Political: Arnland

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Political Overview

Arnland is a multi‐party democratic republic with open elections. While there are now currently six political parties with varied representation in the National Assembly (NA; Alltinget in Arnish), two political parties have dominated the political landscape in Arnland for the past 25 years. These two parties are Arnland Prosperity Party (APP) representing the center‐right and the Arnland Socialist Party (ASP) representing the social democrat segment of the population. The new constitution was ratified 24 years ago.

Government: Arnland’s unicameral NA consists of 135 seats which are held by members of multiple parties; a "first past the post" system determines the composition of the representation. All members of the NA serve four‐year terms. The President is the Head of State and is elected by an electoral college made up from the six Arnish counties (län). The Prime Minister is appointed from the majority party in the NA and has two deputies who assist him in leading the Executive Branch of the government and ensuring influence and oversight of the Legislative Branch.

Population: Arns generally lack confidence in the government institutions and officials due to the ineffectiveness of the State. When asked about the effectiveness of the president, the NA, their governor, their mayor, and their city/village councils, more Arns are of the opinion that these institutions are not effective than that are of the opinion that they are effective. On average, the people of Arnland do not perceive the government as a useful source of assistance. Within the last 12 months, about two thirds of Arns did not turn to municipal, police, social welfare departments, or employment centers, considering it unproductive and a waste of time and effort. Instead, neighborhood assistance, family, or local connections proved to be the best way to get out of troubles or when in need of any help. The Arnish social support system has sufficient resources to address social needs. But it does so poorly, due to the lack of centrally overseen funds distribution and corruption on all levels of power.

Foreign Relations: Diplomatic relations with most countries.

Legal System: Civil law.

International Agreements: Arnland is a member of the United Nations (UN) and a signatory to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which was ratified in 1994. It is a member of the GBCC, but announced its withdrawal recently.

Historical Summary

The Skolkan Empire coalesced slowly during the late 14th and early 15th Centuries, expanding and contracting as circumstances permitted. In its heyday in the mid‐19th Century, it comprised all of what are now the countries of Arnland, Framland, Bothnia, and Otso, and had over lordship of Norway. Periodically, the Skolkan Empire attempted to extend its power into Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, but its influence was always tenuous and despite the expenditure of considerable effort and resources, never amounted to much.

Toward the end of the 19th century, it became more and more obvious that the cohesion among the Skolkan nations was rapidly degrading. Arnland felt that its contribution to the Skolkan Empire far exceeded the return. Consequently Arnish leaders raised their voices strongly for independence. These arguments were reinforced as Framland declared independence, and finally Arnland followed on 11 December 1917.

In the first years of independence, Arnland kept the political structure inherited from Torrike. Alexander the First (Optimistic Alexander) was elected as the first king of Arnland. Arnland had a fairly strong economy based on agriculture, forestry, and fisheries. Arnland was at that time self‐sufficient, and had good relations with Germany, Poland, Denmark, and the Baltic countries. Fish and agricultural products that in former times were consumed in the Skolkan Empire (mainly Torrike) became important export articles, and Arnland’s main source of income. Alexander ruled for 13 years until the monarchy was abolished in 1931 after a communist state coup.

The global economic crisis in the 1930s had a dramatic effect on Arnland. The economy collapsed, and people lost confidence in the government. Arnland had also neglected the technological development that took place in the rest of Europe, which also contributed to economic decay as Arnland no longer was able to compete on the European market.

During World War II, Arnland maintained its neutrality. After the war the Communist Party, through a combination of ruthlessness, effective control of the State Security Services, and strategic alliances, managed to preserve Arnland's territorial integrity. Arnland adhered to a strict communist philosophy. During this period, the governing elite enriched themselves at the cost of ordinary people. This resulted in increased poverty in the country as a whole. Anger and mistrust in the government ultimately led to the assassination of the Communist Party leader on 1 May 1991 and the subsequent violent fall of communism in Arnland in that same year.

Although Arnland reorganized itself into a multiparty democracy in 1992, Arns were extremely wary of creating a government structure that centralized power. Their fear of returning to a system where regional interests were ignored at the expense of the political elite caused them to create a Republic that balanced power across national and regional lines. Further, it placed the judicial power with the Presidency, the executive power with the Prime Minister and the Government, and the legislative power with the National Assembly.

Arnland sought closer ties with the rest of Europe in order to improve economic conditions. It instituted a government structure that would facilitate Arnland's need for foreign investment in the nation's financial future. Arnland‘s efforts to overcome its historical isolation and underdevelopment saw it make initial strides in the areas of public infrastructure and public services as its fragile democratic structures were developing. During this transitional period from 1992‐1996, the center‐right Arnland Prosperity Party (APP) formed the government.

However, without the experienced structures and processes in place to provide proper oversight of these efforts, both legitimate and illegitimate business entities at the county level exploited these opportunities, and a system of corruption and organized crime took root. Government agencies did not have enough depth or span of control to oversee government spending, and national government efficiency and effectiveness was perceived by the population to be nonexistent.

In 2008, the Arnland Socialist Party (ASP) formed a minority government, passing government legislation based upon support from other parties on an issue-by-issue basis. This created a delicate balance of power in the NA. The ASP pledged to fight crime and corruption, decrease the size and scope of government, and promote economic growth by exploring membership in the European Union (EU). The Arnland Prosperity Party regained control of the Presidency. Corruption, regional influence, and manipulation of the political and legal systems remained firmly rooted in the daily lives of Arns. The lack of a cohesive will, and the adherence to party and individual interests caused the executive and legislative branches of the government to struggle to bring about real reform in its efforts to demonstrate to the EU and other international organizations that it was ready to be taken seriously.

The result of the election two years ago saw the Arnland Socialist Party (ASP), with a reduced percentage of the vote, and decreased number of seats, again formed a government, but this time on a more formal coalition footing with the Social Democratic Party and Arnland Communist Party to gain an overall majority of two seats in the NA. Corruption continues to permeate the Government, which failed to deliver on its previous pledges of fighting crime and corruption, reducing central government control, and improving services on a national scale. Linked to this were allegations of possible vote rigging but as yet nothing has been proved. On the positive side, the Government continued to explore its aspiration of EU membership following initial negotiations in 2012, though it was unable to enter into a Stabilization and Association Agreement. This is an issue that is causing a significant rift between the Prime Minister and the President, who also secured a second and final term in 2016. This was coupled with the increasingly powerful role of key county governors (landshövding) of Skåne, Jönköping, and Kalmar (See Regional Administrative section).

Strategic Aim

Arnland seeks to maintain its independence and neutrality while simultaneously working to become a member of the European Union (EU).

Constitutional Framework

In an effort to safeguard these ideals and the future of its democracy, Arns established a republic that physically separated the responsibility for executive, legislative, and judicial functions. They further attempted to protect their form of government by requiring a 75% vote in the NA to change the constitution. While the powers of government are physically separated, the articles and processes established to enable government actually served to cripple it. Instead they succeeded in placing the real power in the dispersed regions at the county level without effective national checks and balances.

The President, as Chair of the Council of High Justice, uses his position to directly influence the local and regional affairs rather than through the ineffective and inefficient national government apparatus. In doing so, he is seen to be more responsive to the needs of the people and their local and county initiatives than the government. As an individual, his office is most effective when it undermines the other branches of the government and responds to these local interest groups. His control of the High Council of Justice and the Supreme Court enables him to thwart attempts by the executive and legislative branches to re‐balance power or to modify the laws otherwise.

Central Structure

Central Structure of the Arnland Government

Head of State

The head of State in Arnland is the President of the Republic. The President, not necessarily a member of the political establishment, is elected by the people of Arnland every four years through an electoral college. This is based upon representation in "clusters" of five or so electoral districts; there are 35 of these larger electoral districts across the six Counties in Arnland—Skåne seven votes, Jönköping, Halland, and Blekinge six each, Kalmar and Kronoberg five each. Arns vote for party candidates in their political district to represent them nationally. The President is eligible to stand for re‐election once. Following a term out of office, the President may stand for election again with the same restrictions on re‐election. After a period of eight years out of office, the current President is again serving as the President of the Republic in his second term.

The President is charged with ensuring that the Constitution and all laws are complied with. Constitutionally, he is further charged with the following:

1. Approves the appointment of the Prime Minister (Chairman of the Council of Ministers) from the political party with the most seats in the NA and all of the members of the Council of Ministers;
2. Authority for appointing the Attorney General;
3. Authority for appointing the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court and all Supreme Court Justices;
4. Chairs the High Council of Justices;
5. Serves as the ceremonial Commander in Chief of the Arnish Armed Forces in peacetime; and
6. Serves as the Commander in Chief of the Arnish Armed Forces in a state of emergency as decreed by the NA. There are two types of states of emergency:
   1. A non‐military emergency situation that is a governmental declaration, enforced in case of a natural disaster or civil unrest. It also delegates certain powers to the county governors in cases of civil emergency.
   2. A military state of emergency, debated in the NA, but which can only be enforced by the President. The military comes under the control of the President. The civilian population is subject to strict regulations, imposed by the type of emergency. All private and public non‐crucial activities are suspended. Essential services might be disrupted. This situation can be enforced in extreme circumstances, such as war.

Branches of Government

Executive

The Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers (cabinet) exercise the executive power in Arnland. The Prime Minister is appointed by the President from the political party with the most seats in the NA. All of the members of the Council are appointed by the President on the basis of the Prime Minister's recommendation. In practice this has tended to be a formality, but in the event that there is a political split between President and Prime Minister, it gives the President the opportunity to influence the executive power of the government.

Council of Ministers

The Council of Ministers directs and controls the activities of the ministries and other state institutions.

