The Athens Times

[Centurius]

[color="#FF0000"][size="5"][center]Conscription Law Passes Assembly and Council[/center][/size][/color]

[b]Athens -[/b] With military campaigns in several parts of Europe and a report from the Department of Defense the Armed Forces might soon need fresh recruits a new law has passed both houses almost unanimously. The law grants the Empress the power to announce conscriptions of one or more groups for either the Hellenic Armed Forces or a different part of the country. Currently orders have been send out to all the unemployed between the ages of 18 and 30 men and women. Those who follow college or an university exempted. The first draft is part of a series to train new soldiers should the conflict continue for a prolonged period of time, while not as strong as the average professional soldiers it is expected these will at least be able to moderately defend Athenian cities and provinces.

---

With heavy combat expected the Department of Defense had ordered a speedy construction of the new Ares Combat Armor. The First Division was already equipped however only so many uniforms could be made at a time. To assist in construction civilian factories that manufactured parts for the armor were requested to conentrate their production on assisting Hellenic World Services.

The armor itself was the best the Federation had to offer, while lacking in strength compared to for example German armor it was a strong and effective upgrade to conventional military uniforms. Made from a combination of metals and clothing the armor would be a lot more easier to wear than pure combat armor. To assist in the protection of the soldiers nanotechnology was used to protect the soldier against gunwounds, in addition the normal armor would be placed 5 cm from the soldier so a blast from a bullet would be distributed more evenly over the soldier as to prevent fractures. To assist the soldier in carrying their equipment and weapons similar technology would be used to create a kind of exoskeleton that could improve the capabilities of the soldiers by 30 to 50 percent. The armor in general would feature filters to isolate almost any known Chemical or Biological weapon. It's system was even argued to be able to provide protection against nuclear fall-out.

The computer was by far the most popular element, basically serving as brain of the entire suit it would have a satellite uplink for a global network and transmitters and receivers for smaller local area networks. In the head part of the uniform all this data would be collected and used to provide a good view of the battle area, the zoom function in the display could even differentiate between the flags of 2 militaries on an uniform if close enough. To keep an eye on the health of the soldier the suit would collect important data about the person in it which would be transmitted back to medics. Should a soldier need medical support the uniform would even show a map with the nearest medic on it.

Finally there are the armaments, a basic soldier wearing the suit is armed with a rifle and 2 conveniently places sidearms on each side. Both weapons just as the suit would only function if used with someone wearing an Athenian nanochip with military clearance as to make weapons incompatible for those who have no use for it.

[img]http://data.treksimming.com/athenian-federation/Ares_Combat_Armor.png[/img]

Edited August 25, 2011 by Centurius

[Centurius]

[center][color="#FF0000"][size="5"]5 Years of Freedom[/size][/color][/center]

[b]Athens -[/b] Throughout the Federation celebrations and events are held in name of the 5th day of the revolution, the end of a bloody conflict to secure the lands of the Federation and officially become a participant of the world. Among the celebrations are military marches, concerts and even a speech to the people the Empress is currently making.

[quote]"My people,

Freedom, independence, democracy, socialism. They are the fundaments of our modern society. On this day 5 years ago I was standing at this same place declaring our independence in a ruined city. We have come back, we have come back stronger and better than ever before. Where our original countries were followers we are leaders. Where our former countries where looking at the stars, we went there. Even going as far as placing people on our only natural satellite.

However not all in the world have obtained a similar position. There is so much land in the world led by corrupt or weak regimes. We can not help them all, however what we can do is fight the injustice in our own region. The people of Scotland are a proud and old country, they have hardly taken combat to anything beyond their own shores. When they fought they did so with dignity and for good reasons. It pains me to see that Western Imperialists and opportunists have taken it to themselves to strike down these proud people. Do we stand for this my people?"

"No!!!"

"Will we let the Americans oppress our people again?"

"No!!!"

"Join me in fighting this injustice, I know what I ask from you is a heavy price. We have seen too much war in recent years but join me in striking down the last symbol of oppression left in this beautiful Europe. We will push the invaders back to where they belong and make sure they think twice before launching an assault on Europa again."[/quote]

It appears the Empress has taken a position against reports of an offensive by J. Andres against Portugal, formerly owned by the nation of Scotland and later protected by their neighbors. So far the response from all regions has been positive with support for a war of liberation from almost all political parties in the race for the Assembly.

Meanwhile celebrations are continuing with the 'Night of the Revolution' an event aimed mostly at the youth planned for this evening and night.

[Centurius]

[color="#FF0000"][center][size="5"]Left Loses, Pacifists and Fascists Win[/size][/center][/color]

[b]Athens -[/b] Quite unexpected the elections have made a dangerous turn to the right of the political spectrum, after recounting the votes twice the Department of Internal Affairs has announced the results of the recent elections.

[quote]Athenian Socialist Alliance - 1627
The Dove Party - 935
Hellenic Pride Party - 747
Liberalist Union - 510
Slavic Unity Party - 463
Green Party - 438
Equal Rights Party - 280[/quote]

While the ASA still maintains its lead over all others the supermajority of 4250 seats in the Assembly has completely disappeared. A lot of it moving to for example the Dove Party, Liberalist Union, Green Party and Equal Rights Party. Also of note is the move to the extreme right, where the Slavic Unity Party at first barely could keep standing it has become one of the important parties now. The same counting for the HPP that didn't even exist the last elections but managed to secure the 3rd spot. The move to the Pacifists and parties limiting the military also suggest that population is getting tired of the constant warfare and military operations the Federation is involved in. Upon requesting to comment on the results the Athenian Socialist Alliance issued the following response.

