Difference between revisions of "Gruenberg"

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{{Infobox_Nation |
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{{Infobox Nation
flag=http://img97.imageshack.us/img97/9202/flag7sb.png |
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| title=<big>'''[http://www.nationstates.net/gruenberg The Holy Wenaist Sultanate of Gruenberg]'''</big><br><big>'''Tep Zlatani Melli Wenaisti Gruenbergersk vom'''</big>
region=[[Malibu Islands]] |
+
| flag=http://img435.imageshack.us/img435/2553/flag5cv.jpg
motto=''Kab-sez Schialnach Brachtrauron'' ['There's Nothing Wrong'] |
+
| flagcaption=([[Frek Niawaf Rambutan|In detail]])
map=[http://img212.imageshack.us/my.php?image=gruenberg7ea.jpg] |
+
| motto=''[[Kab-sez Schialnach Brachtrauron]]''
language=[[Rukialkotta]] |
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| anthem=''[[Kab-sez Schialnach Brachtrauron]]''
capital=[[Flurthwel]] |
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| map=
population=Unknown |
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| region=[[Antarctic Oasis]]
currency=[[Opst]] |
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| capital=[[Flurthwel]]
leader=His High Holiness Grand Sultan Gardab Woltzten IX
+
| largest_city=[[Merlefurt]]
}}
+
| language=[[Rukialkotta]], [[Bazhtan]]
 +
| government_type=Monarchy/Theocracy/Goatocracy
 +
| leader_title1=Sultan
 +
| leader_name1=Gardab Woltzten IX
 +
| leader_title2=Grand Vizier
 +
| leader_name2=Mikkolic Weltin
 +
| sovereignty_type=Establishment
 +
| established_event1=Act of Unification
 +
| established_date1=1709
 +
| area=4,301,140km²
 +
| pcwater=8.2
 +
| population=3.192 billion
 +
| currency=[[Opst]]
 +
| currency_code =GROP
 +
| timezone=[[wikipedia:Coordinated Universal Time|UTC]]+5 to +6
 +
| dsttimezone=[[wikipedia:Coordinated Universal Time|UTC]]+6 to +7
 +
| cctld=.gb
 +
| callingcode=627
 +
| iso=GRMI
 +
}}The '''Holy Wenaist Sultanate of Gruenberg''' ([[Rukialkotta]]: ''tep Zlatani Melli Wenaisti Gruenbergersk vom'') is a sovereign [[nation]] in the [[Malibu Islands|Southern Malibu Islands]] [[region]], although it is politically associated with the [[Antarctic Oasis]] sphere of influence. Its mainland is divided into two provinces, with the larger [[Naffarron]] in the west and the [[Gelzien Nub]] in the east; the large island of Bobron, lying just off Naffarron's southernmost tip, was incorporated into the Sultanate in 1952. It has a coastline in excess of 8,000 kilometres, lying on the bays of Abzhan-Rejak and Bay of Solitude, and shares land borders with Gurglestan to the northwest and New Greater Tibet to the northeast.
  
The Sultanate of '''Gruenberg''' is a medium-sized nation in [[Malibu Islands]]. An absolute monarchy ruled by the Woltzten family, power is centralised at the Court in the capital, [[Flurthwel]]. The country is devoutly [[Wenaism|Wenaist]].
+
Despite its average area, Gruenberg has a [[wikipedia:population density|densely distributed]] population of over 3 billion. It is the home of [[Wenaism]], and has the largest population of adherents in the world, with over 97% of its citizens being registered Wenaists. The area, renowned for its degree of cultural, ecological, geological and climatic diversity, has a long tribal history, and has historically proved resistant to unification; modern Gruenberg has however been united for nearly 300 years under the rule of the Woltzten Dynasty, who were the first to bring Naffarron and the Gelzien Nub under a common flag. This union has been far from harmonious, and separatists in the Gelzien Nub have become increasingly vocal and violent in their calls for autonomy.
  
==INDUSTRY==
+
Once a relatively poor and undeveloped country, Gruenberg has seen major agricultural, industrial and financial reforms in the last century, with its economy the fastest-growing in the region, and being ranked in the top 1% worldwide. Social and political freedoms have also increased, but its image as a despotic land of oppression persists. The military has also been strengthened significantly, and Gruenberg is a [[list of nations with nuclear capability|declared nuclear state]]. Once a prominent member of the [[United Nations]], it has now resigned, but has not since retreated into total isolation.
 +
==Etymology==
 +
The name '''Gruenberg''' ([[wikipedia:IPA|IPA]]:/{{IPA|gryːnbɛʁk}}/) means "Green Mountain" in [[Rukialkotta]], the official national [[language]]. "Green Mountain" is a reference to [[Hatash Myari]], the sacred mountain of the [[Wenaism|Wenaist]] [[religion]]. "Green Mountain" has long been used to identify the region in the absence of any other common term; however, it was not adopted as the official name of the nation until 1709.
 +
==History==
 +
{{main|History of Gruenberg}}
 +
'Gruenberg' as a political entity is a comparatively recent phenomenon, having been established in 1709, at which point it did not encompass all of its current territorial holdings, but the general geographical region has been inhabited for thousands of years, and has a rich and diverse history, marked by division between divergent tribes, and chiefly significant for the growth of [[Wenaism]].
 +
== Geography and climate ==
 +
{{main|Geography of Gruenberg}}
 +
Gruenberg has a total area of 1,027,824 [[wikipedia:square kilometre|square kilometre]]s, with a land area of 992,514 square kilometres. This is divided in an approximate 6:1 ratio between [[Naffarron]] (880,254 km²) and the [[Gelzien Nub]] (147,570 km²). Both are mainly surrounded by tiny tribal states, small numbers of which Gruenberg has annexed over the years, but Naffarron shares a 2,954 km border with [[Gurglestan]], to its north-west. It has a 3,958 km coastline, and the Gelzien Nub 1,306 km.The two provinces are separated by over three thousand kilometres over the [[Bay of Abzhan-Rejak]], and are fairly geographically distinct.
  