Arnland Council of Ministers

Legislative

The National Assembly (NA; Alltinget) consists of 135 seats and is elected based upon a "first past the post" system. Parties run candidates in electoral districts and successful individuals serve four‐year terms. With the exception of votes on constitutional amendments, all votes in the NA are based upon a simple majority.

The NA performs the following functions:

• Power to modify the Arnland Constitution with a 75% majority vote of the entire National Assembly
• Debates the direction of domestic policy (to include normative ministerial and government agency acts, regulations, and orders)
• Debates the direction of foreign policy based upon recommendations from the Council of Ministers
• Enacts domestic laws and ratifies international treaties
• Declares states of emergency as required in times of national or regional crisis

Judicial

When the republic was created, Arns sought to further safeguard their new democratic process by constitutionally embodying the judicial power in one body of the government and the executive and legislative powers in another. Although the Judiciary was meant to be controlled by the President, Arns ensured that there were processes and procedures defined in the Constitution to protect against creating a dictatorial regime.

The Constitution provides that all citizens enjoy the right to a fair, speedy, and public trial; however, limited material resources in many instances prevent the court system from processing cases in a timely fashion. If convicted, the accused has the right to appeal the decision within 10 days to the Courts of Appeal.

The assignment of cases to judicial panels at all levels of the judicial system is done by lottery according to procedures provided by law.

As there are no jury trials under the Arnish system of justice, a panel of three judges renders court verdicts.

In September 2006, Arnland ratified Protocol No.6 to the European Convention on Human Rights, abolishing the death penalty for peacetime offenses, but has yet to ratify Protocol 13 for the complete abolition of the death penalty despite pressure from the Arnland Supreme Court.

The Composition of the Court System of Arnland

High Council of Justice. The High Council of Justice is composed of nine members. Three members on the High Council of Justice hold seats based upon the office they represent: the President of the Republic (Chair), the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, and the Minister of Justice. The other six seats are allocated to each of the six counties, and are appointed by the President of the Republic from the County Courts of Appeal, based upon the governor's recommendation. They are appointed for four-year terms and are not restricted in their rights to seek re‐appointment. The High Council of Justice is responsible for selecting and disciplining the judges for the courts subordinate to the Supreme Court.

Supreme Court. The Supreme Court is the highest court in Arnland. The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court and the 17 judges of the Court are appointed by the President to four-year terms without restrictions on subsequent re‐appointment. The appointments, however, must be confirmed by the NA. The Supreme Court is split into three panels: Constitutional, Civil, and Criminal. The constitutional panel is chaired by the Chief Justice and serves to judge the constitutionality of all Arnish laws. The criminal panel tries military and criminal cases and the civil panel tries commercial, administrative, family, labor cases, etc. Military personnel are also subject to military law under the Military Act of 1992. The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, after taking the opinion of the judges, can move cases from one panel to the other. Decisions of the Supreme Court are proclaimed, along with the reasoning behind the decision, no later than 30 days from the date of the termination of the judicial examination.

Courts of Appeal. Each of the six counties of Arnland has a Court of Appeal. The Courts of Appeal review decisions of the Courts of First Instance in all matters. These courts sit in panels of three judges. Judges of the Courts of Appeal are nominated by the High Council of Justice and appointed by the President.

Courts of First Instance. The Courts of First Instance work according to rules provided in the Codes of Civil and Criminal Law. The territorial jurisdiction of each Court is defined by a Decree of the President of the Republic, based on the recommendation of the High Council of Justice. The Courts are aptly named as "Courts of First Instance,” as they are responsible for initially hearing all forms of legal cases regardless of their nature.

Regional Administration

Most Arns believe strongly in moving away from their communist past and its centralized government structure, which ignored regional priorities, to one that acknowledges local and individual identities and provides opportunities for their success within a national government structure. To date progress has been slow, helping to fuel social unrest. The six Counties in Arnland are: Skåne, Jönköping, Halland, Blekinge, Kalmar and Kronoberg.

Domestic Policies

Arnland outwardly represents itself as a modern democratic republic providing equality for all of its citizens through a nationally driven, regionally delivered civil administration system. The national government apparatus is organized into 16 ministries and several agencies and services. The processes and procedures for delivering services are determined nationally; ministers propose policy and legislation is passed in the NA to codify that into law. Ministries fund national government programs according to the budget passed in the NA; usually an annual budget is passed each year in the spring. Civil service components are responsible for monitoring government programs and services in their respective areas of responsibility. Most of the responsibility for delivering these programs is passed to the county commission (landsting) in the six counties within Arnland. The only ministries that are the sole purview of the national level are Foreign Affairs, State and Parliament Relations, Defense, Finance, and Justice. Staffing throughout the civil service is at the pleasure of the government and incoming governments traditionally reward key supporters with patronage appointments in influential offices.

The national budget is established and approved centrally each fiscal year and funding is then provided to the county commissions to deliver the national programs to the citizens of Arnland in all other areas. Service delivery is mandated to be in accordance with the budget and is to be administered following the processes and procedures outlined in the nationally approved policy. Civil servants representing the ministries are dispersed throughout the six counties and are tasked with providing oversight to ensure this process is respected. The county commissions, under the direction and guidance of the governors, are provided with significant budgets to deliver national programs within their respective counties.

The equality of citizens before the law is questionable. However, neither awareness of human rights, nor a culture of standing up to protect them, has been promoted among citizens. That being said, the Arnish Workers Union have conducted rotating non‐violent strikes in attempt to highlight workers’ rights—but with only limited effect. The involvement of a large proportion of the population in the shadow economy, the need to adjust to living under conditions of imperfect laws, and high fiscal pressure does not contribute to fostering a law‐abiding culture among citizens. In practice, the “laws” defined by the activities of local authorities play a greater role on influencing society than effective laws, norms, or the official authority of the nation.

Ministry of the Interior

The Arnland Ministry of the Interior is responsible for the following:

• National Registration Directorate: Deals with registering Arnland citizens, issuing passports and driving licenses, etc.
• Aliens Registration Directorate: Deals with registering immigrants in the country and providing them documents such as resident permits
• Internal Politics Directorate: Deals with electoral processes and refugee requests
• Cyber Security Directorate: Deals with cyber defense of critical infrastructures and information systems, and with cyber crime such as online child pornography, internet fraud, etc.

Ministry of Public Order

The Arnland Ministry of Public Order is responsible for administering the following: law enforcement, penal services, border security, coast guard, and fire and ambulance services. The Ministry sets the policy and allocates national funding to programs according to the priorities outlined in the budget established by the NA. Specific policies and standards for the level of service to be provided in both peacetime and in times of crisis are established by the Arnland Civil Defense Agency on behalf of the Ministry staff, who perform a more administrative role. Each service or agency, while maintaining national organizational structures, is controlled at the county level, with the exception of the Arnland Border Security Service.

Ministry of Public Order

Law Enforcement

Organized under the Arnland State Police Service (ASPS), law enforcement is provided in Arnland by three different police organizations: the ASPS (national level), the Arnland Län Constabulary (county level), and the Arnish Kommun Law Enforcement Agency (municipality level).

Arnland State Police Service (ASPS)

The ASPS is coordinated by a national headquarters (HQ) in Alsstad and one county headquarters (LHQ) in each of the six counties. It was established to maintain public order in areas of national importance as well as areas that traditionally extended beyond individual county borders. With a mere 3,000 personnel distributed across six ASPS police districts; the capabilities of the force are stretched. It is the most professionally trained of the Arnish Police, headed by a commissioner, and it is officially assigned the following national tasks:

1. Counter-terrorism (CT)
2. Combating Organized Crime (OC)
3. Transportation Security
4. Counter Narcotics
5. Anti-corruption
6. VIP Protection

While ASPS is responsible for combating organized crime, they have little expertise in this area. They are especially deficient in the areas of illegal cryptocurrency mining, money laundering, and Darknet/Dark Wallet operations. ASPS is attempting to make progress in this area, but to date have no arrests or convictions in this area.

The ASPS has limited capability to analyze evidence related to improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

1. Exploitation and explosive ordnance/IED disposal (EOD/IEDD) within Arnland is ASPS responsibility.
2. ASPS CT bomb disposal division has level 1 capability.
3. Arnland Government have national level 3 capability, but with some limitations.
4. ASPS CT bomb disposal division has full capability to conduct IEDD and has modern equipment (but no ECM). The bomb disposal division has limited endurance and consists of only a few teams located in Alsstad, Kalmar, and Jönköping.

Arnland Län Constabulary (ALC)

The ALC does not have a national headquarters. Policies and standards are developed and promulgated by the Arnland Civil Defense Agency (ACDA). However; there is no command or control relationship unless there is a declared emergency and the ACDA is empowered by the Prime Minister to assume responsibility for incident management. Each county administers its own ALC in accordance with the policies and standards outlined by the ACDA and using both national and county budget resources. With little national oversight, the ALCs tend to be poorly trained and responsive to their respective governors, who appoints the ALC Chief. ALCs are officially tasked with the following regional policing functions:

1. Tactical emergency response
2. Alcohol, gaming, and firearm control
3. Highway traffic and safety
4. Crime investigation and prevention

Arnish Kommun Law Enforcement Agency (AKLEA)

The AKLEAs do not have national or county headquarters and report directly to the Municipality Commissioners. The AKLEAs is officially tasked with the following:

1. Municipality traffic and safety
2. Municipality crime investigation and prevention
3. Municipality emergency response unit
4. Municipality by‐law enforcement and investigation
5. Municipality outreach services

Arnland Penal Services (APS)

Established in 1992 to replace the communist structure that existed to support the fallen regime and its repressive ways, the APS has evolved little during this time period. It is still largely used to serve those in power in the country. While a national service headed by a government-appointed commissioner appointed by Minister of Public Order and administered in divisions coinciding with the appropriate county, the real power and influence rests in the county. Each APS division is responsible for providing the security services to the penal institutions within their respective county. Penal institutions are divided across the country with one general prison per county, and the prisoners are assigned to penal institutions by the court responsible for the case and not by the severity of the crime committed. A number of specialist prisons exist for special need prisoners (political, violent, and mental).

