WA Votes, Vol 8

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Commend Kringalia" (October 28, 2022)
Result: passed (SC#422)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to commend Kringalia, a long-serving jack-of-all-trades of South Pacific government with an extensive career in service. The resolution particularly cites Kringalia's work fighting for democracy after the Milograd Coup. Kringalia's achievements also include a wide range of cultural endeavours such as monthly reports as Minister of Regional Affairs and "the Southern Onion", a satirical publication, as well as outstanding service on the the South Pacifican High Court.

We believe Kringalia has been a steadfast supporter of the development of the governance, culture and judiciary of the South Pacific. As a long-standing ally of The North Pacific (including via the Aurora Alliance), we are delighted to have the opportunity to congratulate and commend a wholly deserving, proven and reliable partner.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Repeal "Museums of Musical Heritage"" (October 28, 2022)
Result: failed
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal, Repeal "Museums Of Musical Heritage" seeks to repeal 86, which established an association of museums drawn from individual nations (known as the Museums Of Musical Heritage, MoMH) on music and music related materials. It also creates an online database of materials. It also requests nations, or musicians etc to "donate, lend, share, or otherwise make available" the materials to the MoMH, either voluntarily or to pay "pecuniary compensation".

Much of the debate on this resolution has been on cost grounds. However, we see considerably leeway in how the museums operate (as they are not run by the WA itself but by member states and could well even be private). The economics of music have dramatically changed in the 12 years since this resolution, and the resolution's allowance for "lend, share" music (which we interpret to include streaming) mean we suspect a commercially operated MoMH could well be running at a surplus. Even though MoMH appears to a relic of advances in technology, we do not feel a strong argument has been put forth by the authors to axe the association, although we note that commercial alternatives are widely available.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Repeal "Volcanic Activity Convention"" (October 24, 2022)
Result: failed
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal, Repeal "Volcanic Activity Convention" seeks to repeal GAR#565, which seeks to ensure cooperation between member nations handling disasters like multinational volcanic activity and attempts to legislate for a plan of action during volcanic activity, to help cooperation between all those affected by volcanic activity. The author cites duplication with GAR#570 ("Disaster Precautions and Responses", GAR#585 ("Emergency Broadcasting Standards") and GAR#51 ("Humanitarian Aid Coordination") as primary grounds for repeal.

We are unconvinced by the arguments that Volcanic Activity Convention is adequately covered by other resolutions, primarily because volcanic activities can be both multi-national events and can, more importantly, be an extinction level event (such as Montserrat in real life) rather than a reconstruction event such as a hurricane or a flood. We also believe the proposal also makes a confusing argument as to the funding required for GAR#565, given that (i) the original resolution makes no requirements as to the use of World Assembly funds and (ii) we would presume that nations at risk from volcanoes would sensibly spend its own funds on monitoring seismic activity.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Liberate Equestria" (October 24, 2022)
Result: passed (SC#421)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks liberate Equestria, a historical region which recently came under the control of The Brotherhood of Malice (BoM) and several associates. The passage of a liberation would ensure defenders have the capability to regain control of the region from the current occupiers.

We believe that the potential for the destruction of Equestria, a region with a rich history stretching back over a decade, justifies intervening to usurp the illegitimate administration of the region and transfer control back to the native population. We have no concerns about Equestria or the character of its native inhabitants, and so we fully support measures to assist them in gaining back control of their region.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "International Art Gallery" (October 20, 2022)
Result: passed, but discarded due to rule violations
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal, "International Art Gallery" seeks to create two galleries: (i) an online gallery known as "Publicly Available International Net Treasury" (PAINT) exhibiting photographs of all exhibited artworks within member states and to further research on such artworks, and (ii) a physical gallery located within the territory of the World Assembly known as "Public Institution for the Exhibition of Craft Expertise" (PIECE) to present the "masterpieces of each member nation."

We would expect most developed nations to have online art galleries and plenty of physical galleries, and there are plenty of exhibition opportunities for both masterpieces and upcoming artists, and everything in between. A large number of commercial enterprises and private foundations around the world also work towards digitising works of art, books, sculptures, and other matters of national significance, and do not really need the assistance of the WA. Even if we look at encouraging art works coming from less developed nations, it seems that the proposal, as written, requires member states to take the initiative to ensure that the artworks are documented by PAINT or are placed within PIECE. Within the multi-verse, the WA headquarters is officially defined as a "lunatic asylum" for drunks and miscreants (GA#8) and therefore probably inappropriate for a gallery in any case.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Repeal "Minimum Standard of Living Act"" (October 16, 2022)
Result: passed (GA#629)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to repeal "Minimum Standard of Living Act", which requires member states to offer some minimum levels of access to food and water, clothing, housing, sanitation, utilities, and some transit subject to affordability rules in (5)(b). This repeal proposal also cites several perceived "flaws", such as linking the provision of services to "state monopolies", provisions for "undocumented immigrants", "criminals" and the "unemployed". It also criticized the resolution for making exceptions for economic crises or "predictable national disasters".

We are unconvinced by the premise of the repeal, which criticises potentially valid grounds for exemptions to the "minimum" standard of living. Firstly, the proposal attributes a country's failure to adequately prepare for the most "predictable" of events (eg. tropical storm during monsoon season) to "government mismanagement", which may not be correct in the case of less developed nations who do not have the economic means to fully mitigate the impacts of such events. We also disagree with the claim that GA#344 promotes "anti-competitive state-sponsored monopolies", believing that such monopolies may be essential in providing basic services in the country's context.

We believe that the current resolution only mandates a minimum requirement for all member states, and that nations with significant resources at their disposal have no reasons not to enhance the basic services provided to their citizens. It is also worth noting that the purported replacement has flaws on its own, and based on its current wording, we cannot bring ourselves to support that as a replacement of this proposal.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Repeal "Equal Justice Under Law" (October 12, 2022)
Result: passed (GA#628)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to awesomely destroy GA#572 "Equal Justice Under Law", a resolution aimed at ensuring accountability for all persons equally under law, while making provisions for immunity from prosecution to be extended to individuals conducting legislative activity. This repeal takes aim at a perceived fundamental ambiguity in the target's main legislative clause, noting that its requirement to take "disciplinary measures" does not clarify the extent of these measures. The repeal also questions the need to allow public officials to have immunity from prosecutions.

The Ministry of Assembly of Worlds Affairs believes the deficiencies noted by this proposal are worthy of the repeal. Firstly, the loophole regarding the disciplinary measures essentially renders the most important part of the target resolution useless. In addition, some of the few remaining clauses of the target resolution, as noted in the proposal, work against the aim of equal justice for all by permitting the granting of special immunity to those who may be least deserving of it.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Commend Tim-Opolis" (October 9, 2022)
Result: passed (SC#420)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to commend Tim-Opolis. It hones in on his myriad contributions to the multiverse such as his work in Spiritus, and for a wide range of defender efforts, including the refounding of Greece, contributions to the United Defenders League, more recent participation in The Order of the Grey Wardens. This proposal also notes Tim's efforts in the Potato Alliance N-day faction and his exploits in the Security Council.

This Ministry concurs with the resolution's view that Tim-Opolis has been exceptionally skilled in both region development and military service. Although there might be some pushback on some of Tim-Opolis's very early efforts more than 10 years ago, we believe Tim-Opolis's dedication, strategy and extensive contributions to the many areas he has contributed for the last 10 years are amply worthy of commendation on their own.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Marriage and Custody Act" (October 9, 2022)
Result: failed
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal aims to replace GAR #616 "Contact Rights Between Parent And Child". It requires member states to define "a person's status as having been born to or conceived by unmarried biological parents as an arbitrary, reductive characteristic". It further requires that "no parents may be discriminated against in the granting or revocation of any parental right, duty, or privilege due to said parents' current or former married or unmarried status" and that a member state "may only revoke an individual's status as a legal parent" for a ward (child or mentally diminished individual)'s emotional, mental, or physical wellbeing, or to enforce a prison sentence, amongst other criteria.