===Agriculture===
+
The Naffarronese coastline on the [[Bay of Abzhan-Rejak]] plays host to some of the most beautiful beaches in the region, famed for their fine white sand.
  
====Principal Crops====
+
[[Gruenberg]] has a fairly diverse [[wikipedia:Climate|climate]]. [[Naffarron]] is generally [[wikipedia:Temperate|temperate]], and the [[Gelzien Nub]] [[wikipedia:Subtropical climate|subtropical]], but there is substantial regional variation, encompassing warm coastal areas, the frozen mountains of the north, high rocky deserts in the west, low hot desert in southeast Naffarron, and dense jungle in parts of the Gelzien Nub. There are three broad [[wikipedia:Season|season]]s: a hot spring runs from [[Tak Perda Rarapsant|Turning Day]] to late [[Tak Perda Rarapsant|Wrasch]]; the summer [[wikipedia:Monsoon|monsoon]] season then typically lasts into [[Tak Perda Rarapsant|Syara]]; the rest of the year falls into a cold winter.
  
'''NATIONAL PRODUCTION FIGURES FOR THE 731st YEAR'''<sup>[[#APPENDIX|x]]</sup>''':'''<br>
+
Temperatures range over a huge extreme. The far north of the [[Karundulastan]] district exists in a state of near-permanent winter; its icy valleys are only accessible for brief periods each spring, and then only to skilled teams. By contrast, the mountains of [[Stammerslab]], in western Naffarron]], are generally subject to a greater variation, with equally bitter winters, but fairly hot summers. Temperatures for the populous settlements that line the [[Aszumba]] river are subject to the greatest variance, generally ranging from 0° C winter lows to summer highs of over 40° C. Further east, in the [[Krazl]] desert, summer peaks of over 50° C are regularly recorded. Coastal regions, and the Gelzien Nub, tend to have a more moderate temperature range, varying from about 10° C in the winter to 35° C in the summer.
<small>''All figures '000 metric tons.''</small>
+
  
{| border="1"
+
== Government ==
! '''Cereals''' !! '''Roots and tubers'''
+
{{main|Government of Gruenberg}}
|-
+
Gruenberg is a technically a [[wikipedia:Democracy|semi-democratic]] [[wikipedia:constitutional monarchy|constitutional monarchy]], but in fact cannot be easily classified under conventional political nomenclature, and its form of [[wikipedia:government|government]] does not conform to traditional models. This is principally because there is no [[wikipedia:separation of powers|separation of powers]] between the [[wikipedia:executive|executive]], [[wikipedia:legislature|legislature]] and [[wikipedia:judiciary|judiciary]]. Because the power of the executive (the Sultan) is hereditary, and extends over the legislature and judiciary as well, it has typically functioned as much closer to an [[wikipedia:absolute monarchy|absolute monarchy]]. As there is no [[wikipedia:separation of church and state|separation of church and state]], it is also a [[wikipedia:theocracy|theocracy]].
| Paddy rice (43,781) || Potatoes (6,617)
+
|-
+
| Wheat (23,009) || Sweet potatoes (398)
+
|-
+
| Barley (10,591) || Klipa<sup>[[#APPENDIX|x]]</sup> (375)
+
|-
+
| Maize (1,623) || Yams (143)
+
|-
+
| Sorghum (409) || others (429)
+
|-
+
| Millet (311) ||
+
|-
+
| Buckwheat (140) || '''Sugar crops'''
+
|-
+
| Kasharash<sup>[[#APPENDIX|x]]</sup> (140) || Cane (60,479)
+
|-
+
| Oats (76) || Beet (1,770)
+
|-
+
| Rye (70) ||
+
|}
+
  
 +
The [[wikipedia:Head of state|Head of state]] is the Sultan, currently Gardab Woltzten IX. The line of succession is exclusively male, and in descending age order, such that the oldest son of the incumbent is first in line to the throne. Only one family has occupied the throne: the Woltztens. The longevity and stability of this rule has led to their classification as a [[wikipedia:dynasty|dynasty]]. All federal laws are issued by Sultanic decree.
  
