WEG MediaWiki

Difference between revisions of "Information: Belesia"

m (initial content load)
m (Unbolded a line)
 
(8 intermediate revisions by 4 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
 +
 
<div style="font-size:0.9em; color:#333;">
 
<div style="font-size:0.9em; color:#333;">
 
[[Pacific|DATE Pacific]] &gt; [[Belesia]] &gt; '''{{PAGENAME}}''' &larr;You are here  
 
[[Pacific|DATE Pacific]] &gt; [[Belesia]] &gt; '''{{PAGENAME}}''' &larr;You are here  
−
</div>
+
</div><div style="float:right;margin-left:15px;">__TOC__</div>
−
<div style="float:right;">__TOC__</div>
+
 
 +
== Information Overview ==
 +
Belesia’s information sharing and management is very progressive. The government and population seized on the opportunities that technological advancement offers to enhance quality of life. Fifteen years ago, the government instituted the Belesia Technology Institute (BTI) to direct the development of information technology. BTI actively conducts information, communications, and technology (ICT) programs to achieve the goal of developing a regionally competitive communications sector. Government programs support many sectors, including government regulatory support, science and technology education, business, and technology development and implementation. BTI established and maintains the country’s social media presence using the applications popular not only with Belesia’s population but also with the region at large. This is no small task considering the vast number of languages, dialects, and cultural nuances.
 +
 
 +
=== Onset of Information Age ===
 +
Belesia like many other developing Asian countries, experienced a rapid onset of technology. Many Belesians, especially those in the rural areas, jumped from having no technology in their home other than a radio or television to being a smart phone user. Belesians are accepting the technological changes as fast as they come. While older Belesians may only use their smart phones to contact their families or share photographs of their grandchildren
 +
 
 +
=== Contemporary Situation ===
 +
Recent government reforms abolished government censorship of internet news and information sharing. In addition, passage of laws supporting e-commerce and digital signatures contributed to one of the most active e-government and e-commerce sectors in the Pacific region. The government, launched initiatives with the business sector to develop the country’s mobile service network as rapidly as possible, an essential factor given the archipelagic nature of Belesia. They successfully implemented a 3G mobile broadband service despite the lack of intervening 2G infrastructure. The government was able to institute this advanced communication technology while supporting development by private network providers.
 +
 
 +
Recent government support and testing of mesh network systems granted internet access to the majority of Belesia’s population. Implementation of mesh networks throughout the country also improved internet security thanks to the system’s embedded network security hardware and firmware. Low-cost data packages and mobile phones are quickly becoming ubiquitous throughout the country. The government’s emphasis and support of connectivity puts the country on-pace to surpass South Torbia as the leading internet and mobile phone using country on the continent.
 +
 
 +
== Information Industries ==
 +
 
 +
=== Information Products (Content Industries) ===
  
 +
==== News Media ====
 +
While some news media outlets are controlled by the Belesian government since they are government-owned television and radio stations, there are enough independent news sources that there the government is under scrutiny by outsiders. While the government may arrest journalists for attack stories, but normally the courts free them before or during any trial.
  
−
Belesia’s information sharing and management is very progressive. The government and population seize on the opportunities that technological advancement offers to enhance the quality of life. Some 15 years ago, the government instituted the Belesia Technology Institute (BTI) to direct the development of information technology. BTI actively conducts Information, Communications, and Technology (ICT) programs to achieve the goal of developing a regionally competitive communications sector. Government programs support many sectors, including government regulatory support, science and technology education, business, and technology development and implementation. BTI established and maintains the country’s social media presence using the applications popular not only with Belesia’s population but also with the region at large. This is no small task considering the vast number of languages, dialects, and cultural nuances.
+
==== Entertainment Media ====
 +
A growing entertainment industry is developing within Belesia with independent filmmakers trying to gain a foothold. Most Belesian television viewers can access foreign networks from Olvana, South Torbia, and other counties either through local cable networks or more likely—satellite. Belesians are also viewing on their home computers and smart phones the various feeds available including short-term series programming.  
  
−
Recent government reforms abolished government censorship of internet news and information sharing. In addition, passage of laws supporting e-commerce and digital signatures contributed to one of the most active e-government and e-commerce sectors in the Pacific region.
+
==== Social Media ====
 +
Most Belesians between the ages of 10 and 40 and living in urban areas have a presence on social media. Older urban residents continue to join social media at an ever-increasing pace even if it is just to communicate with their relatives or see photographs. Rural residents are slightly behind, but as internet access continues to grow so will their social media presence will also grow. Younger Belesians are always looking for the next big thing on social media and continue to jump to a new platform when their parents discover the current social media fad. Their children move to another in order to try to maintain some privacy from their parents. Belesians under 40 are more likely to get their news and information from their phone or internet instead of the traditional forms such as print, radio, or television.  
  
−
The government, launched initiatives with the business sector to develop the country’s mobile service network as rapidly as possible, and essential factor given the archipelagic nature of Belesia. They successfully implemented a 3G mobile broadband service despite the lack of intervening 2G infrastructure. The government was able to institute this advanced communication technology while supporting development by private network providers. 
+
=== Information Services ===
  
−
Recent government support and testing of mesh network systems granted internet access to the majority of Belesia’s population. Implementation of mesh networks throughout the country also improved internet security thanks to the system’s embedded network security hardware and firmware.
+
==== Financial Institutions ====
 +
Most major Belesian companies are fully invested in the digital age using computers, the internet, and other applications in the work environment. Each day, more small businesses are becoming digitalized so cell phone users can find them and access their website. Then, the user can either visit the business in person or purchase items electronically. Of course, there is a price with becoming digital and it leaves opportunities for hackers to access a company’s date or even steal for the company. North Torbia has been known to hack into neighboring countries’ businesses including those in Belesia.  
  
−
Low-cost data packages and mobile phones are quickly becoming ubiquitous throughout the country. The government’s emphasis and support of connectivity puts the country on-pace to surpass Amari as the leading internet and mobile phone using country on the continent.
+
===== Control/Regulation =====
 +
The government has laws that regulate the financial institutions, but Belesia tries to keep regulation to a minimum. Belesia believes that the fewer laws and regulations, the easier it is for an individual without many resources to open a new business. Belesia is an excellent place for entrepreneurs to reside and attempt to find a new ways to obtain wealth.  
  
−
== Satellite Telecommunications ==
+
==== Medical System ====
−
Belesia procures satellite communication services from the private sector. Its proximity to the equator has made it a frequent target for real estate acquisition for corporations looking to construct ground control stations.  
+
Description: Belesia is moving towards maintaining medical records electronically. This is already being done at urban hospitals and by city doctors. However, rural communities are severely lagging behind, particularly those that are on islands requiring ferry’s to access services. The Belesian government is trying to encourage the rural doctors to go electronically, but spotty internet access and tradition often gets in the way.  
  
−
== Navigation ==
+
===== Control/Regulation =====
−
Belesia uses global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) in support of many programs. Notable among them is the long-running effort to forecast severe weather events, flooding, earthquake, and tsunami danger. Belesia is a member of the Pacific Meteorological and Oceanographic Consortium, and collaborates on projects with South Torbia and Olvana.  
+
The Belesia government has passed laws that makes it illegal for people to access others medical records without proper authorization. Each adult Belesian controls their medical history and records. They determine if relatives are allowed access. For minors, parents or their legal guardians have access to medical records.  
  
−
Belesia military forces currently use the American Global Positioning System (GPS) for guidance and limited targeting. The government continues to work with the European Space Agency (ESA) as a partner in the group focused on deployment of the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS) by 2020. EGNOS upgrades will improve signal reliability, thereby reducing susceptibility to spoofing or jamming.
+
==== Legal/Criminal Records ====
 +
The Belesian government is in the process of digitalizing all legal and criminal records. They are starting with the cases and working backwards. Right now, they have digitized records back a decade. This is an expensive project and additional digitalization requires funding that is sporadic from the national legislature.  
  
 +
===== Control/Regulation =====
 +
Each local police station is responsible for inputting new case information into the database as the crimes occur. Once in the system, other law enforcement personnel and those in the judicial system can access the records. Local input reduces the cost on the federal government, but makes it difficult to determine any quality control issues. Anyone with access to the system could abuse it to find out information for nefarious purposes such as stalking a woman.
  
