vineri, 28 decembrie 2007

Ia sa ne mai decidem

Tarabostes Decides:
Animal Experimentation Laws Under Scrutiny
Government Acts
The Issue


Scientists and animal rights activists have once again brought up the debate over animal experimentation to your attention.
The Debate

1. "What have those poor, defenceless animals ever done to us?" asks Roger Mombota, owner of the East Tarabostes sabertooth-tiger Sanctuary. "Kidnapping these helpless creatures from their habitat simply to stick probes and needles in them is just barbaric! How would you like it if someone caged you in a lab and conducted tests on you just to find out whether a new product was fit for sale? Experimenting on animals ought to be banned!"

2. "It is not unethical," replies Dr. Abraham Chicago, the chief surgeon at Tarabostes's largest Cancer Research Clinic. "The unethical thing to do would be to deny the public of the benefit of the great scientific advancements we're making! If we have to sacrifice some animals in the name of science, healthcare, or a commerical venture, then that's just what we've got to do! Think of the lives we could save! All we require is more government support and funding for this worthy cause."

The Government Position
The government is preparing to dismiss this issue.

Dangerously Cheesy
Government Acts
The Issue


The popular daily cartoon strip "Barry the sabertooth-tiger" has always been highly critical of the political system within Tarabostes, but in recent weeks the cartoon has depicted the main characters throwing melted cheese at unpopular politicians. Inspired by this, protestors armed with fondue sets stormed a government building, cheesing off several government officials.
The Debate

1. "It's just a bit of harmless fun!", says Freddy Wall, creator of Barry the sabertooth-tiger, while spraying your advisors with melted cheddar. "If the government were doing a better job people wouldn't feel the need to throw cheese at them. We should be free to express our displeasure in any way we choose. Besides, my cartoon books are selling like hot cakes, and that's got to be good for the economy, right?"

2. "This has got to stop!" insists Pip Summers, head of the censorship board. "I spent 3 hours this morning scraping wensleydale out of my hair! Arrest these lunatics! The protestors and the people responsible for this vile cartoon, throw them all into jail!"
This is the position your government is preparing to adopt.

3. "Arrrrrgh!" screams lactose-intolerant Hack Longbottom, a member of the public safety board, as incoming rounds of mature gouda smash the windows and claim the suits of several nearby advisors. "As I've been saying for many years now, cheese is a dangerous weapon in the wrong hands and should be outlawed. Ban all cheese now, and enforce it!"

The Government Position
The government has indicated its intention to follow the recommendations of Option 2.

A Capital Idea
Government Acts
The Issue


A crowd of penniless ex-businessmen have amassed in Tarabostes's capital city, demanding that the government return all the nationalised industry to private control.
The Debate

1. "GREED IS GOOD!" bellows Bianca Jong-Il, a famous advocate of capitalism. "The economy is stagnating terribly under government control. Complete privatisation is the only option here. It's time to give power back to the people! Well, rich people, anyway..."

2. "This it outrageous!" cries armchair revolutionary, Roger Mistletoe. "The government must maintain the principles of equality and socialism that we fought so hard for, and not sell the country to corrupt and greedy corporations. We must eject these shameful capitalists from our great nation at once!"

3. "Hey, aren't we all being a little extreme about this?" says noted economist, Billy Spirit. "Surely we could just keep the key industries, such as the electricity and water supplies, under government control and lessen the regulations on the others so they could function more independently? That way, the people can't complain that they are at the mercy of big business, and industries such as retail can function more effectively."
This is the position your government is preparing to adopt.

The Government Position
The government has indicated its intention to follow the recommendations of Option 3.

Raise Duel Standards, Say Fencers
Government Acts
The Issue


A number of well-dressed gentlemen wearing a varied assortment of swords is insisting that they be allowed to settle their private disputes on the field of honourable battle.
The Debate

1. "We must be permitted our inherent right to defend our honour through feats of arms!" exclaims Buffy King, a bewigged aristocrat sporting a particularly flamboyant swept-hilt rapier. "The right to duel is one found throughout history for the honourable settling of disputes and I must insist that my right to fight be recognised! The world would be so much better - and cheaper too - if conflicts of interest were sorted through trial by combat instead of trial by jury."

2. "Swords? Heavens, what dreadful things. All sharp and pointy - quite dangerous, you know," says Stephanie Hamilton, an ardent pacifist. "Duelling ought to be banned! The best way to settle these kind of arguments are through trials, we all know that. If we go ahead with what these duelling nutters want then innocent people will die! It will be a sad day when people value money more than justice. Apart from lawyers, obviously."

This is the position your government is preparing to adopt.

The Government Position
The government has indicated its intention to follow the recommendations of Option 2.

Periodic

The Federation of Tarabostes
"Assimilation by preparation"

UN Category: Corrupt Dictatorship
Civil Rights: Below Average
Economy: Fragile
Political Freedoms: Outlawed
Location: Romania
Regional Influence: Minnow
Tarabostes is a UN Member

The Federation of Tarabostes is a very large, safe nation, remarkable for its devotion to social welfare. Its hard-nosed, cynical population of 96 million are ruled with an iron fist by the dictatorship government, which ensures that no-one outside the party gets too rich. In their personal lives, however, citizens are relatively unoppressed; it remains to be seen whether this is because the government genuinely cares about its people, or if it hasn't gotten around to stamping out civil rights yet.

It is difficult to tell where the omnipresent, corrupt, socially-minded government stops and the rest of society begins, but it juggles the competing demands of the Environment, Education, and Defence. The average income tax rate is 100%. The private sector is almost wholly made up of enterprising fourteen-year-old boys selling lemonade on the sidewalk, although the government is looking at stamping this out.

