAPs are setting the political agenda
[option]"Look," pleads @@RANDOMNAME@@, Foreign Minister of Skull Island, "we're sorry about the @@ANIMAL@@ but we can't have infestations of exotic species now, can we? What would Kong think? If you shut this animal lover up we can continue mutually beneficial trade with @@NAME@@."
[effect] governments support the rights of foreigners over their own citizens
[stats]civil rights decrease; economic freedom and commerce increase
[option]"This is just what we've been waiting for," says your National Security Advisor Doctor Merkw?rdige-Liebe. "A pretext like this would be just perfect to put our invasion plan into motion. We must not allow a quarantine gap!"
[effect] the War of the @@ANIMAL@@ has claimed untold lives
[stats]civil rights, economic freedom and political rights all decrease; defense increases
[option]"Why are we even listening to this nonsense?," Mr. X, your backroom political operative says. "If this crazy @@ANIMAL@@ person doesn't like what the government is doing, too bad so sad."
[effect] the @@TYPE@@ won't even defend its own national animal
[stats]political rights decrease; economic rights and commerce increase
[option]Street evangelist Pastor @@RANDOMNAME@@ known in the cult, er, church as Standing @@ANIMAL@@ bellows: "This is a sign from above! I now know I have been chosen to lead the nation just as my namesake was cast from Skull Island!"
[effect] the Unspeakable Cult of Standing @@ANIMAL@@ runs the country
[stats]political and civil rights all decrease; religion & spirituality increase]]>
I don't this has been touched on before, and I like the fact that it isn't an either/or one like many others. Infact, I thought one or two other options might be fun too, but decided I was already pressing my luck at five.


Title: No @@ANIMAL@@ Left Behind?
Description:

Recently when a @@MAJORINDUSTRY@@ pensioner and champion @@ANIMAL@@ fancier decided to travel abroad for a pet show, the border guards on Skull Island insisted that "Fluffikins" had to be quarantined for six months. Shocked by this ill-mannered treatment, the pet human indignantly returned home.
Validity: Valid for all nations
Options:
[option]"Why do they hate my widdle Fwuffikins so? She's the cutest @@ANIMAL@@ in the whole @@TYPE@@ and I have the ribbons to prove it," says @@RANDOMNAME@@ tearfully after the experience in an interview with the @@NAME@@ Broadcasting Corporation. "I say we embargo Skull Island until all animals are wanted on the voyage! No animal left behind!"
[effect] international trade policy is set by @@ANIMAL@@ owners and @@MAJORINDUSTRY@@ pensioners
[stats]economic freedom and commerce decrease; political freedom increases because the animal lover winds and major industry increases since its OAPs are setting the political agenda
[option]"Look," pleads @@RANDOMNAME@@, Foreign Minister of Skull Island, "we're sorry about the @@ANIMAL@@ but we can't have infestations of exotic species now, can we? What would Kong think? If you shut this animal lover up we can continue mutually beneficial trade with @@NAME@@."
[effect] governments support the rights of foreigners over their own citizens
[stats]civil rights decrease; economic freedom and commerce increase
[option]"This is just what we've been waiting for," says your National Security Advisor Doctor Merkw?rdige-Liebe. "A pretext like this would be just perfect to put our invasion plan into motion. We must not allow a quarantine gap!"
[effect] the War of the @@ANIMAL@@ has claimed untold lives
[stats]civil rights, economic freedom and political rights all decrease; defense increases
[option]"Why are we even listening to this nonsense?," Mr. X, your backroom political operative says. "If this crazy @@ANIMAL@@ person doesn't like what the government is doing, too bad so sad."
[effect] the @@TYPE@@ won't even defend its own national animal
[stats]political rights decrease; economic rights and commerce increase
[option]Street evangelist Pastor @@RANDOMNAME@@ known in the cult, er, church as Standing @@ANIMAL@@ bellows: "This is a sign from above! I now know I have been chosen to lead the nation just as my namesake was cast from Skull Island!"
[effect] the Unspeakable Cult of Standing @@ANIMAL@@ runs the country
[stats]political and civil rights all decrease; religion & spirituality increase]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=169 Thu, 02 Jun 2005 18:59:04 -0500 Sober Thought]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=169
Now that I've reached the magic 500 million inhabitants mark, I've put my mind to the Daily Issues. I'll try a few, but this is my first.

