Difference between revisions of "Biotopia"

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{| border=1 align=right cellpadding=4 cellspacing=0 width=340 style="margin: 0 0 1em 1em; background: #f9f9f9; border: 1px #aaaaaa solid; border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 95%;"
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|+<big><big>'''The Sixth Republic of Biotopia'''<br> '''''Epo Komjent rit Phosee'''''<br>
+
|+<big><big>'''The Commonwealth of Biotopia'''<br> '''Ven Hastradobe ut Phosee'''<br>
 
| align="center" colspan="2"|
 
| align="center" colspan="2"|
 
{| border=0 cellpadding=2 cellspacing=0 style="background:#f9f9f9; text-align:center;"
 
{| border=0 cellpadding=2 cellspacing=0 style="background:#f9f9f9; text-align:center;"
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| width="130px"| http://www.nationstates.net/images/flags/uploads/biotopia.jpg || align=center width=130px| http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y190/Tom86/Biotopian2.png
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| width="130px"| http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s53/wyldeboye/nationalflag.png
 +
|http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s53/wyldeboye/coatofarms.png
 
|-
 
|-
−
| align=center colspan=2 | Flag and National Seal of Biotopia
+
|align=center colspan=2 | Flag and Coat of Arms
 
|}
 
|}
 
|-
 
|-
−
| align=center colspan=2 |
+
|'''[[Wikipedia:Motto|Motto]]''' || Live the best within your means <br> ''Keg Oskrapt Ojokonta Ramdee''
 
|-
 
|-
−
| align=center colspan=2 style="background:#f9f9f9;" |  
+
|'''[[Wikipedia:National Anthem|Anthem]]''' || The Red Star Rising <br> ''Ven OklaptRagaa Entro''
−
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y190/Tom86/Biotopia.jpg
+
 
|-
 
|-
−
|'''Motto''' || Live the best within your means<br> ''Keng ven oskrapt homsk ramdeen''
+
|align=center colspan=2 style="background:#f9f9f9;" |  
 +
http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s53/wyldeboye/biotopiaveg.jpg
 +
|
 
|-
 
|-
−
|'''Official Languages''' || [[Biotopian]], [[Celdonian]] & Biotopian Sign Language<br> ''Petchelk, Keldelk & Petchamelk''
+
|'''[[Wikipedia:Capital|Capital]]''' <br>&nbsp; '''[[Wikipedia:city|Largest City]]''' || [[Zhaire]] <br>&nbsp; St Kordaam
 +
|-
 +
|'''[[Wikipedia:Government|Government]]''' || [[Wikipedia:Federal|Federal]] [[Wikipedia:Constitutional|Constitutional]] [[Wikipedia:Socialist|Socialist]] [[Wikipedia:Republic|Republic]]
 
|-
 
|-
−
|'''[[Wikipedia:Capital|Capital]]''' || [[Zhaire]], 450,000
+
|'''[[Wikipedia:Area|Area]]''' <br>&nbsp;- Total <br>&nbsp;- water
−
|-
+
−
|'''[[Biotopia Government|Constitutional Secretary]]''' || Remut Sanzu
+
−
|-
+
−
|'''[[Biotopia Government|Prime Administrator]]''' || Adria Dasept
+
−
|-
+
−
|'''Area''' <br>&nbsp;- Total <br>&nbsp;- water
+
 
| <br>3,274,600 km²  <br>304,400 km²
 
| <br>3,274,600 km²  <br>304,400 km²
 
|-
 
|-
 
|'''[[Population]]''' <br>&nbsp;- Total ({{CURRENTYEAR}}) <br>&nbsp;- Density
 
|'''[[Population]]''' <br>&nbsp;- Total ({{CURRENTYEAR}}) <br>&nbsp;- Density
 
| <br>45,868,000 million<br>14/km²
 
| <br>45,868,000 million<br>14/km²
−
|-
 
−
|'''Government Type'''
 
−
|[[Wikipedia:Bicameral|Bicameral]] [[Wikipedia:Parliamentary democracy|Parliamentary Democracy]] [[Biotopia Government]]
 
−
|-
 
−
|'''Nation Type'''
 
−
|[[Wikipedia:Federal|Federal]] [[Wikipedia:Republic|Republic]]
 
−
|-
 
−
|'''National Animal'''
 
−
|Silver Llama
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|'''[[Gross Domestic Product|GDP]]''' ({{CURRENTYEAR}}) <br/>&nbsp; - Total <br/>&nbsp; - GDP/capita
 
|'''[[Gross Domestic Product|GDP]]''' ({{CURRENTYEAR}}) <br/>&nbsp; - Total <br/>&nbsp; - GDP/capita
 
| <br>1.6 trillion <br>V 35,300
 
| <br>1.6 trillion <br>V 35,300
 
|-
 
|-
−
|'''[[Currency]]''' || 1 '''Vello''' (V) = 100 ek (e)
+
|[[Wikipedia:HDI|HDI]] {{CURRENTYEAR}} || 0.965 (high)
−
|-
+
−
|'''International Abbreviations''' <br>&nbsp;- sport <br>&nbsp;- government
+
−
| <br>BIO <br>S.R.B.
+
−
|-
+
−
|'''Military Organisation'''
+
−
| none
+
 
|-
 
|-
−
|'''[[Wikipedia:National_anthem|National Anthem]]''' || ''We the Republic<br> ''Rop ven Komjent''
+
|'''[[Currency]]''' || Biotopian Vello (VLO)
 
|-
 
|-
−
|'''Internet [[TLD]]''' || .bp
+
|'''[[Wikipedia:List_of_Internet_top-level_domains|Internet TLD]] || .bp
 
|-
 
|-
−
|'''[[Wikipedia:List_of_country_calling_codes|Calling Code]]''' || +6271
+
|'''[[Wikipedia:List_of_country_calling_codes|Calling Code]]''' || +6060
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
:The '''Sixth Republic of Biotopia''' (''Uta Epkret dir Phosee'') or simply '''Biotopia''' (''Phosee''), is one of the leading industrialised countries in the [[Anticapitalist Alliance]]. Located east of geographic Greater [[Aperin]] it is a sub-continental island surrounded by the Azure Ocean and Polar Sea in the north, the Maestos Ocean to the west and the Grentova Ocean to the east. Its closest neighbours are; [[Demo-Bobylon]], [[Free Socialism]], [[Free Soviets]], [[Watfordshire]], [[Yagata and Sheoeiru]].
+
:The '''Commonwealth of Biotopia''' (''Hastradobe Phosee'') or simply '''Biotopia''' (''Phosee''), is one of the leading industrialised countries in the [[Anticapitalist Alliance]]. Biotopia is a sub-continental island surrounded by the Azure Ocean situated due east of northern Greater [[Aperin]]. The Commonwealth includes several maritime islands, the largest of which is Vellnaen, the only island province. The term Biotopia is dualistic and can refer to both the geographic entity of the sub-continent or the sovereign territory of the Commonwealth. The closest nations to Biotopia are [[Demo-Bobylon]], [[Free Socialism]], [[Free Soviets]] and [[Watfordshire]] in [[Alcaerin]].
  
−
:Biotopia is a [[Wikipedia:democracy|democratic]] parliamentary [[Wikipedia:federation|federal]] republic composed of 59 [[Wikipedia:province|provinces]] called ''Undenaen'' which in certain spheres act independently of the federation. Historically modern Biotopia has a shared history of common bonds based on religion, language, trade and government. The Sixth Republic was formed in 1976.  
+
:The Commonwealth is a federation of thirty-nine self-governing provinces, with an additional seven federal territories, united under a national parliament. The capital of Biotopia is The City of [[Zhaire]] located in the western centre of the sub-continent on the shores of the Great Amanzee. The state is constitutionally defined as socialist, atheistic and democratic and has been a self-proclaimed socialist republic since 1894. The indigenous peoples of Biotopia are the [[Pagnaan Sapiens]] who are a non-human species.  
  
−
:The Sixth Republic of Biotopia is a member of the [[United Nations]], [[International Fair Trade Agreement]] and the [[Anticapitalist Alliance|Anti-Capitalist Alliance]]. It was also a founding member of the [[Non-Human Union]]. Although comparatively underpopulated Biotopia is one of the most economically power and technologically advanced nations in the region. Biotopia plays a reserved role within the region as a self-designated “[[Wikipedia:middle power|middle power]]”
+
:Biotopia is a member of the [[United Nations]], the [[International Fair Trade Agreement]] and the [[Anticapitalist Alliance|Anti-Capitalist Alliance]]. It was previously a member of the [[Coalition of Anti-Capitalist Economies]] and was also a founding member of the [[Non-Human Union]]. Biotopia pursues a foreign policy objective of [[Wikipedia:middle power|''Lephtonta'' (middle power)]] emphasising consensus building and coalition forming. As a compliment to this Biotopia has a large industrial and economic base and a modern military force that has previously participated in international missions.
  
 
==History==
 
==History==
  
−
===Ancient Era===
+
===Antiquarian Era===
−
:[[Pagnaan Sapiens]] arrived in Pagnain Phosee approximately 40,000 years ago and migrated in several waves across the landscape. Initial occupation was in the form of [[Wikipedia:nomadic|nomadic]] hunter-gathering. Permanent settlement first occurred along coastal tributary systems and along broad floodplains. There has been controversial research suggesting that there were ancient contacts with [[Wikipedia:Homo sapien|homo sapiens]] although the evidence is inconclusive. The origins of the [[Pagnaan Sapiens]] is a mystery no evidence of earlier occupation on the nearest landmasses has been found. In 1972 grain pollen and textile threads were found on the polar coastline suggesting initial migration along the once temperate shoreline of the polar fringe.
+
:''[[Pagnaan Sapiens]]'' arrived in [[Biotopia]] between thirty-thousand and twenty-five-thousand years ago. These nomadic peoples lived in technologically primitive conditions akin to the [[Wikipedia:Stone Age|Stone Age]]. This subsistence level of nomadic living subsided with the gradual spread of domestication. The Pan-Heliocentric Civilisation organised the wide-spread construction of megalithic structures. A trans-continental trading network distributed religious artefacts and tools. As distinct urban communities developed the Pan-Heliocentric Civilisation was gradually replaced by local and regional religious practice and inter-community trading.
  