Every product goes through extensive safety-testing by the government, UFO sightings are listed daily in the morning news, an increasing percentage of the population's youth have homosexual parents, and the country has been 'going shopping' by annexing nearby nations for their resources. Crime -- especially youth-related -- is totally unknown, thanks to the all-pervasive police force and progressive social policies in education and welfare. Tarabostes's national animal is the sabertooth-tiger, which is also the nation's favorite main course, and its currency is the forlorn.

Tarabostes is ranked 8th in the region and 9,818th in the world for Highest Average Tax Rates.

United Nations Activity
Endorsements Received
: 6 (Istrians, Ulpia Sarmisegetuza, Lizuca, Cine-itare, Poliarchy, Negru-Voda)

sâmbătă, 22 decembrie 2007

Decizii

Tarabostes Decides:
A Request For Military Aid


Government Acts
The Issue

A small nameless nation within your sphere of influence has gone on a genocidal rampage within its own borders, ridding itself of what their Supreme Ruler For All Eternity, Emperor Aaron Jones, refers to as 'those pesky Bigtopians'. Some escaped refugees are requesting that your government do something to end the slaughter of millions.

The Debate
"They're killing everyone!" gasps Calvin McAlpin, one of the refugees. "I implore you to please intervene and stop this murder of my people! If Tarabostes has any compassion at all then it must help us! With these madmen out of power we can finally go about rebuilding our nation as a land of justice and freedom!"

"Woah, woah, we can't just go around being a knight in shining armour for every random hell-hole on this planet," says Konrad Summers, your minister of Foreign Relations. "Should we send citizens of Tarabostes into war just so we can save a bunch of foreigners? I don't think so! Now, I'm no xenophobe, but I've gotta ask: what's in it for us? Nothing but the death of our soldiers and criticism from the rest of the region, that's what. Trouble is we're getting too much of a reputation for having a big army. So drop some of our military funding and let them fight their own wars. It's got nothing to do with us."

"Well, maybe this nation does have something we need, sir," says Chastity Fellow, your Military Advisor, while perusing a giant map of Tarabostes. "We're fast running out of land and resources here, so why not invade this place, kick out whoever's in power there, and take over? We've got the military power, so why wait? If any of those hippies in the region have somethin' to say about it, they can say hello to our missile programmes, haha!"

This is the position your government is preparing to adopt.

"They have as much right to their own internal politics as we do," says activist and peacenik Chastity Bush. "While their actions may be deplorable by our standards, we can't intervene unless the legitimate government requests it. It's just an invitation to anarchy on an international scale, and nobody but a few crackpots want that."

The Government Position
The government has indicated its intention to follow the recommendations of Option 3.

Two Mommies One Too Many?

Government Acts
The Issue

The commercial release of the controversial children's book 'Heather Has Two Mommies' in Tarabostes has sparked debate over laws concerning the adoption of children by homosexual couples.

The Debate
"I cannot understand for the life of me why anyone could possibly be against this," complains Jacob Kantelberg, showing up at your office wearing a pink feather boa. "Bart and I are good and caring people and will make excellent fathers, so what's the problem? All of the scientific studies have shown that there's no difference in the wellbeing of children raised by gay and straight couples. All that's holding these little darlings back from the happy family life that they deserve is the outdated prejudices of some prudes. All we want is to adopt a child to call our own. It'll be fabulous!"

This is the position your government is preparing to adopt.

"I don't care what these so-called scientific studies say," says Max Spirit, representing a number of conservative religious organisations. "How can a boy hope to develop properly into a man if he's being brought up by poofs? A father figure is not supposed to behave as if it is 'okay' to be, um, romantically invested in another man - and the same goes for lesbians! Why? Because it is not okay. It'll just give them gay! Think about it: say you have two gay sabertooth-tigers - they can't have children because nature did not provide them with the tools and if God wanted gays to have kids then they would have those tools. Don't legalise this blasphemy! Think of the children!"

"This just doesn't go far enough in my opinion," grumbles Elizabeth Licorish an ardent opponent to homosexuality. "The more concessions we give these people, the more they'll reduce our nation to the most embarrassing gayfest of all Romania! We'll be a joke! Homosexuality is a sin, and not only that it's a disease of society and there's no two ways about it. It must be criminalised and those responsible hanged just like in the good old days."

The Government Position
The government has indicated its intention to follow the recommendations of Option 1.

Close Encounters Of The Sci-fi Kind?

Government Acts
The Issue

A recent, well-publicized UFO sighting over rural areas of Tarabostes has turned people's attention to the skies, and what... or who... might be up there.

The Debate
"This event proves one thing: there are other life-forms out there," says eccentric astronomer Roger Broadside, "All we have to do is find them! What is the price of a few hundred Radio Telescopes compared to the benefit of living in peace and harmony with our brethren of the stars?"

This is the position your government is preparing to adopt.

"Spies! It's gotta be spies! A few planes or satellites from our enemies or 'allies' in our region," rages General Klaus Clinton, head of Tarabostes's military, "The only way to keep those snoops out of our airspace is to patrol the streets 'n skies, and shoot 'em down! Even if they are some sort of little green aliens, a couple of SAM batteries and a few flak cannons'll keep 'em from abducting our sabertooth-tigers."

"Extraterrestrial lifeforms? Alien invaders? I don't know why we even have to listen to such idiocy!" complains prize-winning physicist Abraham Mombota. "In my opinion, the idea of 'aliens' on another planet is highly unlikely, and even if they did exist, getting from there to here is technically impossible! I say we forget this nonsense and stop spending our tax forlorns on it. Leave this sort of foolishness to the people who attend those 'trekkie' conventions."