[quote]As is their right as sovereign and independent citizens of the Federation the Athenians have chosen. While we regret our loss it was to be expected. During the last elections the Federation was still in a state not even close to the level of wealth we maintain now. The Left always reigns in an age of prosperity. With the shattering of the political scene it is interesting to see the negotiator the Empress announces however the ASA will always volunteer for the duty of participating in a coalition to make sure the socialist agenda remains important within national politics.[/quote]

Immediately following the elections the Empress has invited the leaders of all political parties to visit her and give their comments on the results and how to go on. It is expected the Empress will assign a negotiator this week.

Edited August 26, 2010 by Centurius

[Centurius]

[center][color="#FF0000"][size="5"][center]Kouvelis Negotiator of Second Coalition[/center][/size][/color][/center]

[b]Athens -[/b] Not completely unexpected the Empress has today ordered the retired politician Jason Kouvelis to lead the negotiations on a new coalition enjoying support of a majority in Assembly of the People. With this decision it is expected the Empress is seeking to establish a coalition between the Athenian Socialist Alliance, The Dove Party and the Green Party. When asked to comment on his assignment Kouvelis replied briefly. "The Empress has asked me to establish a stable government and I will seek to do so. It is my hope the Federation can welcome its new leaders by the end of this month.

[Centurius]

[color="#FF0000"][size="5"][center]Social-Democratic State Final[/center][/size][/color]

[b]Athens -[/b] In what will go into history as the longest formation ever the Athenian Socialist Alliance, The Dove Party and the Green Party have reached an agreement beneficial to the ideals of all. It is expected the signature of the Empress will placed on the document soon after which the new Council will be officially replacing the current demissionary one.

[quote][center][b]Her Imperial Majesty's Second Council of Magistrates[/b][/center]

Chief Magistrate: Castor Baros(m)(ASA)
Magistrate of Foreign Affairs: Jean-Luc Picard(m)(ASA)
Magistrate of Internal Affairs: Charon Karagounis(m)(TDP)
Magistrate of Finances: Hektor Gabris(m)(TGP)
Magistrate of Defense: General Alexander Bakas(m)(ASA)
Magistrate of the Environment: Hera Kallis(f)(TGP)
Magistrate of National Unity*: Crius Gikas(m)(TDP)

*:While the Magistrate of National Unity has its own title it does not has a Ministry, the decisions made by the Magistrate are handled by the Ministry of Internal Affairs.[/quote]

In line with the policy of the new government to limit state expenses the amount of Ministries has been decreased from 15 to 6 and the amount of Magistrates from 15 to 7, it is expected this cut will save the state around $500 million per year. Those who worked under a Ministry that has been dissolved will be moved to the Ministry that has taken over their duties. The amount of jobs lost in the government sector is limited because of this.

[center][color="#FF0000"][size="5"]All Quiet on the Western, Eastern and Northern Fronts[/size][/color][/center]

[b]Athens -[/b] While there still are conflicts in Western and Northern Europe the Ministry of Defense has made a long expected and prayed for announcement. The wars are over, our men are coming home. After fighting in Germany, France and Portugal not only the people but even the government has grown tired of war and pain. With the bodybags that arrived there mere months ago the sight of healthy soldiers coming back was a pleasant change for local authorities. While Athens maintains a strong force of 100,000 Soldiers, 1,000 tanks and an entire Air Army in Portugal expectencies show there is no risk of combat anytime soon.

As reward for their dedication the Empress has announced over the next year each soldier will receive 6 months leave divided in such a way that national security is not at risk. When asked about the conflict our German allies are involved in the spokesperson replied that while Athens stands by Berlin they have this one handled quite well already.

[Centurius]

With the independence of Portugal completed well before schedule it was time to remove forces. Deployments to Portugal were to be lowered to 20,000 Soldiers, 200 tanks, the First Air Army. Naval deployments were to be decided at a later time. To have a stable base of operations several construction companies have been transported to Portugal for construction of the Athenian base on the border between the 2 states. The base would be a large complex offering plenty of space and supply lines for large armies, air forces and navies. Within the base no civilians would be authorized.

---

[center][color="#FF0000"][size="5"]J Andres and Louisiana on Diplomatic Blacklist[/size][/color][/center]

[b]Athens -[/b] In an interesting turn of events the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced that effective immediately J Andres and Louisiana would be considered on the diplomatic blacklist with all consequences of such going into effect. To facilitate this citizens and diplomats from both countries have been informed they will be deported back to their countries. In addition as soon as all citizens are returned the Hellenic Air Corporation and its airports are prohibited from participating in flights to and from the country. Finally all ships of the 2 countries are banned from entering Hellenic waters. When asked to clarify on the cause of these bans the spokesperson of the Ministry has stated the Federation does not seek to have any relation with war criminals.