−
===Commonwealth Era===
+
===Classical Era===
−
:Following settlement various [[Wikipedia:city-states|city-states]] were established along the Great Amanzee floodplain. These city-states formed a loose coalition which became the [[Wikipedia:Commonwealth|Commonwealth]] – a major political, economic and militarily successful union which was the seat of antiquarian culture and learning; other important civilisations of the time where the Euphree, Tasalt-Hop and the Urkansont. The Commonwealth was conquered by the Sagawachee who employed innovative tactics during warfare. The Sagawachee period marks the Commonwealth-decline/Imperial-ascendency phase. The Sagawachee annexed large areas of Biotopia and established a centralised and bureaucratic government.  
+
:Urbanisation, trade and population growth facilitated the development of feudalism, bureaucracy and organised religion although most people in Biotopia continued to live in self-sufficient rural villages. The exceptions were maritime capitals which provided administrative and commercial functions and the city-states around the Great Amanzee. Several of these cities eventually formed the Old Commonwealth which became the commercial and cultural hub of Biotopia spurring a revival in trans-continental trade.
  
 
===Imperial Era===
 
===Imperial Era===
−
:The [[Wikipedia:Imperial|Imperial]] Era was comparatively unstable and covered an extensive period of recovery and adjustment from the devastating attacks of the Sagawachee. The major events of the era were the Dynastic Wars, the Vell Expansion, the First Emancipation and the Great Split. Over the Imperial Era there was growing contact with the global imperial powers of the time which had varied regional experiences and consequences. Imperial intervention threatened the central power of the Imperial Court but paradoxically it was the drive to modernisation to secure Imperial power that caused its ultimate collapse. Popular discontent and Imperial intervention resulted in the Republican War (sometimes called the Imperial Civil War).  
+
:Eventually the Sagawachii annexed the Old Commonwealth and consolidated their domination over much of Biotopia. The Empire instituted major engineering works, founded new townships and standardised Imperial governance. The two most significant actions taken by the Empire was the construction of an extensive paved road network and the introduction of a common language. The Sagawachii Empire eventually imploded into a period of civil war before the Restoration returned a central government. The Restoration accompanied increasing contact with the outside world and a growth in international trade.
  
 
===Republican Era===
 
===Republican Era===
−
:With the dissolution of the Empire a national [[Wikipedia:republic|republic]] was established amongst the ruins of a society of contrasting economic and social development. The Republican Era is broken into four phases; revolutionary, thermidor, socialist and post-socialist. The First and Second Republic correspond to the first two phases, the Third, Fourth and Fifth to the socialist phase and the Sixth to the post-socialist phase. The Sixth Republic was founded following the ''Kjahelkee''. The outcome of the Republican Era has been a rising standard of living, national unity, universal rights, improved international relations and the establishment of an advanced and dynamic economy.
+
:The Restoration period ended with the establishment of the First Republic. The demise of feudalism allowed for the rapid industrialisation of the state from the mid-nineteenth century. This process catalysed a domestic working-class revolutionary movement culminating in the 1894 Revolution which established the first socialist republic. Since then the state has remained at least ostensibly socialist and come to constitutionally enshrine civil-rights, democracy, secularism and socialism. Biotopia is internationally recognised for strong civil-rights, open government and adhering to the judicial process.  
−
 
+
−
===Contemporary History===
+
−
:The current situation in Biotopia is as much an outcome of its mixed experiences under socialist government during the Third, Fourth and Fifth Republic, the Directorship, The Crises and reaction to the ''Kjahelkee''. Each of these has had a profound affect on the national psyche. Democracy, Humane Rights, non-capitalism and economic prosperity remain important foundations to understanding the Biotopian mind. Currently Biotopia maintains a low profile internationally but keeps a strong sense of pride and dignity in its silent success and revival.
+
−
 
+
−
 
+
 
==Geography==
 
==Geography==
 
   
 
   
−
:'''Area''' ''Qura''
+
:'''Area'''  
  
 
:''total'': 3,274,600 sq km
 
:''total'': 3,274,600 sq km
Line 88: Line 67:
 
:''land'': 2,970,200 sq km
 
:''land'': 2,970,200 sq km
  
−
:'''Land Boundaries''' ''Naen Remskaapt''
+
:'''Land Boundaries'''  
  
 
:''total'': none
 
:''total'': none
 
:''border countries'': none
 
:''border countries'': none
  
−
:'''Coastline''' ''Homgret''
+
:'''Coastline'''  
 
:10,600 km
 
:10,600 km
  
 
===Climate===
 
===Climate===
 +
:Biotopia can be divided into five general climatic zones; Alpine Districts, Eastern Interior, Coastal Mediterranean, Western Interior and Northern Maritime .
  
−
:Biotopia is divided into six broad climatic zones; central alpine, arid zone, Mediterranean, maritime, coastal and the sub-zones.  
+
:''Alpine Districts'' – the Red and White Ranges are sufficiently extensive and elevated that they sustain a distinct alpine micro-climate. The temperature is cool all year round with snowfall in winter and mild temperatures during summer. In general conditions are similar between the two regions but as the larger the White Ranges has a more pronounced climatic influence. The vegetation is dominated by conifers, wildflowers and seasonal grasses.
  
−
:''Central Alpine'' – the Red and White Ranges are so extensive and elevated that they affect the climate around them. The temperature is cool all year round with snowfall in winter and mild temperatures during summer. These alpine affected areas experience short summers and intense thunderstorms in autumn and spring. The vegetation is dominated by conifers and seasonal grasses.
+
:''Eastern Interior'' – the hottest and driest of all climatic zones stretches east of the White Ranges and approximately up to 20km from the coastline. The temperature is hot in summer and warm throughout the year while winter is mild and brief with most rain delivered in one or two major thunderstorms. Rainfall is supplemented by snow-melt from the White Ranges. The vegetation consists of short grasses, open woodland, shrubs and seasonal flowers.
  
−
:''Arid Zone'' – the hottest and driest of all climatic zones stretches east of the White Ranges almost to the coastline in some areas. The temperature is hot in summer and warm throughout the year while winter is mild and brief with rain coming in the form of one or two major downpourings. Tributary systems from the White Ranges also distribute water through the year. The vegetation consists of short grasses, shrubs and seasonal flowers.
+
:''Coastal Mediterranean'' – covers an extensive area along the southern coastal districts, Tanja Basin, from the southern foothills of the White Range to the Golden Scarp and the western incline of the Red Range. These regions experience hot summers and mild winters with low rainfall throughout the year. Variations in rainfall predict the density and distribution of vegetation types. These are divided into three general categories; woodlands, grasslands and wetlands.  
  
−
:''Mediterranean'' – covers an extensive area along the south-west, south-central and central districts. These regions experience hot summers and mild winters with low rainfall throughout the year. A Mediterranean strip exists along the southern and coastal fringe of the arid zone. The vegetation is mixed and divided into three general categories; woodlands, grasslands and wetlands.
+
:''Northern Maritime'' – this zone broadly covers the northern perimeter of Biotopia from the base of the Red and White Ranges to the coastline and most of Vellnaen. The temperature is cool throughout the year with significant snow in winter (with the exception of Vellnaen) and mild summers. The intensity of snowfall and decline of average yearly temperature increases in proportion to latitude. The vegetation is composed of forests, plains and lake systems.  
−
 
+
−
:''Maritime'' – this zone broadly covers the northern third of Biotopia. The temperature is cool throughout the year with snow and major storms in winter and mild summers. The intensity of snowfall and decline of average yearly temperature increases in proportion to latitude. The vegetation is composed of forests, plains and lake systems.
+
−
 
+
−
:''Coastal'' – these regions are influenced by their proximity to the ocean with has a levelling effect on temperature and humidity throughout the year. This coastal influence can be said to operate along any coastline however it is most succinctly expressed on the numerous island territories including Vellnain. There are both cool and warm coastal zones indicating a higher or lower average temperature and the amount of precipitation. Coastal areas tend to be dominated by extensive woodland.
+
−
 
+
−
:''Sub-zones'' – two sub-zones are said to exist at the most northerly and southerly points of Biotopia. It is difficult to quantify their existence because of the cyclical shift in weather patterns. It can be simplified that in the south a semi-tropical climate prevails with hot humid summers, dry warm winters and heavy rain in summer. In the north a semi-tundra climate exists with low temperatures throughout the year, a short cool summer and a long cold winter with snow and rain throughout most of the year. Conifers and seasonal grasses grow in this zone and tropical woodlands in the southern sub-zone.
+
  
 
===Terrain===  
 
===Terrain===  
 +
:The greatest geological feature are the White Mountains which divide Biotopia along an east-west axis. The smaller Red Mountains Range likewise divide the central region from the north creating a north-west – south-central axis. To the east of the White Mountains is the eastern plain which gradually declines towards the north-east and south-eastern coastlines before rapidly levelling into a narrow coastal plain. The Golden Scarp rises in the east-south-east forming a coastline of isolated bays and coastal cliffs. North of the Golden scarp is the Sea of Naen between the mainland and Vellnaen and to the south is the Kanumbra Gulf.
  