−
== Public Communications Media ==
+
==== Navigation ====
−
Belesia Telephony (BTel) is a government monopoly operating the country’s communication networks, internet, radio, television, and telephone. Though the government controls radio, television and the internet, this control does not translate to censorship, based on the laws passed in 2013. Courts maintain oversight to ensure that any attempts at government censorship are quickly resolved.  
+
Navigation (Global Positioning): Belesia uses global navigation satellite systems in support of many programs. Notable among them is the long-running effort to forecast severe weather events, flooding, earthquake, and tsunami danger. Belesia is a member of the Pacific Meteorological and Oceanographic Consortium, and collaborates on projects with South Torbia and Olvana. Most of these systems are from other countries as Belesia has limited space capabilities. Belesia usually uses Western satellites for GPS. With the recent completion of the Olvanan Navigation System, the regional player is pressuring Belesia and other countries in the region to start using their.  
  
 +
Belesia military forces currently use the American Global Positioning System for guidance and limited targeting. The government continues to work with the European Space Agency as a partner in the group focused on deployment of the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS) by 2020. EGNOS upgrades will improve signal reliability, thereby reducing susceptibility to spoofing or jamming.
  
 +
===== Control/Regulation =====
 +
The Belesian government is responsible to obtain the necessary connections to any global positioning system that the people are allowed to access from any electronic device.
  
−
=== Internet ===
+
==== Electromagnetic Spectrum Management (Radio Frequency) ====
−
Belesia’s general population is rapidly becoming technically adept, with a growing interest in the opportunities offered by electronic financial transfers, social media, and data mining. The growth of 3G broadband cellular availability and dropping costs of data packages is responsible rapid growth in internet use by Belesians. The last statistics available show the internet penetration rate at 35% with a projected growth rate of 10% annually. This growth and penetration percentage puts Belesia on par with or surpassing South Torbia in the next 10 years.
+
Belesia is trying to emulate South Torbia in its electromagnetic spectrum management procedures by reserving certain frequencies for government use. The most recent example of copying South Torbian practices is that about two years ago Belesia auctioned off the frequencies from the 3.5GHz and 28 Ghz bands so commercial vendors could install 5G service in the country. 5G presently covers less than 5% of Belesia, but that is expected to grow to 50% over the next decade. 5G towers are being built creating a faster, cheaper, and better communications network. Belesia has yet to auction off the frequencies in the 6 Ghz band from 5925 to 7125 waiting to see the effects in other countries such as the US, Olvana, and South Torbia.  
  
−
Using submarine cables and an expanding fiber-optic backbone network, there are a dozen public and private internet service providers (ISPs) competing in the communications business sector. Each of the major islands has a cable terminal, with branches service neighboring smaller islands. Leyte and Palawan are connected to the South Torbia-Olvana submarine backbone, while the southern islands connect to a trans-Pacific cable terminating in the United States. This arrangement generally provides reliable service.  
+
===== Control/Regulation =====
 +
Belesia aims to strictly regulate how the electromagnetic spectrum operates within its borders. Sometimes North Torbia’s attempt to jam South Torbian frequencies causes issues in Belesia. As North Torbia seldom jams the frequencies for a long period of time, this does not have long term effects on Belesia.
  
−
A notable exception to this connectivity is the Sulu Archipelago between Borneo and Mindanao. Communication is limited to cellular telephone, marine and shortwave radio.
+
=== Information Distribution ===
 +
Belesia demonstrates a dichotomy when it comes to information distribution depending on whether the individual lives in an urban or rural setting. In urban areas, television and radio is rapidly being taken over by computer and other electronic methods. In rural areas, the primary method of information distribution is word of mouth supplemented by radio or print media. In other words, rural residents receive information, for the most part, the same way they did a half-century ago.
  
 +
==== Internet ====
 +
Belesia’s urban population is rapidly becoming technically adept, with a growing interest in the opportunities offered by electronic financial transfers, social media, and data mining. The growth of 3G broadband cellular availability and dropping costs of data packages is responsible for rapid growth in internet use by Belesians. 5G coverage in the future will only continue to spur the growth. The last statistics available show the internet penetration rate at 35% with a projected growth rate of 10% annually. This growth and penetration percentage puts Belesia on par with or surpassing South Torbia in the next 10 years.
  
−
=== Television ===
+
===== Infrastructure Support =====
−
Television remains a leading media product, with access found in 70% of the current households. Broadcast facilities and transmitters remain under government control and service two national and one private network. The networks support a chain of 40 stations throughout the country. Private network broadcasts provide separate entertainment focused mostly on sports and variety shows. The viewing public also has direct access to regional and international satellite television programming.
+
Using submarine cables and an expanding fiber-optic backbone network, there are a dozen public and private internet service providers (ISPs) competing in the communications business sector. Each of the major islands has a cable terminal, with branches servicing neighboring smaller islands. Leyte is connected to the South Torbia-Olvana submarine backbone, while the southern islands connect to a trans-Pacific cable terminating in the United States. This arrangement generally provides reliable service. A notable exception to this connectivity is the Sulu Archipelago between Borneo and Mindanao. Communication is limited to cellular telephone, marine and shortwave radio.
  
−
=== Radio ===
+
===== Control/Regulation =====
 +
While the Belesia government has an office, Belesia Information Agency (BIA), responsible for internet regulation, their hands off approach is similar to that of South Torbia. As long as the internet activity does not threaten Belesian government interests, it is allowed. Anti-defamation laws apply to websites in the same manner as they do for print media, the degree of anonymity related to publishing information online and utilization of foreign sources to create content makes these laws more difficult to enforce online.
  
−
Btel operates the broadcast system for 4 national radio networks, 15 regional radio stations and 5 privately owned stations. All report the national and regional news from the Belesia news agency, with international news stories covered in more detail by the private stations.
+
==== Television ====
 +
Television remains a leading media product, with access found in 70% of current households, especially in the urban areas. Rural areas often receive television by satellite, but the penetration is still not as deep as in the urban areas. Private network broadcasts provide separate entertainment focused mostly on sports and variety shows
  
−
=== Print Media ===
+
===== Infrastructure Support =====
−
Print media continues to be a strong source of information in Belesia. Each of the major islands has at least one daily newspaper. Newspapers routinely criticize all levels of the Belesian government, as well as other countries. The government has occasionally arrested journalists refusing to reveal sources. The courts, however, predictably dismissed charges once they came to trial. Word-of-mouth also remains a well-used information channel, strongest in religious groups, trade unions, and tribal conduits.
+
Broadcast facilities and transmitters remain under government control and service two national and one private network. The networks support a chain of 40 stations throughout the country. The viewing public also has direct access to regional and international satellite television programming.
  
−
Print media continues its historic role in Belesia as a bastion of truth. Publishers and journalists hold an ethos that they seek and report facts and not opinion, even when unpopular with the government. The Belesian people hold print media in high regard and readily launch demonstrations calling for journalist release when incarcerated for political reporting.
+
===== Control/Regulation =====
 +
Control/Regulation: The same Belesian office that is responsible for the internet is also responsible for the regulation of television. The BITA allows almost anything on the airwaves as long as it meets the country’s decency standards and is not anti-government.
  
−
Journalists in Belesia are embracing digital channels for information delivery to the public. The Belesian public, trusting journalist ethics, generally accept the reporting from the new media. They value and respond to calls from publishing houses to counter perceived government infractions.
+
==== Radio ====
−
=== Telephone ===
+
Despite the influence of the internet and television in Belesia, the radio still plays an important role. The radio is often on in the background in many houses while the family goes about their daily activities. This is probably truer in rural Belesia than in the urban areas.
−
Belesia followed the same path as many other island countries and jumped directly to mobile phone service, bypassing landlines as the main communications means. BTI initiated the program for commercial 3G/LTE licenses for mobile service. The mobile 3G/LTE market skyrocketed after the initial offering to reach a subscription rate of 452 per 1000 of the population to-date. The subscriber rate continues to grow as the service providers expand the infrastructure to support their networks.
 
  
−
The rapid expansion of mobile phone use is made possible by the availability of prepaid Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) cards. Initially, the government required little in the way of documentation of SIM card sales, creating a huge market of small SIM card sellers to appear throughout the country. As it became apparent that limited regulation would lead to misuse and abuse, SIM registration requirements were established. A mandatory registration program went into effect to capture and document identification information of all paid and prepaid SIM card users. The program instituted a one-month grace period with a cut-off date for completion of registration. After that date, the government forced all mobile service providers in Belesia to cut-off service to unregistered SIM cards.
+
===== Infrastructure Support =====
 +
BTel operates the broadcast system for four national radio networks, fifteen regional radio stations, and five privately owned stations. These radio stations are both on both AM and FM frequencies. There are some ham radio operators licensed by the government and are often used during natural disasters when other communications means are not possible between the islands due to typhoon or other damage.
  