Preventing discrimination against the offspring of unmarried parents is a noble course of action. Establishing clear parameters under which revocation of parental status may occur mitigates arbitrary, malicious revocations by relevant authorities. Furthermore, by providing some agency to wards who are capable of articulating reasons for custody revocation, the proposal diminishes the potential harm dependent persons may suffer from the failure to revoke one's status as a parent. These are all laudable pursuits, and their effective execution in this proposal solidifies it as a suitable replacement to GAR #616

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "On the Supremacy of the Potato (October 5, 2022)
Result: passed (SC#419)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): The meat and potatoes of this proposal is giving potatoes their just desserts by recognizing their importance in recent NS history. The proposal accomplishes this by sandwiching that history in an easily digestible manner.

This declaration gives nations something well-written to chew on and lets all potato lovers have their cake and eat it too. It gets its kool-aid across in an amusing and sufficiently detailed way without being too starchy or giving any reason to beef

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Ship Recycling and Breaking Protocols" (October 4, 2022)
Result: passed (GA#627)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal expands upon existing legislative regulations on environmental and trade issues by addressing the gap left in disposing of vessels at the end of their lifespan. It does this by establishing the World Assembly Nautical Commission (WANC), which is tasked with providing uniform regulations and procedures for ship disposal, safety evaluations for ships embarking on their final voyage, maintaining a central database for sharing relevant data pertaining to ship disposal, and imposing insurance and record-keeping requirements for regulated vessels.

The proposal sets forth sensible requirements, and ensures that the WANC is not over-extended and susceptible to bureaucratic morass. We find no problem in addressing the area of ship disposal, given the potential environmental consequences of improper techniques and procedures being utilized

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Commend Fauxia" (September 30, 2022)
Result: passed (SC#418)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal aims to commend Fauxia for their work on Nationstates, in particular, their work in authoring 12 issues and 2 Security Council resolutions. The proposal also applauds the nation's history as a defender, who helped in the liberation operations of China and Liberal Democratic Union.

Prolific issues authors should be recognised, and Fauxia is no exception. 12 issues is certainly impressive, and such dedication and effort to this game should be lauded with a commendation. The well-written proposal also describes in detail the nominee's work in defending, and point out their role in the commendation of Candensia Given their longtime contribution to NationStates, Fauxia is definitely deserving of a commendation.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Repeal "Nuclear Arms Possession Act"" (September 30, 2022)
Result: passed (GA#626)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal aims to repeal GAR#10, the "Nuclear Arms Possession Act", one of the most ancestral resolutions of this Assembly. The author affirms that the objectives of this resolution are outdated and certain points even dangerous for the members of the Assembly, as the resolution was adopted when the Assembly was still unstable. The author believes that many of the aims of this resolution would be covered by the extant GA#418, and hence it is safe to repeal this resolution.

The security objectives of the original resolution no longer coincide with the situation in the Assembly or with subsequent resolutions. In terms of security, we recognize that GAR#10 is vague on the extent of the prerogatives given to member nations to protect themselves, and dangerous given the inaccuracies present in its writing. GAR#418, "Safeguarding Nuclear Materials", by taking up the main objectives of GAR#10, but with a more modern point of view and whose writing is sufficiently precise, makes the original resolution unnecessary, and protects the member nations of shortcomings with devastating consequences. In order to guarantee international security and to support the progressive evolution of Assembly resolutions, it is the opinion of the Ministry that we should support the repeal.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Commend Esternial" (September 26, 2022)
Result: passed (SC#417)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to commend Esternial for their contributions to roleplay in the multiverse, in particular the Portal to the Multiverse (P2TM) board. As part of the argument, the commendation points out the various roleplay storylines they have participated in, as well as their role in development of key characters in other storylines. Apart from that, the commendation note Esternial's role in helping others with the development of their own roleplay and facilitated interaction within the P2TM community.

Esternial's extensive contributions to the P2TM roleplaying community have been largely recognised by fellow community members. Their consistent efforts in their roleplay, as well as their mentorship of fellow roleplayers within the community, have made them stand out as a deserving nominee for commendation. Just like the commendation of G-Tech Corporation, we believe that Esternial is well deserving of this commendation for their efforts in the roleplay community.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Deposit Insurance Fund" (September 26, 2022)
Result: passed (GA#625)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This resolution seeks to establish a Deposit Insurance Fund, an international insurance funding pool that individual member nations can access in order to protect savers from the collapse of individual banks. The resolution also lays out a series of protective standards that are given by the Fund, and how private depository institutions may utilise the Fund to insure their deposits. The resolution also encourage individual member nations to establish their own parallel program in order to insure bank deposits.

The insurance fund provides a realistic and reasonable system for individual savers to regain their funds lost due to the collapse of a financial institution. It is an essential policy ensure that the banking system continues to remain sound, and for individuals to put more faith in these financial institutions.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Sex Worker Protections Act" (September 22, 2022)
Result: failed
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to (1) legalize the sex industry as a legal form of employment across the WA, (2) prohibits any criminization of purchasers of services provided by sex workers (3) requires all "sex work institutions" to provide safe and effective medical products, (4) makes significant changes to rules regarding sexually transmitted diseases, and (5) imposes corresponding prohibitions on making certain activities associated with sex work to be illegal across the WA.

We strongly support labor rights, fought against human trafficking and supported the universal STI counteraction (GAR#606) policy cited in this resolution. Nevertheless, we believe Article 2 of this resolution, which directly legalizes sex work, is an issue that lends poorly to a "one-size fits all" solution from the World Assembly and invites a wide range of passionate arguments. We believe individual member states (or, as they deem appropriate, to their provinces, municipalities and local communities) are in a better position to tailor more nuanced laws that best reflect the cultural, religious, and social views of their communities. We also believe discussions about sexually transmitted diseases and its risks (on both sex workers and their customers) involve substantive arguments on multiple sides in terms of civil rights and health that are also best resolved at a WA state (or below) level.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Repeal "Whistleblower Protection Act" (September 18, 2022)
Result: passed (GA#624)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal aims to repeal GAR #539, "Whistleblower Protection Act" owing to the target Resolution preventing civil and criminal penalties being imposed for libel, its inadvertent prohibition of media entities publishing identifying information of individuals involved in unethical or criminal activities unrelated to government activities, and its indemnification of media entities that propagate the financial information of any government officials.

GAR #539 was written with benevolent intentions and attempted to tackle a significant area of concern for the General Assembly. However, the flaws pointed out by the authors (one of whom, Hulldom, is in fact the author of the target Resolution) are too serious to ignore. The haphazard dissemination of the personal financial information of government officials- the vast majority being otherwise mundane, lower-level officials- has the potential to yield catastrophic consequences for those not involved in any sort of impropriety. The apparent accidental restriction upon media entities seeking to report on the wrongdoings of individuals where said misdeeds are not related to government activities effectively neuters the ability of the press to inform the public of unethical conduct. As for the authors' point about libel, we wholeheartedly agree with their assessment that "... Both governments and citizens ought to have a right not to be lied about." Given that we are assured of a suitable replacement to this Resolution, and that the original author of the target Resolution has taken on the responsibility to repeal their own flawed work, we look forward to the passage of this proposal.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Minimum Payment Act" (September 12, 2022)
Result: passed (GA#623)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal bans lenders that offer unsecured retail credit lines, such as credit cards and personal loans, to charge minimum payments over the payment period that are lower than the interest payable on the loan itself. If the lender sets a minimum payment lower than the interest payable, that payment must be treated as if it were in the minimum amount and the lender thus forfeits the difference between the minimum payment and the interest payable for that period.

We support the resolution, which prevents a snowballing of debt by way of individual borrowers failing to pay off at least the interest payable for that interest period (in real life, depending on jurisdiction, usually biweekly or monthly). This prevents the borrower's debt situation from spiralling out of control (inadvertently or otherwise) by getting the interest (and any fees) added to the principal and creating a bigger burden on the borrower over time, which the borrower may not be able to service. The restriction applies only to unsecured retail loans, and excludes corporate borrowers, which are more likely to be able to manage loans with deferred payment of interest in a sophisticated manner.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Right to Self-Defence" (September 7, 2022)
Result: failed
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal purports to prevent criminalising those who seek to protect their life and liberty in the face of violence, and proceeds to purport to provide a legal defence against anyone that inflicts harm on another party. It also recommends that WA member states do not recognise physical violence against a LEO seeking to lawfully carry out an arrest as self-defence, to demand that those engaged in self-defence to use lesser means of self-defence if possible, and encourages the passage of future legislation on self-defence education.