[[Image:Radish.JPG|frame|Freshly picked mnerlashni are common ingredients in Gruenberger cookery]]  
+
There is also a high degree of [[wikipedia:devolution|devolution]] in Gruenberg's political system, representing the tribal history of the nation. Towns have elected councils with powers usually including aspects of taxation, education and law and order. The nation is divided into administrative districts, each with elected councils that oversee town policies, and then each major province has a regional assembly, which exercises considerable legislative power.
{| border="1"
+
! '''Vegetables''' !! '''Fruits and berries'''
+
|-
+
| style="background:#55AE3A" | Dry onions (1,786) || Grapes (8,137)
+
|-
+
| style="background:#55AE3A" | Cucumbers and gherkins (1,710) || Watermelons (3,800)
+
|-
+
| style="background:#55AE3A" | Aubergines (1,188) || Apples (2,080)
+
|-
+
| style="background:#55AE3A" | Green chillies and peppers (810) || Mangoes (1,125)
+
|-
+
| style="background:#55AE3A" | Garlic (638) || Clementines, mandarins, satsumas and tangerines (740)
+
|-
+
| style="background:#55AE3A" | Cauliflower (490) || Dates (722)
+
|-
+
| style="background:#55AE3A" | Carrots (485) || Cantaloupes and other melons (625)
+
|-
+
| style="background:#55AE3A" | Pumpkins, squash and gourds (443) || Bananas (494)
+
|-
+
| style="background:#55AE3A" | Cabbages (195) || Tomatoes (432)
+
|-
+
| style="background:#55AE3A" | Green beans (145) || Plums (415)
+
|-
+
| style="background:#55AE3A" | Green peas (125) || Peaches and nectarines (410)
+
|-
+
| style="background:#55AE3A" | Mnerlash<sup>[[#APPENDIX|x]]</sup> (109) || Oranges (340)
+
|-
+
| style="background:#55AE3A" | Spinach (107) || Apricots (192)
+
|-
+
| style="background:#55AE3A" | Mushrooms (70) || Pineapples (149)
+
|-
+
| style="background:#55AE3A" | Lettuce (63) || Lemons and limes (78)
+
|-
+
| style="background:#55AE3A" | Green onions and shallots (24) || Papayas (41)
+
|-
+
| style="background:#55AE3A" | others (10,411) || others (2,115)
+
|}
+
  
'''Pulses:'''
+
At the federal level, the legislature is [[wikipedia:bicameral|bicameral]]. The Regional Congress consists of 200 seats, with 40 representatives from each administrative region; the 500-seat National Congress is apportioned on the basis of straight popular vote. The [[wikipedia:Head of Government|Head of Government]] is the head of the largest party — this has always been the Monarchists, and hence the Sultan shares both Head of State and Head of Government titles. The Cabinet is appointed by the Head of Government. The Court and federal government technically have the power to legislate on all matters, but concern themselves mainly with foreign policy and economic and military affairs.
* Chick-peas (827)
+
* Dry beans (199)
+
* Dry broad beans (183)
+
* Lentils (163)
+
* Dry peas (121)
+
* others (411)
+
  
'''Oilseeds:'''
+
A distinct feature of Gruenberger governance is the role of the Viziery. The [[wikipedia:Vizier|Grand Vizier]] is a political appointment, but is immune from dismissal, and so one Vizier may serve more than one Sultan. The Viziery is staffed by a mixture of civil and religious personnel, and has numerous areas of responsibility. It is also completely unaccountable to the federal government, and is seen as a buffer against the ability of the people to vote the Sultan's powers away.
* Cottonseed (3,864)
+
* Soybeans (1,515)
+
* Rapeseed (1,138)
+
* Sunflower seed (195)
+
* Tallowtree seed (82)
+
* Sesame seed (81)
+
* Oil palm fruit (64)
+
* Linseed (54)
+
* Castor beans (30)
+
* others (1,152)
+
  
'''Nuts:'''
+
== Politics ==
* Unshelled groundnuts (1,444)
+
* Coconuts (89)
+
* Walnuts (30)
+
* Blibiot nuts<sup>[[#APPENDIX|x]]</sup> (28)
+
* others (74)
+
  
'''Spices:'''
+
=== Political history ===
* Pimento and allspice (191)
+
{{main|Politics of Gruenberg}}
* Ginger (47)
+
Whilst there are many sources of legitimate criticism of the Woltzten dynasty, most would admit that, whatever troubles post-unification Gruenberg has seen at their hands, political instability has not been one. The factional wars and tribal divisions that marked most of the First Age have largely disappeared. The political system has evolved gradually, and has generally been receptive to change. Political theorists have argued that the Sultans have preferred to move gradually towards constitutional democracy with themselves at the helm, than attempt to retain absolute autocracy and suffer violent revolution, which would clearly be more damaging.
* others (96)
+
  
'''Fibre crops:'''
+
===Political parties===
* Cotton lint (1,912)
+
{{main|List of political parties in Gruenberg}}
* Pintad<sup>[[#APPENDIX|x]]</sup> (812)
+
* others (32)
+
  
'''All others:'''
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== Economy ==
* Tobacco leaves (255)
+
{{main|Economy of Gruenberg}}
* Tea (68)
+
Gruenberg is a [[wikipedia:developed country|developed nation]] with one of the faster growing economies in the world, and is ranked foremost in [[Antarctic Oasis]] on several economic indicators. However, it has not always enjoyed such prosperity, and in the past suffered from great [[wikipedia:economic development|economic underdevelopment]]. Sweeping internal reforms of fiscal and administrative infrastructure transformed the country over the course of two centuries, taking it to its present point of economic strength. Its current pro-market policies and active engagement in international [[wikipedia:free trade|free trade]] are contributing to a further boom, although some traditional sectors of employment, notably agriculture, are declining.
* Natural rubber (50)
+
  
====Livestock====
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The economy is probably best described as [[wikipedia:mixed economy|mixed]], but is essentially based on [[wikipedia:free market|free market]] principles. Although [[wikipedia:privatization|privatisation]] is almost complete, the state still plays a substantial role in the running of financial matters.
  