−
While the intent of the program was to reduce fraud and crime associated with unregistered SIM cards, it actually had several negative effects. Many users were unceremoniously cut-off because of poor program administration. This resulted in lengthy adjudication and a growing public anger. Public outcry lead to distrust over security of user information and the government’s access. Finally, the program caused a black market to spring up for purchase of fraudulent or stolen SIM cards. Criminal elements in Belesia found the black market to be lucrative in both the sale of the SIM cards and identity theft.
+
===== Control/Regulation =====
 +
The BIA not only regulates the internet and television, but the radio waves as well. As long as decency standards are met by the stations and they do not offer up any anti-government rhetoric, the stations are free to operate. All the government radio stations and most of the private stations receive national and regional news from the Belesia News Agency. The private stations are more likely to cover international news stories, however, than the government owned network system.
  
−
The mobile phone market is expected to show double-digit growth over the next 5 years. The public is rapidly dropping their hard-wired phones to adopt low-cost mobile units supplied by both international and national service providers. The activation of Belesian satellite service supporting internet access will result in increased competition and is expected to reduce the cost of access by as much as 60%. T
+
==== Print ====
 +
Print media continues to be a strong source of Information in Belesia with each of the major islands publishing at least one daily newspapers. Print media continues its historic role in Belesia as a bastion of truth. Newspapers routinely criticize all levels of the Belesian government, as well as the governments of other countries. Publishers and journalists hold an ethos that they seek and report facts and not opinion, even when unpopular with the government. The Belesian people hold the print media in high regard and readily launch demonstrations calling for a journalist’s release when incarcerated for political reporting.
  
−
=== Postal/Courier ===
+
===== Infrastructure Support =====
 +
Due to the island nature of Belesia, the newspapers are published locally on the larger islands and distributed throughout that island. Journalists in Belesia are embracing digital channels for information delivery to the public. The number of print newspapers that now have a presence online continues to grow exponentially. It is likely that within a couple of years, every print newspaper in Belesia will have either added a web presence or will likely to have folded.
 +
 
 +
===== Control/Regulation =====
 +
The BIA is not only responsible for electronic media regulation, but print media as well. When the BIA first began, its primary focus was on print media. Due to the increased workload in the electronics age, the BIA gives the print media a lot less attention than before. This sometimes leads to something slipping by the BIA that could be construed as anti-government. When this has happened, the government has occasionally arrested print journalists for refusing to reveal sources, usually within the government, for these anti-government stories. The courts, however, predictably dismiss the charges once the case comes to trial.
 +
 
 +
==== Telephone/Telecommunications ====
 +
Belesia followed the same path as many other island countries and jumped directly to mobile phone service, bypassing landlines as the main communications means. BTI initiated the program for commercial 3G/LTE licenses for mobile service. The mobile 3G/LTE market skyrocketed after the initial offering to reach a subscription rate of 452 per 1000 of the population. The subscriber rate continues to grow as the service providers expand the infrastructure to support their networks. 
 +
 
 +
The rapid expansion of mobile phone use is made possible by the availability of prepaid Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) cards. Initially, the government required little in the way of documentation of SIM card sales, creating a huge market of small SIM card sellers to appear throughout the country. As it became apparent that limited regulation would lead to misuse and abuse, SIM registration requirements were established. A mandatory registration program went into effect to capture and document identification information of all paid and prepaid SIM card users. The program instituted a one-month grace period with a cut-off date for completion of registration. After that date, the government forced all mobile service providers in Belesia to cut-off service to unregistered SIM cards. 
 +
 
 +
            While the intent of the program was to reduce fraud and crime associated with unregistered SIM cards, it actually had several negative effects. Many users were unceremoniously cut-off because of poor program administration. This resulted in lengthy adjudication and a growing public anger. Public outcry led to distrust over security of user information and the government’s access. Finally, the program caused a black market to spring up for purchase of fraudulent or stolen SIM cards. Criminal elements in Belesia found the black market to be lucrative in both the sale of the SIM cards and identity theft.
 +
 
 +
===== Infrastructure Support =====
 +
The mobile phone market is expected to show double-digit growth over the next 5 years. The public is rapidly dropping their hard-wired phones to adopt low-cost mobile units supplied by both international and national service providers. The activation of Belesian satellite service supporting internet access will result in increased competition and is expected to reduce the cost of access by as much as 60%. Cellular towers are present throughout Belesia, but service may be spotty on some of the smaller, less populated islands. The future construction of the 5G network will continue to increase the accessibility of the rural population to cellular telephone and the internet.
 +
 
 +
===== Control/Regulation =====
 +
Similar to South Torbia, personal use of mobile telephones is not subject to regulation by the Belesian government. The BIA is also responsible for regulating the telephone service providers. Based on previous Belesian Supreme Court decisions, the BIA regularly obtains phone records for criminal investigations from service providers to use by government prosecutors.
 +
 
 +
==== Postal/Carrier ====
 
Belesia’s postal system (BelPost) offers not only letter and package delivery but also financial services. At the onset of mobile phone growth, there were approximately 4 million Belesians with bank accounts through their local post office. Integration of e-finance services via mobile phones resulted in significant growth of on-line accounts.
 
Belesia’s postal system (BelPost) offers not only letter and package delivery but also financial services. At the onset of mobile phone growth, there were approximately 4 million Belesians with bank accounts through their local post office. Integration of e-finance services via mobile phones resulted in significant growth of on-line accounts.
  
−
BelPost is a relatively reliable service provider with a good track record of delivery and accountability. Public perception is that the postal service is a trustworthy government agency and there is little corruption among the postal employees. The government’s direct investment to establish the necessary network connections focused on reliability and security firmly establishes BelPost as a key information service provider for the population.
+
BelPost is a relatively reliable service provider with a good track record of delivery and accountability. Public perception is that the postal service is a trustworthy government agency and there is little corruption among the postal employees. The government’s direct investment to establish the necessary network connections focused on reliability and security firmly establishes BelPost as a key information service provider for the population. The only negative for BelPost is the sometimes slow parcel delivery, although the public correctly attributes this to the poor road infrastructure rather than to any fault of BelPost.
 +
 
 +
===== Infrastructure Support =====
 +
BelPost and private delivery services are present throughout all Belesian urban areas and make deliveries directly to the destination address. In some rural areas, BelPost will deliver directly to the address. In the most remote parts of Belesia, BelPost will drop off mail and packages to a central location. Recipients will either pick up the package or a neighbor passing by will take the mail/package to the addressee.
 +
 
 +
===== Control/Regulation =====
 +
The Belesia government regulates BelPost. Since BelPost operates a banking system, this regulation is through the financial sector. BelPost has a reputation for good service with integrity.
 +
 
 +
==== Oral Communication ====
 +
Among many families and tribes in Belesia, word of mouth is still the most trusted information medium, facilitated between islands by constant small boat traffic. Belesians, however, are quickly assimilating new communication abilities offered by the internet and mobile phone technology so word of mouth is starting to lose its standing in information exchange. Belesians now have greater access to information, with many accepting internet content without question its validity. Some pockets within the country continue to rely on word of mouth; the strongest are religious groups, trade unions, and tribal groups.
 +
 
 +
===== Infrastructure Support =====
 +
Standard methods, but facilitated in Belesia by small boat travel between various islands.
 +
 
 +
===== Control/Regulation =====
 +
Belesian anti-defamation laws also apply to oral communication as well. Enforcement is very difficult as it is often hard to prove defamatory speech. It often breaks down to hearsay with one person and their witnesses against another person and their witnesses. This means that defamatory speech is rarely prosecuted in Belesia.
 +
 
 +
==== Satellite ====
 +
The Belesian government operates no satellites of its own. They purchase all its imaging and communications services from the private section and its security partners. South Torbia is the major benefactor of Belesia’s satellite service use. Belesia’s proximity to the equator has made it a frequent target for real estate acquisition for corporations looking to construct ground control stations.
 +
 
 +
===== Infrastructure Support =====
 +
Currently Belesia has none of its own satellite infrastructure, either in space or on the ground. Several countries have bought or leased land in Belesia to operate satellite monitoring stations and/or control stations.
 +
 