Recent efforts by the government to address shortcomings in the penal system and the APS, an organization that it is constitutionally responsible for, have resulted in improvements. In an effort to upset the Presidential and county stranglehold on the judicial system, and to demonstrate to the outside world that it was working to meet international standards, the Arnland Socialist Party (ASP)-controlled Ministry of Public Order accepted international funding and oversight to reform the APS. While this met with significant resistance within the countiesn, the government has improved training for the APS and funded infrastructure improvements in counties that showed willingness to cooperate.

Since 2008 the Arnish Human Rights Committee, in cooperation with the International Committee of the Red Cross, has been carrying out a three‐year monitoring program of the APS, the prisons, and pre‐detention centers in Arnland. The Committee concluded in 2011 that in general, the APS and the institutions that it was responsible for had improved. However, while APS training had improved and professionalism within the ranks was starting to take root, the county governor influence within the APS was still evident.

Arnland Border Security Service (ABSS)

Established officially in 1992, the ABSS transitioned almost directly from its predecessor under the communist regime; loyalties to corrupt communist government powerbrokers have shifted instead to organized crime under the new government structure. A largely professional force, it is responsible for border integrity and security to include the following:

1. Port, airport, and border security
2. Immigration control
3. Emigration control
4. Cross‐border commerce/Customs/Excise policing
5. Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) enforcement (with the Coast Guard)
6. Human/Drug trafficking
7. Smuggling

The ABSS is a national law enforcement agency with a largely functioning national administration. The Director of ABSS is appointed by the Minister of Public Order and is responsible for four divisions: maritime (Karlskrona), land (Jönköping), air (Alsstad), and Liaison and Coordination/National HQ (Alsstad). Specialist branches within each of the divisions are established to conduct operations across the roles assigned to the ABSS within their respective domains and the Liaison and Coordination Division synchronizes ABSS activities both within the service and externally to other government agencies, departments, and international partners. Traditionally the roughly 6,000 uniformed staff have been centrally controlled and centrally located near the respective headquarter sites in an effort to minimize county influence on national border security. The ABSS personnel provide regional and local support to border security through rotating surges of personnel, thus limiting ties to specific counties.

Border security operations are directed by the ABSS HQ and coordinated by the Liaison and Coordination Division. Priorities are dictated by the Director based upon the inputs from the respective divisional HQs and the Arnland Intelligence and Security Services. Traditionally, the ABSS has mounted its most significant operations in support of maritime and land border security, to maintain EEZ control, and to stem organized crime (with ASPS). The big issue for the ABSS is securing the land border with Torrike, which is increasingly becoming a main transit route for organized crime activities and in particular illegal drugs, arms, and human trafficking.

Coast Guard (CG)

The Arnland Coast Guard (CG) is a uniformed service under the Ministry of Public Order but with links to the armed forces. It is entirely "civilian," but some conscripts can perform their military service in the CG. The CG Headquarters is collocated with the Navy at the Karlskrona naval base and there are six further CG stations at Västervik, Kalmar, Simrishamn, Höllviken, Helsingborg, and Falkenberg.

The CG is charged with the following roles and missions:

1. Implementing Arnland’s maritime safety policy;
2. Maintaining safety in the Arnland maritime search and rescue area;
3. Assisting the smooth flow of maritime traffic into and out of Arnland;
4. Planning for and helping to prevent environmental disasters;
5. Contributing to combat cross-border crime (in conjunction with the Navy, Police, and Customs).

Although it is small, with only some 400 staff, it is relatively well equipped with seven surveillance craft, two environmental patrol vessels, and around 35 small inland and coastal boats (mainly rigid-hulled inflatable boats (RHIBS) and high-speed motor craft). In addition, two Islander aircraft and three helicopters are contracted for pollution control, surveillance, and search and rescue (SAR) around Arnland’s territorial waters and EEZ.

CG officers have limited police powers and are armed with personal weapons only. CG vessels are unarmed. The CG coordinates SAR operations through a Maritime Rescue Operations Center in Karlskrona. Copies of its surveillance and operations reports are fed to the Navy operations center. It also coordinates with both the Navy and the Danish and Torrikan SAR organizations.

Arnland Fire and Ambulance Services (AFAS)

The Arnland Fire and Ambulance Services Agency is an administrative body that loosely administers the municipality-delivered fire and ambulance services. It provides the national program funding for services (a small portion of its overall budget that is largely derived from municipality taxes), and monitors service standards as they are established by the Arnland Civil Defense Agency (ACDA). The Chief of AFAS is a civil servant who serves at the pleasure of the Minister of Public Order. With very little operational or financial control, this position is historically assigned by the governing party to a minor/insignificant government supporter.

Arnland Air Traffic Control Organization (AATCO)

Arnland Air Traffic Control Organization (AATCO) is a state‐owned public enterprise with around 400 employees that provides air navigation services for civil and military traffic in Arnland. AATCO handles almost 300,000 airspace movements a year. Since the 1990s, AATCO has operated an integrated civil‐military air navigation service and provides air navigation services for both civil and military aviation. Since 1 January 2008, AATCO has overall responsibility for air navigation services during all stages of readiness for both civil and military aviation. Air navigation services are performed for military aviation at military airports and at certain civilian airports, as well as in the airspace itself, because the Arnish Armed Forces do not have their own air navigation services. AATCO is the leading actor for local air traffic control services and other support services for Arnish airports. AATCO works actively to streamline operations and improve customer care. AATCO took over local air traffic control operations at all airports. The control center is located in Alsstad.

AATCO has a well‐developed cooperation with the armed forces at both a strategic and tactical level, as well as in the operational production of air navigation services. Collaboration with the Ministry of Defense includes total defense cooperation in order to plan and carry out preparations to handle situations during peace time and exercises, as well as on high alert and at war. The Arnish Armed Forces are represented on the board of AATCO. AATCO has specific responsibility for crisis readiness and particular responsibility prior to and during alerts. AATCO also engages a duty officer.

Cooperation permeates almost all areas of air traffic control and aims to create a robust air navigation service for both civil and military aviation. This cooperation also includes the training of AATCO’s air traffic controllers to ensure the necessary competence to handle upcoming military traffic and the training of the Arnish Armed Forces’ reserve officers in air navigation services. Cooperation on technology and systems is far‐reaching and complex because the common system and technology form one of the cornerstones of civil‐military integrated air navigation services. In large part, the systems and technology are shared.

Arnland Security Coordination Center

Arnland Security Coordination Center – National Level

In the event of a significant crisis or threat to the State, the Crisis Response Group can, with the Prime Minister’s approval, establish a dedicated (24/7) security coordination center:

• It is chaired by the Minister of Public Order (MoPO) in his capacity as a deputy prime minister (DPM), and comprises representatives from ACDA, AISS, Coast Guard, MoH, and Ministry of Defense (MoD) (including ADF, SDF, and HN Steering Committee).
• It brings together a multi‐ministerial, multi‐disciplined, civil‐political‐military structure to address issues at the national level. In addition and as appropriate, it provides guidance and direction to county and lower echelons.
• The ASCC can invite additional parties as “invited participant” as determined by the crisis.

Safety and Security Protocol of Nuclear Sites in Arnland

The responsibility for the safety and the security of the three nuclear sites in Arnland (Bärseback, Oskarshamn, and Ringhals) is divided among several private companies and public agencies. Although Torrike owns the plants in Oskarshamn and Ringhals, Arnland is responsible for the security.

1. The owner of the plant is primarily responsible for safety and security inside the fence. For guarding the premises of the plant, there is a contract with a local private security company.
2. The Ministry of Economy, Trade, Industry, and Energy (METIE) is responsible for energy policy. The Arnland Nuclear Energy Program (ANEP) deals with all nuclear power issues on behalf of the METIE. This includes monitoring and inspecting the technical security situation of the plants.
3. The Arnish Radiation Safety Authority (Strålsäkerhetsmyndigheten) was created under the supervision of the Ministry of Environment as the regulatory authority for nuclear safety, radiation protection, and nuclear nonproliferation.
4. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspects the plants and advises the Arnish government on nuclear safety (POC: ANEP). This includes advice on cyber defense.
5. Municipalities provide fire and ambulance services, loosely administered by the Arnland Fire and Ambulance Services Agency (AFASA).
6. The ACDA is responsible for coordinating responses during a nuclear incident and the associated security.

Emergency Services

Arnland Emergency Services – In Case of Civil Emergency

The Arnland Civil Defense Agency (ACDA)

The ACDA is responsible for all elements of disaster planning and civil emergencies. It is the umbrella organization responsible for standardizing the provision of emergency services in Arnland during peacetime and for coordinating it in times of civil emergency or crisis. Established in 1993 as a result of a review process conducted by the newly elected government, it sought to reduce the power the Arnland Armed Forces exercised in the area of civil defense during communism; assigning it to the Ministry of Public Order. While successful in doing so, it was also perceived by some as an exercise seeking to provide opportunities for influential Arns in the business community to access government contracts and funds. This problem is exacerbated as certain responsibilities are delegated down to the county governors and administered by the county commissions. Each has its own agenda, from improving political influence to ensuring local businesses benefit—albeit with financial kickbacks. As a result, the counties tend to be well supported at the expense of national capability.