[JEDCJT]

"This is unfortunate, but we will strive to improve relations between our nations nevertheless. Besides, what about the Lisbon Accords? Is it still in effect?"

- Foreign Ministry

[Centurius]

"The agreement signed to end the war between our countries remains in effect as stipulated by the treaty"

[Yawoo]

"Naturally Louisiana contests the claims that they are committing war crimes and challenges the Athenian Federation to provided proof of their accusations. Louisiana and the Athenian Federation have had cordial relations in the past, do not destroy relations over rumors and watercooler talk. That said, Louisiana does not have an ambassador nor embassy in the Athenian Federation. If the Athenian Federation wishes to talk, they can contact Louisiana via offices in Port International."

[Centurius]

[quote name='Yawoo' timestamp='1284405838' post='2452531']
"Naturally Louisiana contests the claims that they are committing war crimes and challenges the Athenian Federation to provided proof of their accusations. Louisiana and the Athenian Federation have had cordial relations in the past, do not destroy relations over rumors and watercooler talk. That said, Louisiana does not have an ambassador nor embassy in the Athenian Federation. If the Athenian Federation wishes to talk, they can contact Louisiana via offices in Port International."
[/quote]

"We refer to your own Proclamation of Pembroke, in the eyes of the Hellenic nation suspending a basic civil right and subjecting civilians to military justice is a warcrime"

[JEDCJT]

"So...suspending habeas corpus and applying military justice to civilians, [i]under martial law[/i], is a war crime? Your views on this matter, as well as the definition of war crimes, are lacking."

[Centurius]

[quote name='JEDCJT' timestamp='1284409622' post='2452606']
"So...suspending habeas corpus and applying military justice to civilians, [i]under martial law[/i], is a war crime? Your views on this matter, as well as the definition of war crimes, are lacking."
[/quote]

"Considering the circumstances of the martial law and the way it is enforced we consider that a crime already. Not to forget the inhumane punishments as a death sentence for haboring a freedom fighter. Our views may lack but they are our views and have precedent within the Federation."

[Centurius]

With developments and potential escalations happening close to allies the Ministry of Defense had decided to bring the Hellenic Armed Forces to Alert Level Orange. In line with this escalation of the military readiness all units would change to classified channels and language and all leaves were cancelled. In addition most of the Hellenic Air Force would be fueled. Finally all fleets would spread out rather than stay at their respective bases to lower the risk of a surprise attack taking down entire fleets.

[Centurius]

[quote][b][center]Classified Military Dispatch[/center][/b]

To: All Officers O-5 and up within the Hellenic Forces
From: Imperial Command

Subject: General Mobilization

Message:
By order of Her Imperial Highness all military personnel is to mobilize and prepare for a future war scenario. All Strategic Weapons are to be placed on stand-by and suspend all tests. THIS IS NOT A DRILL.[/quote]

As the message was transmitted throughout the Federation secondary orders were issued. The Second Fleet was ordered to steadily move towards Asia, of course notice of this large transport was given to Rebel Army and Cochin. In addition the Third Air Army would move towards the UFE at night. Finally the First Army would start receiving orders to move towards the USR border pending permission to enter.

[Centurius]

[quote][center][b]Classified Military Report[/b]
[i]To her Imperial Highness, her Magistrate of General Affairs and her Magistrate of Defense
From the General of the Hellenic Army[/i][/center]

In line with Imperial Military Regulation 145.6A the Generaly of the Hellenic Army hereby issues this report on the deployments of the Hellenic ground forces, domestic and foreign.

Hellenic Army:
Total number: 700,000
Mobilized forces: 700,000

Deployments:
Athens(Outside of the city borders but within its official territory): 10,000
Greece: 200,000
Bulgaria: 100,000
Albania: 100,000
Macedonia: 100,000
Italy: 140,000
Portugal: 40,000
Antarctica: 10,000
Cimei Naval Station: 10,000

Hellenic Special Forces a.k.a. The Thracians:
Total number: 23,470
Mobilized forces: 23,470

Deployments:
Imperial High Guard: 100
Greece: 10,000
Italy: 13,470

Advise:
In line with recent developments in Europe and invasive action by the African Legion government it is my recommendation to maintain AlertCon Gamma for all ground forces for the next month after which it should be reviewed.
[/quote]

Edited October 17, 2010 by Centurius

[Centurius]

[color="#FF0000"][size="5"][center]Italian Restoration Program to Begin ASAP[/center][/size][/color]

[b]Rome -[/b] With Italy barely secured the Magistrate of National Unity Crius Gikas came to Rome to announce his plans for the restoration of the former Sicilian League. With permission of the Assembly of People the Magistrate announced $10 billion will be invested to develop the new Italy to equal other territories. In addition Rome has been declared a red zone, the second one to be granted this designation only preceded by Athens. In line with this designation the actual city is off limits for any part of the Hellenic Forces with the exception of police and Imperial Guard.

In the speech cheered upon by thousands of Italians the Magistrate announced Rome would become the second Athens, a city equal to the capital of the Federation and a residency for the entire government in cases where they do not work in Athens. The funding will mostly be aimed at restoring Roman art and architecture in line with the restorations in the Federation.