'''NATIONAL POPULATION FIGURES FOR THE 731st YEAR'''<sup>[[#APPENDIX|x]]</sup>''':'''<br>
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Gruenberg's [[wikipedia:gross domestic product|GDP]] is estimated at $57.482 billion ($32,623 [[wikipedia:per capita|per capita]]). The growth rate has been positive for over a decade, and was 2.8% last year. Gruenberg's principal industries are mining and refining - the country is home to plentiful resources of precious and valuable rocks, metals and ores - and automobile manufacturing. Although other traditional industries such as fishing and forestry remain strong, agriculture has lost its importance within Gruenberg's economy, which now imports a significant proportion of its food needs. Other major sectors are armaments, manufacturing, retail and financial services.
<small>''All figures '000 head.''</small>
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== Calendar ==
 +
{{main|Tak Perda Rarapsant}}
 +
Until very recently, Gruenberg was the only known nation in the world to use [[Tak Perda Rarapsant]], the traditional Wenaist system of measuring time. A [[wikipedia:lunar calendar|lunar calendar]], it had been in use for centuries, but was increasingly falling out of vogue in the business, academic and scientific communities, who found it proved troublesome when dealing with foreign nations, who predominantly used the [[wikipedia:Gregorian calendar|Gregorian calendar]]. There was considerable popular opposition to a change to the Gregorian calendar, however, as it was widely perceived as a [[Christianity|Christian]] institution. Nonetheless, under the [[List of notable Sultanic decrees#Act of Harmony in Time|Act of Harmony in Time]], the Gregorian calendar was adopted as standard, along with the [[wikipedia:Common Era|Common Era]] system of measuring years.
 +
=== Holidays ===
 +
{{main|Holidays in Gruenberg}}
 +
== Sport ==
 +
{{main|Sport in Gruenberg}}
 +
[[Image:Cricket.jpg|frame|Gruenberger batsman [[Benny Enchante]] drives]]
 +
[[wikipedia:Cricket|Cricket]] is Gruenberg's [[national sport]], and enjoys a massive following, attracting vast live and television audiences, as well as considerable corporate sponsorship interest. A range of other ball sports such as [[wikipedia:Association football|football]], [[wikipedia:field hockey|hockey]], tennis, [[Mentil]] and golf are also widely played, as well as athletics, swimming and cycling. [[wikipedia:auto racing|Motor sports]] are increasing in popularity, in particular with the development of a new [[wikipedia:Formula One|Formula One]] track at [[Moroschwegen]]. Despite the national passion for sport, however, Gruenberg has had very little international exposure, let alone success, in sporting matters, and many of its players, hailed as heroes at home, are unheard of abroad. There are signs this is changing, however, such as the relative success of the national football team in qualifying for [[World Cup 26]], the introduction of the [[Capra Cup]] and [[Tour de Gruenberg]], and the formation of the [[Gruenberger Sports Council#Gruenberger Olympic Association|Gruenberger Olympic Association]] to lobby for participation in the [[Olympic Games]]. Further to this, the [[Gruenberger Sports Council#Gruenberger Cricket Board|Gruenberger Cricket Board]] have announced their intent to renew international interest in a [[wikipedia:Test cricket|Test cricket]] season, as well as an [[wikipedia:One-day International|ODI]] world cup. Sport in Gruenberg is organized and regulated by the [[Gruenberger Sports Council]].
  
* Chickens (350,000)
+
{{Template:Nations of Antarctic Oasis}}
* Goats (81,200)
+
* Ducks (60,000)
+
* Cattle (45,562)
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* Pigs (44,682)
+
* Sheep (25,221)
+
* Buffaloes (23,528)
+
* Geese (20,000)
+
* Rabbits (18,500)
+
* Asses (3,800)
+
* Horses (898)
+
* Mules (474)
+
* Camels (800)
+
  
 
+
[[Category:Gruenberg|*]]
'''NATIONAL PRODUCTION FIGURES FOR THE 731st YEAR'''<sup>[[#APPENDIX|x]]</sup>''':'''<br>
+
[[Category:Nations]]
<small>''All figures '000 metric tons.''</small>
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[[Category:Antarctic Oasis]]
 
+
[[Category:Nations active in the United Nations]]
'''Meat:'''
+
* Pig meat (4,031)
+
* Poultry meat (1,710)
+
* Buffalo meat (544)
+
* Beef and veal (527)
+
* Goat meat (450)
+
* Mutton and lamb (193)
+
* Rabbit meat (32)
+
* Horse meat (17)
+
* other (36)
+
 