The Government Position
The government has indicated its intention to follow the recommendations of Option 1.

Compensation Culture Must End, Say Corporations

Government Acts
The Issue

After a recent spate of high-profile lawsuits against corporations concerning the safety of their products, corporations have appealed to the government to change the laws of compensation.

The Debate
"It's crazy!" cries Larry Hanover, CEO of Sharp 'n' Pointy Things Incorporated. "These people should simply not be allowed to put the blame on us if they mindlessly abuse our products! I'd have thought it would be common sense not to stick your hand in a blender to 'see if it was working properly'. We need to outlaw these ridiculous lawsuits so I can get on with my business and those working in the law profession can get on with theirs."

"I'm almost inclined to agree," muses Falala Love, a nearby firefighter. "People really should know better than to dry their cats in the microwave oven. But it's also that microwave oven that should not start a fire if one leaves it running overnight. Let's just put higher national safety standards in place that all products must be certified to meet. The extra expense shouldn't worry people if it's the difference between life and death after all."

This is the position your government is preparing to adopt.

"There's nothing wrong with victims getting a little money for the damage they've suffered," claims Beth Mistletoe, Tarabostes's most notorious lawyer. "In fact we should be increasing court capacities so everyone with a complaint to file won't have to wait long before they can get before a judge. Sure it'll be expensive to implement, but maybe then the manufacturers will think twice before selling their unsafe junk without explaining things clearly in the manuals!"

The Government Position
The government has indicated its intention to follow the recommendations of Option 2.

vineri, 21 decembrie 2007

Deocamdata

The Federation of Tarabostes
"Assimilation by preparation"

UN Category: Psychotic Dictatorship
Civil Rights: Some
Economy: Struggling
Political Freedoms: Outlawed
Location: Romania
Regional Influence: Minnow


The Federation of Tarabostes is a very large, environmentally stunning nation, renowned for its devotion to social welfare. Its hard-nosed, cynical population of 50 million are ruled without fear or favor by a psychotic dictator, who outlaws just about everything and refers to the populace as "my little playthings."

It is difficult to tell where the omnipresent, corrupt, socially-minded government stops and the rest of society begins, but it juggles the competing demands of the Environment, Education, and Law & Order. The average income tax rate is 98%. The private sector is almost wholly made up of enterprising fourteen-year-old boys selling lemonade on the sidewalk, although the government is looking at stamping this out.

Political activists are routinely executed, nursing mothers are often arrested for indecent exposure, the latest Harry Potter book is a bestseller, and sabertooth-tigers have more rights than the average citizen. Crime -- especially youth-related -- is totally unknown, thanks to the all-pervasive police force and progressive social policies in education and welfare. Tarabostes's national animal is the sabertooth-tiger, which is also the nation's favorite main course, and its currency is the forlorn.

Tarabostes is ranked 25th in the region and 37,428th in the world for Nicest Citizens.

United Nations Activity
Endorsements Received
: 5 (Istrians, Ulpia Sarmisegetuza, Lizuca, Cine-itare, Poliarchy)

duminică, 16 decembrie 2007

The Federation of Tarabostes
"Assimilation by preparation"


UN Category: Psychotic Dictatorship
Civil Rights: Some
Economy: Struggling
Political Freedoms: Outlawed
Location: Romania
Regional Influence: Minnow

The Federation of Tarabostes is a large, safe nation, remarkable for its strong anti-business politics. Its hard-nosed, cynical population of 29 million are ruled without fear or favor by a psychotic dictator, who outlaws just about everything and refers to the populace as "my little playthings."

It is difficult to tell where the omnipresent, corrupt, socially-minded government stops and the rest of society begins, but it juggles the competing demands of the Environment, Education, and Law & Order. The average income tax rate is 98%. The private sector is almost wholly made up of enterprising fourteen-year-old boys selling lemonade on the sidewalk, although the government is looking at stamping this out.

Political activists are routinely executed, nursing mothers are often arrested for indecent exposure, the latest Harry Potter book is a bestseller, and sabertooth-tigers have more rights than the average citizen. Crime -- especially youth-related -- is totally unknown, thanks to the all-pervasive police force and progressive social policies in education and welfare. Tarabostes's national animal is the sabertooth-tiger, which is also the nation's favorite main course, and its currency is the forlorn.

Tarabostes is ranked 60th in the region and 68,435th in the world for Fastest-Growing Economies.

United Nations Activity
Endorsements Received
: 5 (Istrians, Ulpia Sarmisegetuza, Lizuca, Cine-itare, Poliarchy)

joi, 13 decembrie 2007

Pana una alta...

The Federation of Tarabostes
"Assimilation by preparation"

UN Category: Psychotic Dictatorship
Civil Rights: Few
Economy: Struggling
Political Freedoms: Outlawed
Location: Romania
Regional Influence: Minnow

The Federation of Tarabostes is a large, environmentally stunning nation, renowned for its devotion to social welfare. Its hard-nosed, cynical population of 20 million are ruled without fear or favor by a psychotic dictator, who outlaws just about everything and refers to the populace as "my little playthings."

It is difficult to tell where the omnipresent, corrupt, socially-minded government stops and the rest of society begins, but it juggles the competing demands of Law & Order, Defence, and the Environment. The average income tax rate is 95%. The private sector is almost wholly made up of enterprising fourteen-year-old boys selling lemonade on the sidewalk, although the government is looking at stamping this out.

All industry is owned and run by the government, cars are banned, citizens are barcoded to keep track of their movements, and political activists are routinely executed. Crime -- especially youth-related -- is totally unknown, thanks to the all-pervasive police force. Tarabostes's national animal is the sabertooth-tiger, which is also the nation's favorite main course, and its currency is the forlorn.