We are genuinely horrified by the terms of the resolution, which creates very substantial loopholes in arguments in criminal trials. Firstly, the definition in clause (a)(ii) of "unlawful death" cedes too much discretion to WA states in prosecution and defense on what kinds of death are "unlawful". Secondly, the definition of "self-defence" in (a)(iii) as any violence "against a third party" opens the resolution to govern not just law-enforcement officers (as defined therein) but also to any disputes between any third party. Thirdly, the requirement to bar conviction in case a defendant pleads affirmation under "ordinary evidentiary standards" significantly raises the bar for a conviction, in requiring a prosecution to positively prove beyond reasonable doubt (assuming common law standards for a conviction), an extremely high bar especially in case the harmed party did not survive the "violence" as defined in the resolution and in the absence of third party evidence.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Commend G-Tech Corporation" (September 5, 2022)
Result: passed (SC#416)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to commend G-Tech Corporation, a nation famous for their contributions to multiversal roleplay, particularly on the Portal to the Multiverse and Fifth Dimension boards. To make the argument for their commendation, the author draws on the wide variety of incredibly strong and diverse roleplays they have produced along with pointing out their lesser-known protection of their home region of Ankh Mauta following its founder ceasing to exist.

G-Tech Corporation's extensive contributions are not necessarily familiar to those who aren't roleplayers, especially if they don't frequent the P2TM or Fifth Dimension subforums. However, G-Tech Corporation's efforts are renowned within the roleplay community due to their consistent and broad leadership in their roleplay and the extensive mentoring activities they have undertaken, which are much cherished by roleplayers within NS. Both of these make a candidate who is, in our view, entirely worthy of commendation.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Biomedical Donation Omnibus Act" (August 31 2022)
Result: failed
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to build upon the successes of GAR #217, "Biomedical Donor Rights", and GAR #546, "Blood Donation Safety And Equality Act", by prohibiting the practice of deliberately discarding or otherwise failing to utilize donated biomedical tissue on discriminatory grounds, mandating that donated biomedical tissue is shielded from contamination, and by prohibiting the donation or extraction of biomedical tissue in a manner that may pose an undue risk, save for where informed consent is provided.

We strongly support fair, non-discriminatory treatment of biomedical tissue donors and their donated tissues. However, we simply do not believe that the proposal at hand brings anything of significance to the General Assembly that GAR #217 and GAR #546 do not already stipulate. The primary justification for the proposal's existence, that is the perceived loophole of member states accepting biomedical tissue before discarding of it due to discriminatory grounds, simply is not a concern rooted in reality. Bad-faith attempts to avoid using donated biomedical tissues would be covered by existing prohibitions against donor discrimination. Furthermore, there exists a very serious oversight under Article 2(b), wherein it is mandated that "No member nation may penalise an individual for donating or seeking to donate their biomedical tissue". Article 2(b) fails to limit the scope of this provision, which leads to the inevitable outcome of individuals being shielded from liability for knowingly donating contaminated biomedical tissue (which would also contradict GAR #546, which establishes that "it shall be considered a criminal offense to knowingly attempt to donate unsafe blood").

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Commend Valentine Z"" (August 26, 2022)
Result: passed (SC#415)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to commend Valentine Z for their contributions to a plethora of communities across NationStates. The author takes special care to highlight their contributions to Forum 7, the casual chat and game space on the forums that heretofore has never appeared in a commendation. The nominee's contributions to issues (via their own issue and maintenance on the forumside Issues database), cards (development of tech), and roleplay (via their unique set of characters that are nations in their own right) are also points highlighted.

The uniqueness of this nominee is not lost on us. Like The Voice of ARB, Valentine Z fits into a niche that the Security Council has not seen filled before--in this case Forum 7, while also touching on parts more well known to the average NSer (in this case cards, issues, and RP). To rise to the level of international renown for one's work in a unique area of the game makes one a surefire candidate for commendation.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Repeal "Sexual Predator Registry Act"" (August 25, 2022)
Result: passed (GA#622)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to repeal GAR #619, the recently passed "Sexual Predator Registry Act". The author contends that the Act's publicity requirements on sex offenders to be made public encourages vigilantism both against the offender and associates of the offender. In addition, the author expressed significant concerns over the long term effects of the Act, including the lack of statue of limitations meaning that the discrimination can last a long time, and there is the potential for pardoned or exonerated person to escape the stigma of having previously been branded a "sexual predator" without considering whether rehabilitation has changed the offender's behaviour.

We are sympathetic to the author's arguments. The stigma associated with sexual offences can be entrenched for years or decades or more depending on cultural and social norms, and we believe offenders should have some leeway in getting a potential second chance and to start a new life. We note that there will be concerns that some sensitive occupations not welcome any sexual offenders among their ranks but we believe any sensible and well run nation will have rules on employment background checks that will resolve this issue.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Commend Refuge Isle" (August 22, 2022)
Result: passed (SC#414)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to repeal commend Refuge Isle (referred to as Luca) for accomplishments in region-building, infrastructure, and defending. Luca has founded Refuge Isle, one of the largest user-created regions in NationStates. The author notes that Luca has served as head of state in the region since its founding, co-authored 9 amendments to the region's constitution, and served as Refugia's Councillor of Culture. Under Luca's work, Refugia has grown to over 400 nations. Luca has also done work in the cards community, being one of the few traders to complete the set of all legendary artwork. Luca has also done successful defending in the past, liberating regions including Nasunia, Trovons, and China.

Luca is an excellent player who's managed to provide a unique style of gameplay to NS. Réfugia itself is one of the most powerful nations in NationStates, and it's community and culture shows that it was well-built. This, along with Luca's work in other aspects of the game, makes Luca a more than fine candidate for a commendation in our book.

Pallaith's resolution Commend Europeia was passed by the Security Council (August 22, 2022)

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Repeal "Asbestos Consumption, Disposal and Worker Protection"" (August 21, 2022)
Result: failed
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to repeal GAR #435, "Asbestos Consumption, Disposal And Worker Protection", owing to the author's contention that it is disproportionately harmful towards the development aspirations of less technologically and logistically advanced member states, leads to needlessly prolonged deconstruction processes for asbestos-containing structures, leads to "mass homelessness, mass unemployment, and general economic ruin" for nations that rely on asbestos in building construction, and that the failure to provide "clear requirements" for the testing of asbestos in structures significantly increases the risk of non-compliance with impunity.

While we are sympathetic to the plight of asbestos-reliant developing nations, we cannot countenance the continued use of an objectively unsafe building material that leads to prolonged, torturous illness and death for scores of individuals exposed to asbestos either directly or indirectly via its continued structural use. Furthermore, we are unconvinced that the target Resolution's prohibition on the marketing and production of asbestos is necessarily applicable to already-constructed rooms and building. To be frank, we do not agree with the author's opinion regarding the threat posed by asbestos to human and environmental safety- in our view, when more structures contain asbestos, the greater the risk is to the general public.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Commend Europeia" (August 18, 2022)
Result: passed (SC#413)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to replace the recently repealed SCR #234, "Commend Europeia". It builds upon the merits of SCR #234 by more accurately conveying Europeia's various actions, whether they be domestic, in the realm of diplomacy, or when it comes to the Europeian Republican Navy (ERN). It places more significant on the uniqueness and significance of Europeia's internal political system, which the authors contend has left a lasting influence across the multiverse. Of particular note to our Ministry, the proposal goes into greater detail in regards to Europeia's accomplishments and contributions in the World Assembly, specifically by highlighting three legendary WA authors that called Europeia their home.

We are thoroughly impressed with this improved iteration of Europeia's Commendation. As promised in the Repeal that facilitated the submission of this proposal, there is a much greater emphasis on the specifics of Europeia's great contributions over the years, while at the same time taking care to avoid embellishing and otherwise exaggerating details that would diminish the credibility of the proposal. We find that this proposal therefore serves as an excellent homage to Europeia, and we look forward to it being adapted by the Security Council.