+
'''Dairy produce:'''
+
* Buffaloes' milk (17,476)
+
* Cows' milk (10,437)
+
* Goats' milk (1,903)
+
* Butter (482)
+
* Sheep milk (53)
+
* Cheeses (20)
+
 
+
'''Eggs:'''
+
* Hen eggs (1,887)
+
* Other poultry eggs (333)
+
 
+
'''Wools, skins and hides:'''
+
* Goatskins (139)
+
* Buffalo hides (97)
+
* Cattle hides (69)
+
* Wool<sup>[[#APPENDIX|x]]</sup> (52)
+
* Sheepskins (42)
+
 
+
'''All other:'''
+
* Honey (25)
+
* Raw silk (8)
+
 
+
 
+
==TRANSPORT==
+
 
+
===Civil Aviation===
+
 
+
Gruenberg has international airports at [[Flurthwel]], Gevenis, Moroschwegen, Sal-Siabi, Merlefurt, and Rohansas. At present, the largest is the '''Gelzien Central Air Hub''' at Rohansas, but plans are afoot to develop the '''Woltzten International Aerodrome''' at Moroschwegen. By The 735th Year, the [[Gruenberger_Agencies#Civil Aviation|Gruenberg State Civil Aviation Authority]] aims to have developed the WIA to be capable of handling over 17m. passengers per year. '''Gevenis Airport''' has been closed since The 729th Year, when Gelzien insurgents blew up two cargo planes, killing 87 personnel and badly damaging the main terminal building. It is scheduled to resume receiving domestic flights within 18 months. Most larger towns have small, internal airports.
+
 
+
Air travel was exclusively state-run until comparatively recently, the decision to allow limited domestic competition to [[Gruenberger_Corporations#Civil Aviation|GruenAir]] only being taken in The 718th Year, by decree of Gardab IX. Further deregulation came in The 724th Year under the terms of '''The Transport Development Act''', and there are now [[Gruenberger_Corporations#Civil Aviation|several airlines]] operating from Gruenberg, although GruenAir remains significantly the largest, and continues to receive Court subsidies. Planes and air facilities have proved popular targets with anti-government rebels, and until assurances of greater security are seen to have an effect, it is thought by many economic commentators to be unlikely that there will be any significant degree of foreign investment in the air industry of Gruenberg.
+
 
+
'''NATIONAL AIR STATISTICS FOR THE 731st YEAR'''<sup>[[#APPENDIX|x]]</sup>''':'''<br>
+
<small>''Figures apply only to GruenAir services.''</small>
+
 
+
* '''International airports:''' 6
+
* '''Domestic airports:''' 42
+
* '''Kilometres flown:''' 96,455,000
+
* '''Passengers carried:''' 6,557,000
+
* '''Passenger-km:''' 14,883,000,000
+
* '''Freight ton-km:''' 967,400,000
+
 
+
 
+
===Inland Waterways===
+
 
+
Almost non-existent in the larger [[Naffarron]] province, canals form a central part of the [[Gelzien Nub|Gelzien Nub's]] transport system. Now responsible for around 70% of all cargo traffic, they were at one point almost the only usable form of domestic freight carriage. A number of river ports dot the Chaubhan and Alkanaria, vessels of up to 200m length (although an advisory safety limit of 190m is currently in force) capable of navigating the latter. The majority of vessels are steam-powered, and there is a steam riverboat service connecting all towns along the Alkanaria, run by the Court-owned [[Gruenberger_Corporations#Inland Waterways|Inland Waterways Transportation Corporation]].
+
 
+
'''Total length of navigable waterways:''' 9,692km
+
 
+
 
+
===Railways===
+
 
+
Gruenberg's railways were at one stage notorious for being unsafe, poorly maintained and ignored by the Court. Increasingly, however, transport priorities in the wake of the reforms of The 724th Year have shifted back towards improving the rail network. A giant project to link the major cities of the Aszumba was begun in The 726th Year. As yet, only around 500km have been laid, at a cost of some US $500m. to [[Gruenberger_Corporations#Railways|Gruenberg Railway]]. In The 728th Year, work commenced on a US $650m. underground train network in [[Flurthwel]] (the 'Flurthwel Inter-Metro'). However, the devastating bombing campaign that marked that year's Day Of Blood saw much of the initial structure destroyed, and work has been discontinued. A combination of heavy flooding and terrorist activity left the [[Gelzien Nub]] without any running trains for much of The 720s. However, some limited services have now resumed, connecting several major towns and cities in the troubled province.
+
 
+
'''NATIONAL RAIL STATISTICS FOR THE 731st YEAR'''<sup>[[#APPENDIX|x]]</sup>''':'''
+
 
+
* '''Route length of track:''' 10,695km
+
* '''Total length of track:''' 16,128km
+
* '''Stations:''' [precise number unknown, although estimated to exceed 2,000]
+
* '''Passenger journeys:''' 340,000,000
+
* '''Freight ton-km:''' 7,112,000,000
+
 