Tarabostes is ranked 45th in the region and 45,770th in the world for Most Subsidized Industry.

United Nations Activity
Endorsements Received
: 5 (Istrians, Ulpia Sarmisegetuza, Lizuca, Cine-itare, Poliarchy)

Schimbari peste schimbari

Tarabostes Decides:
Harry Potter Censorship Row

Government Acts
The Issue

The latest "Harry Potter" book to hit schools across Tarabostes has stirred up the greatest controversy yet.

The Debate
"I quite enjoyed the book, until I got to the part where Harry summons evil demons to do his bidding," says religious leader Larry Spirit. "Now that's just wrong. We need to restore some sense to this debate, by which I mean we should remove this book from the shelves, salt it thoroughly, and burn it."

Teachers union President Roxanne Chicago says, "Come on, the book is fantasy! And it's a damn good read. I'd like the government to issue a statement of support for our teachers and librarians, so kids can enjoy good books without interference from religious wackos, like Christians."

This is the position your government is preparing to adopt.

The Government Position
The government has indicated its intention to follow the recommendations of Option 2.

Supreme Court Nomination

Government Acts
The Issue

The death of 108 year old Supreme Court Justice Zeke Christmas has created an opening on the bench. Below are the possible nominees.

The Debate
Peggy Licorish, the Former CEO of Tarabostes Products, says "I have long sat by and watched our government vicously attack the big businesses in this country. The government has no right to control businesses and I will adopt that position in all of my judgements."

Reverend Jack Hanover is nominee #2. The Reverend says "I am sick and tired of the liberals in this country ruining our family values. Every day they assault our basic sense of decency. You must vote for me to keep our families safe. Think of the children!"

Gay Activist and former Senator Peggy Hanover is nominee #3. "Our people aren't happy, we need more freedom, we need more civil rights. We must keep the government out of the bedroom. We must respect peoples right to privacy and remember that personal relations are just that, personal."

Environmental Activist Stephanie McGuffin argues, "Our government has been constantly violating Mother Earth and her rights, all our politicians talk about are civil rights, civil rights this, civil rights that, blah blah blah, we aren't important, what is important is the Earth!"

This is the position your government is preparing to adopt.

The last nominee is the retired Five Star General Pip King. "We are ridiculed throughout the international community for our low quality weaponry, our police and military numbers are not sufficient. Our military must be protected from both constitutional and civilian oversight. They should be given money, and a free hand."

Finally, a tomato flies by your head flung by an angry protester. "We want to elect our own judges! This is a democracy! More power to the people! We don't want a lapdog! Separation of Powers! Get the government out of the judicial system!" He chucks another tomato at you before security escorts him out of your private office.

The Government Position
The government has indicated its intention to follow the recommendations of Option 4.

Breastfeeding In Public: Innocent Or Indecent?

Government Acts
The Issue

A young mother was recently thrown out of a restaurant in Tarabostes for publicly breastfeeding her baby and 'upsetting the customers'. There are now demands for the government to state their position on the issue.

The Debate
"We should have a perfect right to feed our babies where we want and when we want without fear of harassment from anyone," declares Catherine Gratwick, a likewise young mother. "Why should women hide themselves away just to assuage the silly attitudes of these narrow-minded fogies? It's totally natural, and much healthier than bottle-feeding for both mother and child so why the fuss? Today, women are afraid to breastfeed in public and the law should be on their side - if not for their benefit, then for that of the children."

"I think it's just wrong, wrong, wrong," says Max Li, in reply to an online survey. "These women should cover themselves up and feed their kids away from sight like respectable folk. It's not like bottles don't exist! I don't want to have to look at that sort of thing when I'm having a romantic dinner or going on a nice leisurely walk down the street, you know. It should be a private thing, like other bodily functions that I rather care not to mention."

This is the position your government is preparing to adopt.

"I'm not against mothers breastfeeding in public," says Charles Clinton, a manager of human resources. "But what I find objectionable is that women could be allowed to breastfeed at the workplace when they should be doing more productive things like, well, working. They can't do that if they want to entertain and feed their baby at the same time can they? Can you imagine policewomen doing this on the job? Doctors? Politicians? Mark my words, this is a bad path to take and will ultimately be disruptive to the national economy. And my bonus."

The Government Position
The government has indicated its intention to follow the recommendations of Option 2.

marți, 11 decembrie 2007

Drepturi??? Eu am drepturi, restul obligatii!

Tarabostes Decides:
People Request Not So Much Dictatorship, If That's All Right


Government Acts
The Issue

While effusively praising Tarabostes's leadership and bowing repeatedly, a delegation has humbly requested that the government take a more "modernistic" view in the future.

The Debate
The High Minister for Finance, who also happens to be your brother, dismisses the claim. "What these people fail to realize is that you know what's best for them. The alternative is anarchy! I say stick to your course. And execute these wackos for treason."

This is the position your government is preparing to adopt.

"Perhaps the people could be given some more political freedoms," muses your Chief of Staff, who is your sister. "Is there really such harm in allowing public discussion of ideas? We could even have a real Opposition Party. One that isn't just full of your puppets, I mean."

The Government Position
The government has indicated its intention to follow the recommendations of Option 1.

Police Consider "Big Brother" Anti-Crime System

The Issue
The Police department is considering installing surveillance cameras in all major public areas, in an effort to crack down on crime.

The Debate
"This is a blatant invasion of the right to privacy!" says libertarian web site operator May Dredd. "Now I can't even go out in public any more without being watched? And you know this is just the beginning. Today there are cameras in city streets. Tomorrow they're peering through your bedroom window."