−
:The greatest geological feature is the White Range which divides Biotopia into a east-west axis. The smaller Red Range likewise divides the central region from the north creating a north-south axis. To the east of the White Range is the eastern plain which gradually declines towards the coastline before rapidly descending about 200m into the flat coastal plan which runs about 10km inland from the coastline. To the north and south small ranges border the interior extending from which are two peninsulas.  
+
:Between the Red and White Ranges is the Central Plateau which descends to form the Kholsten Pass in the north between the two mountain chains. The plateau drains water from both Ranges into the Great Amanzee which flows into the Doklatta Basin to the south. The waters of the Great Amanzee, Phranz and Hollopat all exit in The Ghand making the gulf saline and estuarine in character. Most runoff from the White Mountains flows westward. Antenbrasoon is the southern tip of Biotopia formed by a broad western plain that rises into the southern tail of the White Mountain Range.
−
 
+
−
:The island of Vellnain lies across from the eastern coastline of the mainland and is dissected by steep valleys and minor ravines. There are three broad valleys two of which open onto the ocean and the third is located in the northern interior. There are two major gulfs in the south of Biotopia, the Ephan Gulf on the east and The Ghand in the central west. Between which is the southern peninsula which tapers into hilly terrain and a broad coastal plain.  
+
  
−
:This broad coastal plain continues along the south rising quickly to the Red Ranges and the central plateau and more gradually towards the White Range. The southern interior is generally flat and occupied by numerous lakes and rivers which drain the off-flow from the White and Red ranges. The Great Amanzee combines the waters of the Red and White Ranges and is the largest river in Biotopia in volume. North of the Red Ranges is a broad area of hilly territory which declines to form a thin coastal plain to the west.
+
:The western districts of Biotopia bordering the Doklatta Basin and the Red Mountains are characterised by broad plains in the south gradually being supplemented by broad water bearing valleys and gentle highlands. These formations are due to the processes of erosion on the Red Mountains smoothing the surround landscape towards a gentle incline. The Northern Plain runs west of the Kholsten Pass to the eastern highlands of the RorangaNorv Penninsula where the north-eastern most point of the White Ranges descend into the plains.
  
−
:A broad northern plain runs east of the Red ranges and west of the intersecting White Ranges. The geologic composition of the bedrock has meant many caves and sinkholes have formed. These plains thin towards the northern peninsula as the White Ranges combines with the older Stonten Ranges. The northern tip of the peninsula is gently undulating and comparatively low lying.  
+
:The island of Vellnaen is situated to the north-east of Biotopia just south of the Roranga Peninsula. The coastline is level along the southern half of the island with an undulating interior of hillocks intersected by a broad valley running from the north to the south-east from the western coastline. North of this the terrain becomes increasingly elevated interjected with ravines and narrow valleys. The northern coastline rises several meters above the sea exposing a basalt foundation formed by ancient volcanic activity.
  
−
:'''Elevation Extremes''' ''Letta Nantrek''
+
:'''Elevation Extremes'''  
  
 
:''lowest point'': Mouth of the World -16m bsl
 
:''lowest point'': Mouth of the World -16m bsl
Line 128: Line 101:
  
 
===Natural Resources===  
 
===Natural Resources===  
 +
:bauxite, beach sands, coal, copper, iron ore, limestone, lithium, magnesium, metallic chrome, natural gas, nickel, phosphate, potassium, salt, sulphur, timber, tungsten, uranium, zinc, hydroelectricity
  
−
:bauxite, beach sands, coal, copper, iron ore, limestone, lithium, magnesium, metallic chrome, natural gas, nickel, phosphate, potassium, salt, sulphur, timber, tungsten, uranium, zinc hydroelectricity
+
:'''Land Use'''  
−
 
+
−
:'''Land Use''' ''Naen Torph''
+
  
 
:''arable land'': 11%  
 
:''arable land'': 11%  
Line 138: Line 110:
  
 
===Natural Hazards===  
 
===Natural Hazards===  
−
 
+
:Severe thunderstorms are the greatest natural hazard in Biotopia affecting the eastern interior, south-central coastal and alpine districts during winter. These thunderstorms can induce strong winds along the eastern plains potentially causing serious damage. Flash floods regularly occur in the uninhabited ravines and narrow valleys of the alpine districts of Biotopia and Vellnaen; the greatest risk of which is flooding further downstream. This typically happens when water collects in an isolated lake or wetland or along coastal regions when excess water cannot drain into the sea.
−
:Severe thunderstorms, winds and heavy snowfall affect the alpine and northern regions although heavy snowfall is the most frequent hazard of both. There is also the risk of coastal flooding and cyclonic winds along the southern peninsula although this is not considered a likely direct threat. Drought is a concern in the eastern interior as is tributary flooding caused by heavy snowmelt and unseasonable rainfall affecting the floodplains of the central regions. There is also the minor threat of seismic/volcanic activity on some of the outlying island territories although this is localised in nature.  
+
  
 
===Environmental Issues===  
 
===Environmental Issues===  
−
 
+
:Biotopia has expended significant resources tackling the major problems of fresh water management, industrial and urban pollution, sustainable forestry, biodiversity and neutralising greenhouse emissions. The environment in Biotopia is rated as the cleanest in the world and is frequently noted for an absence of serious air-pollution and litter. The majority of ‘waste’ produced in Biotopia is recycled including water, building materials and even cooking oil. The biggest environmental issue currently is about implementing sustainable living standards which will require a reduction in personal consumption.  
−
:The determined will of the government to tackle environmental issues has resulted in an impressive reduction in urban pollution, industrial contamination and a halting or reversal in the decline of natural habitats and biodiversity. There are however both new and lingering problems. Some of these include soil and groundwater contamination caused by the inappropriate disposal and treatment of industrial waste, the introduction of exotic flora and fauna, managing resource usage including fresh water and electricity, public transport and neutralising carbon emissions.
+
  
 
==People==
 
==People==
  
−
:'''Species''' ''Phozub''
+
:'''Indigenous Species'''  
 
:[[Pagnaan Sapiens]]
 
:[[Pagnaan Sapiens]]
  
 
===Population===
 
===Population===
−
:Due to the country’s federal and decentralised structure Biotopia has a number of larger cities. The most populous cities of Biotopia are [[Burnaka]], [[Kroup]], [[Overn]], [[St. Kordaam]], [[Sverkaa]] and [[Zhaire]]. The largest conurbation is the Great-Amanzee-Greystone axis including the cities of [[Overn]], [[Strazhan]] and [[Jarkreen]]. The federal structure has kept the population orientated towards a number of large cities and has precluded any single city.  
+
:Long-term demographic planning has been redistributing the population according to regional carrying capacities. Demographic decentralisation has been supported by a mix of voluntary and legal enforcement aimed at restricting urban sprawl and pollution. Most people live in urban communities between 10,000 and 40,000 which are based on regional economic activities such as agriculture, mining or manufacturing. Supporting industrial services such as value-adding, high-end manufacturing, specialisation and technical assistance have introduced urban economic diversity. Diversification has been the key to expanding productivity and exports helping sustain the high standard of Biotopian living.
  
−
:As of {{CURRENTYEAR}} there where about 2.5 million foreign residents living in Biotopia. The majority are [[Wikipedia:Homo sapiens|humans]] with the majority from [[Aperin]]. In descending order the largest sources of immigration are from [[Celdonia]], [[Free Socialism]], [[ParEcon]], [[Galdago]], [[Knootoss]] and [[Xikuang]]. At one stage immigrants from [[Knootoss]] were the second largest community but the change in relations between Biotopia and Knootoss saw a reduction in the number of people wanting to permanently reside in Biotopia.
+
:Immigration is restricted to the total number of emigrants from Biotopia in the previous year which is continued in order to maintain a steady population equilibrium. Access for refugees and asylum seekers has improved and most applicants will succeed. Many family planning facilities are provided free and sex education is taught nationally. Large families are discouraged with strong financial and legal measures although most people live in small family units. Biotopia has a low infant mortality rate but also a low birth rate and population growth is due to surplus immigration. Within Biotopia there are no restrictions on internal movement.
 +
 
 +
:*Biotopian [[Wikipedia:citizen|citizens]] 94.6% (43,391,128)
 +
:*[[Wikipedia:Residency|Foreign Residents]] 4.5% (2,064,06)
 +
:*[[Wikiepdia:Refugee|Refugees]] 0.9% (412,812)
  
 
:'''{{CURRENTYEAR}} Population'''
 
:'''{{CURRENTYEAR}} Population'''
Line 159: Line 133:
 
:45,868,000
 
:45,868,000
  
−
:'''Population Growth Rate''' ''Lellenjaa Upra Otal''
+
:'''{{CURRENTYEAR}} Population Growth Rate'''  
  
−
:0.23% (105,496)  
+
: 0.23% (105,496)  
  
−
:'''Nationality''' ''KonstStodenk''
+
:'''Nationality'''  
  
 
:''noun'': Biotoipan(s)
 
:''noun'': Biotoipan(s)
Line 169: Line 143:
  
 
===Ethnic Groups===
 
===Ethnic Groups===
−
:The most obvious ethnic groups in Biotopia are the [[Wikipedia:Homo sapiens|humans]] and non-humans although there is a small minority of ethnic [[Pagnaan Sapiens]] who have been repatriated from abroad mostly [[Aperin]] which is also the primary source for [[Wikipedia:Homo sapiens|human]] immigration. Within Biotopia there are strong regional identities based on separate dialects, architectural form, cuisine and folk culture. Government migration policy has distributed the various ethnic communities throughout the country although most have settled in urban areas.  
+
:The indigenous [[Pagnaan Sapiens]] are the single largest ethnic group within Biotopia representing 90% of the population, after which humans comprise just 8% and other non-humans less than two percent. Of the humans 60% originate from Aperin, 20% from Knootoss and the remainder from the rest of the globe. [[Celdonia]], [[Xikuang]], [[ParEcon]] and [[Galdago]] are the primary sources of origin for members of the human community. There is also a significant Hell Bovines community within Biotopia which is the single largest non-indigenous non-human ethnic group.  
  