 +
===== Control/Regulation =====
 +
Currently, there are no Belesian agency responsible for control or the regulation of satellites in the country. There have been discussions at the highest level regarding whether Belesia should launch its own satellite through a partner country such as South Torbia or to create its own space agency. So far, these discussions have not gone beyond the visionary phase.
 +
 
 +
==== Internet of Things ====
 +
Belesia is embracing technology and in parts of the country—the urban areas—there are more interconnected digital products each day. Basically, Belesia is about five years behind South Torbia but catching up fast. Those in the highest socio-economic groups have grasped the capability of the “smart phone” with Wi-Fi, Blue Tooth, and other enabled appliances that can be controlled using a cellular telephone. Even those not as wealthy in the urban areas are being inundated with smart phone technology. While higher quality items are designed with more protections, less expensive and more widely available models may have a number of vulnerabilities that could be exploited by those with nefarious intents. 
 +
 
 +
                                    The internet of things also plays a role in public projects and newer infrastructure developments, with things as common as traffic and street lights are being digitized and interconnected. The influence and impact of the internet of things on daily lives of urban Belesians can be seen in things as simple as a daily commute using one of the bus routes through a city. Commuters can use their smart phones to identify where a specific bus may be on its route, estimate the times of arrival for each stop, and also see how many seats are available on the bus. All this is enabled through smart phone applications used to create user specific accounts, pay for passes, and use the Blue Tooth and Wi-Fi when and where a rider gets on and off the bus.
 +
 
 +
===== Infrastructure Support =====
 +
Belesia has looked at what has happened in South Torbia and understands the potential for the convergence of smart technologies and public works for streamlining urban development. Using real time analytics, empowered by machine learning, Belesia hopes to reduce costs, trim maintenance requirements, and overcome many of the challenges associated with rapid development and urbanization.
 +
 
 +
===== Control/Regulation =====
 +
All of these technological advances also come with a degree of risk and vulnerability. The Belesian government has sought to reduce its mistakes by sending teams to South Torbia to study the successes and failures there. Currently, the BIA is also responsible for any control or regulation associated with the internet of things. The BIA is overwhelmed and not only needs an increase in manpower, but with a workforce with the necessary skills in this age of technology. Similar to South Torbia, the Belesian government will need to balance regulation around this technology with an almost universal desire within the government to create an economic boom.
 +
 
 +
== Information Cohorts (Information Consumpiton) ==
 +
 
 +
=== Cohort: Information Age Heavy Users ===
 +
These are the Belesians, typically upper-middle class and above who live in urban areas, which have embraced the information age. They see technology as the future and that eventually Belesia will be like South Torbia, the US, and Western Europe. These individuals are likely quick to adopt trends coming from overseas that they have seen online. Their ability to be constantly on the internet, either by using a computer or a smart phone, and shapes not only how they go about their daily lives, but also how they interact with each other.  Older Belesians may look down upon them, criticizing them for being glued to technology, but tech savvy Belesians have demonstrated time and again how they are able to use tech to organize and mobilize large groups of people. A subset of this group are those that work in government and are working to make sure that all new construction will embrace the information age. The cost of new technology can be prohibitive for most Belesians, therefore lower quality and imitation products that are significantly cheaper are often widely sought after.
 +
 
 +
==== Biases ====
 +
Their primary biases are against those that do not see the benefits of the technology age. Whatever the reason such as tradition or cost, the Information Users, think the cost now will actually be cheaper in the long run.
  
−
=== Word of Mouth ===
+
==== Perceived Antagonist Cohorts ====
−
Among many families and tribes in Belesia, Word-of-Mouth (WoM) is still the most trusted information medium, facilitated between islands by the constant small boat traffic. Belesians, however, are quickly assimilating new communication abilities offered by the internet and mobile phone technology, and WoM is starting to lose its standing in information exchange. Belesians now have greater access to information, with many accepting internet content without question of the validity. Some pockets within the country continue to rely on WoM; the strongest are religious groups, trade unions, and tribal groups.
+
Their antagonists are those within Belesia unwilling to embrace the future and are still living in the past.  
  
−
=== Information Control ===
+
==== Media Engagement ====
−
Government control of radio, television and internet continues with a strong focus on using the full capabilities of the various Information Communications Technologies (ICTs) to advance Belesia’s economy as rapidly as possible. As state earlier, the control is offically limited to development and maintenance of the infrastructure, not the information content itself. Compliance by government leaders with the country’s anti-censorship laws continues to be effective in maintaining the guaranteed freedom of speech established by the constitution.
+
The Information Age Heavy Users are no longer reading newspapers, watching television, or listening to the radio to receive their news. Instead, they are receiving their news from international websites on their smart phone or watching news features on a variety of channels on the internet or smart phone.  
  
−
== INFOWAR ==
+
==== Presence/Activity in Cyberspace ====
−
Belesia’s leadership continues to control and direct INFOWAR (IW) assets at the national level. Unit, equipment, and personnel allocations are under the direction of the national command authority to ensure compliance with national objectives. Resource allocation is for a specific period, with dual reporting to both the supported unit and the national command authority. In this way, the leadership remains aware of all collection efforts as well as the intended effects on the identified targets.  
+
This group willingly participates in Cyberspace activities and cannot get enough. They are constantly upgrading their phone and purchasing new technology. They work for large businesses where they use computers on a daily basis while staying updated on social media via the internet or smart phone.  
  
−
=== Electronic Warfare ===
+
=== Cohort: Information Age Light Users ===
−
Electronic warfare (EW) capabilities consist of integrated radar warning and RF countermeasures. The EW platforms consist of under-wing pods attached to the limited number of aircraft in the Belesian Air Corps. The pod provides the pilot with real-time situational awareness and detection of surface-to-air and air-to-air radar guidance. The system’s integrated threat warning and electronic countermeasures automatically identify threat radar systems for targeting by on-board aircraft weapons.
+
These are the Belesians that use electronic media, but have not fully embraced it. They have access to the internet at their office, at school, or the local library. The light users see the benefits of technology, but are scared of all its capabilities and/or the cost of the equipment. While the light users may check out the internet during the day at work, they cannot afford a smart phone or the other latest electronic technology. While they may have access to the internet, it does not have a ubiquitous presence within their lives.  
  
−
=== Computer Attack ===
+
==== Biases ====
−
The leadership of Belesia, recognizing the growing potential of cyber warfare, created a new government group in 2010 to develop the skills and techniques necessary target adversary computer systems. The government chartered the Belesia Automation Emergency Response Organization (BAERO) to build the required capabilities. Initially, BAERO focused primarily on defensive cyber methods to protect government, military, and financial systems. As defensive capabilities came on-line, the group turned its focus to offensive cyber. An understanding of the typical defensive measures used to protect computer systems and networks provided insight into how to best attack adversary systems.
+
Their primary biases are against the heavy users as they do not seem to understand that while this group wants to embrace the new technology, they cannot do it because of financial reasons. The light users understand while the other cohorts are not using the technology, primarily because they cannot afford to do so. Additionally, since they are not constantly influenced by information communication technology, they may be more trusting of information presented to them through television or the radio, rather than through purely online sources.
  
−
=== Information Attack ===
+
==== Perceived Antagonist Cohorts ====
−
Exploitation of the growing information and communications technology (ICT) use in the Pacific allows Belesia to develop new and innovative methods of exploiting data of potential opponents. Belesia targets not only the expected financial, infrastructure, and government networks, but also prioritizes penetration of social media networks, recognizing them as a conduit to exploit more critical targets. This approach provides deniability and is forensically difficult for target countries to prove without extensive cyber capabilities. The information attack program also links with active deception to create doubt within adversary countries of the information’s validity.
+
Due to the fact that this cohort is perhaps most appropriately defined by socio-economic status, it may be more common for them to have a degree of distrust targeted at individuals from higher socio-economic classes.  
  
−
=== Deception ===
+
==== Media Engagement ====
−
BAERO also developed the capability to construct false or misleading messages and internet traffic to support government information campaigns. Using misinformation, Belesia builds a storyline that deceives the target audience for the benefit of the country. The group uses all forms of media to create audio, video, internet news posts, social media posts, and even graphic posters that serve to change the public’s or an adversaries understanding of reality.
+
While in the office, the light users may get their news from the internet. Outside the office, the light users primarily engage with the media via the television or radio.  
  