Pallaith's resolution Repeal "Commend Europeia" was passed by the Security Council (August 18, 2022)

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Repeal "National Economic Freedoms"" (August 17, 2022)
Result: passed (GA#621)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to repeal GAR #68, "National Economic Freedoms", due to several key issues it introduces, as well as the author's contention that it has outlived its usefulness as a whole. Notable flaws highlighted in the proposal are that the Impartial Mediation Foundation's mandate is not clear enough and doesn't clarify that the committee is only meant to work in matters of commerce, leading to the potential for extraordinary amounts of bureaucratic morass that significantly hinder the General Assembly's work, that there exists no good reason for member states to hinder their ability to restrict objectively undesirable forms of commerce beyond the narrow exemptions provided within the Resolution, and that that Resolution fails to account for member states with significant delegation of authority and governance to regional subdivisions.

We find the author's arguments within the proposal to be convincing. The target Resolution, though probably necessary for its time, has indeed outlived its usefulness, and given fatal flaws such as the failure to properly restrict the Impartial Mediation Foundation's mandate, we see no reason for it to remain as standing legislation. We recognize that there may be persuasive arguments against this proposal, primarily concerning the potential threat to member states' ability to determine their own internal affairs surrounding commerce and economic systems. However, we believe that the scope of legislation potentially opened by the passage of this proposal would be limited to the restriction of commerce viewed almost universally as objectively harmful, and would not extend to broader restrictions on doctrines of economic organization (such as legislation targeting free market economies or collective ownership of productive means).

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Repeal "Commend Europeia"" (August 14, 2022)
Result: passed (SC#412)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to repeal SCR #234, "Commend Europeia", a Commendation that was awarded to a close and treasured ally of The North Pacific. The proposal argues that SCR #234, though written with the best intentions, does not do Europeia justice when it comes to the magnitude of its accomplishments, and also points out several inaccuracies that the authors deem unfit to remain within a standing Security Council Resolution. The proposal calls for a superior replacement to SCR #234.

Given that Europeia has given its consent for this proposal to proceed, we have no qualms about supporting a repeal-and-replace. The authors make a credible case for why such a long-standing Resolution must be repealed, and do so in a way that provides a platform for a replacement Resolution to build upon. We believe that Resolutions should accurately depict a nominee's accomplishments and convey the significance of their actions upon the multiverse. As SCR #234 fails to do so in several key areas, we look forward to a replacement that encapsulates the merits of one of our closest allies.

Pallaith submitted a proposal to the Security Council Repeals Board entitled "Repeal "Commend Europeia"" (August 14, 2022)

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Rights for Crime Victims Act" (August 13, 2022)
Result: failed
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This resolution seeks to safeguard the rights of crime victims. Specifically, the resolution aims to protect the victim's right to medical treatment, personal privacy, as well as ability to seek out compensation from the convicted culprit(s).

While the resolution has good intentions, there are some flaws which affect the execution of the resolution. In particular, there are serious concerns over clause 4, given that it does not take into consideration the culprit's skillset, as well as their physical and mental state, when deciding that perpetrators of the crime should be placed in probation until they are able to make the required compensation.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Liberate Realm of the Whispering Winds" (August 10, 2022)
Result: passed (SC#411)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to liberate the Realm Of The Whispering Winds (henceforth known as the Realm) following their invasion.

We believe that the raid on the Realm is not justifiable. Due to the lack of a founder, the region is also at risk of destruction by the invasion forces, and therefore, we believe the that liberation is necessary to protect this region.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Protections During Territorial Transitions" (August 8, 2022)
Result: passed (GA#620)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This resolution seeks to safeguard the rights of beings during territorial transitions. Specifically, the author ensures that, at least between member nations, citizens of both "ceding states" receive robust protections regarding their citizenship and rights in their "receiving state". Additionally, this resolution has provisions requiring both ceding states and receiving states to provide for the basic needs of citizens they are acquiring or who will be becoming a part of their nation.

This resolution contains several flaws. First, it is clear that the common opt-out in this resolution of a "request" is a guise for states to deny critical or even inadequate services. Second, we take issue with clause 5's potential quagmire. In allowing states to temporarily refuse to take on their own citizens within their territory even if basic needs will be overwhelmed, it possibly does something neutral, but by not defining what "suitable, temporary measures" might mean, it undermines the entire potential response. Lastly, clauses 6 and 7 are, in effect, substantial detriments to the principle of national sovereignty and could create tension based on national origin, as they force member states to potentially grant rights to new citizens who hail from another state that are above and beyond what previously established citizens enjoy.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Commend The Voice of ARB" (August 6, 2022)
Result: passed (SC#410)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to commend The Voice of ARB (hereinafter VoARB) for their radical experimentation in NationStates. VoARB was the nation responsible for determining the thirty-two different national classifications that exist - something known to history as Spectral Theory. Along with their experimentation, the author also points out their national and regional role plays based on this, specifically from the characters that each nation then represented. Additionally, the resolution details their work to protect Ulthar, their home region, from repeated incursions by The Skeleton Army.

VoARB is not your average nominee. In fact, it is quite probable that they stand alone in figuring out national classifications and the details therein so early. They fit into a niche and have a depth of achievement that may not be readily apparent to the average eye, but rest be assured, Spectral Theory allows the average reader to know their standing and rarity from their classification. While perhaps not as well known, their creation of characters from nations is something that has really only been inverted (most famously by the North Pacific's own Valentine Z), making them doubly unique in their achievements. While they may be the only candidate ever to have the resume they have, they are a truly one of a kind character who has contributed immensely to the game.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "The Commission on Sentient and sapient rights" (August 2, 2022)
Result: failed
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): The proposal at vote, The Commission On Sentient And Sapient Rights, seeks to implement a set of rights intended to prevent unnecessary suffering or death in sentient and sapient beings, barring a set of pre-defined circumstances.

The Ministry of World Assembly Affairs, having reviewed the text of the proposal, has determined that while its goals are laudable, its execution is inherently flawed.

The Ministry notes that the proposal uses an overly broad definition for "sentience". As defined in the proposal, a housefly would be deemed sentient and make killing it a violation of international law.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Condemn Elysium Station II" (August 2, 2022)
Result: passed (SC#409)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal would condemn Elysium Station II for its long and destructive tenure as a member of prominent raider organisations, such as Lone Wolves United and HYDRA Command.

Elysium Station II, through their vassal states, have long spread chaos and destruction far and wide throughout the multiverse. As a member of Lone Wolves United and HYDRA Command they oversaw the destruction of countless regions, despite the best efforts of Defender forces. Further notable is their involvement in the overthrow of the lawful government of Lazarus and the attempted coup of The East Pacific.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Sexual Predator Registry Act" (July 30, 2022)
Result: passed (GA#619)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal will mandate that member states establish publicly accessible sex offender registries and provide the information on these registries to the World Assembly Judiciary Committee's International Sexual Predator Registry (ISPR), which would be distributed to member state law enforcement, social services, and border protection agencies. The publicly accessible registry is limited to those who have committed "serious sexual offences" as defined in the proposal, and are determined to have a high risk of re-offending by their member state.

Sexual offender registries are key tools in law enforcement. The establishment of the International Sexual Predator Registry ensures the dissemination of information regarding such predators to the relevant agencies while providing members of the public access to information regarding high-risk sexual offenders in their area. The proposal accomplishes this without including individuals with a low risk of recidivism.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Condemn Northern Borland" (July 29, 2022)
Result: failed
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to impose a Condemnation upon the Northern Borland, also known as Tzo, for their statistical exceptionalism in various World Census rankings. Notable examples from the proposal include Northern Borland's economic inequality, which is put in stark contrast with areas of economic performance such as maintaining the highest average disposable income and the most efficient economy, it having the second-highest death rate out of any nation, which the author attributes to its aversion to imprisonment and the accessibility of weaponry to its populace, and the fact that it has the highest obesity rate of any nation, which is attributed to it having the largest soft-drinks sector and the fourth largest pizza delivery market. Furthermore, the proposal accuses Northern Borland of duplicity in setting up three satellite states with differing political and administrative realities from Northern Borland itself. It concludes with a condemnation of the particular laissez-faire capitalism that Northern Borland practices.