"Hey, I've got news for you," says Police media liaison Bianca Trax. "When you're out in public, PEOPLE CAN SEE YOU. These cameras will be extremely helpful in reducing the national crime rate. Frankly, I can't see what the fuss is about."

"This 'slippery slope' argument has got me thinking," says Police Minister Bill Longbottom. "You know, it would be a lot easier to fight crime if we watched people all the time. Not with cameras, of course. That's clearly an invasion of privacy. But how about a national database of our citizens, coupled with compulsory ID cards and barcoding? It would stop crime dead in its tracks."

This is the position your government is preparing to adopt.

The Government Position
The government has indicated its intention to follow the recommendations of Option 3.

Sa respiram adanc!

Tarabostes Decides:
Reclaim The Streets!

Government Acts
The Issue

Several major city streets were clogged with bicycles this morning, as the environmental group 'Two Wheels Good, Four Wheels Bad' staged a protest. Several hundred riders ambled through downtown streets, blissfully ignoring the torrent of abuse hurled at them by thousands of motorists running late for work.

The Debate
"People are sick of dirty, smelly automobiles," said protest organizer Billy-Bob Winters. "They're choking the city, the environment--our lives! Cars must be banned!"

This is the position your government is preparing to adopt.

"The only thing people are sick of is long-haired idiots riding their bicycles at two miles an hour on major thoroughfares," says committed motorist Fleur du Pont. "People shouldn't be able to protest like this. The government needs to crack down on them."

The Automotive Manufacturers Association, meanwhile, has called for government support. "It's clear that we need to boost the level of automobile support in this country. This protest this morning is a clear indication of... um... anyway, we need more government funds."

The Government Position
The government has indicated its intention to follow the recommendations of Option 1.

Meanwhile the state is... well... just look...

The Federation of Tarabostes
"Assimilation by preparation"


UN Category: Corrupt Dictatorship
Civil Rights: Average
Economy: Struggling
Political Freedoms: Outlawed
Location: Romania
Regional Influence: Minnow

The Federation of Tarabostes is a small, safe nation, renowned for its compulsory military service. Its hard-nosed, cynical population of 14 million are ruled with an iron fist by the dictatorship government, which ensures that no-one outside the party gets too rich. In their personal lives, however, citizens are relatively unoppressed; it remains to be seen whether this is because the government genuinely cares about its people, or if it hasn't gotten around to stamping out civil rights yet.

It is difficult to tell where the omnipresent, corrupt, socially-minded government stops and the rest of society begins, but it juggles the competing demands of Law & Order, Defence, and Education. The average income tax rate is 90%, and even higher for the wealthy. The private sector is almost wholly made up of enterprising fourteen-year-old boys selling lemonade on the sidewalk, although the government is looking at stamping this out.

The right to free speech is being drastically curtailed, sabertooth-tigers are considered a delicacy, same-sex marriages are increasingly common, and all industry is owned and run by the government. Crime -- especially youth-related -- is totally unknown, thanks to the all-pervasive police force. Tarabostes's national animal is the sabertooth-tiger, which is also the nation's favorite main course, and its currency is the forlorn.

Tarabostes is ranked 42nd in the region and 56,996th in the world for Most Eco-Friendly Governments.

United Nations Activity
Endorsements Received
: 4 (Istrians, Ulpia Sarmisegetuza, Lizuca, Cine-itare)

luni, 10 decembrie 2007

Verde-i iarba

Tarabostes Decides:
Economic Collapse Looms!


Government Acts
The Issue

Big business, fed up with over-regulation in Tarabostes, are heading offshore in ever-increasing numbers.

The Debate
"Good riddance!" says noted environmentalist Falala McAlpin. "Sniff that air! It's never been so clean! At last, our society is freeing itself from the consumer death-trap! I say it's time to take the final step and outlaw capitalism once and for all!"

This is the position your government is preparing to adopt.

"This is a catastrophe waiting to happen," says the Chamber of Commerce. "Think of the consequences! Without big business, where do the jobs come from? Where do we get our medicine? Our cars? Our latest fashions? There are dozens of useless regulations the government could abolish today to make life easier for commerce, and it's high time they did."

The Government Position
The government has indicated its intention to follow the recommendations of Option 1.
Tarabostes Decides:
Where's The Love Gone?


Government ActsThe Issue
Last night the respected tabloid TV show "60 Minutes" ran a report on Tarabostes's rising divorce rate. What is happening to the nuclear family?

The Debate
"There's a simple solution," says Pastor Felix, of the Catholic Church. "Divorce should be illegal. 'For better or worse,' anyone remember how that goes? We should return to the good old days, when you got married for life and stuck by your partner no matter how much of a drunken, abusive, adulterating disappointment they turned out to be."
[Accept]

John Black, author of the hit book, 'Men are from Mars, Women are from Some Whole Other Place,' has a simpler solution. "If couples would just call each other 'darling' once in a while, there would be far fewer relationship breakdowns. A little affection is all it takes. So the government should make it mandatory: call your spouse 'darling' at least once a day, or face a fine."
[Accept]

"There's a simple way to boost the marriage rate," says gay rights activist Clint Falopian. "Abolish those arcane laws that discriminate against same-sex marriages. It's obscene to treat people differently because of their sexual preference. Besides, everyone knows gay relationships are more stable than straight ones."

This is the position your government is preparing to adopt.

The Government Position
The government has indicated its intention to follow the recommendations of Option 3.