Role. The ACDA is a non‐uniformed organization established to coordinate emergency responses to disasters, crisis situations, and incidents that threaten public safety and security that exceeds the capability of local first responders. This responsibility extends to but is not limited to the following services: law enforcement, fire, ambulance, prison security, border security, hazardous material response, and nuclear incident response.

Aid to Civil Power. The ACDA’s responsibility to coordinate responses includes the responsibility for security during the event. When it is determined by the ACDA that the requirement to provide security exceeds the capability of the assigned agencies, the ACDA may request, through the Minister of Public Order, the assistance of the military to fulfill the security task. The request is approved by the Prime Minister and assigned to the Minister of Defense to provide the appropriate forces. In these extreme cases, the assigned responsibility for security remains with the ACDA, with the military in a supporting role.

Respective levels of first responders are required to provide emergency services in their assigned geographical areas of responsibility. The ACDA is responsible for coordinating emergency services in circumstances where local or county means and capabilities are exceeded.

Government Effectiveness and Legitimacy

State Security

Arnland Intelligence and Security Service (AISS)

The Arnland Intelligence and Security Service (AISS)

The AISS was established just after the major political changes in 1992 and now is a state agency on budget support. It holds a key position within the system of national security of Arnland, responsible for both internal and external intelligence gathering, counterintelligence, and protection of the constitutional order.

Although part of the executive branch, the AISS officially informs the President, the Prime Minister, and the National Assembly on an equal basis, in compliance with the order and conditions defined by the Council of Ministers. Ministries, members of the NA, and selected state servants are also among the consumers of the information and services provided by the AISS.

Through co‐operation with the other national security and intelligence structures and the Armed Forces (e.g., Arnland Military Intelligence and Security Service (MISS), ABSS), the AISS is tasked to ensure the national security and sovereignty of the Republic of Arnland by providing the state’s authorities with intelligence and security-related information. One of the priorities is the fight against terrorism, corruption, and organized crime, in close collaboration with foreign intelligence services. The AISS has its own information database and is authorized to use special intelligence collection means. It stores the collected information and processed intelligence in information and archive records. The AISS is also in charge of the cryptographic security of classified information and control of the radio-frequency spectrum.

The AISS director is a member of the Security Council (SC) to the Government of Arnland and the Presidential Advisory Council for National Security. The SC, which advises the President, is chaired by the Prime Minister and comprises as a minimum the Ministers of Interior, Defense, Foreign Affairs, and Public Order. The SC normally meets monthly; more frequently should the situation dictate.

AISS Organization.

The AISS consists of the following:

1. Liaison and Coordination Division: Consists of four branches: Intelligence and security cooperation with the European Union countries; intelligence and security cooperation with the former Skolkan countries; inter-services cooperation and coordination; and internal control and coordination. This division is responsible for synchronizing internal operations and coordinating support to and from external agencies.
2. Intelligence Department: Consists of three major divisions: collection, analysis, and plans. This department is responsible for prioritizing intelligence collection activities and providing the analysis and planning support for operations within the organization.
3. Security Department: The main instrument for counterintelligence and security. As such, its chief responsibility is to detect, prevent, and neutralize threats to Arnish national security. It consists of the following divisions: Counterintelligence (counterespionage, internal and external surveillance, detection, counteraction and prevention); Constitutional Order and Security; Critical Infrastructure; and Classified Information.
4. Counter‐Terrorism Department: Responsible for asymmetric threats; antiterrorism; intervention unit; and VIP protection.
5. Financial Intelligence: Responsible for economic and financial security; anti‐corruption; and transnational issues.
6. Government Communications Department: Consists of three divisions: Communication and Information Systems; Cryptographic Security; and Control of the Radio-frequency Spectrum.
7. Training Center: Responsible for initial and specialist training; also used by the MISS.

Cyber

Arnland is assessed to have limited cyber defensive or offensive capabilities. Responsibilities are shared between the Ministries of Interior and Defense. There is a National Cyber Security Directorate, which answers to the Ministry of Interior. This is an emerging directorate and, while it has a purely defensive role and capability, it shares research facilities with the Ministry of Defense.

Elections

The first general election in Arnland was held in 1992, following the fall of communism the year before. It was effectively a two‐party election with only the Arnish Prosperity Party (APP) and the Arnland Socialist Party (ASP) able to mount credible candidates. With the Arnland Socialist Party (ASP) formed almost exclusively from members of the leadership of the communist regime, the APP achieved control of both the Office of the President and Prime Minister. Since that time, general and local elections have been fraught and plagued by electoral fraud. Several parties have admitted that the campaigns were very expensive; costing them several times the legitimate sources of funding. In some cases party candidates have funded their campaigns from their own pockets based upon the success of their businesses; others have had financial backers which they have chosen not to disclose publicly. In addition, candidates have been known to channel funds from the public purse to support their campaign activities. In an attempt to control funding and reduce time away from the routine government business official campaigning is restricted to 90 days before the elections.

Despite its problems with holding transparent and fair elections, Arnland does not appear to have a strong domestic election monitoring movement. While the “Transparency” group attempts to mobilize elements of its organization to “poll watch” on election day, their inability to do so in the majority of locations and the lack of will of the people and the government to deal with any allegations makes the activity more of a statement rather than a means to achieving any real progress.

Election Process. Presidential, National Assembly, and county commission elections in Arnland are held simultaneously every four years in November. Arns vote separately for the Office of the President (Electoral College), the NA, and the county commission. The Presidential election is scheduled for the second Tuesday in November with the President being sworn in on Friday of the election week. Elections for the NA and county commission follow on the third Thursday in the month with the Prime Minister and successful candidates taking office immediately thereafter. The reality is that, even if candidates are successful in holding their position little government business is completed in the final quarter of an election year.

Suffrage. Arnish citizens over the age of 18 who are registered on the county voters registration list may vote in all levels of the elections in Arnland.

Governing Parties. The current governing parties are as follows:

• President: Sture Pallesson, Arnland Prosperity Party
• Prime Minister: Bror Jeppesen, Arnland Socialist Party
• National Assembly: Arnland Socialist Party Minority (coalition with SDP and ACP)

Arnland National Electoral Commission (ANEC)

ANEC was established to among other things organize elections into various political offices in the country. The functions of ANEC include the following:

1. Organize, undertake and supervise all elections in Arnland.
2. Register political parties in accordance with the provisions of the constitution and Act of the National Assembly;
3. Monitor the organization and operation of the political parties, including their finances; conventions, congresses and party primaries.
4. Arrange for the annual examination and auditing of the funds and accounts of political parties, and publish a report on such examination and audit for public information;
5. Arrange and conduct the registration of persons qualified to vote and prepare, maintain and revise the register of voters for the purpose of any election under this constitution;
6. Monitor political campaigns and provide rules and regulations which shall govern the political parties;
7. Conduct voter and civic education;
8. Promote knowledge of sound democratic election processes.

ANEC is assisted in its tasks by six län electoral commissions (ALEC), one per county, following the standards and direction of ANEC as a central coordination body.

Mission Statement. The mission of ANEC is to serve as an Arnland and effective election management body committed to the conduct of free, fair and credible elections for sustainable democracy in Arnland.

Vision Statement. The vision of ANEC is to be one election management body according to international standards, which meets the aspirations of the Arnish people.

Values. ANEC shall be guided by the following values in the performance of its duties:

1. Autonomy: ANEC shall carry out all its functions independently, free from external control and influence.
2. Transparency: ANEC shall display openness and transparency in all its activities and in its relationship with all stakeholders.
3. Integrity: ANEC shall maintain truthfulness and honesty in all its dealings at all times
4. Credibility: ANEC shall ensure that no action or activity is taken in support of any candidate or political party.
5. Impartiality: ANEC shall ensure the creation of a level playing field for all political actors.
6. Dedication: ANEC shall be committed to providing quality electoral services efficiently and effectively, guided by best international practice and standards
7. Equity: ANEC shall ensure fairness and justice in dealing with all stakeholders.
8. Excellence: ANEC shall be committed to the promotion of merit and professionalism as the basis for all its actions.
9. Team work: ANEC shall create a conducive environment that promotes teamwork among its staff at all levels

Timeline

Voter registration will continue as a routine process throughout the country. Once entering the election year, the political process will adhere to the following timelines:

1. Electoral campaign – six months in advance
2. Registration of candidates – six months in advance
3. Risk assessment of poll centers – six months in advance
4. Observers – two months in advance (core team) and redeploy two months after elections (core team)

The Arnland National Electoral Commission is responsible for organization of Elections. Any postponement is a constitutional issue and will be decided by Alltinget.

In accordance with the Arnland Constitution the NA shall be elected for a 4‐year term of office, which may be extended by an organic law, in the event of war or national calamity. The same applies for the President. Hypothetically, if integrity and stability is not restored, the NA can adopt laws extending term of office for itself as well as for the President. The new elections will be held as established by the law.

Presidential

Each party runs one candidate for the Office of the President. In practice the primary candidates have been from the two main parties. More recently ‘political sponsorship’ from the minor parties for independent candidates from the business world is becoming more significant. Votes for the President are cast as part of an Electoral College system which allocates 35 ‘district’ votes across the six counties; a fact that is enshrined in the Constitution of Arnland to protect against centralized control of the office. Counties determine how the Electoral College will allocate its votes through a majority vote in the county commision which is presided over by the governor. Four of the counties: Skåne, Halland, Jönköping and Kalmar have allocated all of their Electoral College votes to the candidate with the most votes in the county. Kronoberg and Blekinge allocate votes in accordance with the percentage of the popular vote within the county. There is no legal act that binds Electoral College voters to vote in accordance with the way that the county allocates the votes. With the exception of Kronoberg and Blekinge, where it is suspected that the Electoral College voters were compromised, voters have always followed the direction of the governor. Note that the Greater Arnland Democratic Alliance (GADA) is not fully represented in the following tables because it came into being in 2012.