While the statistical achievements and anomalies of Northern Borland and its three satellite states are notable and worthy of recognition, it must be noted that Northern Borland has expressed a strong opposition to being featured as the subject of a Security Council proposal in the past; something that must be taken into consideration by our Ministry. Furthermore, the author's timing in submitting the proposal is questionable, considering that Northern Borland alongside their satellite nations recently ceased to exist. One wonders why such a worthwhile endeavor was not pursued until the very last possible moment. Given these circumstances, we are not comfortable supporting the proposal at this time.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Removal of Space Debris" (July 25, 2022)
Result: failed
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to further address the issue of space debris beyond the scope of GAR#349, "To Prevent Dangerous Debris". It sets out to do this by establishing a subcommittee of the WA Scientific Programme known as the Debris In Space Committee (DISC), which is tasked with identifying and aiding in the development of technologies and techniques to mitigate and eliminate space debris. DISC is further tasked with directing member states that have developed suitable means of combating space debris to employ said techniques in a manner that would minimize collateral damage. It enables the use of the WA General Fund to incentivize the creation and handing over of methods and techniques of space debris mitigation. Lastly, it bars member states from interfering with space debris mitigation efforts, and empowers member nations to penalize any entity within its jurisdiction that does so.

The Ministry of World Assembly Affairs, having reviewed the text of this proposal, finds its goals admirable. However, the proposal seems to fail to take into account a nation's culpability in the clean-up efforts, instead requiring nations to deploy such technology purely based on the nation's ability. Furthermore, the proposal fails to recognise the culpability of non-WA member states, instead forcing all member states to play the role of cleaning up after the mess made by all nations of the multiverse, with the use of the WA General Fund which is contributed to solely by member states.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Historical Founderless Region Preservation Act " (July 25, 2022)
Result: failed
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): The current Security Council Resolution at vote, Historical Founderless Region Preservation Act, is a Security Council Declaration recognising the historical importance of regions such as South Pacific, St Abbaddon, Stargate, and Yorkshire which predate the existence of Founder nations. It further recommends that regional governments and military organisations take action to prevent the refounding of these historic regions so that a portion of NationStates history might be preserved.

The Ministry of World Assembly Affairs, having reviewed the text of this Resolution, finds its goals to be admirable. The regions listed for protection in this declaration represent those created in the earliest days of our shared multiverse. It is the view of the Ministry that the preservation of this era of our shared history to be of the utmost importance.

*The author requested votes against to facilitate redrafting.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Repeal "Freedom of the Press"" (July 21, 2022)
Result: passed (GA#618)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This resolution repeals an earlier resolution titled "Freedom Of The Press" on the grounds that the target resolution has a number of loopholes. The first alleged loophole is that the target only allows international organisations to operate in a nation when given explicit permission, thus severely limiting freedom of the press. The second one concerns a grammar mistake where "and" is inserted instead of "or", allowing member nations to punish citizens for accessing media that operates solely in the nation or solely outside of it, again restricting press freedoms. The two other alleged loopholes also have the effect of limiting freedom of the press by allowing to censor information in media for posing a "genuine threat to the security of the nation" and deferring to national laws which might be very restrictive and thus render moot the whole point of the resolution.

We find that all of the arguments the repeal makes are very sound and convincing, and the target does more harm than good overall. In addition, the resolution has a replacement in the works, and the authors' expertise and experience convince us that he will be able to produce a resolution of much better quality than the target of the repeal.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Repeal "Museums of Musical Heritage"" (July 17, 2022)
Result: failed
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This resolution would repeal "Museums of Musical Heritage" due to perceived shortcomings in the clause of the target resolution that relates to financial compensation being determined by an independent arbitrator.

Having reviewed the original resolution, the Ministry of World Assembly Affairs has found this repeals argument to be weak at best. The resolution at vote fails to make a compelling argument for the repeal of the target and fails to demonstrate why "Museums of Musical Heritage" is harmful or ineffective in its mandates.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Repeal "Contact rights between Parent and Child"" (July 13, 2022)
Result: passed (GA#617)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This resolution would repeal the recently passed "Contact Rights Between Parent and Child". In its case for repeal, the resolution cites the deference to the courts of member states concerning the definition of "best interest" of the child as one of its primary arguments.

The Ministry of World Assembly Affairs finds the argument the repeal to be compelling. Allowing local courts to determine what constitutes the best interest of the child without defining what should be considered when determining those interests allows for cultural bias to be a determining factor in what constitutes the best interest of the child.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Contact rights between Parent and Child" (July 8, 2022)
Result: passed (GA#616)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): Contact Rights Between Parent and Child would, upon its' passage, ensure that parents of a child can seek visitation and custody rights, regardless of the varying definition of parenthood and custody among member states.

This resolution puts forward a series of parental rights, effectively ensuring that the parents of a child can seek and be granted custody and visitation rights, as long as that custody or visitation is in the best interest of the child.

The Ministry of World Assembly Affairs believes that the ability to seek and maintain contact with a child is paramount to the development and wellbeing of the child, so long as it is in the child's best interests.

This resolution ensures that parents can seek contact with their child, even if they are a citizen of another WA member state. so long as they can demonstrate that they are the parent of the child in question.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Condemn A Bloodred Moon" (July 2, 2022)
Result: passed (SC#408)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This resolution would see A Bloodred Moon condemned by the Security Council for their leadership of the raider organisation Lone Wolves United.

Condemn A Bloodred Moon makes a strong case for the condemnation of its nominee. It cites, in particular, the astounding growth that Lone Wolves United has seen during the nominees' tenure as Khan of the region. Under A Bloodred Moons' leadership, Lone Wolves United has grown from a relatively inactive raider organisation with only a handful of active members to over 500, making it one of the most destructive militaries in the multiverse.

Further solidifying the case for condemnation is LWUs attacks on notable regions such as The Embassy, Asia and the organisations' occupation of A Liberal Haven.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "International Maxtopia Day" (June 28, 2022)
Result: passed (SC#407)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): The aim of this proposal is for the World Assembly to recognise November 13th as an annual day of celebration in honour of Maxtopia, the nation used by Max Barry for certain NationStates events. In laying out its arguments, the proposal describes several important historical occurrences in the world of NationStates, such as the founding of the United Nations and its subsequent replacement with the World Assembly. It also details the history of Maxtopia as inferred from the various contexts in which it is mentioned in NationStates issues.

This proposal is well-written and creative both in concept and execution. The subject matter is very fitting for the format of a declaration - partly because Maxtopia has ceased to exist and so cannot currently be awarded a Commendation, but also because of the unique nature of the nominee. Stylistically, the writing is humorous while maintaining relevancy and interest.

For the above reasons, the Ministry of World Assembly Affairs recommends a vote for the Securty Council Resolution at vote.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "International Scientific Cooperation" (June 27, 2022)
Result: passed (GA#615)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to replace the repealed Access to Scientific Knowledge. It establishes the International Scientific Cooperation Agency (ISCA) with the goal of supporting "the free exchange of scientific ideas". The ISCA would collect peer-reviewed research from nations, allow participating nations to see the submitted research of other nations, host symposiums, and give out grants. The proposal also includes safeguards to ensure that the ISCA remains free from political influence and bias and that all submitted research is held to strong ethical standards.

The Ministry of World Assembly Affairs values the advancement of science and the cooperation of nations in the process. The ministry supported the repeal of Access to Scientific Knowledge because of the need for confidentiality in sensitive areas, such as health. This proposal resolves this issue. Furthermore, it requires all submitted research to follow national and international ethical standards, as well as to undergo peer review. It also ensures sufficient confidentiality for member states without allowing states to benefit from the ISCA without contributing anything by implementing a tradeoff: if a member state chooses to withhold certain research, the ISCA will withhold some research from other nations. While confidentiality remains an option, it comes at the expense of access.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Commend Haku" (June 24, 2022)
Result: passed (SC#406)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This resolution Commends Haku, a long-time defender, for their "silent, yet brilliant" contributions to defending. Those include organising at least seven major defensive operations of various kinds, including chasing, liberating, and refounding with native consent. Haku also created some recruitment and defending tools and was successful during N-day as part of the winning faction in 2019. The last paragraph details Haku's contributions to The Order of the Grey Wardens (TGW) where they created new forums and a bot, wrote new military protocols and improved integration of new members.

This resolution is well-written and makes a solid case for the nominee who has consistently contributed to defending over the past 4 years. Commendations are the highest honour the World Assembly can bestow upon a nation or region. They are intended to be awarded in instances where the nominee has made beneficial contributions to the world. It is the opinion of the Ministry of World Assembly Affairs that Haku is one such nominee.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Protecting Free, Open Source Software Use" (June 22, 2022)
Result: failed
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): Protecting Free, Open Source Software use seeks to enshrine the right of legal entities and individuals to access, modify, run and/or distribute open source software while simultaneously allowing creators of open source software the ability to ensure that their software and any reasonable derivative remains free.