Meanwhile the state itself looks like this:

The Federation of Tarabostes
"Assimilation by preparation"


UN Category: Corrupt Dictatorship
Civil Rights: Below Average
Economy: Developing
Political Freedoms: Outlawed

Location: Romania
Regional Influence: Minnow

The Federation of Tarabostes is a small, safe nation, remarkable for its compulsory military service. Its hard-nosed, cynical population of 12 million are ruled with an iron fist by the dictatorship government, which ensures that no-one outside the party gets too rich. In their personal lives, however, citizens are relatively unoppressed; it remains to be seen whether this is because the government genuinely cares about its people, or if it hasn't gotten around to stamping out civil rights yet.

The government -- a sprawling, bureaucracy-choked, corrupt, socially-minded morass -- juggles the competing demands of Law & Order, Defence, and Education. The average income tax rate is 52%, and even higher for the wealthy. A small private sector is dominated by the Information Technology industry.

Military spending is on the increase, meat is a luxury afforded only to the wealthy, the right to free speech is being drastically curtailed, and sabertooth-tigers are considered a delicacy. Crime -- especially youth-related -- is totally unknown, thanks to the all-pervasive police force. Tarabostes's national animal is the sabertooth-tiger, which is also the nation's favorite main course, and its currency is the forlorn.

Tarabostes is ranked 5th in the region and 9,157th in the world for Most Extreme Nations.

United Nations Activity
Endorsements Received
: 4 (Istrians, Ulpia Sarmisegetuza, Lizuca, Cine-itare)

duminică, 9 decembrie 2007

Stomacul inainte de toate

Tarabostes Decides:
Sabertooth-tigers On The Dinner Table?

Government Acts
The Issue
In a bid to provide a new revenue stream for Tarabostes's Beef-Based Agriculture industry, it has been suggested that sabertooth-tigers could be added to the menu.

The Debate
"The fact is, the sabertooth-tiger population is out of control," says Beef-Based Agriculture spokesperson Bianca Mistletoe. "We have to do something about them anyway, so why not market them as tasty snacks? We could have sabertooth-tiger kebabs, sabertooth-tiger pies, sabertooth-tiger-on-a-sticks--the possibilities are endless! Let's not pass up this golden opportunity to provide a feast, if you will, for our economy."

This is the position your government is preparing to adopt.


"I agree that something needs to be done about sabertooth-tiger over-population," says random passer-by Beth Nagasawa, "but eating them? That's kind of gross. Let's just shoot the ones we have to and shovel their bodies into ditches like normal."
[Accept]


"I am shocked and appalled!" declared SPCA President Miranda Fellow. "If anyone needs to be culled, it's us humans. The sabertooth-tigers were here first, remember? We need to take this as a sign to get our industry--agriculture in particular--to back off. The sabertooth-tiger is part of what makes Tarabostes a great nation!"
[Accept]

The Government Position
The government has indicated its intention to follow the recommendations of Option 1.

sâmbătă, 8 decembrie 2007

Drepturi sau privilegii?

After deciding that meat should cost more (well, the people thought it was due to an attempt to revitalize the economy, the government knowing that ecological reasons were behind the decision), a new interesting project has been brought before the authorities:

Tarabostes Decides:
Too Much Yakking, Already, Say Delegation

Government Acts
The Issue
Some people say Tarabostes's policy on free speech has gone too far.

The Debate
"These days, anyone says whatever they want with no regard to what kind of dribble is coming out of their mouths!" says angry commuter Hope Li. "It's gone too far. We should go back to the good old days, when if someone started talking garbage, we'd smack them one."

This is the position your government is preparing to adopt.

"We need more free speech, not less," argues civil rights campaigner Gregory Spirit. "Free speech allows ideas to be explored, challenged, and discussed in a productive, open forum. It teaches our kids to be critical thinkers. And dirty words, of course, but that's just the price you pay."
[Accept]

"The right to free speech is a central tenet of our system of democracy," says religious leader Lars Spirit. "But surely the right to not have your religious beliefs mocked by others is worth something, too? We mustn't put up with intolerance!"
[Accept]

The Government Position
The government has indicated its intention to follow the recommendations of Option 1.

Kabooooom!!!

Tarabostes Decides:
Military Demands Increased Spending

Government Acts
The Issue
The Department of Defense has put its case for a substantial increase in funding for the coming financial year.

The Debate
"These are turbulent times we live in," says Defense Chief Fleur Wall. "Turbulent and dangerous. And the only sensible response to that, of course, is to build a lot more weapons. Unless we get the funding we need, I can't promise that we'll be able to defend Tarabostes's sovereign borders from rogue nations and foreign powers. Or those leaky boatloads of refugees, for that matter."

This is the position your government is preparing to adopt.

"NO MORE BOMBS," chant the protestors outside Parliament House, in a repetitious and increasingly annoying appeal. Spokesperson Aaron Licorish, speaking through a feedback-afflicted microphone, says, "Tarabostes needs fewer weapons, not more! Make the world a safer place! Disarm now!"
[Accept]

The Government Position
The government has indicated its intention to follow the recommendations of Option 1.

Meanwhile our state looks like this...

The Federation of Tarabostes
"Assimilation by preparation"


UN Category: Corrupt Dictatorship
Civil Rights: Average
Economy: Weak
Political Freedoms: Unheard Of

Location: Romania
Regional Influence: Minnow

The Federation of Tarabostes is a small, environmentally stunning nation, renowned for its compulsory military service. Its hard-nosed, cynical population of 9 million are ruled with an iron fist by the dictatorship government, which ensures that no-one outside the party gets too rich. In their personal lives, however, citizens are relatively unoppressed; it remains to be seen whether this is because the government genuinely cares about its people, or if it hasn't gotten around to stamping out civil rights yet.

The government -- a sprawling, bureaucracy-choked, corrupt, socially-minded morass -- juggles the competing demands of Law & Order, Education, and Healthcare. The average income tax rate is 45%, but much higher for the wealthy. A small but healthy private sector is led by the Information Technology industry, followed by Retail and Basket Weaving.