Arnland Electoral College Voting Results: 1996 - 2016
	Electoral College Votes
	1996	2000	2004	2008	2012	2016
Arnland Prosperity Party	21	18	15	15	18	17
Arnland Socialist Party	14	17	18	18	13	13
Social Democratic Party	0	0	2	2	0	1
Arnland Republican Party	0	0	0	0	4	4
Arnland Liberal Party	0	0	0	0	0	0
Arnland Communist Party	0	0	0	0	0	0
Greater Arnland Democratic Alliance	0	0	0	0	0	0
	35	35	35	35	35	35

The President is elected by Electoral College for a term of four years with the right to stand for one re‐election. Candidates may stand for the position again after withdrawing their nomination for one term. The current President of the Republic is Sture Pallesson (APP).

National

The election of the NA is based upon representation by electoral district; there are 35 districts across the six counties in Arnland. Arns vote for party candidates to represent them nationally. Candidates are awarded a victory based upon the First Past the Post system. The vote for control of the NA and thus the Office of the Prime Minister tends to be based on ideology; how Arns perceive the country should be administered and governed.

Arnland National Elections, 1996 - 2016
							2016 Elections
	1996	2000	2004	2008	2012	2016	Electorate	Seats
	%	%	%	%	%	%
	Vote	Vote	Vote	Vote	Vote	Vote
APP	63	41	49	47	38	40	424,689	54
ASP	37	48	38	38.8	48	43.7	463,973	59
SDP	0	7	8	7.5	3	3	31,852	4
ARP	0	4	3.8	5	10	8.5	90,246	11
ALP	0	0	1.2	1.3	0.3	0.3	3,185	1
ACP	0	0	0	0.4	0.7	2.7	28,667	3
GADA	0	0	0	0	0	1.8	19,111	3
	100	100	100	100	100	100	1,061,723	135
Total	950,456	960,568	975,956	986,738	1,016,374	1,061,723	1,061,723	135
APP = Arnland Prosperity Party                                 ARP = Arnland Republican Party (1995)
ASP = Arnland Socialist Party                                     ALP = Arnland Liberal Party (1998)
SDP = Social Democratic Party (1995)                      ACP = Arnland Communist Party (2003)
GADA = Greater Arnland Democratic Alliance (2012)

In 2012, there were 1,685,274 Arns eligible to vote. 1,061,723 people, or 63%, actually voted.

Counties

The election that is perceived by Arns to be the most important to their personal well‐being is for the position of governor and for the members of the county commission. With direct influence on how national funds are allocated and regional services delivered within the county, this election is the most fraught with influence peddling and corruption. Arns cast their ballots for candidates that represent the national parties, but that in large part have affiliation and loyalty to those parties in name only.

Arnland International Relationships

International Relationships

Foreign Policy

Arnish foreign policy supports its strategic goal of maintaining its independence. The regional and international relationships it maintains and the priorities that are placed in maintaining them change as the ruling parties change and are a major cause of internal political tension. Arnland’s changing foreign policy makes it difficult for the EU and Gulf of Bothnia Cooperation Council (GBCC) to fully understand their relationship with Arnland, how to interact with them and what the broader implications are for the region. The EU has been in negotiations with Arnland over membership but has yet to enter in to any formal Stabilization and Association Agreement.

Global Politics

European Union (EU)

Arnland is currently pursuing a path of greater European integration. Its primary long‐term goals are to gain EU membership and to promote closer ties with its neighbors through bilateral agreements. Arnland is a member of a number of international organizations, as well as multiple regional organizations and initiatives. In 2009, Arnland filed its application for EU candidacy. In December 2010, Arnland and the EU had planned to sign a Stabilization and Association Agreement (SAA) as the first step to EU membership but concerns over internal security and welfare issues in Arnland put those plans on hold. The SAA outlined the conditions that Arnland would be required to meet to proceed with the application process. Those conditions (Copenhagen conditions), focused on implementing essential rule of law reforms, curbing corruption and organized crime and addressing welfare reform. All of these initiatives would, in Arnland’s opinion, serve to further demonstrate its independence from its regional neighbors’ sphere of influence.

Arnland’s EU ambitions are being monitored closely by GBCC whose individual members have different relationships and views. Despite the complexity of the rules, regulations and standards to be navigated, the EU is nevertheless both a major trading partner and potential market for GBCC members and Arnland benefits from this as a gateway to Europe, in particular for Torrike. To that end the GBCC tends to apply those standards to its manufacturing and transportation to reap the benefits. However, where the GBCC would take a more hardline view is any formal cooperation on Defense as the EU Treaty of Lisbon (1 December 2009) introduced the Common Security and Defense Policy binding its members by a solidarity clause on matters on European defense. These tasks include:

• Humanitarian and rescue tasks
• Conflict prevention and peacekeeping tasks
• Tasks of combat forces in crisis management
• Joint disarmament operations
• Military advice and military assistance
• Tasks in post conflict stabilization

Most controversial is that the Treaty of Lisbon introduces for the first time a mutual defense clause, specifically binding EU Member States. If a member State is the victim of an armed attack on the territory, it can rely on the aid and assistance of the other member states, which are obliged to help. Although the declaration on the establishment of the GBCC contained a statement that it ‘is not an alliance directed against other states and regions and it adheres to the principle of openness’, many observers believe that one of the original purposes of the GBCC was to serve as a counterbalance to NATO and other organizations such as the EU with a military structure.

Olvana

Arnland and Olvana have open diplomatic channels. Arnish objectives are to increase exchanges on all levels in order to enhance political cooperation bilaterally, with a view to reinforcing its importance as a nation independent of its past membership of the GBCC. In its relationship with Olvana, Arnland seeks to:

1. Promote substantial cooperation based on equality and reciprocity and put more emphasis on information technology, energy and infrastructure to include gaining financial support for areas with potential mutual benefits;
2. Expand cooperation in the areas of culture, public health, agriculture and tourism to enhance bilateral ties.
3. Benefit from Olvana’s increased economic out-reach programs (outstripping Britain, Germany and France combined) through purchase of surplus military hardware.

Arnland is aware that withdrawal from the GBCC and potential membership of the EU, not least the implications of the Treaty of Lisbon, will not be viewed favorably by Olvana. Arnland seeks to maintain favourable bilateral relations with Olvana in particular inward investment and continued contribution to ensuring regional stability.

Donovia

Arnland and Donovia have normal political relations. While Arnland is more focused on increasing its relationship with the West for economic reasons, it is extremely cognizant of the importance of Donovia’s position as a regional counter‐balance to NATO.

NATO

Arnland’s official position on NATO has to date coincided with its membership in the GBCC; ensuring a counterbalance to the perceived encirclement of the region by NATO. Arnland’s real position on NATO is somewhat less transparent as it takes steps to establish a closer European relationship. Membership of the EU would have military implications including those associated with the EU’s partnership with NATO. NATO and the EU share strategic interests and cooperate on crisis‐management, capability development and political consultations.

Since adoption of NATO’s Strategic Concept (November 2010) which identifies the need for the Alliance to address emerging security challenges, several new areas of cooperation with the EU are under consideration, in particular energy security issues, terrorism and cyber defense. Additionally, NATO looks to the EU to help fulfil its aspirations of a comprehensive approach. Arnland’s closest neighbors in the south (Denmark, Germany, Poland) are both NATO and EU members and are applying political pressure to Arnland to work more closely with them on defense and security matters. Torrike is fully aware of NATO air policing operations in the Eastern Baltic and would not wish to see further encroachment from the south through Arnland

Regional Actors

Gulf of Bothnia Cooperation Council (GBCC)

Logo of the GBCC

The Gulf of Bothnia Cooperation Council (GBCC) is a regional intergovernmental political and economic union. Member States consist of all former Skolkan countries of the Gulf of Bothnia: Arnland, Bothnia, Framland, Otso, and Torrike.

Arnland has, to date, cooperated closely with its neighbors through the GBCC, which it joined in 2001, and informally in political matters through direct consultation. Arnland was a founding member of the GBCC Interbank Association established in 2005 and had been in negotiations to join the GBCC economic framework since 2009. It continues to cooperate bi‐laterally within the region in economic and social matters where it deems it is in its’ best interest.

Frustrated by the perceived lack of tangible benefits since joining GBCC and failure to be accepted into the GBCC economic framework, the Arnland Prime Minister surprised the Council of Heads of Government meeting, held in Alsstad in April 2014, by announcing the withdrawal of Arnland from the GBCC.

The decision is yet to be ratified by the Council of Heads of State but this is seen as a formality as the Arnish Government has no interest in backtracking on the decision as it believes the current level of bi‐lateral cooperation with GBCC member nations, and through organizations like the Regional Anti‐Terrorist Structure, is sustainable and in everyone’s interest.

On the military front Torrike and Arnland cooperate on naval training and maintenance as part of the Karlskrona naval base lease Memorandum of Understanding. Bi‐lateral agreements also envisage the possibility of joint exercises between the two nations. Perhaps of greater significance, with the change in focus of the NOM/Arnland Popular Front (APF), is continued membership of the Regional Anti‐Terrorist Structure (RATS) as the primary vehicle for implementation of member state security cooperation: “its function is to coordinate the activities of GBCC states’ law enforcement structures and special services.” Arnland had taken an increasingly robust stance against the NOM but with the emergence of the more radical and violent APF has shown itself incapable of dealing with the expanding threat and will continue to rely on external support.