While the intent of this resolution is admirable, the Ministry of WA Affairs notes that it includes commercial software in its definition of free software. This is troublesome in that it the resolution little effort to address the intellectual property and trademark issues that would arise from the inclusion of commercially produced software. The ministry further believes that the resolution limits its scope hinders its ability to effectively legislate on the topic of open source software.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Condemn Lily" (June 20, 2022)
Result: passed (SC#405)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to Condemn Lily for the region's military activities. Reasons for Lily's condemnations include the raid of The Embassy, in which Lily shut down thousands of embassies. The raid of NationStates was also noted in the resolution, which notably ended delegate Mikeswill's 15-year reign. It is also noted that Lily's military could raid multiple regions at a frightening speed, which leads the proposal to cite many of the region's raiding records. The proposal concludes by stating that over 10 thousand regions have fallen victim to Lily's raiders.

Lily makes for an attractive nominee for condemnation because of the sheer scale of their activity compared to others who engage in raiding and defending. They are proficient at high-target operations and faster than other organizations, but for all the regions that they hit, they have never left the kind of mark that the other organizations condemned by this body have. Their usurping of native delegates is impactful to the regions which suffer their presence, but the mark left on them is shallow. We have condemned far more notorious organizations for much more destructive acts. Even the most significant act specified in this condemnation, the raid of NationStates, is of a kind that pales in comparison. Breaking delegate streaks is good for statistics and keeping score among raiders, but it is not a condemnable act, particularly when the target is a well-known enemy of this body.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Commend The Noble Thatcherites" (June 12, 2022)
Result: passed (SC#404)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to commend The Noble Thatcherites for their prime role in building the Union of Democratic States. The author highlights their many roles in the UDS including tenured as Delegate, President, Legislator, and in building the UDS' extensive diplomatic network. This proposal also highlights their role as one of those responsible for the preservation of the UDS' history.

One of the most successful modern UCRs, the Union of Democratic States is one of the prime examples of a founder going above and beyond the call of service. We salute their myriad contributions that have made a friend of many of our regions as successful as it is, especially when said friend has proven their mettle over and over again.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Against Inflationary Practices" (June 8, 2022)
Result: passed (SC#403)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to have members of the Security Council condemn and stand against Inflation in the international trade markets. The proposal highlights the issues and problems caused by Inflation in the international market which affect the economic security and culturally important national galleries. The Proposal speaks out about the need to disown the practice and condemn those who continue to do it.

The claims put forward by the proposal clearly bring up the disadvantages and the resultant issues caused by Inflation in the international trading market. It talks about the disastrous effects of inflation on the bank reserves, deterioration of the value of the national galleries, usage of commonly available artwork to monopolize the market with inflation, etc. The mention of the council condemning two inflators, Koem Kab and Noahs Second Country for their vigorous amount of hoarding artwork and causing issues in the market previously, clearly states that inflation is an evil to be dealt with.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Repeal "Preventing Identity Theft"" (June 6, 2022)
Result: passed (GA#614)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This resolution seeks to repeal GAR #576 ""Preventing Identity Theft"" for its clause that requires that victims of identity theft are to be repaid for any financial losses incurred as a result of identity theft.

While the Ministry considers the aims of GAR #576 to be well-intentioned, we must agree with the current repeal that "Preventing Identity Theft" potentially places an unacceptable financial burden on member states.

Though the requirement that a victim of identity theft is reimbursed isn't objectionable in and of itself, the open-ended wording of the clause would require that member states endure this cost themselves if all other avenues of reimbursement fail.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Commend Andusre" (June 4, 2022)
Result: passed (SC#402)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This resolution seeks to Commend Andusre for his significant work in the region Thaecia, in which he was a co-founder, and the World Assembly. The resolution praises Andusre for creating Thaecia as a one-of-a-kind region, introducing a unique institution of the Electoral Commission, creating a path for many leaders in Thaecia such as the region's first Prime Minister, contributing to all of Thaecia's current treaties, and working with other regions to organize events. Andurse is also praised for his creation of the Thaecian military and his participation in notable operations with the military. He is also credited with increasing World Assembly literacy among Thaecians and drafting four Security Council resolutions.

Andurse is being commended primarily for region-building and his work in the World Assembly. The resolution makes a solid case for Andusre being Commendable, with it also being incredibly well-written and well-structured. It also does well to elaborate on all of its arguments. Andusre is known as a non-controversial figure, and has a high level of popularity across NationStates, solidifying his case for a Commendation.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Repeal "WA Counterterrorism Act"" (June 1, 2022)
Result: passed (GA#613)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This repeal targets GAR #25 for its exclusion of state-based actors from its definition of terrorism.

Though Repeal: "WA Counterterrorism Act" makes several arguments for the repeal of its target, they are all based on how the exclusion of government actors from the definition of terrorism. While this is concerning, the Ministry of World Assembly Affairs notes that the issues the repeal raises could be corrected with further legislation targeting state-sponsored terrorism.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Commend Bran Astor" (May 31, 2022)
Result: passed (SC#401)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): The matter currently before the Security Council is the commendation of Bran Astor for their tireless work improving the Foreign Affairs and Cultural framework of both The West Pacific and The Sasquatch Republic.

The contributions of Bran Astor to both TWP and TSR are numerous. The positive effect they've had on both communities can be seen in their championing of events such as TWPride month, OcTWPerfest, Casserole of Humanity, and the establishment of The West Pacific University, and the restoration of The Western Post in TWP. In TSR they've planned and executed events such as Country Fair, Curling, Regional Tartan, and Regional Quilt increasing regional diversity and unity.

The work to improve Foreign Affairs cannot be ignored either, with their successful drafting and passing of treaties between The West Pacific and The Pacific. Also impressive is their passing of a treaty between TWP and Karma, which was drafted using an informal drafting style.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Repeal "Access to Scientific Knowledge"" (May 27, 2022)
Result: passed (GA#612)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to repeal GA Resolution #604 "Access to Scientific Knowledge". The issue the proposal highlights is around the use of personal information. The proposal contends that Access to Scientific Knowledge does not give adequate procedures to anonymize such information and unethically requires the transmission of such information to the Council for Scientific Dissemination. It particularly criticizes this when linked with the requirement on the CSD to publish the data it receives, breaching the confidentiality of research participants.

The goals of Access to Scientific Knowledge are laudable ones, however, those goals must be set against the need for ethical research and proper respect for confidentiality, particularly in sensitive areas such as health. The obligation of Access to Scientific Knowledge to pass all research and data to the CSD (subject to issues of national security, defense, and trade secrets), if limited to use by the CSD for its objectives of coordinating standards of peer review and replicability and assisting other WA bodies in their research, could be justified. However, we find the requirement for all such received research and data to be published to be very concerning. This requirement could undermine the goals of Access to Scientific Knowledge by discouraging participation in research for fear of such publication and potentially opens a vast amount of deeply private information to exploitation by malign interests.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Repeal "Commend Topid"" (May 27, 2022)
Result: passed (SC#400)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to repeal Security Council Resolution #98 "Commend Topid". The proposal highlights a number of controversies Topid has been involved in with the Security Council, such as passing questionable condemnations on their puppet accounts and beginning a feud with the 10000 islands region. The proposal also points out that Topid had less impressive contributions to the Security Council than some of the other pioneers.

While Topid could have been worthy of a commendation in the past, much of Topid's history in the Security Council was tainted due to repeated mistakes. Their contributions were additionally of less quality than other major contributors to the Security Council. The commendation proposal also made claims about activity, while the activity did not significantly change in the Security Council.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Crime Victims' Rights Act" (May 24, 2022)
Result: failed, but discarded due to rules violations
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): The Crime Victim Rights Act would require member nations to enact a set of rights aimed at protecting the victims of crime from the accused while encouraging their participation in the criminal justice system.

Though the Crime Victim Rights Act contains rights that the Ministry would like to see legislated on by the General Assembly, the Ministry notes a number of critical flaws in the resolution. These include the problematic definition of "Crime Victim" which would disqualify anyone alleged to have committed a crime stemming from the same incident, regardless of how frivolous the accusation may be. This allows criminals to circumvent the protections laid out with an unfounded accusation.