−
=== Physical Destruction ===
+
==== Presence/Activity in Cyberspace ====
−
Belesia has no known physical destruction programs specifically oriented toward INFOWAR. See Military: Belesia for discussion of general purpose military force.
+
The light users group engages in cyberspace mainly through access to the internet in their place of business. Outside of work, they do not have the means to engage in cyberspace activities.
  
−
=== Protection and Security Measures ===
+
=== Cohort: Urban Poor ===
−
BAERO works with higher education and the training community to recruit and develop individuals with the skills and talent needed to secure Belesia’s computers and networks. The program implemented a Master’s program in Information and IT Security in 2012. Graduates currently work in the government, military, and business sectors. The strength of the program serves as the basis for the military development of both defensive and offensive computer warfare capabilities.
+
These are the Belesians that live in the urban areas and do not have access to any electronic devices at their worksite. This is probably 50% of the urban population. Some of their children may have access to digital age through a computer at school, but most will not. They do not yet have the financial means to join the digital age.  
  
−
Belesia is working to expand the program’s reach by developing regional support for computer and network security. Belesia and Gabal signed a mutual support agreement, with Belesia taking the lead in providing technical expertise for IT protection and security measures. The regional office for computer and network protection is the lead agency in identifying threats attacking the financial sectors of both countries and in taking action to defend critical financial institutions by removing the threats.
+
==== Biases ====
 +
Their primary biases are against the rich who they believe do not understand them. These Belesians are not poor because they are lazy, but because they do not have the opportunities to obtain a better position.
  
−
=== Perception Management ===
+
==== Perceived Antagonist Cohorts ====
−
Rapid growth of internet access in Belesia created social media celebrities that have the ability to shape public perceptions. The government attempts to use their popularity to sway public perception with some limited success. The use of social media as the most popular media of the moment is the most effective way of reaching the population with the government message. Rather than the intended outcome of supporting government programs, the main result has been to increase the popularity of the social media personalities.
+
The urban poor’s main antagonist are the rich (heavy information users) who they perceive as unsympathetic to their situation. The urban poor believe that the rich do not understand their situation and most of them are doing the best they can with the life they have been dealt.  
  
−
The government still relies on print, radio, and television as means to target messages to selected portions of the population. Using multiple means of message presentation leads to some instances of conflicting information and confused public perceptions. New programs are exploring the use of social media to aid the government in economic and information development.
+
==== Media Engagement ====
 +
The urban poor receive most of their information from the television and radio. To a lesser extent, they may receive information from the print media.  
  
−
== Intelligence ==
+
==== Presence/Activity in Cyberspace ====
−
Belesia maintains a centralized intelligence organization and allocates assets to military, security, or national missions based on analyzed requirements.
+
Not active in cyberspace.
  
−
=== Command and Control Systems ===
+
=== Cohort: Rural Populations ===
 +
These are the Belesians that live in the rural areas and do not have access to computers, the internet, or other pieces of the Information Age. The children of these people are unlikely to have access to computers or the internet at their schools either. In many cases these populations are on islands and separated from other communities by significant distances and water. 
  
−
====== <u>Government</u> ======
+
==== Biases ====
−
* Networks – Existing cellular and internet networks; developing secure satellite linked replacements
+
Individuals described by this cohort are likely from tight knit communities who are more trusting of familiar sources of information, Outsiders, particularly those who they are unable to relate to, are often met with distrust. These Belesians do not view their circumstances as being unfortunate, instead they are likely to be happy to be able to sustain a living without having to leave their communities.
−
* Radar – Principally support for commercial aviation operations
 
−
* Optical – Airborne platforms with video and thermal cameras. Satellite imagery capability coming on-line in the near future.
 
−
* Satellite – Purchased services for communications and imagery with government-owned platforms part of a long-term plan.
 
  
−
====== <u>Military</u> ======
+
==== Perceived Antagonist Cohorts ====
−
* Networks – Encrypted version of mesh-net networks that supports secure VOIP.
+
The rural people’s main antagonists are those in the urban areas, especially wealthy individuals with whom they have little in common with.  
−
* Radar – integrated radar warning; limited ground systems 
 
−
* Radio – HF, VHF, UHF; Land Mobile Radio,
 
  
−
=== Human Intelligence ===
+
==== Media Engagement ====
−
Human intelligence continues to provide the majority of external data collection and a balanced share of internal intelligence for the Belesia government. Internally and internationally, Belesia recruits technicians working in oil and gas field operations. These agents target information collection that identifies potential fields, production capacities, and development plans. Many of the Belesia agents are in the information technology, technical support, and mid-level managers operating among regional competitors.
+
The urban poor receive most of their information from word of mouth supplemented by the radio and in some cases satellite television.  
  
−
At the national level, the government routinely deploys special purpose forces to locate and target the activities of insurgents and other disruptive groups such as criminal gangs. Special purpose forces perform missions that collect essential intelligence to allow the military to launch raids and target patrols of suspected insurgent areas or smuggling routes. An agent network in each of the largest Belesian tribes provides a steady flow of information from the field that allows the Belesia Intelligence Service to identify individuals and groups that are potential threats to national objectives.
+
==== Presence/Activity in Cyberspace ====
 +
Not active in cyberspace.
  
−
=== Open Source Intelligence ===
+
== Information Suppression ==
−
Belesia is rapidly adopting open source information research and analysis to improve intelligence capabilities with the assistance of the Belesian education sector. Units monitor all public network traffic and information sources to identify potential exploitation opportunities or threats to national interests. As part of the development of OSINT capabilities, BTI has several R&D projects to explore the use of data mining, artificial intelligence, and social media applications.
+
Relative speaking, Belesia has lower information suppression than neighboring countries.  
  
−
=== Signals Intelligence ===
+
=== Government Censorship ===
−
Belesia uses proven network surveillance capabilities as part of its signals intelligence operation. Coupling FinSpy malware with man-in-the-middle ISP uploads Belesia SIGINT is capable of gathering information from infected computers and smartphones. The offensive cyber capability allows Belesia to target internet users. The software uses advanced techniques to avoid detection by antivirus software or forensic techniques that identify the source of the attack.
+
Partial government control of radio, television and internet continues with a strong focus on using the full capabilities of the various ICTs to advance Belesia’s economy as rapidly as possible. The control is officially limited to development and maintenance of the infrastructure, not the information content itself. Compliance by government leaders with the country’s anti-censorship laws continues to be effective in maintaining the guaranteed freedom of speech established by the constitution.  
  
−
=== Imagery Intelligence ===
+
=== Public (Popular) Censorship ===
−
Belesia currently purchases high-resolution multispectral satellite imagery from a variety of worldwide sources.  
+
Belesian’s anti-defamation laws keeps the print media, radio, and television networks in check. As long as these entities do not break public decency laws or spew anti-government stories, the BIA leaves them alone. Thus, most of the private entities self-censor in order to keep the Belesian government out of their business. 
  
−
=== Measurement and Signatures Intelligence ===
+
=== Non-Government Entity Censorship ===
−
Belesia has no established MASINT systems.
+
For the most part, there are no non-government entities that attempt to censor the information flow in Belesia. The one exception may be in rural areas where traditional norms may prevent one from really speaking their mind. Anyone that breaks with the “group speak” may find themselves being shunned by others in the village.
  
 +
== Cyberspace ==
  
 +
=== Strengths ===
 +
The Belesian government and the rich have embraced the information age and are trying to drag the rest of country with them into the future. As such, the Belesia military will have access to some technological features. While not the latest technology, the Belesian military may have pockets of new technology available for some weapon systems.
  
 +
=== Vulnerabilities ===
 +
The more that Belesia becomes involved with the Information Age, the more likely that users will be susceptible to cyberattack from outsiders. If new Belesian users try to cut corners to obtain the latest technology without using property security procedures, this only makes them more susceptible to cyberattacks. North Torbia has been known to attack foreign banks to steal funds and therefore, Belesia financial institutions will need to be prepared to meet such threats.
  
 +
=== OE Specific Challenges ===
 +
The biggest challenge in Belesia may be finding individuals with the right skill sets to work for the US or other Western military that comes into the country in its defense against an outside attack.  Often, locals are used to support the logistical effort including those that track orders and shipments. In many cases local contracted businesses may be dependent upon low quality technology to facilitate operations. Integration of these lower quality technological systems may present challenges with interoperability, and could lead to a higher level of security risks due to vulnerabilities related to cyber-crime and cyber-attacks. 
  