Bothnia

Arnland had maintained good relations with Bothnia out of necessity as a regional partner in the GBCC, and would wish to keep some form of bi‐lateral relations outside that framework. They will limit their cooperation militarily, participating in and facilitating low‐level exercises and combined training opportunities where they are mutually beneficial, though the relationship is somewhat more complex.

The fact that Arnland and Torrike also share use of the Karlskrona naval base is an added complication for Bothnia that makes it difficult for a simple bilateral military relationship. Although they have no historical cultural or social ties, their economies are somewhat linked and where mutually beneficial, they maintain trade routes and trade‐related infrastructure (primarily maritime).

Arnland remains key to the safe transit of nuclear waste, through the Öresund, to Bothnia’s nuclear fuel re‐processing and waste program at the deep level repository next to its nuclear power site at Olkiluoto on the west coast. Built using innovative yet untested techniques it did satisfy inspectors from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) but controversy has continued to plague the facility following a series of accidents and incidents in its short history

Framland

Arnland fosters a mutually cooperative relationship with Framland. Their shared historical cultural and social links and their proximity geographically have resulted in Arnland accepting Framland as a favored trading partner, maintaining trade routes through Torrike and through the Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Bothnia. Both Arnland and Framland are dependent upon Torrike due to their political and economic regional power.

Torrike

The relationship between Torrike and Arnland is cooperative but complicated. After the Skolkan Empire was dissolved, the two nations continued to live in a sort of economic symbiosis. Arnland’s withdrawal from GBCC is, in principle, unlikely to change that situation. Much of the relationship is managed through key individuals such as the President, Governor of Jönköping and key local businessmen who have enormous influence not only with the Arnish‐Torrikan Governments but also President Pallesson. Arnish businessmen who also have Torrikan business interests are acutely aware of the potential benefits of closer economic and trading ties with the EU. Balanced trade and research and development have been mutually beneficial to both countries. However, Torrike’s political and economic maturity has enabled it to overshadow and dominate Arnland in the past and will have to work hard to ensure this situation continues as Arnland drifts down the road to EU membership.

The two nations have had numerous border incidents in recent years, and many Arns believe that Torrike’s intention is a future occupation and annexation of Arnland. While Arnland would prefer to be more independent to protect against Torrike’s ambitions, it is too small a nation and too immature in its development to demonstrate this beyond words. The fact that Arnland agreed to allow Torrike to maintain its naval base at Karlskrona, given the potential threat it poses to that independence, gives proof to the challenges it has in placing national politics and pride above economic opportunity.

The agreement on Karlskrona expires in the near future and initial negotiations have begun. Arnland seeks achieve radical changes to the agreement to strengthen regional bi‐lateral opportunities and reduce the influence of Torrike. However Arnland does recognize that the Karlskrona agreement generates significant regional income, job security for the local citizens, and that shared operating costs reduce the strain on an overstretched Arnish Defense budget.

Out of necessity Torrike has a long‐term Memorandum of Understanding with Arnland for the delivery of nuclear generated power from the facilities at Oskarsham and Ringhals and shared ownership of a specially designed civilian operated but armed ship which moves nuclear waste from power plants in both Arnland and Torrike to Bothnia. Responsibility for security for the Arnish nuclear facilities lies with the Ministry of Public Order – Arnland Civil Defense Agency and is provided by a specifically trained company of the Arnish Special Forces. However Torrike, due to concerns over the potential terrorist threats and the activity of militant environmental campaigners, pays especially close attention to this capability.

Otso

Arnland maintains normal government to government diplomatic relations with Otso. Their economic ties are primarily limited to the fishery however Arnland’s cooperation on trade in this area is selfishly motivated. Arnland does not have any historical cultural or social ties with Otso and it is more concerned and interested in focusing itself on improving its relationship with the West.

Denmark

As a result of their geographic proximity, the relationship between Arnland and Denmark is both intimate and occasionally fractious. Both nations have a keen interest in ensuring that maritime trade flows smoothly through the international waterway separating them. The physical link (bridge/tunnel) over the Öresund provides an additional point of cooperation. They have a number of bi‐lateral arrangements relating to customs, security and emergency response to ensure the smooth and safe operation of this link. The power grids are also interconnected (power to Bornholm comes from Arnland) and the single gas pipeline to Arnland comes from Denmark. There is also a growing Danish community in Alsstad who are taking advantage of cheaper cost of living and improved infrastructure in south west Arnland. To facilitate regular transit between the two countries a special annual multiple entry visa was introduced for residents of the Copenhagen area of Denmark and Alsstad region in Skåne. An additional special authorization must be sought to permit work in either country, again this must renewed annually.

There are a number of areas of significant discord. This growing Danish community in Alsstad is a political irritation for Denmark and has led to occasional tense exchanges between the two governments. The “bright lights” of Denmark are a major draw for economic migrants from Arnland and there is a growing perception in the northern counties that Alsstad as a city and Skåne as a county are becoming too ‘elitist’. Denmark tends to readily accept highly qualified individuals while discouraging the lesser skilled. This in turn feeds a general Arnish view that Denmark is deliberately promoting a “brain drain” and reducing Arnland’s ability to grow out of its current problems. That said, Arnland cannot afford to lose the economic opportunities that Denmark presents and as such, they strive to maintain trade, infrastructure and cooperate at the operational level on, for example, Öresund bridge operations, regional Search and Rescue (SAR), antiterrorism and OC agreements.

On other issues Denmark strives to create a green and sustainable society and although once at the forefront of nuclear research the government passed a resolution in 1985 that nuclear plants would not be built in the country. While it still imports 10% of its domestic needs from nuclear sources (primarily Arnland), Denmark had serious concerns over the safety and security of the nuclear facilities in Barsebäck, just 20 km from Copenhagen. This has led to public demonstrations in the Copenhagen and political friction and was one of the reasons that Arnland closed down the plant. Moreover an Arnish proposal to create a new storage facility for nuclear waste at this site has already been the subject of intense bilateral diplomatic negotiation. This means that while there are areas of cooperation, in overall terms, the relationship is fraught.

Politically, Arnland finds the Danish view of the country and its prospects (which is widely reported in the Danish media) highly irritating. However, withdrawal from GBCC has Arnland rethinking its relationship with its EU neighbors. While Arnland does not wish to show weakness and maintains a hardline on its nuclear program and the increasing ‘brain drain’, it will seek other avenues to strengthen its relations with Denmark. For example as a major trading partner and the route through which much of Arnish (and indeed Torrikan) exports enter the EU, Arnland pays a great deal of attention to its links to Denmark and again seeks to ensure that the relationship runs smoothly.

Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania

Arnland maintains normal diplomatic relations with all of the Baltic States and will endeavor to expand bilateral cooperation and agreements and through joint maritime training to help bolster its position in the region following withdrawal from the GBCC. Arnland understands its responsibilities and contribution to maintaining freedom of navigation in the region for maritime trade, access to the fishery and more broadly other resources within the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Arnland cooperates with all of the Baltic States at the operational level in SAR, anti‐terrorism and countering OC.

Germany

Arnland is looking to build its relations with Germany over and above the current agriculture related trade, electricity and maritime agreements to gain support both politically and financially for its EU aspirations. Arnland is conscious of need to maintain, and indeed strengthen, the trade route to and through Germany.

Poland

Arnland exports electricity to Poland and will seek to expand trade through Poland to the larger EU market.

Norway

Arnish relations with Norway are currently limited however, Arnland would wish to access ‘Norway Grants’ as a means of funding projects to meet its EU aspirations. Norway is one of the few western European countries not to be a member of the EU however it maintains a high level of economic and political integration with the EU and its members. It does this primarily through the Agreement on the European Economic Area (EEA) and Norway Grants to help reduce social and economic disparities in the EEA.

International Treaties

Arnland is a signatory to the following major international treaties: UN Charter; GATT; Fourth Geneva Convention; Convention on the Territorial Sea and Contiguous Zone; Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations; Vienna Convention on Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage; WIPO; Nuclear Non‐Proliferation Treaty; Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties; Patent Cooperation Treaty; Ramsar Convention; IPC Agreement; Biological Weapons Convention; London Convention; Sulphur Emissions Reduction Protocol; Nitrogen Oxide Protocol; UN Convention against Illicit Traffic in Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances; Montreal Protocol; UN Framework Convention on Climate Change; Ottawa Convention; Chemical Weapon Convention; Convention concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage; the UN Convention on Law of the Sea; Patent Law Treaty and the Kyoto Protocol.

International Organizations

Arnland is a member, associate member or observer member of the following international organizations: ADB (non‐regional member), Arctic Council, Australia Group, BIS, CBSS, CE, EAPC, EBRD, FAO, EHEA, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICRC, ICCt, ICRM, IDA, IEA, IHO, ILO, IMF, IMO, IMSO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITSO, ITU, ITUC, MIGA, NC, NSG, OECD, OPCW, OSCE, PCA, GBCC, UN (UNCTAD, UNHCR, UNICEF, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNWTO), Universal Postal Union, World Bank Group (IFC), WCL, WCO, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO, Zangger Committee.

Political Entities

Arnland is a multi‐party democratic republic with open elections. There are currently seven political parties, of which five have representation in the Alltinget. Two political parties have dominated the political landscape in Arnland since 1991, the Arnland Prosperity Party (APP) representing the center‐right and the Arnland Socialist Party (ASP) representing the left segment of the population. Since 2012 and the emergence of GADA, the political landscape has comprehensively changed in East Arnland.