Furthermore, the resolution fails to define a number of terms that are necessary to the functionality of this resolution, such as the qualifying terms for those permitted to assume these rights in the victims stead.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Repeal "Liberate Confederacy of Layem"" (May 21, 2022)
Result: passed (SC#399)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This repeal targets the recently passed "Liberate Confederacy of Layem". Passage would allow the imposition of a password on Layem, permitting Antifa allied forces to refound the region.

As mentioned in the Information for WA Voters recommendation issued for "Liberate Confederacy of Layem" this region tarnishes our world with a long history of transphobia, intolerance, antagonism, and infiltration directed at other communities. As such, the international community has seen fit to annihilate the region so that there will be one less home for bigotry. This repeal is an essential part of that mission, as it is unlikely that allied military forces will be able to successfully refound the region without the imposition of a password.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "End Collective Punishment" (May 19, 2022)
Result: passed (GA#611)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): Upon its passage "End Collective Punishment" would prevent member nations from penalizing all members of an organization for crimes carried out by a small subset of that organization.

"End Collective Punishment" in its current iteration accomplishes its goals in a clear and concise manner. It does so in such a way that it does not interfere with the ability of member nations to prosecute and dismantle organizations engaged in criminal activities. "End Collective Punishment" further demands that all past convictions that would be in violation of this resolution be immediately vacated.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Safe Disposal of Nuclear Waste" (May 15, 2022)
Result: passed (GA#610)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): Safe Disposal of Nuclear Waste seeks to reduce or eliminate radioactive contamination that would harm the environment or life by providing mandates to the Nuclear Energy Safety Commission (NESC) and member states.

This proposal charges the NESC with investigating safe disposal methods for nuclear waste. Further subclauses mandate that the NESC ensures all domestic transportation of nuclear waste and decommissioning of reactors is accomplished in a way that minimizes radiological effects on the local environment and populations.

Safe Disposal of Nuclear Waste also requires member nations to alert neighboring states when they are likely to be affected by radioactive contamination originating within their borders.

This proposal does well to define the things it regulates, gives the NESC clear and comprehensive tasks, enforces member nations' compliance to the NESC's guidance, and promotes international cooperation when there is a risk of spillovers.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Liberate Confederacy of Layem" (May 14, 2022)
Result: passed (SC#398)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal would "liberate" its highly problematic target region, Confederacy of Layem. This would remove the region's current entry password and prevent a new one from being imposed, thus allowing antifascist forces to invade and destroy it.

The region in question is a stain on the game, with a long history of transphobia, intolerance, antagonism, and infiltration directed at other communities. While the region used to be relatively untouchable due to its active founder nation, that nation has recently been deleted by NationStates moderators due to violating site rules. This leaves the region's password as the only remaining obstacle to invading and destroying it. Therefore, the password should be removed via liberation as soon as possible.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Limiting Animal Pathogens" (May 10, 2022)
Result: passed (GA#609)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal endeavours to reduce the spread of zoonotic diseases. This is done through the compulsory testing of zoonotic diseases in live animals sold at wet markets, as well as the humans who are handling these live animals in the wet markets. It also requires member nations to test animals for such diseases during import and export processes.

The proposal is well intended, and is a step forward in reducing the spread of zoonotic diseases. We note that there are particular concerns on clause 2d with regards to selected zoonotic diseases and their testing methods, such as the requirement that workers in wet markets remain negative for zoonotic diseases. We find that this potential deficiency is not enough to outweigh the potential benefits of this resolution or regulation of wet markets generally.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Repeal "Condemn The Black Hawks"" (May 8, 2022)
Result: failed
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to repeal the first Commend of the Black Hawks [SC#52] for a variety of reasons. Specifically, the author cites the "self-condemnation" nature of their target, the vague references to what should be very concrete and measurable efforts (numbers of hits), and the fact that this resolution's repeal would not "erase history", thus refuting a prominent point against the resolution.

While we may understand the point and the argument of this, we cannot support it. The main reason for this is not some paean to the repeal--replace standards of the Security Council or some high-minded notion about historical preservation of Security Council Resolutions. Instead, our lack of support comes from a place of recognizing history itself. We cannot support a Resolution that chips away at our understanding of history until a resolution bettering that understanding is on offer.

On the other hand, we agree that large portions of the target's writing are unsatisfactory, sloppy, and unnecessarily vague. We, being at least in some measure as Security Council critics historians, would prefer not to have the history we remember be so tied up in popular memory and in that way, a repeal of this Resolution would not just be preferable, it would be advisable to service better, more detailed historical memory. This all leads to a quandary with only one satisfactory answer.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Commend Electrum" (May 2, 2022)
Result: passed (SC#397)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to commend Electrum for their strong accomplishments and enthusiastic participation in a variety of communities within NationStates. Specifically, the author highlights their commitments to excellence in sports RP, to international culture as seen through WorldVision and Dream Games), Issues writing, and their contributions to recognizing fellow sports RPers in the Security Council.

This nominee is one of a small handful of players who have made their mark across a variety of different interest areas on NS during their time in the multiverse. The world of sports RP has been taken to a level of distinct prominence in recent times, largely because of its identification of Electrum, and other global luminaries with it. The world of Issues has undoubtedly benefitted from the work of Electrum, as has the Security Council in lauding the nominees Electrum has--nominees that might otherwise have been overlooked. With such an impact, it is hard not to characterize Electrum as anything other than commendable.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Repeal "LEO Force Restrictions"" (April 30, 2022)
Result: passed (GA#608)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to repeal GA Resolution #590 "LEO Force Restrictions". The proposal makes three main arguments against its target. First, that LEO Force Restrictions criminalises uses of force that is only excessive in retrospect. Second, that its body-worn camera mandate relies on too many assumptions about available technology and the circumstances in which excessive uses of force occur. Third, that its requirement for law enforcement officers provide necessary first aid to people they fatally injure criminalises as murder any fatal use of force by an officer, even where necessary in self-defence.

We agree with the author that the target resolution has several issues that could justify its repeal. The proposal's first criticism, that the target retrospectively criminalises law enforcement officers for actions that were reasonable on the information available to them, is a strong one. We also agree that the target proposal's body-worn camera mandate, by linking activation of such cameras to the use of lights or sirens, allows many excessive force incidents to go unrecorded, such as those involving law enforcement officers not attached to a vehicle or even where an officer cynically avoids use of lights or sirens. We are not convinced by the proposal's third argument, as we consider it to overstate the effect of the target resolution, which neither requires that a failure to provide first aid be deemed murder nor requires first aid to be successful to escape criminalisation. However, all things considered, we find that the proposal makes a sufficient case for repeal of the target resolution.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Condemn Gholgoth" (April 27, 2022)
Result: passed (SC#396)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to Condemn the Region of Gholgoth. This resolution highlights the fact that hideous atrocities were committed in Gholgoth since the region's founding including wars with the sole purpose of human sacrifice and the violent suppression of Christianity in ways including invading countries that largely practiced the religion.The author also cites the numerous conflicts between nations in the region, the regular violations of human rights such as slavery, the destruction of other nations, and the wiping out of a significant amount of civilians. The resolution also mentions the failure of attempts at peace, which are bent to continue committing numerous crimes in the region.

This resolution accurately described the horrors in detail committed by the nations residing in Gholgoth. While they occurred long ago, they are noteworthy enough to be condemned even today. In this resolution, it was made clear what took place in this region, and why it is condemnable. The author did an excellent job in writing this proposal, in which there are no glaring flaws that would stand out. This, along with the unique style of writing, make this proposal hard to oppose.

Pallaith's resolution Repeal "Condemn Reventus Koth" was passed by the Security Council (April 27, 2022)

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Providing Paid Leave" (April 26, 2022)
Result: failed
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): Yet another of author Minskiev's attempts to replace the previously-repealed Paid Leave Act, this proposal valiantly seeks to ensure strong economic and job security for workers in WA member states without meddling excessively in the operations of employers. It attempts to achieve these goals by mandating strict minimum durations for illness or injury leave, parental leave, and general leave, while forbidding employers from penalizing employees for making use of paid leave, or undergoing any of the processes that are required to do so. Moreover, the proposal requires workers to give sufficient advance notice for leave requests where applicable; mandates unemployment benefits and establishes the relevant protocols; compels states to instate and fund their paid leave programs through social security and/or social insurance funds; and lastly, it expands on previous articles with additional clarifications, contingencies, and requirements.