Finally on a less positive note the Magistrate announced a curfew valid between 9 pm and 6 am for the next 6 months to make sure order is secured. For the time being the new region of Italy will be under direct control of the Federal government and a military council.

[Centurius]

[center][color="#FF0000"][size="5"]Italian Autonomy Restored, Treaties Suspended[/size][/color][/center]

[b]Rome -[/b] Only an hour ago the Magistrate of National Unity has declared the recent regulations have been withdrawn, as of this moment the region of Italy is once again under civilian rule. The Magistrate did this in response to the announcement from the late Sicilian government which convinced the few resistance groups to lower their weapons. As a sign of understanding and forgiveness the Empress has granted a pardon to all who fought against the Hellenic Forces in their heroic operation to restore order.

With order now fully restored the military council and Federal government members have begun withdrawing and handing over authority to local officials. The region as a whole has been added to the Union of Italy by Imperial legislation.

With Italy well under Athenian control the Empress has issued cancellation notices on all treaties the Sicilian League maintained.

Meanwhile the reconstruction operation is progressing steadily, using strictly local employment projects have begun to restore and protect national monuments such as the Monumento Nazionale a Vittorio Emanuele II in Rome and numerous others throughout the land. It is expected the entire restoration operation will take around 5 years however Rome will be finished much faster. As a sign of great compassion and affiliation with the Italian people the Empress has ordered a palace to be build in Roman design rather than the Greek design common in the rest of the Federation.

[center][img]http://images.travelpod.com/users/mjprince9/1.1280789445.monumento-nazionale-a-vittorio-emanuele-ii.jpg[/img]
[i]The Monumento Nazionale a Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the first projects to be fully restored to former glory. Due to its current state it will be finished in about a month.[/i][/center]

[color="#FF0000"][size="5"][center]Hellenic Navy Increases Numbers, Reorganization Planned[/center][/size][/color]
[b]
Athens -[/b] After a succesful operation in Italy the Second Fleet would arrive back in Greece finding 6 new units to improve the strength. In line with the increasing coastal area to protect and the intensity of global operations the Hellenic Navy has ordered and completed the construction of 5 Chronos Class Attack Submarines and an Aegaeon Class Guided Missile Cruiser. In his justification to the Assembly the Admiral of the Navy stated that reviewing recent operations in Asia, Antarctica and in a lesser form Europe has required the availability of a quick and effective global fleet. Having the entire Second Fleet away from the Federation too long however could risk its safety therefore the Admiral has stated future reorganizations in the structure of the fleets are planned. For now the Second Fleet is executing its primary task. Patrolling the Mediterranean.

[center][img]http://gallery.kitmaker.net/data/20510/NSSNVirginia_6.jpg[/img]
[i]The HNS Harpocrates, one of the new submarines.[/i][/center]

Edited October 23, 2010 by Centurius

[Centurius]

[color="#FF0000"][size="5"][center]State of Emergency Declared[/center][/size][/color]

[b]Athens -[/b] Only hours after offering the Irish a way to prevent military conflict the Empress has declared a State of Emergency with support from the Council of Magistrates. Effective immediately the Assembly of the People and Council are suspended for the duration of a potential nuclear conflict.

In line with the declaration local authorities have begun emergency procedures such as closing off dense population centers and closing off the major cities to tourism. Secondly all citizens have been advised to move to designated shelters if alerts are sounded and keep the roads clear for authorities. Members of the Assembly and Council have been moved to locations throughout the countryside in Bulgaria, Macedonia, Albania and Italy.

It is unclear where the Empress and Council of Magistrates have moved however it has been leaked they are well outside of population centers.

The last measure authorized by the Assembly before their suspension was the right for authorities to arrest citizens for disturbing the order and permission to stop riots with lethal force if needed.

---

By the time the broadcast aired the Empress and her Magistrates were safely at the Imperial War Cabinet, the Second Fleet was moving towards the North Sea, specifically the English channel and the First and Second Armies(400,000 soldiers, 4,000 tanks) were deployed to England through the Channel tunnel in 4 separate waves. The forces would be ordered to spread out at the announced locations in England. The Air Force for now would remain in the Federation due to its relative safeness and the distances allowed for operations. Finally the Strategic Weapons Unit was placed on a maximum readiness level to counter any kind of strike with defenses and a counterstrike on less than an hour notice.

[Centurius]

[color="#FF0000"][size="5"][center]State of Emergency? State of Unity![/center][/size][/color]

[b]Athens -[/b] Where all major cities have had one third of their residents evacuated the voices of support would suggest the population has doubled to an expert. In response to the nuclear attack by Irish forces and the speech from the Hellenic Commander support for the war and the Empress have reached unprecedented heights at 95%.

On the political field a similar development could be seen, where the Hellenic Pride Party and Slavic Unity Party were against the war before the nuclear attacks both parties have turned making the conflict supported by a national unity coalition in both the Assembly as Council. Even the Slavic Independence Army has announced its intent to suspend active operations against the state.

Throughout the country demonstrations can be seen with all ethnicities joining hand in hand, where the Army would normally interfere at flag burnings of other states the General of the Joint Forces has ordered all riot police to stand back unless crowds cause destruction of private or public property.

With something else to hate, internal disagreements no longer matter. The Magistrate of National Unity expects this development if acted on well will lead to greater unity even after the war.