 
:*[[Pagnaan Sapiens]] 90.3% (41,418,804)
 
:*[[Pagnaan Sapiens]] 90.3% (41,418,804)
 
:*Humans 8.3% (3,807,044)
 
:*Humans 8.3% (3,807,044)
−
:*Other 1.4% (651,212)
+
:*Other 1.4% (642,152)
  
 +
===Religion===
 +
:There is no state religion in Biotopia but private religious observe is tolerated under federal law. Under the law religious icons or paraphernalia cannot be displayed in the workplace or in public spaces, all religions must register with the government and do not receive tax exemptions. Religiously based or affiliated parties are banned. Religious artefacts cannot be sold or bought although the law does not prohibit their free distribution on private property. The state is constitutionally defined as atheist and prohibits the distribution of any public funds to religious institutions or programs.
  
−
:*Biotopian [[Wikipedia:citizen|citizens]] 94.2% (43,207,656)
+
:Despite restrictions on public displays of religious affinity and practice there are an estimated 35,318,360 people (77%) who prescribe to a theological belief system. Not all of these people believe in a deist belief system such as the [[Biotopia Religion|Philosophics]] who prescribe to a mystical or transcendental cosmology. Atheists are the single largest belief group followed by Classicists, Neo-Classicists and Pan-Heliocentrics which are all indigenous belief systems. Foreign religious communities tend to be linked with certain ethnic groups such as Protestantism is the Dutch and Buddhism with the Xikuangese.  
−
:*[[Wikipedia:Residency|Foreign residents]] 4.5% (2,064,060)
+
−
:*[[Wikiepdia:Refugee|Refugees]] 1.3% (596,284)
+
  
 +
:*[[Wikipeida:Atheism|Atheism]] 23% (10,549,640)
 +
:*[[Wikipedia:Buddhism|Buddhism]] 2.2% (1,009,096)
 +
:*[[Biotopia Religion|Classical-Theology]] 16.7% (7,659,956)
 +
:*[[Wikipedia:Christianity|Christianity]] 3.8% (1,742,984)
 +
:*[[Wikipedia:Islam|Islam]] 1.2% (550,416)
 +
:*[[Wikipedia:Judaism|Judaism]] 0.1% (45,868)
 +
:*[[Biotopia Religion|Neo-Classicism]] 14.5% (6,650,860)
 +
:*[[Biotopia Religion|Pan-Helio]] 12.4% (5,687,632)
 +
:*[[Biotopia Religion|Philosophics]] 8.9% (4,082,252)
 +
:*[[Biotopia Religion|Wovanism]] 11% (5,045,480)
 +
:*[[Biotopia Religion|Other]] 6.2% (2,843,816)
  
−
:*Ethnic Pagnaan Sapiens 88.6%
+
===Languages===
−
:*Pagnaan Sapien Immigrants 1.7%
+
:The Chief Council of Biotopian Users (''UmbrevaJarga ut LansmelkDundakon'') is responsible for officially adjudicating on the use of Biotopian. The Council publishes the Comprehensive Biotopian Dictionary, the Comprehensive Biotopian Thesaurus and provides editing assistance for major publications. It has also assumed an advocacy role in promoting Biotopian through legislation and popular use. This includes the introduction of substitute terms (usually technical and scientific) for Celdonian words which by law must then be used in all official (eg: governmental, academic and scientific) publications and broadcasts.
−
:*Humans from Aperin 5.1%
+
−
:*Humans from elsewhere 3.2%
+
−
:*Non-Humans 1.4%
+
  
−
===Religion===
+
:Foreign language films, including those locally produced but with a foreign language narrative or complete dialogue, acquire an additional surcharge which is distributed to the Biotopian Film Commission. A similar system also applies to music but not published material. Advertisements directed at the general public must also be in Biotopian. Despite these protectionist measures Celdonian is publicly spoken and remains taught in all secondary schools. There are also numerous Celdonian language publications. The free-to-air Special Broadcasting Network is dedicated to providing multicultural programming including foreign language news services, films and popular programs.
−
:Biotopia is home to several unique religions the largest of which are the Mother Church and the Universal Cathedral. Christianity, Buddhism, Islam and Judaism are associated with human ethnic communities especially in the case of Buddhism which has strong links to the [[Xikuang|Xikuangese]] community. There is no official state-sponsored religion and religious symbolism is banned from public spaces and institutions.
+
  
−
:*[[Wikipedia:Atheism|Athiest]] 16% (7,338,880)
+
:The Biotopian alphabet is written using Celdonian letters (introduced by the Dutch) and represents all the standard letters except “c”, “f”, “q”, “x” and “y” which are commonly substituted by “k”, “ph”, “w”, “zh” and “j”. Biotopian as it is spoken today is heavily influenced by the languages of the Doklatta Basin – AntenBrasoon regions. The Celdonian alphabet was adopted in preference for the complicated and anachronistic indigenous alphabet. Adoption of the Celdonian alphabet helped improve literacy in Celdonian and Dutch as well as increasing the accessibility of scientific and technical literature.
−
:*[[Wikipedia:Buddhism|Buddhism]] 1.5% (688,020)
+
−
:*[[Wikipedia:Christianity|Christianity]] 5.8% (2,660,344)
+
−
:*[[Wikipedia:Humanism|Gnangara]] 6.5% (2,981,420)
+
−
:*[[Wikipedia:Islam|Islam]] 0.8% (366,944)
+
−
:*[[Wikipedia:Judaism|Judaism]] 0.1% (45,868)
+
−
:*[[Wikipedia:Paganism|Mother Church]] 28.4% (13,026,512)
+
−
:*[[Wikipedia:Pagnaism|Universal Cathedral]] 28.9% (13,255,852)
+
−
:*[[Wikipedia:Agnostic|Other]] 12% (5,504,160)
+
−
 
+
−
===Languages===
+
−
:The three official languages of Biotopia are; Biotopian, Celdonia and Biotopian Sign Language also known as Petchelk, Kheldelk and Petchamelk in the Biotopian language. The Celdonian alphabet has substituted the original Biotopian one because of its simplicity and versatility. Biotopian is spoken by 44,960,000 people as a first language and another 1,980,000 people as a second language. This number has increased with the growth of economic relations with the external world and the publication and distribution of Biotopian language books for use by mostly Celdonian native speakers.
+
  
−
:Official; [[Biotopian]], [[Celdonian]], Biotopian Sign Language
+
:Official; [[Biotopian]]
−
:Unofficial; Regional dialects, [[Dutch]], [[Xikuangese]], [[Weegie]]
+
:Secondary; [[Celdonian]], Biotopian Sign Language
 +
:Unofficial; Regional dialects, [[Dutch]], [[Xikuangese]], [[Mootish]]
  
−
:'''Literacy''' ''Vassan''
+
:'''Literacy'''  
  
 
:''definition'': age 15 and over can read and write
 
:''definition'': age 15 and over can read and write
Line 212: Line 183:
  
 
===Culture===
 
===Culture===
−
:Biotopian classical and pop-culture has struggled to make much impact beyond Biotopia. This is in part due to the common perception that Biotopian culture is inferior to the more refined or accessible tastes of other regional or global powers such as [[Celdonia]] or [[Knootoss]]. The Biotopian literary tradition which was highly developed at its peak has been fractured by the transition from Commonwealth Biotopian, Imperial Biotopia and modern (or republican) [[Biotopian]] which saw major artificial interruptions in style, form and structure.  
+
:The Biotopian “national spirit” representing the collective will of the people through the actions and institutions of the state has been described as one being concerned with issues of social justice including international law, the environment, economic exploitation and democratisation. It is also one that can be characterised as parochial towards a world dominated by Homo-Sapiens, the Celdonian language and capitalist popular culture. Underlying this mix of anxiety and contempt is a fear about the homogenisation of global cultures and the loss of a distinctly Biotopian culture. Biotopians are self-conscious of their unique identity as a non-human socialist nation. Together they have been the focus in the evolution of the national spirit.
  
−
:Biotopians continue to maintain regionalised cultural perspectives with differences in custom, lifestyle, enunciation and religious affiliation. This has in part been eroded by the advent of a unified national language, radio, television, cinema and now the internet. In contemporary areas Biotopians are slowly receiving international recognition for their architectural skill as well increasing popularity of Biotopia film, music and cuisine. There remains a strong folk culture aspect even in the urbanised areas of Biotopia which has at time been criticised fro being backwards or lacking spontaneity.
+
:Collectively the “ethnic spirit” of Biotopians is described as: egalitarian, intellectually open, outwardly reserved, parochial towards outsiders and bound by a strong sense of community and land. Many Biotopians see themselves providing a bridge between Aperin and the rest of the world, socialist and capitalist nations, human and non-human nations. To this end Biotopia pursues a mediatory role in international and regional disputes and attempts to intervene on behalf of the ethnically and economically exploited. Biotopians frequently see their own society as socially progressive, politically liberal, open and a force for the material betterment of the less well off through trade, assistance and foreign aid.
 +
 
 +
:The other side to Biotopian society is that it can be closed or suspicious towards outsiders, culturally chauvinistic and patronising towards smaller nations and patriotically sentimental. On the cultural and social fringes are the racial fanatics, xenophobes and ultranationalists. Many Biotopians are happy with the ''Lephtonta'' or middle-way of moderating power and influence with co-operation and solidarity but there is also a vocal minority that advocates an expanded international and regional role using national wealth to expand the military and push back the influence of capitalist nations in the region.
  