−
{{:Pacific Linkbox}}
 
 
[[Category:DATE]]
 
[[Category:DATE]]
 
[[Category:Pacific]]
 
[[Category:Pacific]]
 
[[Category:Belesia]]
 
[[Category:Belesia]]
 
[[Category:Information]]
 
[[Category:Information]]

Latest revision as of 15:46, 17 December 2020

DATE Pacific > Belesia > Information: Belesia ←You are here

Contents

Information Overview

Belesia’s information sharing and management is very progressive. The government and population seized on the opportunities that technological advancement offers to enhance quality of life. Fifteen years ago, the government instituted the Belesia Technology Institute (BTI) to direct the development of information technology. BTI actively conducts information, communications, and technology (ICT) programs to achieve the goal of developing a regionally competitive communications sector. Government programs support many sectors, including government regulatory support, science and technology education, business, and technology development and implementation. BTI established and maintains the country’s social media presence using the applications popular not only with Belesia’s population but also with the region at large. This is no small task considering the vast number of languages, dialects, and cultural nuances.

Onset of Information Age

Belesia like many other developing Asian countries, experienced a rapid onset of technology. Many Belesians, especially those in the rural areas, jumped from having no technology in their home other than a radio or television to being a smart phone user. Belesians are accepting the technological changes as fast as they come. While older Belesians may only use their smart phones to contact their families or share photographs of their grandchildren

Contemporary Situation

Recent government reforms abolished government censorship of internet news and information sharing. In addition, passage of laws supporting e-commerce and digital signatures contributed to one of the most active e-government and e-commerce sectors in the Pacific region. The government, launched initiatives with the business sector to develop the country’s mobile service network as rapidly as possible, an essential factor given the archipelagic nature of Belesia. They successfully implemented a 3G mobile broadband service despite the lack of intervening 2G infrastructure. The government was able to institute this advanced communication technology while supporting development by private network providers.

Recent government support and testing of mesh network systems granted internet access to the majority of Belesia’s population. Implementation of mesh networks throughout the country also improved internet security thanks to the system’s embedded network security hardware and firmware. Low-cost data packages and mobile phones are quickly becoming ubiquitous throughout the country. The government’s emphasis and support of connectivity puts the country on-pace to surpass South Torbia as the leading internet and mobile phone using country on the continent.

Information Industries

Information Products (Content Industries)

News Media

While some news media outlets are controlled by the Belesian government since they are government-owned television and radio stations, there are enough independent news sources that there the government is under scrutiny by outsiders. While the government may arrest journalists for attack stories, but normally the courts free them before or during any trial.

Entertainment Media

A growing entertainment industry is developing within Belesia with independent filmmakers trying to gain a foothold. Most Belesian television viewers can access foreign networks from Olvana, South Torbia, and other counties either through local cable networks or more likely—satellite. Belesians are also viewing on their home computers and smart phones the various feeds available including short-term series programming.

Social Media

Most Belesians between the ages of 10 and 40 and living in urban areas have a presence on social media. Older urban residents continue to join social media at an ever-increasing pace even if it is just to communicate with their relatives or see photographs. Rural residents are slightly behind, but as internet access continues to grow so will their social media presence will also grow. Younger Belesians are always looking for the next big thing on social media and continue to jump to a new platform when their parents discover the current social media fad. Their children move to another in order to try to maintain some privacy from their parents. Belesians under 40 are more likely to get their news and information from their phone or internet instead of the traditional forms such as print, radio, or television.

Information Services

Financial Institutions

Most major Belesian companies are fully invested in the digital age using computers, the internet, and other applications in the work environment. Each day, more small businesses are becoming digitalized so cell phone users can find them and access their website. Then, the user can either visit the business in person or purchase items electronically. Of course, there is a price with becoming digital and it leaves opportunities for hackers to access a company’s date or even steal for the company. North Torbia has been known to hack into neighboring countries’ businesses including those in Belesia.

Control/Regulation

The government has laws that regulate the financial institutions, but Belesia tries to keep regulation to a minimum. Belesia believes that the fewer laws and regulations, the easier it is for an individual without many resources to open a new business. Belesia is an excellent place for entrepreneurs to reside and attempt to find a new ways to obtain wealth.

Medical System

Description: Belesia is moving towards maintaining medical records electronically. This is already being done at urban hospitals and by city doctors. However, rural communities are severely lagging behind, particularly those that are on islands requiring ferry’s to access services. The Belesian government is trying to encourage the rural doctors to go electronically, but spotty internet access and tradition often gets in the way.

Control/Regulation

The Belesia government has passed laws that makes it illegal for people to access others medical records without proper authorization. Each adult Belesian controls their medical history and records. They determine if relatives are allowed access. For minors, parents or their legal guardians have access to medical records.

Legal/Criminal Records

The Belesian government is in the process of digitalizing all legal and criminal records. They are starting with the cases and working backwards. Right now, they have digitized records back a decade. This is an expensive project and additional digitalization requires funding that is sporadic from the national legislature.

Control/Regulation

Each local police station is responsible for inputting new case information into the database as the crimes occur. Once in the system, other law enforcement personnel and those in the judicial system can access the records. Local input reduces the cost on the federal government, but makes it difficult to determine any quality control issues. Anyone with access to the system could abuse it to find out information for nefarious purposes such as stalking a woman.

Navigation

Navigation (Global Positioning): Belesia uses global navigation satellite systems in support of many programs. Notable among them is the long-running effort to forecast severe weather events, flooding, earthquake, and tsunami danger. Belesia is a member of the Pacific Meteorological and Oceanographic Consortium, and collaborates on projects with South Torbia and Olvana. Most of these systems are from other countries as Belesia has limited space capabilities. Belesia usually uses Western satellites for GPS. With the recent completion of the Olvanan Navigation System, the regional player is pressuring Belesia and other countries in the region to start using their.

Belesia military forces currently use the American Global Positioning System for guidance and limited targeting. The government continues to work with the European Space Agency as a partner in the group focused on deployment of the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS) by 2020. EGNOS upgrades will improve signal reliability, thereby reducing susceptibility to spoofing or jamming.

Control/Regulation

The Belesian government is responsible to obtain the necessary connections to any global positioning system that the people are allowed to access from any electronic device.

Electromagnetic Spectrum Management (Radio Frequency)

Belesia is trying to emulate South Torbia in its electromagnetic spectrum management procedures by reserving certain frequencies for government use. The most recent example of copying South Torbian practices is that about two years ago Belesia auctioned off the frequencies from the 3.5GHz and 28 Ghz bands so commercial vendors could install 5G service in the country. 5G presently covers less than 5% of Belesia, but that is expected to grow to 50% over the next decade. 5G towers are being built creating a faster, cheaper, and better communications network. Belesia has yet to auction off the frequencies in the 6 Ghz band from 5925 to 7125 waiting to see the effects in other countries such as the US, Olvana, and South Torbia.

Control/Regulation

Belesia aims to strictly regulate how the electromagnetic spectrum operates within its borders. Sometimes North Torbia’s attempt to jam South Torbian frequencies causes issues in Belesia. As North Torbia seldom jams the frequencies for a long period of time, this does not have long term effects on Belesia.

Information Distribution

Belesia demonstrates a dichotomy when it comes to information distribution depending on whether the individual lives in an urban or rural setting. In urban areas, television and radio is rapidly being taken over by computer and other electronic methods. In rural areas, the primary method of information distribution is word of mouth supplemented by radio or print media. In other words, rural residents receive information, for the most part, the same way they did a half-century ago.

Internet

Belesia’s urban population is rapidly becoming technically adept, with a growing interest in the opportunities offered by electronic financial transfers, social media, and data mining. The growth of 3G broadband cellular availability and dropping costs of data packages is responsible for rapid growth in internet use by Belesians. 5G coverage in the future will only continue to spur the growth. The last statistics available show the internet penetration rate at 35% with a projected growth rate of 10% annually. This growth and penetration percentage puts Belesia on par with or surpassing South Torbia in the next 10 years.

Infrastructure Support

Using submarine cables and an expanding fiber-optic backbone network, there are a dozen public and private internet service providers (ISPs) competing in the communications business sector. Each of the major islands has a cable terminal, with branches servicing neighboring smaller islands. Leyte is connected to the South Torbia-Olvana submarine backbone, while the southern islands connect to a trans-Pacific cable terminating in the United States. This arrangement generally provides reliable service. A notable exception to this connectivity is the Sulu Archipelago between Borneo and Mindanao. Communication is limited to cellular telephone, marine and shortwave radio.