The government's religious works are headed by a New Age guru, high-income earners pay a 100% tax rate, marijuana is legal in the privacy of your own home, and euthanasia is legal. Crime -- especially youth-related -- is well under control, thanks to the all-pervasive police force. Tarabostes's national animal is the sabertooth-tiger, which frolics freely in the nation's many lush forests, and its currency is the forlorn.

Tarabostes is ranked 27th in the region and 37,914th in the world for Nicest Citizens.

United Nations Activity
Endorsements Received: 3 (Istrians, Ulpia Sarmisegetuza, Lizuca)

vineri, 7 decembrie 2007

Mori pe limba ta

Tarabostes Decides:
Cancer Sufferer Demands Euthanasia Bill


Government Acts
The Issue
Dorothy Terwilliger lies immobilized in a hospital bed, unable to move. She has end-stage cancer, and wishes to end her struggle against death. However, laws prevent her doctors from obeying her wishes.

The Debate
Dorothy and her family are campaigning for a "Dying with Dignity" bill, to change this situation. She implores the government to legalize euthanasia.

This is the position your government is preparing to adopt.


"I understand this is a very difficult time for these people," says freelance medical writer Clint McGuffin. "But the solution is not to let our medical system slide down the slippery slope of killing people in pain. We must cure, not kill. This is not the right time for euthanasia."
[Accept]


"I agree, but go further: there is never a right time for euthanasia," says Bishop Klaus Winters. "The lives we lead are given to us by the grace of God, and he decides when they end. It is not for us to question God's divine purpose, no matter how odd or screwed-up it may seem."
[Accept]

The Government Position
The government has indicated its intention to follow the recommendations of Option 1.

joi, 6 decembrie 2007

Zbori in public sau doar acasa?

Government Acts
The Issue
National marijuana consumption has hit an all-time high, with alarming results, a new poll has found.

The Debate
"My factory's productivity is down ten percent since marijuana was decriminalized," complains employer Abraham Clinton. "And the number of thefts from the candy machine is off the scale. This so-called 'pot' needs to be banned in all public places. Let the junkies do what they want at home, but not in my workplace."

This is the position your government is preparing to adopt.

"Whoa, dude, no need to get, like, you know," says Free Your Mind campaigner May Christmas, from his parents' basement. "This is, like, a personal choice issue, you know. It's like... whoa, just back off what I want to do with my own body. Don't let the fascists win, man. There are some hot new eckies coming in soon, they should be legal too."
[Accept]
The Government Position
The government has indicated its intention to follow the recommendations of Option 1.

Uitare

As feared, the effects of legislation not authorized by our government, but enforced upon us has already affected the level of intelligence of our people. Case in point:

The Issue
In response to a slow news week, certain highbrow newspapers have stirred up the debate over voluntary vs compulsory voting.

The Debate

"Compulsory voting makes about as much as sense as having the death penalty for attempted suicide," says civil rights activist Violet Love. "You can't force people to be free! You can only give them the choice. Besides, if all those derelicts who can't be bothered to get off their ass once every few years voted, who would they elect? I shudder to think."
[Accept]

"It's not contradictory at all," argues political commentator Stephanie McAlpin. "The fact is, if not everyone votes, the outcome isn't truly representative. Some groups--like elderly gun nuts--vote more often than others. That's why we always end up with such terrible politicians."

This is the position your government is preparing to adopt.

"This raises an interesting issue," says Falala Wall, your brother. "And that is: why do we need elections, anyway? Seems to me it would be much simpler if you just decided what was right, and did it. Wouldn't that save everyone a lot of time?"
[Accept]

The Government Position

The government has indicated its intention to follow the recommendations of Option 2.

Since this legislation has already been adopted in the above parameters, the re-emergence of the issue shall lead to it's dismissal.

Afectarea internului de catre extern

Following a difficult diplomatic battle, during wich our nation fought tooth and nail against the "democratic" majority, the following happened:

UNITED NATIONS RESOLUTION #230

Fairness and Equality Act
A resolution to improve worldwide human and civil rights.


Category: Human Rights
Strength: Significant
Proposed by: SchutteGod

Description: The United Nations,

AFFIRMING the right of all people not to be targeted for abuse or discrimination based upon their gender, sexual orientation, or religious or cultural background;

RECOGNIZING the need for effective international anti-discrimination measures and additional protections for women and members of minority groups;

REGRETTING that Resolution #99: Discrimination Accord, while outlawing discriminatory practices by nations, may be interpreted as a prohibition of discrimination by governments only, while excluding discrimination by private groups, individuals and employers;

SEEKING to address the failures of past legislation in the area of human rights, much of which has been repealed on the grounds of ineffectiveness;

NOTING past affirmations of national prerogative on marriage and criminal-sentencing laws, somewhat limiting the scope of this remit;

Hereby enacts the following:

1. Unfair and unreasonable discrimination in employment, housing, education or access to services provided to the general public shall be prohibited by all member states, including discrimination based on a person's gender, race, ethnicity, nationality, skin color, language, economic or cultural background, physical/mental disability or condition, age, religion or belief system, sexual orientation or gender orientation;

2. Unprovoked violence against or intimidation of any person on previously stated grounds shall be a civil and criminal offense in all member states;

3. Nothing in this article shall be construed as to deny additional or stronger protections against discrimination and abuse already enacted by member states.