 
==Government==
 
==Government==
  
 
===Country Name===
 
===Country Name===
 +
:''conventional long form'': The Commonwealth of Biotopia
 +
:''conventional short form'': The Commonwealth or Biotopia
 +
:''abbreviation'': C.B. or Bio
  
−
:''conventional long form'': The Sixth Republic of Biotopia
+
:'''Government Type'''  
−
:''conventional short form'': The Republic of Biotopia OR Biotopia
+
:[[Wikipedia:Constitution|Constitutional]] [[Wikipedia:Federalism|Federal]] [[Wikipedia:Parliament|Parliamentary]] [[Wikipedia:Republic|Republic]]
−
:''abbreviation'': S.R.B.
+
−
 
+
−
:'''Government Type''' ''Renpronk Rezha''
+
−
:[[Biotopia Government]]
+
−
:[[Wikipedia:Federalism|Federal]] [[Wikipedia:Parliament|Parliamentary]] :[[Wikipedia:Republic|Republic]]
+
−
 
+
−
:'''Capital''' ''Astal''
+
  
 +
:'''Capital'''
 
:[[Zhaire]]
 
:[[Zhaire]]
  
−
===National Holidays===
+
:'''Suffrage'''  
−
 
+
−
:'''New Years Eve''' 1 January
+
−
:'''Biotopia Day ''' 11 Feb
+
−
:'''Harvest Festival''' 20 March
+
−
:'''May Day''' 1 May
+
−
:'''Winter Solstice''' June 21
+
−
:'''Citizen Day''' 28 July
+
−
:'''Anniversary Day''' 3 October
+
−
:'''Summer Solstice''' December 21
+
−
 
+
−
:'''Constitution''' ''Atabelt''
+
−
 
+
−
:01/11/1976 (effective from)
+
−
 
+
−
===Parliamentary System===
+
−
 
+
−
:The National Assembly is the house of review in the Biotopian parliament which is a [[Wikipedia:Bicameral|bicameral]] system. Each province is represented by three senators based on proportional representation creating 177 seats plus one seat to represent the federal territories. There are 59 provinces in Biotopia with an average population of 777,423 people. The Citizen Congress is based on demographic representation with 354 seats - double the number of seats in the National Assembly and representing 129,570 constituents. Three extra-territorial seats are also elected based on Biotopians citizens living abroad including the federal territories.
+
−
 
+
−
:'''Suffrage''' ''Kamtrag''
+
−
 
+
 
:16 years universal and compulsory
 
:16 years universal and compulsory
  
−
:'''Executive Branch''' ''Tuntakket Gret''
+
===National Holidays===
 +
:* [[Biotopia Culture|First Day]]
 +
:* [[Biotopia Culture|Exhibition Day]]
 +
:* [[Biotopia Culture|High Spring]]
 +
:* [[Biotopia Culture|Sunshine Festival]]
 +
:* [[Biotopia Culture|Harvest Festival]]
 +
:* [[Biotopia Culture|Summer Solstice]]
 +
:* [[Biotopia Culture|Foundation Day]]
 +
:* [[Biotopia Culture|May Day]]
 +
:* [[Biotopia Culture|The Gloaming]]
 +
:* [[Biotopia Culture|Fin-de-Siecle]]
  
−
:'''Chief of Staff''': Constitutional Secretary
+
===Political System===
−
:'''Head of Government''': Prime Administrator
+
:Biotopia is a federal constitutional republic with a parliamentary system of government. The Commonwealth Parliament (''Hastradobe StodenkKruma'') is bicameral being composed of the Assembly of Commonwealth Provinces (''Hastrobe UndenaenEljang'') and the Assembly of Commonwealth Citizens (''Hastrobe StodenkEljang''). The General Secretary of the Parliamentary Executive Council is the head of government and responsible to the parliament. Each province is represented by two members in the Assembly of Commonwealth Provinces elected by proportional representation, plus an additional member representing the federal territories. There are two-hundred members in the Assembly of Commonwealth Citizens elected by a proportional multi-member system.
−
:'''Cabinet''': proportionally representative of factions in the Citizen Congress
+
  
−
===Flag Description===
+
:The federal cabinet, called the Parliamentary Executive Council (''StodenkKrumart Hanrop Jarga''), has sixteen members including the General Secretary. The Executive Council functions as a corporate head of state able to delegate certain functions with parliamentary approval. Terms are set for four year terms in both the ACP and the ACC with a six-month difference in the translation of sets between the upper and lower chambers. Citizens have the right to petition the Commonwealth Supreme Court to test the constitutionality of legislation as well as submitting referenda issues.
−
 
+
−
:[Upright rectangle] A black band runs across the top with three vertical bands running below this. The two outer bands are dark blue and the centre band is white with a green pine tree inserted in the middle. These colours are repeated in the national seal. Black is associated with unity and the blue has both been suggested as representative of the ocean which surrounds Biotopia, the unique skin colour of [[Pagnaan Sapiens]] although it is officially representative of equality. White symbolises the ‘clean slate’ of the Sixth Republic and representative of solidarity. The pine has become the national symbol recollective of the symbol of the First Republic and symbolic of the new direction of the government.
+
===National Flag & Coat of Arms===  
−
 
+
:The national flag is vertical  with a 1:1.5 ratio. A red band measuring 1/8 the total vertical distance runs along the peak. Beneath this band are three vertical columns along the entire length of the flag. The outer columns are in Commonwealth Blue and the middle column is white with a light-green silhouette of a White Pine in the centre. The National Seal is encircled by a perimeter of golden wheat studded symmetrically by seven red five pointed stars. The inside of seal is the same blue and white vertical columns centred with a White Pine.
−
===National Seal Description===
+
−
 
+
−
:Black and blue are both repeated in the national seal representing unity and equality. Green has also been added symbolic of the revolution that formed the Sixth Republic and replacing the red used by the Fifth Republic. The pine and white background is also borrowed from the flag with three stars garnering the pine on each side. Each star represents a different value of the Sixth Republic and is sometimes attributed to the five major struggles of the Sixth Republic with the sixth attributed to the struggles of the future. These values are: democracy, demilitarisation, civil freedom, sustainability, prosperity and progress. The original shield in the federal parliament contains these words inscribed onto the stars.
+
  
 
==Economy==
 
==Economy==
 +
:Biotopia has one the largest economies in the [[Anticapitalist Alliance|Anti-Capitalist Alliance]] ranking in the top 15 by comparative size and [[Wikipedia:GDP per capita|GDP per capita]]. It is also noticeable for a sustained unemployment rate around 3% and a high rate of taxation which is used to fund extensive social services. Government enterprise represents approximately 60% of the national GDP however most state ownership is by provincial governments. Although the federal government can issue economic objectives the provinces are responsible for implementation and therefore most internal economic planning, management and infrastructure.
  
−
:Biotopia has one of the largest economies in the [[Anticapitalist Alliance|Anti-Capitalist Alliance]] ranking in the top 15 by comparative size and with the 12th highest GDP per capita at $36,118. Unemployment has remained consistently low between 3.25% - 2.80%. In {{CURRENTYEAR}} Biotopia was ranked in the 14th percentile place for the highest tax average. High taxation is used to fund extensive [[Wikipedia:Public services|public services]]. The government has significant control of the infrastructure sectors and the “commanding heights” of the economy. The Biotopian economy has traditionally operated along a [[Wikipedia:Markest Socialism|liberal socialist]] model. Biotopia operates a modest trade deficit and has zero nett foreign debt.
+
:The “private sector” is represented by co-operatives, the self-employed, family businesses and collectives as well as some international franchises. The degree of state ownership varies between provinces from 70%-45%. Some provinces have experimented with “privatisation” and pursuing greater profit generation from some public services and utilities. The government has emphasised value-adding and specialisation as a means to raise export revenue and diversify the industrial base. Biotopia now has an advanced electronics and IT industry as well as an international reputation for engineering excellence and production of quality goods.
  
−
===Exports===
+
:Biotopia has historically had a lower GDP per capita than comparative capitalist nations (although wealth has been more evenly distributed) although it’s much higher than other non-capitalist nations. A major feature of Biotopian economic development is the pursuit of a steady-state economy. Economic growth is low but inline with the (also low) population growth rate and inflation is well managed. Most economic growth has been due to improvements in efficiency and the increasing value of exports. Over the past decade the Biotopian government has posted budgetary surpluses and has steadily reduced the national debt burden. Biotopia is a participatory member of the [[International Fair Trade Agreement]].
−
:Biotopia is a nett exporter of processed foodstuffs and energy.  
+
  
−
:*[[Wikipedia:Chemical substance|Chemicals]]
+
==Defence==
−
:*[[Wikipedia:Information technology|Information technology]]
+
:The [[Biotopia Defence|Biotopian Defence Force]] is comprised of the [[Wikipedia:army|army]], [[Wikipedia:airforce|aeroforce]] and [[Wikipedia:navy|navy]] with 220,000 active members and an additional 1,700,000 reservists (excluding the Home Guard). The Biotopian Defence Force is a voluntary military organisation although all high-school graduates are offered the opportunity to spend a minimum three months in training as part of their gap year social service. The navy is the centrepiece of the armed forces and have participated in naval exercises with the navies of [[Celdonia]] and [[Knootoss]]. All branches of the B.D.F. have participated in overseas actions including humanitarian assistence.  
−
:*[[Wikipedia:Banking|International finance]]
+
−
:*[[Wikipedia:Food industry|Foodstuffs]]
+
−
:*[[Wikipedia:Sustainable energy|energy sources]]
+
−
:*[[Wikipedia:Textiles|Textiles]]
+
−
 