[Centurius]

[color="#FF0000"][size="5"][center][size="5"]Magistrate of Defense Orders Investigation[/size][/center][/size][/color]

[b]Athens -[/b] With potential conflicts moving from the European mainland to other continents and with the lack of a stable national defense policy to cover the Italian and Iberian portions of the Federation the Magistrate of Defense has formed a commission. This special commission will be tasked with forming a new military doctrine where all elements of the Armed Forces are given a new policy primarily aimed at defense of the Federation and secondarily the ability to project power globally.

Confidential sources within the Ministry suggest plans are mostly aimed at maintaining a highly mobile force.

[color="#FF0000"][size="5"][center]Construction for the People[/center][/size][/color]

[b]Athens -[/b] With elections less than a year away the Ministry of Internal Affairs has announced an ambitious project. The construction of a tower 612 meters high with 118 floors and 101 elevators. Early estimates expect the Tower of the People to be finished around the time of the election of the fourth council in 5 years.

When finished all elements of the government will have a delegation in the building however its primary duty is to host the Assembly of the People, Council and secondary offices of the Empress and Council of Magistrates. Like all other buildings with a Priority Alpha Security the building will be partly underground with evacuation routes to primary naval bases and airports.

The design of the building itself is aimed at extending the hand of the people to heaven and reach whatever god or gods the individual may believe in. The total project is expected to cost between 3 and 4 billion Athenian Drachma's.

[center][img]http://www.e-architect.co.uk/images/jpgs/moscow/russia_tower_fosters_oct07_4.jpg[/img]
[i]Computer simulation of the future Tower of the People[/i][/center]

Edited November 29, 2010 by Centurius

[Centurius]

[quote][size="3"][b][center]The Act of Milan[/center][/b][/size]

[b]Preamble:[/b]
To guarantee the security of the Athenian Federation and establish a clear policy for its actions the people of the Hellenic state hereby guarantee their support and obedience to this doctrine.

[b]On Warfare:[/b]
The Athenian Federation will not commence an offensive war unless the following terms are met;
-A state has used nuclear weapons on European soil
-A state has imposed unjust limitations on Athenian citizens or otherwise violated their rights
-A state has violated the diplomatic immunity of an Athenian diplomat
-A state has accessed Athenian territory for a prolonged period without permission
-A state has supported Athenian dissidents or otherwise made moves against the legal government
If these terms are met war is optional, It is up to the people to decide whether the cause for war is worth it or not.

In case either an optional or mandatory military treaty is activated these terms do not need to be met as the treaty activation provides a case for war in itself.
[b]
On Special Weapons:[/b]
The right to live is placed above all else in the constitution of the Federation, while conflict requires death the Federation is obligated to keep casualties as low as humanly possible. To facilitate this the following rules are binding for the launch of weapons of mass destruction.
-Under no circumstance will the Athenian Federation maintain or research biological weapons for the purpose of using them in war, sufficient samples may be kept for the research of vaccinations and cures.
-Chemical Weapons may not be used against civilian targets unless Hellenic cities have been hit by Weapons of Mass Destruction.
-Nuclear Weapons may not be used against civilian targets unless Hellenic cities have been hit by Weapons of Mass Destruction.
-The Hellenic Forces are authorized to use Nuclear and Chemical Weapons in a first strike against military targets however conventional warfare is preferred.
[b]
On Regional Security:[/b]
With the implementation of this doctrine the Athenian Federation considers all the land it formerly owned or protected and European land at the Mediterranean Sea to be areas where security is needed for the safety of the Hellenic State. Should governments fall and anarchy in appear in this zone the Athenian Federation is obligated to provide protection. This clause may be enforced with all means available if another party interferes.

Signed and ratified on the 3rd of December 2010,
[img]http://img444.imageshack.us/img444/7435/e9634eeeb3bfe7bc40dc1c4.png[/img]
Her Imperial Highness Nikita Akhatova, [i]Empress of the Athenian Federation and her overseas territories[/i]

The Council of the Athenian Federation

The Assembly of the People
[/quote]

[Centurius]

[quote][size="5"][b][u][center]Constitution of the Athenian Federation[/center][/u][/b][/size]

[size="2"][b]I: Historical Foundations[/b][/size]
Considering the historical facts and universally accepted principles of the modern world, as well as the inalienable and indivisible, non-transferable and non-exhaustible right of the Hellenic nation to self-determination and state sovereignty, including its fully maintained right to secession and association, as basic provisions for peace and stability of the international order, the Athenian Federation is established as the national state of the Greek, Bulgarian, Macedonian, Albanian and Italian nation and the state of the others who are citizens, and who are guaranteed equality with citizens of Athenian nationality and the realization of national rights in accordance with the democratic norms of the free world.
Respecting the will of the Athenian nation and all citizens, resolutely expressed in the free elections, the Athenian Federation is hereby founded and shall develop as a sovereign and democratic state in which equality, freedoms and human rights are guaranteed and ensured, and their economic and cultural progress and social welfare promoted.