Political Parties

• Arnland Prosperity Party (APP): Center‐Right Wing
• Arnland Socialist Party (ASP): Left Wing
• Arnland Republican Party (ARP): Right Wing
• Social Democratic Party (SDP): Center‐Left Wing
• Arnland Communist Party (ACP): Communist/Extreme Left
• Greater Arnland Democratic Alliance (GADA): Marxist/Extreme Left
• Arnland Liberal Party (ALP): Center/Center‐Left Wing

Arnland Prosperity Party (APP). The APP is a center‐right political organization and has held either the Office of the President or the Office of the Prime Minister since its inception; holding both offices once from 1992 ‐1996. It is historically the most dominant party in Arnland, traditionally having the strongest links to the governors and thus control of the Electoral College and the Presidency.

The Arnland Prosperity Party (APP)

Founded	1992
Leader	Sture Pallesson
Headquarters	Jönköping
Membership	497,996 (2011)
Ideology	Liberal Conservatism, Social Conservatism
Political Position	Center Right
International Affiliation	Centrist Democrat International
Parliament	54/135
Municipalities	377/1,540

Formed in 1992 immediately following the fall of the one‐party state, it was a strong proponent of moving Arnland to a capitalistic society with a more market‐based economy. The antithesis of the defeated communist regime, it achieved immediate success and formed the first government in the new, democratic Arnland that same year, succeeding in electing both the President and the Prime Minister. The party has been controlled since 1992 by a very strong national figure, Sture Pallesson. His ability to manipulate the powers of the Presidency to respond to the business and interest groups in the counties, have enabled him to secure enough Electoral College support to sustain power when constitutionally legal to do so. He is adept at undermining the national authority of the Prime Minister and the NA to do so. The 2012 election saw the APP gain an increased share of the vote and increase in number of seats in the NA though not sufficient to form a government. The APP has a strained relationship with ARP however, with the coalition government holding only a slim majority will hope to put their difference aside and work together to unsettle the Prime Minister and APP.

The APP envisioned the government playing a limited regulatory role in Arnish affairs but only to provide the framework for Arns to flourish and for private enterprise to succeed. While admirable, its ambitions were beyond the capabilities of a new and immature government structure and proved to fuel opportunities for corruption and exploitation in this new era. In its current form, it still favors this approach. It is an observer member of the European People's Party (EPP), the European umbrella for center‐right parties, and a full member of the Centrist Democrat International (World Federation of center/moderate political parties) headquartered in Brussels.

The APP political power base is largely rooted in the two most Northern Arnish counties: Jönköping and Halland. This support is primarily based upon ideology and geography. The distance from the capital and the government headquarters tends to cause regional Arns to support a more right‐wing based ideology. This is further reinforced by the regions close proximity to Torrike. The APP have historically enabled the illicit trade routes between the countries through control of the judiciary.

The APP has a very active public relations element, which it uses to influence public opinion; most notably using regional and privately owned media outlets and mediums. When in power in the NA, it establishes polices through which it manipulates government owned media outlets to further support party goals. It actively sells its own party paper “Prosperity for Arnland” primarily in the northern region but with distribution to all six counties in Arnland.

Party Conferences are held every year in Jönköping usually in September.

Historically, the party has found support from the Arnland Republican Party (ARP) in times where coalitions in the NA were required however; ARP support has been limited to single issue votes rather than broad support for APP agendas.

Arnland Socialist Party (ASP). On the left of the political spectrum is the Arnland Socialist Party (ASP), primarily made up of the remnants of the former communist party.

The Arnland Socialist Party (ASP)

Founded	1992
Leader	Bror Jeppesen
Headquarters	Alsstad
Membership	521,267 (2014)
Ideology	Democratic Socialism
Political Position	Left
International Affiliation	International Democratic Union
Parliament	60/135
Municipalities	482/1,540

The Socialist Party was voted into power in the Alltinget in 1996, governing as part of a coalition with the Social Democratic Party (SDP). Led by the party leader and Prime Minister, Kasper Bro, it attempted to reinstitute a system of equality across classes. The ASP channeled funds into government services which had been neglected for the first four years of democracy. This only served to feed the burgeoning illegal and corrupt economy as OC and illegal businesses exploited the opportunity to solidify their position. Kasper Bro, seeing the opportunity to exploit the absence of Sture Pallesson in the election for the Presidency in 2000, and having funded the power base of the electoral colleges as the Prime Minister, successfully ran for the position.

His personal success did not translate into ASP success in the 2000 election. Arns, dissatisfied with the lack of government services that resulted from the previous four years of spending, provided the APP with the largest share of the seats in the NA; just short of a majority. The ASP began to transform itself to appeal to a more social democratic base within the population.

Kasper Bro continued to lead the ASP through the 2004 election where he was successfully reelected as President until his retirement from the ASP and front‐line politics in 2008. The Party recently elected Bror Jeppesen, mayor of Alsstad, as its new leader. His ascension to the party leadership was quickly followed by his appointment as Prime Minister in the 2008 elections, as the ASP gained the largest number of seats in the NA; however they were short of a majority. He was successfully re‐elected for a second term in 2012 but with a slightly reduced number of seats and the need to form a coalition government with the Social Democratic Party and Arnland Communist Party to gain an overall majority of one in the Alltinget.

Originally tied strongly to its communist roots, the ASP sought to recreate the ideological communist social system of equality and cooperation between the classes and to support it with the corresponding government structures; albeit without the pitfalls that caused communism to fall. Since its initial formation in 1992, the ASP’s structure and ideology have evolved, and the party seems to be positioned as a traditional European social democratic party. The popular but controversial Jeppesen is one of a new generation of political leaders in Arnland. He believes that the future of Arnland rests in changing the culture of government and politics in the country and reforming Arnland in a manner that would enable it to gain international credibility and the benefits that come with it; in particular, EU membership .

The ASP’s political power base is in the regions where communist party elite traditionally lived, namely the capital of Alsstad and the regions in southwestern Arnland.

The ASP has an active public relations wing. It focuses on outlets and mediums controlled by the business and political elite with ties to the former communist regime; albeit at arm’s length. When in power in the NA, it establishes polices and manipulates government owned media outlets to further support party goals. It actively sells its own party paper “One Arnland” primarily in the areas around the capital but with distribution to all six counties in Arnland.

Party Conferences are held annually in Alsstad around the beginning of May.

Alliances: Social Democratic Party (SDP). ASP and SDP party platforms have begun to resemble each other as the ASP evolves. The SDP has formed coalitions with the ASP in the past and jumped at the opportunity to form a coalition in 2012.

Arnland Republican Party (ARP). The principal small party on the right is the Arnland Republican Party, which has historically aligned with the APP when required to form a coalition in the NA; it currently has the third largest number of seats in the parliament.

The Arnland Republican Party (ARP)

Founded	1995
Leader	Våge Vardeman
Headquarters	Alsstad
Membership	235,588 (2014)
Ideology	Conservatism
Political Position	Right
International Affiliation	European People’s Party
Parliament	11/135
Municipalities	365/1,540

The ARP was formed late in 1995 from a segment of the Arnland Prosperity Party (APP) in the run‐up to the election in 1996. Led by Nels Overbeck, the ARP recognized the lack of success that the APP was experiencing in building a government that Arns could believe in. They blamed the APP’s lack of success in implementing an effective and efficient government, and Arns subsequent dissatisfaction with the APP, on the size of the government that was struggling to take shape. They believed that too many opportunists within the APP powerbase were attempting to benefit illegally from it. Unable to gain a consensus within the APP to deal with the issue, the ARP struck out on its own.

While gathering only a few seats in their inaugural election in 1996, the real impact of the party early on was the knock on effect it had on APP support. The ARP succeeded in weakening the right wing support base of the APP and although poised to lose control of the Alltinget regardless, the APP losses were larger due to the split in votes.

The ARP continued to build their support from the small business and independent enterprise segment of the population who sought fewer taxes and less government involvement in their affairs. In 2000, they formed a coalition government with the APP. They unsuccessfully attempted to use their influence as part of the coalition to gain support within the NA to modify the constitution; seeking to reduce the powers of the President over the judiciary. In 2008, led by Våge Vardeman, the ARP gained in popular support and in the number of seats in the NA at the expense of the APP. In 2012, it maintained a healthy share of the national vote, though with a slightly reduced presence in the NA, having lost one seat to the APP.

Strong proponents of Arns finally taking responsibility for their own affairs and relying less on government, the ARP positions itself on the right wing of the political spectrum. Their platform is founded on the ideals of smaller government, lower taxes and encouraging Arns to vote to improve their economic and political future. They are beginning to establish themselves as a relevant political force. They see the economic benefits of EU membership but will take a tough stance on immigration, overzealous European institutions and unnecessary bureaucracy. The ARP, while not publicly supportive of the corrupt and illegal political system that has come to define Arnland’s government structure, is complicit and active in the process; enterprising and entrepreneurial Arns should not necessarily be discouraged from succeeding. For the ARP, smaller government does not mean smaller armed forces. The ARP believes a professional, wellfunded military would support Arns in demonstrating their independence regionally and internationally.

While not as large politically as the two main Arnish parties, the APP and ASP, the ARP has a very proactive and well‐organized public relations machine. It does not believe in using government owned or operated mediums to reach Arns; rather it distributes its message via independently owned and operated media enterprises. Its primary party paper is “The Arnland Independent” and is distributed almost exclusively in large commercial and industrial centres.

Party conferences are held annually in Alsstad and attended by party members and influential businessmen.