Control/Regulation

While the Belesia government has an office, Belesia Information Agency (BIA), responsible for internet regulation, their hands off approach is similar to that of South Torbia. As long as the internet activity does not threaten Belesian government interests, it is allowed. Anti-defamation laws apply to websites in the same manner as they do for print media, the degree of anonymity related to publishing information online and utilization of foreign sources to create content makes these laws more difficult to enforce online.

Television

Television remains a leading media product, with access found in 70% of current households, especially in the urban areas. Rural areas often receive television by satellite, but the penetration is still not as deep as in the urban areas. Private network broadcasts provide separate entertainment focused mostly on sports and variety shows

Infrastructure Support

Broadcast facilities and transmitters remain under government control and service two national and one private network. The networks support a chain of 40 stations throughout the country. The viewing public also has direct access to regional and international satellite television programming.

Control/Regulation

Control/Regulation: The same Belesian office that is responsible for the internet is also responsible for the regulation of television. The BITA allows almost anything on the airwaves as long as it meets the country’s decency standards and is not anti-government.

Radio

Despite the influence of the internet and television in Belesia, the radio still plays an important role. The radio is often on in the background in many houses while the family goes about their daily activities. This is probably truer in rural Belesia than in the urban areas.

Infrastructure Support

BTel operates the broadcast system for four national radio networks, fifteen regional radio stations, and five privately owned stations. These radio stations are both on both AM and FM frequencies. There are some ham radio operators licensed by the government and are often used during natural disasters when other communications means are not possible between the islands due to typhoon or other damage.

Control/Regulation

The BIA not only regulates the internet and television, but the radio waves as well. As long as decency standards are met by the stations and they do not offer up any anti-government rhetoric, the stations are free to operate. All the government radio stations and most of the private stations receive national and regional news from the Belesia News Agency. The private stations are more likely to cover international news stories, however, than the government owned network system.

Print

Print media continues to be a strong source of Information in Belesia with each of the major islands publishing at least one daily newspapers. Print media continues its historic role in Belesia as a bastion of truth. Newspapers routinely criticize all levels of the Belesian government, as well as the governments of other countries. Publishers and journalists hold an ethos that they seek and report facts and not opinion, even when unpopular with the government. The Belesian people hold the print media in high regard and readily launch demonstrations calling for a journalist’s release when incarcerated for political reporting.

Infrastructure Support

Due to the island nature of Belesia, the newspapers are published locally on the larger islands and distributed throughout that island. Journalists in Belesia are embracing digital channels for information delivery to the public. The number of print newspapers that now have a presence online continues to grow exponentially. It is likely that within a couple of years, every print newspaper in Belesia will have either added a web presence or will likely to have folded.

Control/Regulation

The BIA is not only responsible for electronic media regulation, but print media as well. When the BIA first began, its primary focus was on print media. Due to the increased workload in the electronics age, the BIA gives the print media a lot less attention than before. This sometimes leads to something slipping by the BIA that could be construed as anti-government. When this has happened, the government has occasionally arrested print journalists for refusing to reveal sources, usually within the government, for these anti-government stories. The courts, however, predictably dismiss the charges once the case comes to trial.

Telephone/Telecommunications

Belesia followed the same path as many other island countries and jumped directly to mobile phone service, bypassing landlines as the main communications means. BTI initiated the program for commercial 3G/LTE licenses for mobile service. The mobile 3G/LTE market skyrocketed after the initial offering to reach a subscription rate of 452 per 1000 of the population. The subscriber rate continues to grow as the service providers expand the infrastructure to support their networks. 

The rapid expansion of mobile phone use is made possible by the availability of prepaid Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) cards. Initially, the government required little in the way of documentation of SIM card sales, creating a huge market of small SIM card sellers to appear throughout the country. As it became apparent that limited regulation would lead to misuse and abuse, SIM registration requirements were established. A mandatory registration program went into effect to capture and document identification information of all paid and prepaid SIM card users. The program instituted a one-month grace period with a cut-off date for completion of registration. After that date, the government forced all mobile service providers in Belesia to cut-off service to unregistered SIM cards. 

            While the intent of the program was to reduce fraud and crime associated with unregistered SIM cards, it actually had several negative effects. Many users were unceremoniously cut-off because of poor program administration. This resulted in lengthy adjudication and a growing public anger. Public outcry led to distrust over security of user information and the government’s access. Finally, the program caused a black market to spring up for purchase of fraudulent or stolen SIM cards. Criminal elements in Belesia found the black market to be lucrative in both the sale of the SIM cards and identity theft.

Infrastructure Support

The mobile phone market is expected to show double-digit growth over the next 5 years. The public is rapidly dropping their hard-wired phones to adopt low-cost mobile units supplied by both international and national service providers. The activation of Belesian satellite service supporting internet access will result in increased competition and is expected to reduce the cost of access by as much as 60%. Cellular towers are present throughout Belesia, but service may be spotty on some of the smaller, less populated islands. The future construction of the 5G network will continue to increase the accessibility of the rural population to cellular telephone and the internet.

Control/Regulation

Similar to South Torbia, personal use of mobile telephones is not subject to regulation by the Belesian government. The BIA is also responsible for regulating the telephone service providers. Based on previous Belesian Supreme Court decisions, the BIA regularly obtains phone records for criminal investigations from service providers to use by government prosecutors.

Postal/Carrier

Belesia’s postal system (BelPost) offers not only letter and package delivery but also financial services. At the onset of mobile phone growth, there were approximately 4 million Belesians with bank accounts through their local post office. Integration of e-finance services via mobile phones resulted in significant growth of on-line accounts.

BelPost is a relatively reliable service provider with a good track record of delivery and accountability. Public perception is that the postal service is a trustworthy government agency and there is little corruption among the postal employees. The government’s direct investment to establish the necessary network connections focused on reliability and security firmly establishes BelPost as a key information service provider for the population. The only negative for BelPost is the sometimes slow parcel delivery, although the public correctly attributes this to the poor road infrastructure rather than to any fault of BelPost.

Infrastructure Support

BelPost and private delivery services are present throughout all Belesian urban areas and make deliveries directly to the destination address. In some rural areas, BelPost will deliver directly to the address. In the most remote parts of Belesia, BelPost will drop off mail and packages to a central location. Recipients will either pick up the package or a neighbor passing by will take the mail/package to the addressee.

Control/Regulation

The Belesia government regulates BelPost. Since BelPost operates a banking system, this regulation is through the financial sector. BelPost has a reputation for good service with integrity.

Oral Communication

Among many families and tribes in Belesia, word of mouth is still the most trusted information medium, facilitated between islands by constant small boat traffic. Belesians, however, are quickly assimilating new communication abilities offered by the internet and mobile phone technology so word of mouth is starting to lose its standing in information exchange. Belesians now have greater access to information, with many accepting internet content without question its validity. Some pockets within the country continue to rely on word of mouth; the strongest are religious groups, trade unions, and tribal groups.

Infrastructure Support

Standard methods, but facilitated in Belesia by small boat travel between various islands.

Control/Regulation

Belesian anti-defamation laws also apply to oral communication as well. Enforcement is very difficult as it is often hard to prove defamatory speech. It often breaks down to hearsay with one person and their witnesses against another person and their witnesses. This means that defamatory speech is rarely prosecuted in Belesia.

Satellite

The Belesian government operates no satellites of its own. They purchase all its imaging and communications services from the private section and its security partners. South Torbia is the major benefactor of Belesia’s satellite service use. Belesia’s proximity to the equator has made it a frequent target for real estate acquisition for corporations looking to construct ground control stations.

Infrastructure Support

Currently Belesia has none of its own satellite infrastructure, either in space or on the ground. Several countries have bought or leased land in Belesia to operate satellite monitoring stations and/or control stations.

Control/Regulation

Currently, there are no Belesian agency responsible for control or the regulation of satellites in the country. There have been discussions at the highest level regarding whether Belesia should launch its own satellite through a partner country such as South Torbia or to create its own space agency. So far, these discussions have not gone beyond the visionary phase.