There are a few Daily Issues dealing with the armed forces, but I want one that focuses on the "Military-Industrial Complex" as Dwight Eisenhower described it. DI #14 and #147 are about funding the military in general or specific tri-service projects. DI #157 has to do with training. DI #137 comes closest, but is still about moral issues and the international arms trade. I have tried to keep the focus on the intersection of economic and defence interests.

Even after reading some helpful threads on the main NS forum, I'm not sure if I have the hang of this. Would you care to read and comment for typographical or other errors as well as its ideas?



Valid if Government Priorities = DEFENSE and Major Industry not = ARMS MANUFACTURING

ISSUE NAME: In defence of our beloved @@TYPE@@

In a rare case of tri-service cooperation, Air Marshal @@RANDOMNAME@@ -- speaking on behalf of the army, navy and air force -- approaches you with a proposal. The air marshal says, "It would be a lot easier for us to buy new tanks, fighter planes and submarines if your government created a domestic arms industry. That way we could make the weapons systems appropriate for @@NAME@@."


1. @@RANDOM NAME@@, your ambitious cabinet colleague who is currently Trade Minister, enthusiastically agrees. "This is a great idea! We can export arms thoughout @@REGION@@ and improve our trade balance! Why, with the economic success of the arms trade, @@NAME@@ will finally take its rightful place in the economic and military councils of the world, and I, er, you will be there to represent us."

Strong increase in ARMS MANUFACTURING
Strong increase in COMMERCE
Slight decrease in ECONOMIC FREEDOM
Slight decrease in DEFENSE


2. Laissez-faire economist @@RANDOMNAME@@ of the Ivy League @@RANDOMNAME@@ University cautions you. "Arms are just another good, and the state should only rely on the free market to provide its military and naval needs. Sure, if @@NAME@@ goes to war against our current arms suppliers, it might cost a @@CURRENCY@@ or two more to buy parts and ammunition, but I'm sure the invisible hand of the market will be happy to provide for our military needs in time of war."

Strong increase in ECONOMIC FREEDOM
Slight decrease in DEFENSE


3. Pacifist @@RANDOMNAME@@ cries out in horror. "The air marshal is a warmonger! Why should we subsidize the war machine? Let's abolish the military entirely! Sure it might destabilize @@REGION@@, but non-violence is always the best path."

Strong increase in ECONOMIC FREEDOM
Strong decrease in DEFENSE
Slight decrease in LAW & ORDER


4. Suspiciously, both @@NAME@@'s right-wing Veterans of Unpopular Wars AND the nascent left-wing Union of Arms Workers -- who can't agree on anything else -- think this is a great idea.

Strong increase in ARMS MANUFACTURING
Slight decrease in ECONOMIC FREEDOM
Slight decrease in SOCIAL WELFARE


5. @@RANDOMNAME@@, a business executive, likes the idea and tells you in a private meeting where you are provided with a thick envelope of small unmarked @@CURRENCY@@s. "Let's develop a new combat aircraft that can fly at Mach 4, hover and dive into the ocean. We can call it the 'Fighting @@ANIMAL@@' to rally support. Of course, there might be some cost over-runs, but nothing a few 'confidential campaign contributions' won't fix."

Slight increase in ARMS MANUFACTURING
Strong decrease in ECONOMIC FREEDOM
Slight decrease of LAW & ORDER]]>
Now that I've reached the magic 500 million inhabitants mark, I've put my mind to the Daily Issues. I'll try a few, but this is my first.