+
−
===Imports===
+
−
:*[[Wikipedia:Chemical substance|Chemicals]]
+
−
:*[[Wikipedia:Metal|Metals]]  
+
−
:*[[Wikipedia:Petrochemicals|Petrochemicals]]
+
−
:*[[Wikipedia:Retail|retail goods]]
+
−
:*[[Wikipedia:Textiles|Textiles]]
+
−
:*[[Wikipedia:Machine|Heavy Machinery]]
+
−
 
+
−
===Agriculture===
+
−
:The size and diversity of Biotopia has allowed for a broad range of agricultural activities to be conducted. The utilisation of modern agricultural practices and restructuring the market system has improved productivity. Each province is required to produce a minimum [[Wikipedia:Quota|quota]] of its total annual nutritional requirements. This has limited potential earnings from domestic sales for many farmers making exporting the only profitable alternative. Agriculture employs around 8 of the labour force and contributes 12% of the GDP.
+
−
 
+
−
===Modernisation===
+
−
:Modernising the Biotopian economy has been the key in improving the standard of living and economic productivity. The most successful of these innovations has been the information technology sector which has grown 600% since the modernisation program was introduced. Modernisation has also meant the diversification of exports, value-adding initiatives and the application of innovation at all levels of production and distribution.
+
−
 
+
−
===Energy Policy===
+
−
:Sustainable energy has been applied throughout Biotopia and is used primarily to supply domestic demand with fossil fuels, geothermic and hydropower supplying industrial demand and the requirements for peak-load electricity. Fossil Fuels continue to be phased out and Biotopia has a leading sustainable energy sector. Fossil Fuels are planned to be reduced to 33% by 2020. Their use is offset by mass-plantings to ensure carbon-neutrality.
+
−
 
+
−
:*Fossil Fuels 46%
+
−
:*Nuclear 0%
+
−
:*Geo/Hydro 14.5%
+
−
:*Bio/Solar/Aero 39.5%
+
−
 
+
−
==Security==
+
−
 
+
−
:A professional civilian police force branched into several specialist divisions and a criminal code centred on rehabilitation have meant comparatively low crime rates especially in areas of [[Wikipedia:homicide|murder]] and [[Wikipedia:juvenile delinquency|juvenile crime]]. There have also been renewed efforts to crack down on [[Wikipedia:white-collar crime|white-collar]] and [[Wikipedia:organised crime|organised crime]] where sophisticated technology and tight organisation have made detection and prosecution difficult. [[Wikipedia:Intelligence information gathering|secret intelligence]] also plays an important role in Biotopian security policy. This is a necessary response due to the constant threat of potential [[Wikipedia:capitalism|capitalist]] and [[Wikipedia:terrorism|terrorist]] infiltration and an anxiety to never repeat the events of the ''Kjahelkee.'' These responsibilities are headed by the Biotopian Intelligence Organisation which has an intelligence gathering purpose.
+
−
 
+
−
 
+
−
===Biotopian Intelligence Organisation===
+
−
:The BIO (''PKE'') is responsible for gathering information on internal security threats, monitoring the operations of other foreign intelligence agencies internally as well as collecting and disseminating information overseas. The BIO is prohibited from interfering with the domestic politics of foreign countries and is primarily an information service rather than an extension of Biotopian foreign policy objectives. BIO also operates several intelligence facilities ranging from a training compound to electronic monitoring stations.
+
−
 
+
−
===Citizen Security Force===
+
−
 
+
−
:The CSF (''SPR'') is operated as a [[Wikipedia:Swiss army|’citizen army’]]. The majority of this organisation is based on voluntary membership and the organisational structure is similar to the FES. The CSF is responsible for overseeing construction and maintenance of defence infrastructure including caches of strategic arms and fuel reserves. The CSF also maintains a reserve body of several thousand personnel trained in armed combat. The CSF is divided into a Citizen Armed Force, Citizen Navy and Citizen Aeroforce.
+
−
 
+
−
===Federal Police Force===
+
−
:Responsible for the investigation of prosecution of the following crimes; illicit drug trafficking, people smuggling, major fraud, e-crime, terrorism, money laundering, organised crime and sexual servitude. The Federal Police Guard is also responsible for the protection of federal buildings and institutions, international aeroports, diplomatic missions and Civilian Defence property as well as policing Special Federal Territories. The FPG (''KPR'') is an unarmed service although all officers are trained in gun use and several special armed divisions operate.
+
−
 
+
−
===National Coast Guard=== 
+
−
:Maintenance of maritime law, seamarks, border control and wartime auxiliary responsibility for harbour defence, port security, naval counterintelligence and coastal patrols. It is a civilian service under the Department of Federal Police. The NCG also has a special branch called the Harbour Guard which is responsible for quarantine and port security. The NCG (''KRH'') operates several types of vessels and aircraft which are used for a number of tasks including; search and rescue, police pursuit, ice breaking, channel patrol and border patrol.
+
−
 
+
−
===Federal Emergency Service===
+
−
:Headquartered in Saint Kordaam the FES (''KUA'') is responsible for co-ordinating both natural and large-scale industrial disaster relief. On both accounts it invests significant power into local authorities reserving its efforts to devising overall strategy, operating and distributing specialised assistance and prioritising resource allocation. The primary role of the FES is the protection and evacuation of civilians from disaster zones as well as co-ordinating with state and local emergency services and the CSG.
+
  
 
==International Relations==
 
==International Relations==
−
:Biotopia plays a contributing role in the [[Anticapitalist Alliance|Anti-Capitalist Alliance]], having strong relations with [[Ecopoeia]] and formerly [[Hell Bovines]] and [[Knootoss]]. Biotopia has previously been elected as the regional delegate to the United Nations for the ACA (February-March 2006) as well as permanently chairing the position for the [[Non-Human Union]]. Biotopia has maintained a low international profile both in part because of its recent past and constitutional restrictions on the use of military power. Biotopia also maintains strong relationships with [[Celdonia]] and [[Xikuang]] based on common ideological perspectives and mutual economic relations developed during Biotopia’s membership of the [[CACE|Coalition of Anti-Capitalist Ecnomies]] and Biotopia remains an active member of the [[International Fair Trade Agreement]]. Participation in [[CACE]] was strained by relations with [[SeOCC]] and the continuing relationship between Biotopia and [[Knootoss]]. The Biotopian government continues to refuse recognition of anarchist states.
+
:Biotopia plays a contributing role in the [[Anticapitalist Aliance|Anti-Capitalist Alliance]] having previously been elected to the regional delegacy for the region. It was also a founding member of the now defunct [[Non-Human Union]] and was previously a member of the [[CACE|Coalition of Anti-Capitalist Economies]]. Currently it remains a member of the [[United Nations]] and the [[IFTA|Intenraitonal Fair Trade Agreement]]. Biotopia has good relations with most Aperin nations particularly [[Celdonia]], [[Xikuang]], [[ParEcon]] and [[Ecopoeia]]. Outside the region Biotopia maintains an international friendship with the capitalist nations of [[Knootoss]], [[Daistallia]] and [[Scolopendra]].
−
 
+
−
===WMD===
+
−
:Internationally Biotopia remains committed to the elimination of [[Wikipedia:WMD|Weapons of Mass Destruction]]. Biotopia maintains three geosynchronous satellites to monitor for nuclear activity in the region. Nuclear materials are banned from transport throughout Biotopian territories. A special branch of the [[Wikipedia:Department of Foreign Affairs|Department of Foreign Affairs]] is maintained to observe that neighbouring states are complying with their obligations to reduce or halt weapons production.
+
−
 
+
−
===Humane Rights===
+
−
:Likewise the [[Wikipedia:Department of Foreign Affairs|Department of Foreign Affairs]] maintains a special branch overseeing and pursuing [[Wikipedia:Human Rights|Humane Rights]] in the nations that Biotopia maintains permanent diplomatic relations with. Biotopia is also committed to ending people smuggling, slavery and drug trafficking with border security a high priority for the government. The Biotopian government maintains an active lobby demanding recognition of non-human rights throughout the United Nations.
+
−
 
+
−
===Absolution of Capitalism===
+
−
:The third major component of Biotopian foreign policy is pursuing the absolution of [[Wikipedia:capitalism|capitalism]]. Criticism has also been directed at some socialist states for their comparatively exploitive systems and degradation of [[Wikipedia:Human Rights|Humane Rights]]. This has at times left Biotopia isolated on the international stage such as the transitional phase between [[CACE]] and [[IFTA]] membership. Biotopia does not provide assistance to revolutionary or other political organisations although it does sponsor several grassroots and education organisations that operate abroad.  
+
  
 
===International Organisation Membership===
 
===International Organisation Membership===
Line 344: Line 244:
 
:*[[United Nations]]
 
:*[[United Nations]]
 
:*[[United Nations Organizations]]
 
:*[[United Nations Organizations]]
−
 
−
===Diplomatic Relations===
 
−
:*[[Allanea]]
 
−
:*[[Celdonia]]
 
−
:*[[Demo-Bobylon]]
 
−
:*[[Ecopoeia]]
 
−
:*[[Kanami]]
 
−
:*[[Kelssek]]
 
−
:*[[Kerla]]
 
−
:*[[Knootoss]]
 
−
:*[[Love and esterel]]
 
−
:*[[Magna Diablo]]
 
−
:*[[Necropatria]]
 
−
:*[[Orgybot]]
 
−
:*[[ParEcon]]
 
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Latest revision as of 07:49, 6 March 2007