Internet of Things

Belesia is embracing technology and in parts of the country—the urban areas—there are more interconnected digital products each day. Basically, Belesia is about five years behind South Torbia but catching up fast. Those in the highest socio-economic groups have grasped the capability of the “smart phone” with Wi-Fi, Blue Tooth, and other enabled appliances that can be controlled using a cellular telephone. Even those not as wealthy in the urban areas are being inundated with smart phone technology. While higher quality items are designed with more protections, less expensive and more widely available models may have a number of vulnerabilities that could be exploited by those with nefarious intents. 

                                    The internet of things also plays a role in public projects and newer infrastructure developments, with things as common as traffic and street lights are being digitized and interconnected. The influence and impact of the internet of things on daily lives of urban Belesians can be seen in things as simple as a daily commute using one of the bus routes through a city. Commuters can use their smart phones to identify where a specific bus may be on its route, estimate the times of arrival for each stop, and also see how many seats are available on the bus. All this is enabled through smart phone applications used to create user specific accounts, pay for passes, and use the Blue Tooth and Wi-Fi when and where a rider gets on and off the bus.

Infrastructure Support

Belesia has looked at what has happened in South Torbia and understands the potential for the convergence of smart technologies and public works for streamlining urban development. Using real time analytics, empowered by machine learning, Belesia hopes to reduce costs, trim maintenance requirements, and overcome many of the challenges associated with rapid development and urbanization.

Control/Regulation

All of these technological advances also come with a degree of risk and vulnerability. The Belesian government has sought to reduce its mistakes by sending teams to South Torbia to study the successes and failures there. Currently, the BIA is also responsible for any control or regulation associated with the internet of things. The BIA is overwhelmed and not only needs an increase in manpower, but with a workforce with the necessary skills in this age of technology. Similar to South Torbia, the Belesian government will need to balance regulation around this technology with an almost universal desire within the government to create an economic boom.

Information Cohorts (Information Consumpiton)

Cohort: Information Age Heavy Users

These are the Belesians, typically upper-middle class and above who live in urban areas, which have embraced the information age. They see technology as the future and that eventually Belesia will be like South Torbia, the US, and Western Europe. These individuals are likely quick to adopt trends coming from overseas that they have seen online. Their ability to be constantly on the internet, either by using a computer or a smart phone, and shapes not only how they go about their daily lives, but also how they interact with each other.  Older Belesians may look down upon them, criticizing them for being glued to technology, but tech savvy Belesians have demonstrated time and again how they are able to use tech to organize and mobilize large groups of people. A subset of this group are those that work in government and are working to make sure that all new construction will embrace the information age. The cost of new technology can be prohibitive for most Belesians, therefore lower quality and imitation products that are significantly cheaper are often widely sought after.

Biases

Their primary biases are against those that do not see the benefits of the technology age. Whatever the reason such as tradition or cost, the Information Users, think the cost now will actually be cheaper in the long run.

Perceived Antagonist Cohorts

Their antagonists are those within Belesia unwilling to embrace the future and are still living in the past.

Media Engagement

The Information Age Heavy Users are no longer reading newspapers, watching television, or listening to the radio to receive their news. Instead, they are receiving their news from international websites on their smart phone or watching news features on a variety of channels on the internet or smart phone.

Presence/Activity in Cyberspace

This group willingly participates in Cyberspace activities and cannot get enough. They are constantly upgrading their phone and purchasing new technology. They work for large businesses where they use computers on a daily basis while staying updated on social media via the internet or smart phone.

Cohort: Information Age Light Users

These are the Belesians that use electronic media, but have not fully embraced it. They have access to the internet at their office, at school, or the local library. The light users see the benefits of technology, but are scared of all its capabilities and/or the cost of the equipment. While the light users may check out the internet during the day at work, they cannot afford a smart phone or the other latest electronic technology. While they may have access to the internet, it does not have a ubiquitous presence within their lives.

Biases

Their primary biases are against the heavy users as they do not seem to understand that while this group wants to embrace the new technology, they cannot do it because of financial reasons. The light users understand while the other cohorts are not using the technology, primarily because they cannot afford to do so. Additionally, since they are not constantly influenced by information communication technology, they may be more trusting of information presented to them through television or the radio, rather than through purely online sources.

Perceived Antagonist Cohorts

Due to the fact that this cohort is perhaps most appropriately defined by socio-economic status, it may be more common for them to have a degree of distrust targeted at individuals from higher socio-economic classes.

Media Engagement

While in the office, the light users may get their news from the internet. Outside the office, the light users primarily engage with the media via the television or radio.

Presence/Activity in Cyberspace

The light users group engages in cyberspace mainly through access to the internet in their place of business. Outside of work, they do not have the means to engage in cyberspace activities.

Cohort: Urban Poor

These are the Belesians that live in the urban areas and do not have access to any electronic devices at their worksite. This is probably 50% of the urban population. Some of their children may have access to digital age through a computer at school, but most will not. They do not yet have the financial means to join the digital age.

Biases

Their primary biases are against the rich who they believe do not understand them. These Belesians are not poor because they are lazy, but because they do not have the opportunities to obtain a better position.

Perceived Antagonist Cohorts

The urban poor’s main antagonist are the rich (heavy information users) who they perceive as unsympathetic to their situation. The urban poor believe that the rich do not understand their situation and most of them are doing the best they can with the life they have been dealt.

Media Engagement

The urban poor receive most of their information from the television and radio. To a lesser extent, they may receive information from the print media.

Presence/Activity in Cyberspace

Not active in cyberspace.

Cohort: Rural Populations

These are the Belesians that live in the rural areas and do not have access to computers, the internet, or other pieces of the Information Age. The children of these people are unlikely to have access to computers or the internet at their schools either. In many cases these populations are on islands and separated from other communities by significant distances and water. 

Biases

Individuals described by this cohort are likely from tight knit communities who are more trusting of familiar sources of information, Outsiders, particularly those who they are unable to relate to, are often met with distrust. These Belesians do not view their circumstances as being unfortunate, instead they are likely to be happy to be able to sustain a living without having to leave their communities.

Perceived Antagonist Cohorts

The rural people’s main antagonists are those in the urban areas, especially wealthy individuals with whom they have little in common with.

Media Engagement

The urban poor receive most of their information from word of mouth supplemented by the radio and in some cases satellite television.

Presence/Activity in Cyberspace

Not active in cyberspace.

Information Suppression

Relative speaking, Belesia has lower information suppression than neighboring countries.

Government Censorship

Partial government control of radio, television and internet continues with a strong focus on using the full capabilities of the various ICTs to advance Belesia’s economy as rapidly as possible. The control is officially limited to development and maintenance of the infrastructure, not the information content itself. Compliance by government leaders with the country’s anti-censorship laws continues to be effective in maintaining the guaranteed freedom of speech established by the constitution.

Public (Popular) Censorship

Belesian’s anti-defamation laws keeps the print media, radio, and television networks in check. As long as these entities do not break public decency laws or spew anti-government stories, the BIA leaves them alone. Thus, most of the private entities self-censor in order to keep the Belesian government out of their business. 

Non-Government Entity Censorship

For the most part, there are no non-government entities that attempt to censor the information flow in Belesia. The one exception may be in rural areas where traditional norms may prevent one from really speaking their mind. Anyone that breaks with the “group speak” may find themselves being shunned by others in the village.

Cyberspace

Strengths

The Belesian government and the rich have embraced the information age and are trying to drag the rest of country with them into the future. As such, the Belesia military will have access to some technological features. While not the latest technology, the Belesian military may have pockets of new technology available for some weapon systems.

Vulnerabilities

The more that Belesia becomes involved with the Information Age, the more likely that users will be susceptible to cyberattack from outsiders. If new Belesian users try to cut corners to obtain the latest technology without using property security procedures, this only makes them more susceptible to cyberattacks. North Torbia has been known to attack foreign banks to steal funds and therefore, Belesia financial institutions will need to be prepared to meet such threats.

OE Specific Challenges

The biggest challenge in Belesia may be finding individuals with the right skill sets to work for the US or other Western military that comes into the country in its defense against an outside attack.  Often, locals are used to support the logistical effort including those that track orders and shipments. In many cases local contracted businesses may be dependent upon low quality technology to facilitate operations. Integration of these lower quality technological systems may present challenges with interoperability, and could lead to a higher level of security risks due to vulnerabilities related to cyber-crime and cyber-attacks.

Retrieved from "http://odin.ttysg.us/mediawiki/index.php?title=Information:_Belesia&oldid=42014"