There are a few Daily Issues dealing with the armed forces, but I want one that focuses on the "Military-Industrial Complex" as Dwight Eisenhower described it. DI #14 and #147 are about funding the military in general or specific tri-service projects. DI #157 has to do with training. DI #137 comes closest, but is still about moral issues and the international arms trade. I have tried to keep the focus on the intersection of economic and defence interests.

Even after reading some helpful threads on the main NS forum, I'm not sure if I have the hang of this. Would you care to read and comment for typographical or other errors as well as its ideas?



Valid if Government Priorities = DEFENSE and Major Industry not = ARMS MANUFACTURING

ISSUE NAME: In defence of our beloved @@TYPE@@

In a rare case of tri-service cooperation, Air Marshal @@RANDOMNAME@@ -- speaking on behalf of the army, navy and air force -- approaches you with a proposal. The air marshal says, "It would be a lot easier for us to buy new tanks, fighter planes and submarines if your government created a domestic arms industry. That way we could make the weapons systems appropriate for @@NAME@@."


1. @@RANDOM NAME@@, your ambitious cabinet colleague who is currently Trade Minister, enthusiastically agrees. "This is a great idea! We can export arms thoughout @@REGION@@ and improve our trade balance! Why, with the economic success of the arms trade, @@NAME@@ will finally take its rightful place in the economic and military councils of the world, and I, er, you will be there to represent us."

Strong increase in ARMS MANUFACTURING
Strong increase in COMMERCE
Slight decrease in ECONOMIC FREEDOM
Slight decrease in DEFENSE


2. Laissez-faire economist @@RANDOMNAME@@ of the Ivy League @@RANDOMNAME@@ University cautions you. "Arms are just another good, and the state should only rely on the free market to provide its military and naval needs. Sure, if @@NAME@@ goes to war against our current arms suppliers, it might cost a @@CURRENCY@@ or two more to buy parts and ammunition, but I'm sure the invisible hand of the market will be happy to provide for our military needs in time of war."

Strong increase in ECONOMIC FREEDOM
Slight decrease in DEFENSE


3. Pacifist @@RANDOMNAME@@ cries out in horror. "The air marshal is a warmonger! Why should we subsidize the war machine? Let's abolish the military entirely! Sure it might destabilize @@REGION@@, but non-violence is always the best path."

Strong increase in ECONOMIC FREEDOM
Strong decrease in DEFENSE
Slight decrease in LAW & ORDER


4. Suspiciously, both @@NAME@@'s right-wing Veterans of Unpopular Wars AND the nascent left-wing Union of Arms Workers -- who can't agree on anything else -- think this is a great idea.

Strong increase in ARMS MANUFACTURING
Slight decrease in ECONOMIC FREEDOM
Slight decrease in SOCIAL WELFARE


5. @@RANDOMNAME@@, a business executive, likes the idea and tells you in a private meeting where you are provided with a thick envelope of small unmarked @@CURRENCY@@s. "Let's develop a new combat aircraft that can fly at Mach 4, hover and dive into the ocean. We can call it the 'Fighting @@ANIMAL@@' to rally support. Of course, there might be some cost over-runs, but nothing a few 'confidential campaign contributions' won't fix."

Slight increase in ARMS MANUFACTURING
Strong decrease in ECONOMIC FREEDOM
Slight decrease of LAW & ORDER]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=79 Thu, 21 Apr 2005 19:17:23 -0500 Mikitivity]]> https://idugov.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=79
:lol:

Anyway, the issue would be to decide if something as silly is a legal advertisement or not. If it is, Cheese Exports increase. If it is not, they decrease! It is simple, but could be fun.

Gouda, since you're our resident cheese expert, I was thinking this might be an issue for you to work on after your resolution.]]>
:lol:

Anyway, the issue would be to decide if something as silly is a legal advertisement or not. If it is, Cheese Exports increase. If it is not, they decrease! It is simple, but could be fun.

Gouda, since you're our resident cheese expert, I was thinking this might be an issue for you to work on after your resolution.]]>