[size="2"][b]II: Organization of the State[/b][/size]

Article 1: In line with the provisions voiced in the Historical Foundations of the Athenian Federation the state will be a Federation composed of semi-autonomous regions. These being;
• The Autonomous City of Athens
• The Autonomous City of Rome
• The Kingdom of Greece
• The Union of Italy
• The Duchy of Bulgaria
• The Union of Macedonia
• The Union of Albania
• The Union of the Balearic
• The Military Dominion of Antarctica

Article 2: It is the obligation of the Federal government to provide security and protect the independence of each region which will be governed by their own set of regulations.

Article 3: No region is allowed to violate the Constitution of the Athenian Federation, a decree from the Head of Government nor a law approved and ratified by the parliament of the Federation.

Article 4: Each region will have the right of representation within the parliament of the Athenian Federation through regular democratic elections.

Article 5: Under no circumstance may a region or any part of the Athenian Federation secede without unanimous support from the Assembly of the People, the Empress and the people of the Athenian Federation.

[b][size="2"]III: Basic Provisions[/size][/b]

Article 6: The Athenian Federation is a unitary and indivisible democratic and socialist state.
Power in the Athenian Federation derives from the people and belongs to the people as a community of free, equal and independent citizens.
The people shall exercise this power through the election of representatives and through direct decision-making.

Article 7: The sovereignty of the Athenian Federation is inalienable, indivisible and untransferable.

The sovereignty of the Athenian Federation includes its land area, rivers, lakes, canals, internal maritime waters, territorial sea, and the air space above these.

The Athenian Federation shall exercise its sovereign rights and jurisdiction in the maritime areas and the seabed and subsoil thereof of the Aegean and Adriatic seas outside the state territory up to the borders with its neighbors in accordance to individual agreements.

The Assembly of the People or the people directly shall, independently and in accordance with the Constitution and law, decide:
- on the regulation of economic, legal and political relations in the Athenian Federation
- on the preservation of natural and cultural wealth and its utilization
- on association into alliances with other states.

The Athenian Federation may conclude alliances with other states, retaining its sovereign right to decide on the powers to be delegated and the right freely to withdraw from such associations.

Article 8: Freedom, equal rights, national equality and equality of genders, love of peace, social justice, respect for human rights, inviolability of ownership, conservation of nature and the environment, the rule of law, and a democratic multiparty system are the highest values of the constitutional order of the Athenian Federation and the ground for interpretation of the Constitution.

Article 9: In the Athenian Federation the government shall be organized on the principle of the separation of powers into the legislative, executive and judiciary but limited by the rights of individual regions and citizens as defined by the constitution.

Article 10: In the Athenian Federation laws shall conform with the Constitution, and other rules and regulations shall conform with the Constitution and law.

Everyone shall abide by the Constitution and law and respect the legal order of the Athenian Federation.

Article 11: A citizen, resident or otherwise visitor of the Athenian Federation can not be punished for an offense when it has not been recognized as such by the law.

Article 12: In special circumstances the Supreme Court of the Athenian Federation can issue a temporary regulation for offenses not recognized as such by the law. These may be retroactive however must be approved by the Assembly of the People and the Empress within a year to maintain legality.

Article 13: Formation of political parties is free.

Internal organization of political parties shall be in accordance with the fundamental constitutional democratic principles.

Parties shall publicize the accounts on sources of their assets and property.

Political parties which by their programs or violent activities aim to demolish the free democratic order endanger the existence of the Athenian Federation are unconstitutional. The decision on unconstitutionality shall be made by the Supreme Court of the Athenian Federation.

The status and financing of political parties shall be regulated by law.

Article 14: The Hellenic Foces will be tasked with protecting and guarding the sovereignty and sanctity of the Athenian Federation as defined in Articles 1 and 7 of this constitution.

The Hellenic Foces may cross its borders or act over its borders upon permission from the Empress.

In times of need upon order by the Empress the Hellenic Foces may assist the civilian police and authorities provided the rights granted by this constitution are maintained.

Organization of defense, command, administration and democratic control over the Hellenic Foces shall be regulated by law.

Article 15: The borders of the Athenian Federation may only be altered by a motion approved by the parliament and the Empress.

Article 16: Athenian citizenship, its acquisition and termination shall be regulated by law.

No Athenian citizen shall be exiled from the Athenian Federation, have its citizenship terminated or be extradited to a foreign government.

Article 17: The Athenian Federation shall protect and promote the rights and interests of its citizens living abroad, and shall maintain links with the homeland.

Parts of the Athenian nation in other states shall be given special concern and protection by the Athenian Federation.

Article 18: The flag of the Athenian Federation shall consist of 2 colors, white and gold. A white background with a gold cross in the center.

The Coat of Arms of the Athenian Federation shall be a shield divided in the colors white and gold with a helm on top and white lions on each side.

The anthem of the Athenian Federation shall be the ‘Hymn to Liberty’.

Article 19: The Greek, Latin and English languages and the Latin and Greek scripts shall be in official use within the Athenian Federation. Individual regions are allowed to teach non-recognized languages and scripts along with the aforementioned.

Article 20: The capital of the Athenian Federation will be Athens.

[size="2"][b]IV: Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms[/b][/size]

Article 21: Everyone in the Athenian Federation shall enjoy rights and freedoms, regardless of race, color, gender, language, religion, political or other belief, national or social origin, property, birth, education, social status or other characteristics.