+
 
+
===Road Traffic===
+
 
+
Gruenberg's roads vary wildly in quality. In general, the south and east of [[Naffarron]] are serviced by an excellent, dense network of well-maintained surfaces; the mountainous north and west, and low-lying [[Gelzien Nub]] province, have significantly poorer facilities. Around 35% of Gruenberg's roads are paved; however, many of the dirt tracks are eminently navigable with reasonably sturdy vehicles. Major projects in the eighth century have included the Inter-City Expressway, a 700km, three-lane highway linking several major cities. More recently, the first coastal highway was opened, spanning most of Naffarron's southern coastline.
+
 
+
A rumoured US $750m. of private investment, much of it from foreign companies seeking to expand into Gruenberg, has been put into developing the Gelzien Nub's road infrastructure, and in linking it to the newly reopened railway lines. Several major bridges have been built to span its many rivers and marshes, including the Gardab XIII Express Linkage. (At over 6km long, the G8EL has been the butt of several private local jokes comparing it to Gardab's immense girth.) A full, state-run bus service is now in operation. The [[Gruenberger_Agencies#Road Traffic|Gruenberg State Highways Authority]], a joint venture between the private sector and the Court, announced plans for a further US $4,568m. of investment in the roads as part of '''The Transport Development Act'''. This is to come partly from excise and customs on petrol sales, partly from development loans, and partly from the [[Gruenberger_Corporations#Road Traffic|Gruenberg State Road Transport Corporation]].
+
 
+
'''NATIONAL ROAD STATISTICS FOR THE 731st YEAR'''<sup>[[#APPENDIX|x]]</sup>''':'''
+
 
+
* '''Length of primary highways:''' 152,637km
+
* '''Length of secondary roads:''' 124,195km
+
* '''Total length of roads:''' 442,067km
+
 
+
'''BREAKDOWN OF TRAFFIC IN THE 731st YEAR BY VEHICLE USE'''<sup>[[#APPENDIX|x]]</sup>''':'''
+
 
+
* '''Motorcycles, mopeds, scooters, etc.:''' 2,342,785
+
* '''Passenger cars:''' 881,690
+
* '''Road tractors:''' 578,613
+
* '''Buses and coaches:''' 118,838
+
* '''Lorries and vans:''' 383,608
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* '''Rickshaws:''' 93,300
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* '''Station wagons:''' 84,500
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* '''Taxicabs:''' 72,600
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* '''Jeeps:''' 66,800
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* '''TOTAL (including others):''' 4,710,321
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===Shipping===
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The chief ports are Merlefurt, on the south coast of [[Naffarron]], and Serelloto, in the [[Gelzien Nub]]. Further ports exist at Sempleth, Yinna and Port Cracklan. Port Yadan is currently being developed, with a deep-water seaport and two dry-docks under construction. '''The Transport Development Act''' of The 724th Year privatised the shipping industry, and an estimated 56 [[Gruenberger_Corporations#Shipping|companies]] now hold operational licences. A triumvirate of [[Gruenberger_Agencies#Shipping|Court agencies]] variously regulate vessels, crew, and ports.
+
 
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'''NATIONAL SHIPPING STATISTICS FOR THE 731st YEAR'''<sup>[[#APPENDIX|x]]</sup>''':'''
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* '''Number of registered vessels:''' 365
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* '''Total displacement:''' 721,800 gross registered tons
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* '''Merlefurt'''
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** Goods loaded: 5,918
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** Goods unloaded: 20,063
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* '''Serelloto'''
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** Goods loaded: 1,451
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** Goods unloaded: 9,063
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* '''Port Cracklan'''
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** Goods loaded: 725
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** Goods unloaded: 2,443
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==APPENDIX==
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# '''Source:''' Gruenberg State Department of Agriculture.
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# Wheat-barley hybrid first developed in Gruenberg.
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# Small, sweet, dark-red tuber native to Gruenberg.
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# Tapering yellow bitter-tasting vegetable native to Gruenberg.
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# Hard dark-brown nuts thought to be unique to Gruenberg.
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# Tough fibrous crop almost exclusively grown in the Gelzien Nub.
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# '''Source:''' Gruenberg State Department of Agriculture.
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# '''Source:''' Gruenberg State Department of Agriculture.
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# Of which 38,900 metric tons greasy, 23,000 metric tons scoured.
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# '''Source:''' ''Statistical Yearbook For The 731st Year'', co-published by the Gruenberg State Civil Aviation Authority and the Gruenberg State Institute for Research and Development.
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# '''Source:''' Gruenberg Railway.
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# '''Source:''' ''Economic Survey Of The 731st Year'', published by the Gruenberg State Institute for Research and Development.
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# '''Source:''' Gruenberg State Highways Authority.
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# '''Source:''' ''Report For The 731st Year'', published by The Bank of Gruenberg.
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[[Category:Gruenberg]]
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<small>OOC: 'Mnerlash' picture actually taken from organiconline.com.sg.</small>
+