While this resolution would certainly be a monumental improvement over its predecessors, it is not something we can support. The writing itself is clumsy at best, with odd wording and several tautologies, while the proposal's clauses, despite its supposed goal, micromanage the institution and administration of paid leave, simultaneously providing nothing to support employee bargaining power and potentially harming the flexibility of employers' operations through the rigidity of its provisions, ultimately benefiting neither party substantially. Frankly, for a topic this consequential, we would prefer a blocker or no legislation at all to a mediocre resolution in this vein.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Repeal "Condemn Reventus Koth"" (April 23, 2022)
Result: passed (SC#395)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to repeal the Condemn of Reventus Koth. The authors cite the lack of explanation for their deeds in The Black Hawks, where their "technical wizadry" is promoted, but not explained in any depth, and other raiding organizations, where their leadership is attested to, but not the scale of the operations they participated in. This resolution also cites their actions in Osiris as part of a reason for repeal, as their actions perpetuated a regime that is not considered illegitimate by the vast majority of actors today and their actions for it are not condemnable in the slightest--as Koth instead served as a stabilizing figure during their tenure as Pharaoh of Osiris.

It is not that this resolution "does not meet the standards of the modern Security Council", it is that the writing of the target is poor and overly vague. The lack of elaboration is to the nominee's detriment, as it does not show what it is exactly that made them so condemnable when this first passed. One thing, though, is certain: a resolution full of empty platitudes with poor writing that sets up a smokescreen where there ought to be a mirror is not fit to stay on the books.

Pallaith submitted a proposal to the Security Council Repeals Board entitled "Repeal "Condemn Reventus Koth"" (April 22, 2022)

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Health and Safety Act" (April 22, 2022)
Result: passed (GA#607)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to promote the health and safety of workers and their workplaces through two major mandates. The authors' first major mandate is to require member states to publish, on an yearly basis (i) guidelines on "mechanical, temperature, chemical, and ergonomic stresses", (ii) guidelines on exposure to chemicals, and (iii) guidelines on helping workers reduce the risk of injury, and send copies of these guidelines to all businesses in each WA member state. They also establish a Health and Safety Board that would compile legal measures implemented by each member state, and enforcement and workplace injury data.

We have several serious issues with this proposal, which, despite its name, does not seriously promote health and safety. Instead it requires compiling guidelines that should already be available in any sensible workplace in a nation with a well developed government, especially if the work is inherently dangerous. Furthermore, the compilation of workplace injury statistics, and the wide range of workplace safety laws, appear to serve no particular purpose in terms of improving multiversal governance. We thus end up with another layer of bureaucracy within the WA that compiles health and safety advice and statistics, largely duplicating similar functions often carried out at national (or sometimes provincial/local) government levels, with no discernable effects on either the health or safety of workers.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Declaration In Regard To Hippopotami" (April 19, 2022)
Result: failed
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to "correct the record" about hippopotami and their being "larger than life". To do this, the author highlights the case of the pygmy hippopotamus which, while quite large, is not necessarily as large as the original "Declaration on Hippopotamuses" made all hippopotami out to be. Thus, the author declares that "Hippos are not necessarily very large."

While a cute joke at first, and something we perhaps could have supported as a stand-alone, we do not find this to be a good use of the World Assembly's time. Far from being a prescient in-joke that preserves one of the funnier parts of the World Assembly's lore, this proposal wastes four days to engage in what is essentially a correction of the record. Hippos may be very large by our human standards, but our patience for resolutions about them is not.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Regulating Digital Warfare" (April 17, 2022)
Result: failed
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This resolution aims to create legislations in regulating the use of cyberattacks as a means of warfare. It does so by laying out various guidelines on the use of cyberattack, such as by defining targets which cannot be attacked, as well as forcing member states to limit the damage caused by the attack.

While the proposal is well-intentioned, problems with the definition of key terms, as well as the clunky wording of some of its clauses, has rendered the proposal ineffective. In its definition of cyberwarfare, the proposal fails to legislate against cyberattacks meant for the stealing of state secrets and sensitive data. The proposal also makes exceptions for cyberattacks against individuals directly employed by the state, which would potentially include teaching professionals and janitors for government facilities, given the current definition.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Universal STI Counteraction" (April 13, 2022)
Result: passed (GA#606)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This resolution would require member states to provide their residents with free or insurance-covered testing for sexually transmitted infections should they be at risk, as well as effective treatment or medication for those that test positive. Furthermore, it stipulates a set of measures that must be taken in the case of a positive STI test to inform others that may be affected without compromising the privacy of the individual who initially received the positive test result. It ensures that all member nations are able to fulfil its mandates by instructing the World Health Authority to provide funds or other forms of support for that purpose. Finally, the resolution mandates that any reproductive education programs run by member nations must include advice on mitigating the risks posed by STIs.

This is a welcome expansion of the healthcare provisions already in place in the World Assembly. The resolution's aims, as described above, deal with a well-known problem that affects all member nations, doing so in a way that ensures the health and privacy of individuals are both respected. It is also executed satisfactorily; there are no apparent loopholes in its language when compared to previous proposals on similar topics.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Commend Llorens" (April 12, 2022)
Result: failed
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to commend Llorens, primarily for their contributions to their home region The Leftist Assembly (TLA) and the interregional newswire NationStates Today. The author highlights their work in building The Leftist Assembly in a variety of areas--including culturally, diplomatically, and especially administratively. Additionally, the proposal highlights their contributions to NationStates Today through their leadership and authorship of articles, their leadership of the Potato Alliance faction in N-Day 5, and their leadership within the NS Sports community in hosting the football World Cup.

Generally, candidates with contributions across the spectrum of NationStates are slam-dunk candidates for commendations. However, this candidate falls short of the mark. Their administrative work is not described in real detail, and while the key parts of TLA's government structure were created by them, the rest of their work in TLA did not have a far-reaching enough impact to fit. Additionally, we find that the rest of their achievements as stated were definitely overstated with either some level of collective responsibility (N-Day 5) or with a limited impact over time (their leadership of NationStates Today). This all adds up to an impressive player, but not one who has cleared the bar for commendability.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Repeal "World Assembly Border Policy"" (April 9, 2022)
Result: passed (GA#605)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): GA 564 "World Assembly Border Policy" established an optional free movement zone for WA member nations. This proposal seeks to repeal that resolution due to numerous issues, including vague wording and sloppy provisions rendering the free movement zone actively harmful to participating nations and the resolution creating an unnecessary administrative burden even for non-participating nations.

The target resolution not only created a poorly established free movement zone that forces participating nations to allow unlimited travel across their borders with no exceptions and is hampered by a jarring lack of actually defined criteria for its operation, but also forces even uninvolved WA members to submit unnecessary paperwork and assign unnecessary representatives. Nothing of value would be lost by repealing it.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Liberate EmbassyRegionia" (April 8, 2022)
Result: failed
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to liberate EmbassyRegionia following its invasion by a coalition of raider groups led by the Brotherhood of Malice and the failure of subsequent liberation attempts.

With the very recent withdrawal of raider forces from the region, a new native Delegate has managed to take control. They have expressed their desire to password the region and provide it with security, something an Executive Delegate can do that is precluded by an active Liberation. Therefore, we wish to honor the wishes of the native population.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Access to Scientific Knowledge" (April 5, 2022)
Result: passed (GA#604)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This resolution puts a system in place for the collection and dissemination of scientific research conducted by or published in World Assembly nations. All member states would be required to share all such research (that meets an appropriate standard and is not secret for reasons of national security or trade) with a newly created committee. This committee is in turn charged with verifying the quality of the research, sharing it with other World Assembly committees as relevant, and making it publicly available in a centralised database.

This is a useful concept - increasing the access of World Assembly committees to member states' scientific research would greatly facilitate their work and ease pressure on the incredibly strained World Assembly General Fund. The requirement for the committee to ensure that the research they receive meets certain standards also promotes scientific transparency in member states, and the public nature of the database impedes corruption and misinformation on the part of governments. The execution of these goals is excellent, the only possible point of contention being what exactly is or is not considered a "science" under the resolution's definition, but this does not detract from the effectiveness of the resolution in general.