All are equal before the law.

Article 22: Freedoms and rights of individuals or groups may be limited or suspended to protect those of others. Such limitations shall be proportional to the perceived threat.

Article 23: During a state of war or during an immediate threat to the unity and independence of the State or during a national disaster the Empress may authorize the suspension of rights of groups and individuals at will. Such limitations may not violate the basic right on life of all human beings in the Athenian Federation however this is the only right that will be protected.

Article 24: The right to appeal against the first instance of courts shall be guaranteed.

Article 25: Individual decisions of administrative agencies and other bodies vested with public authority shall be grounded on law.
Judicial review of decisions made by administrative agencies and other bodies vested with public authority shall be guaranteed.

Article 26: Anyone violating the provisions of this constitution concerning the basic freedoms and rights of man and citizen shall be held personally responsible and may not exculpate himself from invoking a higher order.

Article 27: Every human being shall have the right to live, under no circumstance shall the Athenian Federation execute capital punishment.

Article 28: Man’s freedom and personality are inviolable, under no circumstances will an individual have his liberty restricted or removed, except when specified by law or this constitution.

Article 29: No one shall be subjected to any form of maltreatment or without consent to medical and/or scientific experiments.

Article 30: No one shall be arrested or detained without a written court order based on law. Such an order shall be read and given to the arrested person at the moment of arrest.

Article 31: Any arrested and convicted person shall be treated as a normal citizen. Any person who has been illegally deprived of liberty or convicted shall, in conformity with law, be entitled to damages and a public apology.

Article 32: Should a citizen or alien not be able to afford defense, the state shall be obligated to provide professional aid.

Article 33: Anyone in the Athenian Federation shall be assumed innocent until proven otherwise in an independent and neutral court.

Article 34: Anyone suspected or accused of a penal offense shall have the right to a fair, independent and neutral trial. A charged or accused person shall not be forced to testify against himself or admit his guilt. Illegally obtained evidence shall not be allowed in court.

Article 35: No one may be tried more than once if a final court sentence has already passed.

Article 36: Anyone legally within the territory of the Federation shall have the right to freely move and choose a residence. Every citizen shall have the right to leave the country and permanently or temporarily settle abroad, and at any time may return home. This right may be restricted by law if this is necessary to protect the legal order or the rights of another individual.

Article 37: Foreign citizens and stateless persons may obtain asylum in the Athenian Federation. No alien within the territory of the Athenian Federation will be extradited. Both elements of this right may be suspended for individuals by court order.

Article 38: Homes shall be inviolable. Only a court may by a warrant based on law and a statement of reasons order the search of a home or other premises. The tenant concerned shall have the right, personally or through his representatives and two obligatory witnesses, to be present at the search of his home or other premises.

Article 39: All citizens shall be guaranteed respect for and legal protection of personal and family life, dignity, reputation and honor.

Article 40: Freedom and secrecy of communication shall be guaranteed and inviolable.

Article 41: Everyone shall be guaranteed the safety and secrecy of personal data. In special cases the government may collect data.

Article 42: The Federation shall guarantee the freedom of though and expression.

Article 43: Any call for war or resort to violence, national, racial or religious hatred or any form of intolerance shall be prohibited and punishable. Committing a penal offense motivated by the above shall be punished with a 50% increase above the sentence.

Article 44: Freedom of conscience and religious and free public profession of religion and other convictions shall be guaranteed.

Article 45: All religions are equal before the law and shall be separated from the state.

Article 46: All citizens shall have the right to peaceful assembly and public protest.

Article 47: All citizens above the age of 18 years shall have universal and equal suffrage. This right shall be exercised by direct elections through secret ballot.

Article 48: Military service and the defense of the Federation shall be the duty of all citizens able to perform it.

[size="2"][b]V: Organization of Government[/b][/size]

[b]1. Empress of the Athenian Federation[/b]

Article 49: The Empress of the Athenian Federation is the head of state and head of government. The Empress shall represent the Federation and home and abroad and ensure the continuance and unity of the Federation and its regular functioning at all costs.

Article 50: The Empress of the Athenian Federation shall be appointed by bloodline. If no heir is available to the existing Empress the Assembly of the People can select a new monarch by a 2/3 vote.

Article 51: The Empress shall enjoy full legal immunity and maintain all executive powers within the Federation. The Empress may veto any legislation by the Parliament.

Article 52: The Empress is commander-in-chief of the Hellenic Forces. On the basis of a decision by the Assembly of the People the Empress may proclaim war and conclude peace.

Article 53: The Empress may dissolve the Parliament if it has passed a vote of no confidence to the government, if it has not approved the state budget within a month of proposal or has acted against the constitution of the Federation.

Article 54: In the performance of powers the Empress of the Federation shall be assisted by advisors.

[b]2. Parliament of the Athenian Federation[/b]

Article 55: The Parliament of the Athenian Federation is a body of elected representatives from the people and operates the legislative power in the Athenian Federation. The parliament shall consist of the Council and the Assembly of the People

Article 56: The Assembly of the People shall have 5000 seats, elected through secret ballot by all Athenian citizens above the age of 18 years. The Council shall have 500 seats randomly selected based on the division in the Assembly of the People.