Latest revision as of 17:56, 24 March 2007

The Holy Wenaist Sultanate of Gruenberg
Tep Zlatani Melli Wenaisti Gruenbergersk vom
flag5cv.jpg
(In detail)
Motto: Kab-sez Schialnach Brachtrauron'
National Anthem: Kab-sez Schialnach Brachtrauron'
Region Antarctic Oasis
Capital Flurthwel
Largest city Merlefurt
Official Language(s) Rukialkotta, Bazhtan
Government Monarchy/Theocracy/Goatocracy
 - Sultan Gardab Woltzten IX
 - Grand Vizier Mikkolic Weltin
Establishment
 - Act of Unification 1709 
Area
 - Total 4,301,140km²
 - % water 8.2
Population 3.192 billion
Currency Opst (GROP)
Timezone UTC+5 to +6
 - Summer (DST) UTC+6 to +7
Internet TLD .gb
Calling code +627
ISO Code GRMI
NS Sunset XML
The Holy Wenaist Sultanate of Gruenberg (Rukialkotta: tep Zlatani Melli Wenaisti Gruenbergersk vom) is a sovereign nation in the Southern Malibu Islands region, although it is politically associated with the Antarctic Oasis sphere of influence. Its mainland is divided into two provinces, with the larger Naffarron in the west and the Gelzien Nub in the east; the large island of Bobron, lying just off Naffarron's southernmost tip, was incorporated into the Sultanate in 1952. It has a coastline in excess of 8,000 kilometres, lying on the bays of Abzhan-Rejak and Bay of Solitude, and shares land borders with Gurglestan to the northwest and New Greater Tibet to the northeast.

Despite its average area, Gruenberg has a densely distributed population of over 3 billion. It is the home of Wenaism, and has the largest population of adherents in the world, with over 97% of its citizens being registered Wenaists. The area, renowned for its degree of cultural, ecological, geological and climatic diversity, has a long tribal history, and has historically proved resistant to unification; modern Gruenberg has however been united for nearly 300 years under the rule of the Woltzten Dynasty, who were the first to bring Naffarron and the Gelzien Nub under a common flag. This union has been far from harmonious, and separatists in the Gelzien Nub have become increasingly vocal and violent in their calls for autonomy.

Once a relatively poor and undeveloped country, Gruenberg has seen major agricultural, industrial and financial reforms in the last century, with its economy the fastest-growing in the region, and being ranked in the top 1% worldwide. Social and political freedoms have also increased, but its image as a despotic land of oppression persists. The military has also been strengthened significantly, and Gruenberg is a declared nuclear state. Once a prominent member of the United Nations, it has now resigned, but has not since retreated into total isolation.

Etymology

The name Gruenberg (IPA:/gryːnbɛʁk/) means "Green Mountain" in Rukialkotta, the official national language. "Green Mountain" is a reference to Hatash Myari, the sacred mountain of the Wenaist religion. "Green Mountain" has long been used to identify the region in the absence of any other common term; however, it was not adopted as the official name of the nation until 1709.

History

Main article(s): History of Gruenberg

'Gruenberg' as a political entity is a comparatively recent phenomenon, having been established in 1709, at which point it did not encompass all of its current territorial holdings, but the general geographical region has been inhabited for thousands of years, and has a rich and diverse history, marked by division between divergent tribes, and chiefly significant for the growth of Wenaism.

Geography and climate

Main article(s): Geography of Gruenberg

Gruenberg has a total area of 1,027,824 square kilometres, with a land area of 992,514 square kilometres. This is divided in an approximate 6:1 ratio between Naffarron (880,254 km²) and the Gelzien Nub (147,570 km²). Both are mainly surrounded by tiny tribal states, small numbers of which Gruenberg has annexed over the years, but Naffarron shares a 2,954 km border with Gurglestan, to its north-west. It has a 3,958 km coastline, and the Gelzien Nub 1,306 km.The two provinces are separated by over three thousand kilometres over the Bay of Abzhan-Rejak, and are fairly geographically distinct.

The Naffarronese coastline on the Bay of Abzhan-Rejak plays host to some of the most beautiful beaches in the region, famed for their fine white sand.

Gruenberg has a fairly diverse climate. Naffarron is generally temperate, and the Gelzien Nub subtropical, but there is substantial regional variation, encompassing warm coastal areas, the frozen mountains of the north, high rocky deserts in the west, low hot desert in southeast Naffarron, and dense jungle in parts of the Gelzien Nub. There are three broad seasons: a hot spring runs from Turning Day to late Wrasch; the summer monsoon season then typically lasts into Syara; the rest of the year falls into a cold winter.

Temperatures range over a huge extreme. The far north of the Karundulastan district exists in a state of near-permanent winter; its icy valleys are only accessible for brief periods each spring, and then only to skilled teams. By contrast, the mountains of Stammerslab, in western Naffarron]], are generally subject to a greater variation, with equally bitter winters, but fairly hot summers. Temperatures for the populous settlements that line the Aszumba river are subject to the greatest variance, generally ranging from 0° C winter lows to summer highs of over 40° C. Further east, in the Krazl desert, summer peaks of over 50° C are regularly recorded. Coastal regions, and the Gelzien Nub, tend to have a more moderate temperature range, varying from about 10° C in the winter to 35° C in the summer.

Government

Main article(s): Government of Gruenberg

Gruenberg is a technically a semi-democratic constitutional monarchy, but in fact cannot be easily classified under conventional political nomenclature, and its form of government does not conform to traditional models. This is principally because there is no separation of powers between the executive, legislature and judiciary. Because the power of the executive (the Sultan) is hereditary, and extends over the legislature and judiciary as well, it has typically functioned as much closer to an absolute monarchy. As there is no separation of church and state, it is also a theocracy.