Votes For: 6,034
Votes Against: 2,943

Implemented: Wed Dec 5 2007


This led to changes in our own way of life, the future will punish those responsible:

The Federation of Tarabostes
"Assimilation by preparation"

UN Category: Corrupt Dictatorship
Civil Rights:Below Average
Economy:Weak
Political Freedoms:Unheard Of

Location: Romania
Regional Influence: Minnow

The Federation of Tarabostes is a small, environmentally stunning nation, renowned for its compulsory military service. Its hard-nosed, cynical population of 8 million are ruled with an iron fist by the dictatorship government, which ensures that no-one outside the party gets too rich. In their personal lives, however, citizens are relatively unoppressed; it remains to be seen whether this is because the government genuinely cares about its people, or if it hasn't gotten around to stamping out civil rights yet.

The government -- a sprawling, bureaucracy-choked, corrupt, socially-minded morass -- juggles the competing demands of Law & Order, Education, and Healthcare. The average income tax rate is 46%, but much higher for the wealthy. A small but healthy private sector is led by the Information Technology industry, followed by Retail and Basket Weaving.

A large-scale revitalization of the education system is underway, organ donation is compulsory, the government's religious works are headed by a New Age guru, and high-income earners pay a 100% tax rate. Crime -- especially youth-related -- is totally unknown, thanks to the all-pervasive police force. Tarabostes's national animal is the sabertooth-tiger, which frolics freely in the nation's many lush forests, and its currency is the forlorn.

Tarabostes is ranked 10th in the region and 7,414th in the world for Happiest Citizens.

United Nations Activity
Endorsements Received: 1 (Istrians)

miercuri, 5 decembrie 2007

Cum stam azi...

The Federation of Tarabostes
"Assimilation by preparation"

UN Category: Corrupt Dictatorship
Civil Rights: Some
Economy: Developing
Political Freedoms: Unheard Of
Location: Romania
Regional Influence: Minnow

The Federation of Tarabostes is a small, environmentally stunning nation, notable for its absence of drug laws. Its hard-nosed, cynical population of 7 million are ruled with an iron fist by the dictatorship government, which ensures that no-one outside the party gets too rich. In their personal lives, however, citizens are relatively unoppressed; it remains to be seen whether this is because the government genuinely cares about its people, or if it hasn't gotten around to stamping out civil rights yet.

The government -- a sprawling, bureaucracy-choked, corrupt, socially-minded morass -- juggles the competing demands of Law & Order, Education, and Healthcare. The average income tax rate is 41%, but much higher for the wealthy. A small but healthy private sector is led by the Information Technology industry, followed by Retail and Basket Weaving.

Voting is compulsory, nudity is frowned upon, and a large-scale revitalization of the education system is underway. Crime -- especially youth-related -- is well under control, thanks to the all-pervasive police force. Tarabostes's national animal is the sabertooth-tiger, which frolics freely in the nation's many lush forests, and its currency is the forlorn.

Tarabostes is ranked 53rd in the region and 58,967th in the world for Most Subsidized Industry.

United Nations Activity
Endorsements Received: 1 (Istrians)

Cateva Hotarari

The Issue

A group of emergency room doctors has petitioned the government to introduce mandatory organ donations.
The Debate

1. "It's not as crazy as it sounds," says Dr. Miranda Broadside. "Every day, people die because we don't have the organs to save them. Well, that and widespread under-funding of the health system. But the point is, if the government allowed us to take organs from dead people, we could save hundreds of lives a year. And come on, it's not like dead people need them."
*This is the position your government is preparing to adopt.

2. "You keep your damn hands off my organs!" says alarmed hospital patient Falala Thiesen. "They are my organs, and I'll do with them what I like. The government has no right to my body."

The Government Position

The government has indicated its intention to follow the recommendations of Option 1.


The Issue

It's time for the government to hire a new religious advisor. Your people have narrowed down the candidates to:
The Debate

1. Catholic Archbishop Freddy Li: boasts an excellent track record, having rapidly increased church attendances in his constituencies through the "Reaching God Through Guilt" program. Seen as a solid choice.

2. New Age thinker Steffan Broadside: a left-field candidate with some radical ideas. "For me, it's not about the name of your religion. It's about discovering your spirituality in whatever guise that takes. Some people call that a cult: I call it taking spirituality to the people."
*This is the position your government is preparing to adopt.

3. Finally, there's Faith Hendrikson. "If I am awarded the appointment, I will immediately resign," the ex-schoolteacher has declared. "Because, frankly, God is a big load of hokey. I'll be doing everyone a favor by just shutting up about it."

The Government Position

The government has indicated its intention to follow the recommendations of Option 2.

luni, 3 decembrie 2007

Inceputurile

The Federation of Tarabostes - teh beginningzez

"Assimilation by simulation"

UN Category: Corrupt Dictatorship
Civil Rights:Some
Economy:Developing
Political Freedoms:Unheard Of
Location: Romania
Regional Influence: Minnow

The Federation of Tarabostes is a tiny, safe nation, notable for its compulsory military service. Its hard-nosed, cynical population of 5 million are ruled with an iron fist by the dictatorship government, which ensures that no-one outside the party gets too rich. In their personal lives, however, citizens are relatively unoppressed; it remains to be seen whether this is because the government genuinely cares about its people, or if it hasn't gotten around to stamping out civil rights yet.

The government -- a sprawling, bureaucracy-choked, corrupt, socially-minded morass -- devotes most of its attentions to Law & Order, with areas such as Religion & Spirituality and Social Welfare receiving almost no funds by comparison. The average income tax rate is 39%, but much higher for the wealthy. A small but healthy private sector is led by the Information Technology industry, followed by Retail and Basket Weaving.

Crime -- especially youth-related -- is well under control, thanks to the all-pervasive police force. Tarabostes's national animal is the sabertooth-tiger, which frolics freely in the nation's many lush forests, and its currency is the forlorn.