The Commonwealth of Biotopia
Ven Hastradobe ut Phosee
nationalflag.png coatofarms.png
Flag and Coat of Arms
Motto Live the best within your means
Keg Oskrapt Ojokonta Ramdee
Anthem The Red Star Rising
Ven OklaptRagaa Entro

biotopiaveg.jpg

Capital
  Largest City 		Zhaire
  St Kordaam
Government Federal Constitutional Socialist Republic
Area
 - Total
 - water
3,274,600 km²
304,400 km²
Population
 - Total (2024)
 - Density
45,868,000 million
14/km²
GDP (2024)
  - Total
  - GDP/capita
1.6 trillion
V 35,300
HDI 2024 0.965 (high)
Currency Biotopian Vello (VLO)
Internet TLD .bp
Calling Code +6060
The Commonwealth of Biotopia (Hastradobe Phosee) or simply Biotopia (Phosee), is one of the leading industrialised countries in the Anticapitalist Alliance. Biotopia is a sub-continental island surrounded by the Azure Ocean situated due east of northern Greater Aperin. The Commonwealth includes several maritime islands, the largest of which is Vellnaen, the only island province. The term Biotopia is dualistic and can refer to both the geographic entity of the sub-continent or the sovereign territory of the Commonwealth. The closest nations to Biotopia are Demo-Bobylon, Free Socialism, Free Soviets and Watfordshire in Alcaerin.
The Commonwealth is a federation of thirty-nine self-governing provinces, with an additional seven federal territories, united under a national parliament. The capital of Biotopia is The City of Zhaire located in the western centre of the sub-continent on the shores of the Great Amanzee. The state is constitutionally defined as socialist, atheistic and democratic and has been a self-proclaimed socialist republic since 1894. The indigenous peoples of Biotopia are the Pagnaan Sapiens who are a non-human species.
Biotopia is a member of the United Nations, the International Fair Trade Agreement and the Anti-Capitalist Alliance. It was previously a member of the Coalition of Anti-Capitalist Economies and was also a founding member of the Non-Human Union. Biotopia pursues a foreign policy objective of Lephtonta (middle power) emphasising consensus building and coalition forming. As a compliment to this Biotopia has a large industrial and economic base and a modern military force that has previously participated in international missions.

History

Antiquarian Era

Pagnaan Sapiens arrived in Biotopia between thirty-thousand and twenty-five-thousand years ago. These nomadic peoples lived in technologically primitive conditions akin to the Stone Age. This subsistence level of nomadic living subsided with the gradual spread of domestication. The Pan-Heliocentric Civilisation organised the wide-spread construction of megalithic structures. A trans-continental trading network distributed religious artefacts and tools. As distinct urban communities developed the Pan-Heliocentric Civilisation was gradually replaced by local and regional religious practice and inter-community trading.

Classical Era

Urbanisation, trade and population growth facilitated the development of feudalism, bureaucracy and organised religion although most people in Biotopia continued to live in self-sufficient rural villages. The exceptions were maritime capitals which provided administrative and commercial functions and the city-states around the Great Amanzee. Several of these cities eventually formed the Old Commonwealth which became the commercial and cultural hub of Biotopia spurring a revival in trans-continental trade.

Imperial Era

Eventually the Sagawachii annexed the Old Commonwealth and consolidated their domination over much of Biotopia. The Empire instituted major engineering works, founded new townships and standardised Imperial governance. The two most significant actions taken by the Empire was the construction of an extensive paved road network and the introduction of a common language. The Sagawachii Empire eventually imploded into a period of civil war before the Restoration returned a central government. The Restoration accompanied increasing contact with the outside world and a growth in international trade.

Republican Era

The Restoration period ended with the establishment of the First Republic. The demise of feudalism allowed for the rapid industrialisation of the state from the mid-nineteenth century. This process catalysed a domestic working-class revolutionary movement culminating in the 1894 Revolution which established the first socialist republic. Since then the state has remained at least ostensibly socialist and come to constitutionally enshrine civil-rights, democracy, secularism and socialism. Biotopia is internationally recognised for strong civil-rights, open government and adhering to the judicial process.

Geography

Area
total: 3,274,600 sq km
water: 304,400 sq km
land: 2,970,200 sq km
Land Boundaries
total: none
border countries: none
Coastline
10,600 km

Climate

Biotopia can be divided into five general climatic zones; Alpine Districts, Eastern Interior, Coastal Mediterranean, Western Interior and Northern Maritime .
Alpine Districts – the Red and White Ranges are sufficiently extensive and elevated that they sustain a distinct alpine micro-climate. The temperature is cool all year round with snowfall in winter and mild temperatures during summer. In general conditions are similar between the two regions but as the larger the White Ranges has a more pronounced climatic influence. The vegetation is dominated by conifers, wildflowers and seasonal grasses.
Eastern Interior – the hottest and driest of all climatic zones stretches east of the White Ranges and approximately up to 20km from the coastline. The temperature is hot in summer and warm throughout the year while winter is mild and brief with most rain delivered in one or two major thunderstorms. Rainfall is supplemented by snow-melt from the White Ranges. The vegetation consists of short grasses, open woodland, shrubs and seasonal flowers.
Coastal Mediterranean – covers an extensive area along the southern coastal districts, Tanja Basin, from the southern foothills of the White Range to the Golden Scarp and the western incline of the Red Range. These regions experience hot summers and mild winters with low rainfall throughout the year. Variations in rainfall predict the density and distribution of vegetation types. These are divided into three general categories; woodlands, grasslands and wetlands.
Northern Maritime – this zone broadly covers the northern perimeter of Biotopia from the base of the Red and White Ranges to the coastline and most of Vellnaen. The temperature is cool throughout the year with significant snow in winter (with the exception of Vellnaen) and mild summers. The intensity of snowfall and decline of average yearly temperature increases in proportion to latitude. The vegetation is composed of forests, plains and lake systems.

Terrain

The greatest geological feature are the White Mountains which divide Biotopia along an east-west axis. The smaller Red Mountains Range likewise divide the central region from the north creating a north-west – south-central axis. To the east of the White Mountains is the eastern plain which gradually declines towards the north-east and south-eastern coastlines before rapidly levelling into a narrow coastal plain. The Golden Scarp rises in the east-south-east forming a coastline of isolated bays and coastal cliffs. North of the Golden scarp is the Sea of Naen between the mainland and Vellnaen and to the south is the Kanumbra Gulf.
Between the Red and White Ranges is the Central Plateau which descends to form the Kholsten Pass in the north between the two mountain chains. The plateau drains water from both Ranges into the Great Amanzee which flows into the Doklatta Basin to the south. The waters of the Great Amanzee, Phranz and Hollopat all exit in The Ghand making the gulf saline and estuarine in character. Most runoff from the White Mountains flows westward. Antenbrasoon is the southern tip of Biotopia formed by a broad western plain that rises into the southern tail of the White Mountain Range.
The western districts of Biotopia bordering the Doklatta Basin and the Red Mountains are characterised by broad plains in the south gradually being supplemented by broad water bearing valleys and gentle highlands. These formations are due to the processes of erosion on the Red Mountains smoothing the surround landscape towards a gentle incline. The Northern Plain runs west of the Kholsten Pass to the eastern highlands of the RorangaNorv Penninsula where the north-eastern most point of the White Ranges descend into the plains.
The island of Vellnaen is situated to the north-east of Biotopia just south of the Roranga Peninsula. The coastline is level along the southern half of the island with an undulating interior of hillocks intersected by a broad valley running from the north to the south-east from the western coastline. North of this the terrain becomes increasingly elevated interjected with ravines and narrow valleys. The northern coastline rises several meters above the sea exposing a basalt foundation formed by ancient volcanic activity.
Elevation Extremes
lowest point: Mouth of the World -16m bsl
highest point: Skytooth Peak 6,598m asl

Natural Resources

bauxite, beach sands, coal, copper, iron ore, limestone, lithium, magnesium, metallic chrome, natural gas, nickel, phosphate, potassium, salt, sulphur, timber, tungsten, uranium, zinc, hydroelectricity
Land Use
arable land: 11%
permanent crops: 1%
other: 88%

Natural Hazards

Severe thunderstorms are the greatest natural hazard in Biotopia affecting the eastern interior, south-central coastal and alpine districts during winter. These thunderstorms can induce strong winds along the eastern plains potentially causing serious damage. Flash floods regularly occur in the uninhabited ravines and narrow valleys of the alpine districts of Biotopia and Vellnaen; the greatest risk of which is flooding further downstream. This typically happens when water collects in an isolated lake or wetland or along coastal regions when excess water cannot drain into the sea.

Environmental Issues

Biotopia has expended significant resources tackling the major problems of fresh water management, industrial and urban pollution, sustainable forestry, biodiversity and neutralising greenhouse emissions. The environment in Biotopia is rated as the cleanest in the world and is frequently noted for an absence of serious air-pollution and litter. The majority of ‘waste’ produced in Biotopia is recycled including water, building materials and even cooking oil. The biggest environmental issue currently is about implementing sustainable living standards which will require a reduction in personal consumption.