The Head of state is the Sultan, currently Gardab Woltzten IX. The line of succession is exclusively male, and in descending age order, such that the oldest son of the incumbent is first in line to the throne. Only one family has occupied the throne: the Woltztens. The longevity and stability of this rule has led to their classification as a dynasty. All federal laws are issued by Sultanic decree.

There is also a high degree of devolution in Gruenberg's political system, representing the tribal history of the nation. Towns have elected councils with powers usually including aspects of taxation, education and law and order. The nation is divided into administrative districts, each with elected councils that oversee town policies, and then each major province has a regional assembly, which exercises considerable legislative power.

At the federal level, the legislature is bicameral. The Regional Congress consists of 200 seats, with 40 representatives from each administrative region; the 500-seat National Congress is apportioned on the basis of straight popular vote. The Head of Government is the head of the largest party — this has always been the Monarchists, and hence the Sultan shares both Head of State and Head of Government titles. The Cabinet is appointed by the Head of Government. The Court and federal government technically have the power to legislate on all matters, but concern themselves mainly with foreign policy and economic and military affairs.

A distinct feature of Gruenberger governance is the role of the Viziery. The Grand Vizier is a political appointment, but is immune from dismissal, and so one Vizier may serve more than one Sultan. The Viziery is staffed by a mixture of civil and religious personnel, and has numerous areas of responsibility. It is also completely unaccountable to the federal government, and is seen as a buffer against the ability of the people to vote the Sultan's powers away.

Politics

Political history

Main article(s): Politics of Gruenberg

Whilst there are many sources of legitimate criticism of the Woltzten dynasty, most would admit that, whatever troubles post-unification Gruenberg has seen at their hands, political instability has not been one. The factional wars and tribal divisions that marked most of the First Age have largely disappeared. The political system has evolved gradually, and has generally been receptive to change. Political theorists have argued that the Sultans have preferred to move gradually towards constitutional democracy with themselves at the helm, than attempt to retain absolute autocracy and suffer violent revolution, which would clearly be more damaging.

Political parties

Main article(s): List of political parties in Gruenberg

Economy

Main article(s): Economy of Gruenberg

Gruenberg is a developed nation with one of the faster growing economies in the world, and is ranked foremost in Antarctic Oasis on several economic indicators. However, it has not always enjoyed such prosperity, and in the past suffered from great economic underdevelopment. Sweeping internal reforms of fiscal and administrative infrastructure transformed the country over the course of two centuries, taking it to its present point of economic strength. Its current pro-market policies and active engagement in international free trade are contributing to a further boom, although some traditional sectors of employment, notably agriculture, are declining.

The economy is probably best described as mixed, but is essentially based on free market principles. Although privatisation is almost complete, the state still plays a substantial role in the running of financial matters.

Gruenberg's GDP is estimated at $57.482 billion ($32,623 per capita). The growth rate has been positive for over a decade, and was 2.8% last year. Gruenberg's principal industries are mining and refining - the country is home to plentiful resources of precious and valuable rocks, metals and ores - and automobile manufacturing. Although other traditional industries such as fishing and forestry remain strong, agriculture has lost its importance within Gruenberg's economy, which now imports a significant proportion of its food needs. Other major sectors are armaments, manufacturing, retail and financial services.

Calendar

Main article(s): Tak Perda Rarapsant

Until very recently, Gruenberg was the only known nation in the world to use Tak Perda Rarapsant, the traditional Wenaist system of measuring time. A lunar calendar, it had been in use for centuries, but was increasingly falling out of vogue in the business, academic and scientific communities, who found it proved troublesome when dealing with foreign nations, who predominantly used the Gregorian calendar. There was considerable popular opposition to a change to the Gregorian calendar, however, as it was widely perceived as a Christian institution. Nonetheless, under the Act of Harmony in Time, the Gregorian calendar was adopted as standard, along with the Common Era system of measuring years.

Holidays

Main article(s): Holidays in Gruenberg

Sport

Main article(s): Sport in Gruenberg

Gruenberger batsman Benny Enchante drives

Cricket is Gruenberg's national sport, and enjoys a massive following, attracting vast live and television audiences, as well as considerable corporate sponsorship interest. A range of other ball sports such as football, hockey, tennis, Mentil and golf are also widely played, as well as athletics, swimming and cycling. Motor sports are increasing in popularity, in particular with the development of a new Formula One track at Moroschwegen. Despite the national passion for sport, however, Gruenberg has had very little international exposure, let alone success, in sporting matters, and many of its players, hailed as heroes at home, are unheard of abroad. There are signs this is changing, however, such as the relative success of the national football team in qualifying for World Cup 26, the introduction of the Capra Cup and Tour de Gruenberg, and the formation of the Gruenberger Olympic Association to lobby for participation in the Olympic Games. Further to this, the Gruenberger Cricket Board have announced their intent to renew international interest in a Test cricket season, as well as an ODI world cup. Sport in Gruenberg is organized and regulated by the Gruenberger Sports Council.

Nations of Antarctic Oasis
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