Article 57: Elections for the Assembly of the People shall be held every 4 years, after conclusion of the elections the Council shall be formed.

Article 58: Members of the Parliament shall not have an imperative mandate and shall receive regular financial compensation for their service and other rights specified by law.

Article 59: The term of office of representatives in the Hellenic Parliament may be extended by the Empress only in the case of war.

Article 60: The Parliament of the Athenian Federation shall have all legislative powers with the exception of signing international agreements where it serves in an advisory role.

Article 61: The Parliament of the Athenian Federation shall vote by majority unless specified otherwise in the constitution.

[b]3. Council of Magistrates[/b]

Article 62: The Council of Magistrates shall maintain individual departments of the Athenian Federation.

Article 63: The Council of Magistrates shall be proposed by a majority of the Assembly of the People and is subject to approval from the Empress. Upon approval the Empress will officially appoint the Council of Magistrates.

Article 64: Individual Magistrates or the entire council may be removed upon a vote of no confidence passing in the Assembly of the People. Such a vote requires a simple majority.

[b]4. Judicial Power[/b]

Article 65: Judicial power shall be exercised by independent and neutral courts. Courts shall administer justice on the basis of the constitution and law.

Article 66: The Supreme Court of the Athenian Federation, as the highest court, shall ensure the protection and execution of the constitution. Formation of the Supreme Court shall be regulated by law.

Article 67: Court hearings shall be open and judgments shall be passed publicly unless minors are involved or the protection of individual rights is at jeopardy or matters of national security are involved.

Article 68: Justice shall be administered by judges in conformity with law, judges shall be appointed for life and enjoy immunity in regards to rulings.

Article 69: Judges shall be appointed by the Supreme Court, the Supreme Court shall be appointed by the Assembly of the People.

Article 70: The Empress may at any time grant a pardon or immunity to an individual even if against court rulings.
[size="2"][b]
VI. International Relations[/b][/size]

Article 71: International agreements on behalf of the Athenian Federation shall be negotiated by the Empress.

Article 72: The Parliament may provide non-binding advice on international agreements.

Article 73: International agreements concluded and ratified in the Athenian Federation shall stand above law but below the constitution.

[size="2"][b]VII. Amendments[/b][/size]

Article 74: Amendments to the constitution may be proposed by at least one fifth of the Assembly of the People or the Empress of the Athenian Federation.

Article 75: The Assembly of the People upon hearing advice from the Council and Council of Magistrates shall decide by a majority vote of all representatives whether or not to start proceedings for the amendment of the constitution.

Article 76: A decision to amend the constitution shall be require a 2/3 majority of both the Assembly of the People as the Council.
[/quote]

[Sal Paradise]

[quote]Article 21: Everyone in the Athenian Federation shall enjoy rights and freedoms, regardless of race, color, gender, language, religion, political or other belief, national or social origin, property, birth, education, social status or other characteristics.

[b]All are equal before the law.[/b]
[/quote]

[quote]Article 51: [b]The Empress shall enjoy full legal immunity[/b] and maintain all executive powers within the Federation. The Empress may veto any legislation by the Parliament.[/quote]

Political scientists and analysts in France racked their brains trying to square these two articles of the Athenian constitution.

Edited December 3, 2010 by Sal Paradise

[Centurius]

[quote name='Sal Paradise' timestamp='1291411180' post='2529306']
Political scientists and analysts in France racked their brains trying to square these two articles of the Athenian constitution.
[/quote]

"Like the judiciary and parliament the Empress enjoys her immunity due to her line of work but not as individual. Because the Empress is appointed for life so is the legal immunity."

[Centurius]

[color="#FF0000"][size="5"][center]Italian Reconstruction Nears Completion
[/center][/size][/color]

[b]Athens -[/b] While originally expected to take at least another 2 years reconstruction of the Italian regions have been progressing more steadily than expected now reaching conclusion. As it stands only construction of the palace is still required which will take up another year according to expectations.

The project created and funded by the glorious government of the people has managed to restore a sense of identity and culture to the Italian people like never before. Building heavily upon the art and culture of the Roman Empire the Italian regions have become a near independent part of the Federation not subject to Hellenic culture in other regions.

[color="#FF0000"][size="5"][center]Election Campaigns in Progress[/center][/size][/color]

[b]Athens -[/b] With only a few months left until the elections several parties have given their campaigns a serious boost. Where ethnic issues and foreign affairs were an issue last time the focus seems to have shifted towards the economy and defense this time. A development expected to have negative consequences for the more extremist parties while promising positive results for the ruling coalition which enjoys a lot of support especially under the Italian regions.

To grow towards the new members of the Federation some parties have changed their names already, the Athenian Socialist Alliance has just removed the Athenian while the Hellenic Pride Party has renamed completely to National Front as a political party to represent both the needs of the Italians as Greeks. So far no party has won the battle yet and with important subjects such as immigration, private markets and the Ireland policies being so high on the agenda the electorate can still move in any direction.

---

The appearance of American ships near Ireland had not gone unnoticed, as a precautionary measure the national AlertCon was raised to Epsilon with the Hellenic Outpost in Portugal remaining on Alpha, if only because of the civil war still going on there.

Edited December 17, 2010 by Centurius