People

Indigenous Species
Pagnaan Sapiens

Population

Long-term demographic planning has been redistributing the population according to regional carrying capacities. Demographic decentralisation has been supported by a mix of voluntary and legal enforcement aimed at restricting urban sprawl and pollution. Most people live in urban communities between 10,000 and 40,000 which are based on regional economic activities such as agriculture, mining or manufacturing. Supporting industrial services such as value-adding, high-end manufacturing, specialisation and technical assistance have introduced urban economic diversity. Diversification has been the key to expanding productivity and exports helping sustain the high standard of Biotopian living.
Immigration is restricted to the total number of emigrants from Biotopia in the previous year which is continued in order to maintain a steady population equilibrium. Access for refugees and asylum seekers has improved and most applicants will succeed. Many family planning facilities are provided free and sex education is taught nationally. Large families are discouraged with strong financial and legal measures although most people live in small family units. Biotopia has a low infant mortality rate but also a low birth rate and population growth is due to surplus immigration. Within Biotopia there are no restrictions on internal movement.
2024 Population
45,868,000
2024 Population Growth Rate
0.23% (105,496)
Nationality
noun: Biotoipan(s)
adjective: Biotopian

Ethnic Groups

The indigenous Pagnaan Sapiens are the single largest ethnic group within Biotopia representing 90% of the population, after which humans comprise just 8% and other non-humans less than two percent. Of the humans 60% originate from Aperin, 20% from Knootoss and the remainder from the rest of the globe. Celdonia, Xikuang, ParEcon and Galdago are the primary sources of origin for members of the human community. There is also a significant Hell Bovines community within Biotopia which is the single largest non-indigenous non-human ethnic group.
  • Pagnaan Sapiens 90.3% (41,418,804)
  • Humans 8.3% (3,807,044)
  • Other 1.4% (642,152)

Religion

There is no state religion in Biotopia but private religious observe is tolerated under federal law. Under the law religious icons or paraphernalia cannot be displayed in the workplace or in public spaces, all religions must register with the government and do not receive tax exemptions. Religiously based or affiliated parties are banned. Religious artefacts cannot be sold or bought although the law does not prohibit their free distribution on private property. The state is constitutionally defined as atheist and prohibits the distribution of any public funds to religious institutions or programs.
Despite restrictions on public displays of religious affinity and practice there are an estimated 35,318,360 people (77%) who prescribe to a theological belief system. Not all of these people believe in a deist belief system such as the Philosophics who prescribe to a mystical or transcendental cosmology. Atheists are the single largest belief group followed by Classicists, Neo-Classicists and Pan-Heliocentrics which are all indigenous belief systems. Foreign religious communities tend to be linked with certain ethnic groups such as Protestantism is the Dutch and Buddhism with the Xikuangese.

Languages

The Chief Council of Biotopian Users (UmbrevaJarga ut LansmelkDundakon) is responsible for officially adjudicating on the use of Biotopian. The Council publishes the Comprehensive Biotopian Dictionary, the Comprehensive Biotopian Thesaurus and provides editing assistance for major publications. It has also assumed an advocacy role in promoting Biotopian through legislation and popular use. This includes the introduction of substitute terms (usually technical and scientific) for Celdonian words which by law must then be used in all official (eg: governmental, academic and scientific) publications and broadcasts.
Foreign language films, including those locally produced but with a foreign language narrative or complete dialogue, acquire an additional surcharge which is distributed to the Biotopian Film Commission. A similar system also applies to music but not published material. Advertisements directed at the general public must also be in Biotopian. Despite these protectionist measures Celdonian is publicly spoken and remains taught in all secondary schools. There are also numerous Celdonian language publications. The free-to-air Special Broadcasting Network is dedicated to providing multicultural programming including foreign language news services, films and popular programs.
The Biotopian alphabet is written using Celdonian letters (introduced by the Dutch) and represents all the standard letters except “c”, “f”, “q”, “x” and “y” which are commonly substituted by “k”, “ph”, “w”, “zh” and “j”. Biotopian as it is spoken today is heavily influenced by the languages of the Doklatta Basin – AntenBrasoon regions. The Celdonian alphabet was adopted in preference for the complicated and anachronistic indigenous alphabet. Adoption of the Celdonian alphabet helped improve literacy in Celdonian and Dutch as well as increasing the accessibility of scientific and technical literature.
Official; Biotopian
Secondary; Celdonian, Biotopian Sign Language
Unofficial; Regional dialects, Dutch, Xikuangese, Mootish
Literacy
definition: age 15 and over can read and write
total population: 99.8%

Culture

The Biotopian “national spirit” representing the collective will of the people through the actions and institutions of the state has been described as one being concerned with issues of social justice including international law, the environment, economic exploitation and democratisation. It is also one that can be characterised as parochial towards a world dominated by Homo-Sapiens, the Celdonian language and capitalist popular culture. Underlying this mix of anxiety and contempt is a fear about the homogenisation of global cultures and the loss of a distinctly Biotopian culture. Biotopians are self-conscious of their unique identity as a non-human socialist nation. Together they have been the focus in the evolution of the national spirit.
Collectively the “ethnic spirit” of Biotopians is described as: egalitarian, intellectually open, outwardly reserved, parochial towards outsiders and bound by a strong sense of community and land. Many Biotopians see themselves providing a bridge between Aperin and the rest of the world, socialist and capitalist nations, human and non-human nations. To this end Biotopia pursues a mediatory role in international and regional disputes and attempts to intervene on behalf of the ethnically and economically exploited. Biotopians frequently see their own society as socially progressive, politically liberal, open and a force for the material betterment of the less well off through trade, assistance and foreign aid.
The other side to Biotopian society is that it can be closed or suspicious towards outsiders, culturally chauvinistic and patronising towards smaller nations and patriotically sentimental. On the cultural and social fringes are the racial fanatics, xenophobes and ultranationalists. Many Biotopians are happy with the Lephtonta or middle-way of moderating power and influence with co-operation and solidarity but there is also a vocal minority that advocates an expanded international and regional role using national wealth to expand the military and push back the influence of capitalist nations in the region.

Government

Country Name

conventional long form: The Commonwealth of Biotopia
conventional short form: The Commonwealth or Biotopia
abbreviation: C.B. or Bio
Government Type
Constitutional Federal Parliamentary Republic
Capital
Zhaire
Suffrage
16 years universal and compulsory

National Holidays

Political System

Biotopia is a federal constitutional republic with a parliamentary system of government. The Commonwealth Parliament (Hastradobe StodenkKruma) is bicameral being composed of the Assembly of Commonwealth Provinces (Hastrobe UndenaenEljang) and the Assembly of Commonwealth Citizens (Hastrobe StodenkEljang). The General Secretary of the Parliamentary Executive Council is the head of government and responsible to the parliament. Each province is represented by two members in the Assembly of Commonwealth Provinces elected by proportional representation, plus an additional member representing the federal territories. There are two-hundred members in the Assembly of Commonwealth Citizens elected by a proportional multi-member system.
The federal cabinet, called the Parliamentary Executive Council (StodenkKrumart Hanrop Jarga), has sixteen members including the General Secretary. The Executive Council functions as a corporate head of state able to delegate certain functions with parliamentary approval. Terms are set for four year terms in both the ACP and the ACC with a six-month difference in the translation of sets between the upper and lower chambers. Citizens have the right to petition the Commonwealth Supreme Court to test the constitutionality of legislation as well as submitting referenda issues.

National Flag & Coat of Arms

The national flag is vertical with a 1:1.5 ratio. A red band measuring 1/8 the total vertical distance runs along the peak. Beneath this band are three vertical columns along the entire length of the flag. The outer columns are in Commonwealth Blue and the middle column is white with a light-green silhouette of a White Pine in the centre. The National Seal is encircled by a perimeter of golden wheat studded symmetrically by seven red five pointed stars. The inside of seal is the same blue and white vertical columns centred with a White Pine.

Economy

Biotopia has one the largest economies in the Anti-Capitalist Alliance ranking in the top 15 by comparative size and GDP per capita. It is also noticeable for a sustained unemployment rate around 3% and a high rate of taxation which is used to fund extensive social services. Government enterprise represents approximately 60% of the national GDP however most state ownership is by provincial governments. Although the federal government can issue economic objectives the provinces are responsible for implementation and therefore most internal economic planning, management and infrastructure.
The “private sector” is represented by co-operatives, the self-employed, family businesses and collectives as well as some international franchises. The degree of state ownership varies between provinces from 70%-45%. Some provinces have experimented with “privatisation” and pursuing greater profit generation from some public services and utilities. The government has emphasised value-adding and specialisation as a means to raise export revenue and diversify the industrial base. Biotopia now has an advanced electronics and IT industry as well as an international reputation for engineering excellence and production of quality goods.
Biotopia has historically had a lower GDP per capita than comparative capitalist nations (although wealth has been more evenly distributed) although it’s much higher than other non-capitalist nations. A major feature of Biotopian economic development is the pursuit of a steady-state economy. Economic growth is low but inline with the (also low) population growth rate and inflation is well managed. Most economic growth has been due to improvements in efficiency and the increasing value of exports. Over the past decade the Biotopian government has posted budgetary surpluses and has steadily reduced the national debt burden. Biotopia is a participatory member of the International Fair Trade Agreement.

Defence

The Biotopian Defence Force is comprised of the army, aeroforce and navy with 220,000 active members and an additional 1,700,000 reservists (excluding the Home Guard). The Biotopian Defence Force is a voluntary military organisation although all high-school graduates are offered the opportunity to spend a minimum three months in training as part of their gap year social service. The navy is the centrepiece of the armed forces and have participated in naval exercises with the navies of Celdonia and Knootoss. All branches of the B.D.F. have participated in overseas actions including humanitarian assistence.

International Relations

Biotopia plays a contributing role in the Anti-Capitalist Alliance having previously been elected to the regional delegacy for the region. It was also a founding member of the now defunct Non-Human Union and was previously a member of the Coalition of Anti-Capitalist Economies. Currently it remains a member of the United Nations and the Intenraitonal Fair Trade Agreement. Biotopia has good relations with most Aperin nations particularly Celdonia, Xikuang, ParEcon and Ecopoeia. Outside the region Biotopia maintains an international friendship with the capitalist nations of Knootoss, Daistallia and Scolopendra.

International Organisation Membership

Further Information

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