Traditionally the ARP has aligned with the center‐right APP, as party ideals are similar in key areas; specifically market capitalism. However; the ARP, realizing the economic opportunities associated with greater ties with the West and potential membership in the EU, have most recently been supportive of ASP initiatives to reform Arnland to meet the conditions for EU membership. This support is tied to achieving reform with a smaller government structure rather than maintaining the status quo or creating more government to manage the reform and impose excessive regulations.

Social Democratic Party (SDP). The SDP is a small but vocal party representing center‐left interests on the political spectrum.

The Social Democratic Party (SDP)

Founded	1993
Leader	Timo Dalen
Headquarters	Alsstad
Membership	56,345 (2014)
Ideology	Social Democracy
Political Position	Center/Left
International Affiliation	Party of European Socialists
Parliament	4/135
Municipalities	302/1,540

Initially formed in 1993 to balance the seemingly radical positions of the APP and the ASP, the SDP sought to appeal to Arns eager to move away from a communist regime but not ready to abandon the safety net that all of the social structures and government institutions provided them. The SDP finished third in the popular vote in its first election in 1996; finishing well behind the APP and ASP but firmly in front of the ARP. This translated into eight seats representing electoral districts in the south. These eight seats were key; the SDP held the balance of power in an ASP led coalition government.

Most recently, the success of the SDP in terms of seats and percentage of the popular vote has suffered; they finished fourth in the 2012 election behind the Arnland Republican Party. This is not an indication of a decrease in support for their platform amongst Arns rather; the ASP has adopted most if not all of their center‐left positions and the SDP is almost indistinguishable from the ASP to the electorate. Their current leader, Timo Dalen, was rumored to be open to discussions of a party merger with the ASP but has consistently denied this publically. The opportunity to form a coalition government with ASP, in 2012, gave him a seat at the government table and influence that a merger ma y have not. He has also kept an element of independence ahead of the 2016 elections.

Historically the SDP was situated to the right of the ASP on the political spectrum. Their support for market‐capitalism and their lack of support for wealth distribution across the classes were the main issues that separated them from the ASP platform. They retained several other more traditional socialist positions: advocating for strong government programs in support of all Arns, increased rights for labor, and equal access for all Arns to public health care and education.

The SDP is the least active of the four main Arnish parties with regards to public relations; relying heavily on social media and support from labor movements to have their message passed to the average Arn. Understanding that most Arns were apathetic to the election process and government in general, the SDP focuses its message on trying to re‐energize the electorate to become involved in government at all levels and to participate in reforming their government into a government responsive to all Arns.

Party conferences are held bi‐annually in Alsstad coinciding with the Arnish Workers Union (AWU) conferences.

Traditionally allied with the ASP and has provided the ASP with the balance of power in forming the government twice, including the current government. The ASP has moved closer to the center and has adopted most of the SDP platforms and it is likely that under Bror Jeppessen, the new leader of the ASP, that these two parties will merge.

Arnland Communist Party (ACP). Formed in 2003, the ACP seeks to appeal to the traditional left‐wing, communist voter who is no longer represented by the ASP as it moves closer from the left to the center. The ACP did not get any representatives elected to the NA in 2004 but did succeed in getting one seat in 2008 and added a further in 2012. Though their presence in the NA is small, as part of the coalition, the ACP is becoming increasingly vocal and would expect to see an increased share of the vote in future elections. The recent arrival of the Greater Arnland Democratic Alliance (GADA) on the political scene may lead them to rethink their strategy.

The Arnland Communist Party (ACP)

Founded	2003
Leader	Mr. Gard Peterson
Headquarters	Alsstad
Membership	25,650 (2014)
Ideology	Communism/Marxism
Political Position	Left Wing
International Affiliation	International Conference of Communist and Workers Party
Parliament	3/135
Municipalities	8/1,540

The ACP was established in 2003 under the leadership of Mr. Gard Peterson, a nephew of the post war Communist party leader Lars Peterson. Peterson advocates a strict Communist philosophy but is at pains to distance the ACP from the ‘bad old days’ when the communist governing elite enriched themselves at the cost of the ordinary people. Peterson is a charming individual and convincing party leader who is using the period in coalition government to strengthen the ACP’s political, credibility and general appeal.

The ACP’s founding ideology is based on returning Arnland to a Communist state. The ACP is distrustful of the current government’s pro‐western agenda and where possible vetoes all moves towards EU accession. Mr. Peterson believes there is only one future path for Arnland’s survival and that is a return to true Communist ideals, and not one that lines the pockets of the political elite at the expense of the working classes. The ACP continually battles policies that guarantee personal wealth and would be swift to return all service industry to government control, rebuild an industrial base and strip wealthy businessmen of their assets.

Although headquartered in Alsstad the ACP has an increasing political following in the northern border region.

The party has a credible and focused media organization with their own newspaper, the Arnland New Age, and access to local radio stations to target those groups and regions most likely to support their ideology.

The party organization is based on four wings: Student, Youth, Women, and Labor. This allows the party machine to better understand and address the issues and conduct targeted and effective campaigning.

The ACP holds an annual party conference selecting different venues based on where they see an opportunity to influence the local populace.

Nominally aligned with the ASP and SDP through the coalition government, it is not a ‘marriage made in heaven’. The ACP is proving to be a ‘thorn in the side’ for the ASP and uses all means to halt any move to EU accession. The arrival of the GADA is seen as a threat to the ACP in terms of potential loss of votes, seats and party membership. Formed in 2003, the ACP seeks to appeal to the traditional left‐wing, communist voter who is no longer represented by the ASP as it moves closer from the left to the center. The ACP did not elect any representatives to the Alltinget in 2004 but did succeed in getting one seat in 2008.

Greater Arnland Democratic Alliance (GADA). General: The Greater Arnland Democratic Alliance (GADA) is a Marxist/Extreme Leftist party that seeks to legitimately assume control of the Arnish Government, through populist support, in order to transform Arnland into a Marxist state that will potentially reunify Arnland, Torrike, and Framland. GADA aims to serve as an example to the world on how technology, a green agenda and the unique wisdom of the GADA leadership can make Marxism succeed despite its past failure in Arnland.

The Greater Arnland Democratic Alliance (GADA)

Founded	2012
Leader	Mr. Gaston Plahn (Governor of Kalmar)
Headquarters	Kalmar
Membership	17,540 (2014)
Ideology	Pseudo-Marxist
Political Position	Center/Left
International Affiliation	Party of European Socialists
Parliament	3/135
Municipalities	4/1,540

The GADA was established in 2012 under the leadership of Mr. Gaston Plahn, the Kalmar governor and former Chairman of the Arnland Federation of Trade Unions (AFTU) and ASP politician. GADA is the newest political entity in Arnland and was founded at a ‘First Party Conference’ in Kalmar on 1 May 2012 where Mr. Plahn expressed his fierce opposition to the existing political order and laid out his vision for change. Not new to the political scene, Mr. Plahn is a charismatic figure with considerable personal political and Union support. The GADA is rapidly attracting popular support in the Kalmar area, and this is beginning to spread across the northern counties.

The GADA’s founding ideology is based on transforming Arnland to a Marxist state with domestic and international legitimacy. The GADA also promotes both an anti‐capitalist and anti-western agenda mixed with an extreme green agenda focusing on contentious environmental issues and protection of the environment from the exploitation of the so‐called western nations founded on capitalist ideas. In addition, the group is fiercely against Arnland’s accession into the EU. Mr. Plahn is a pragmatic politician who has taken on multiple unrelated and sometimes contradictory issues in order to broaden the party’s base and co‐opt new members. On one hand he favors re‐nationalizing key companies particularly in the transportation and public service sector but on the other he remains conscious that much of his high level support comes from staunch capitalists. So far he has proved capable of recruiting supporters of varying ideologies who see the strength and vitality of the party and its rejection of the current order as a canvas for their personal beliefs and hopes. Opposition parties were quick to point out the inconsistencies in his vision however will note with rising concern that his party is beginning to gain political traction.

Mr. Plahn draws on his political strength as Kalmar governor in his third term. The GADA is building on popular support in the Kalmar region, and is increasing its influence in the northern counties.

Under the leadership of Mr. Eric Norlander (CEO Halland Group) the party has established a sophisticated media organization utilizing all elements of the group’s television, newspaper and local radio interests. Like Plahn, Norlander is an extremely wealthy individual who has used some of his personal wealth, but mainly public donations, to finance the rapid expansion of the GADA since 2012. Although spending on political campaigning is supposed to be capped, the GADA has expended far in excess of any other Arnish political party.

The failure of the existing parties to halt Arnland’s decline has allowed the GADA to strip support from existing parties and mobilize disillusioned Arnlish of all ages and backgrounds. As a result the GADA has the support of not just true believers but also of many who are more against the current state of Arnland and the world than for any clear understanding of how GADA would implement its rather utopian solution to current problems. This makes it extremely difficult to gauge the true strength of core Marxist support for GADA when a significant element are believed to be swing voters who see the GADA as just a quick opportunity to defeat the current government.

GADA holds an annual conference, in Kalmar, and also conducts frequent diverse events to demonstrate its growing popularity, membership and political influence.

Nominally aligned with the ACP, the GADA sees an early opportunity to gain seats in the NA by ‘poaching ’ votes from the ACP and ASP. Should they not have the immediate impact Plahn hopes for he would consider a coalition role with the ASP, in 2016, to gain some Council of Ministers appointments for his party. The GADA has links to major environmental groups with similar views, particularly on anti‐nuclear issues, and encourages development of more formal relationships.

Arnland Liberal Party (ALP). Formed in late 1998, the ALP is a small party with limited influence in government. The ALP has never succeeded in electing a representative to the NA; however, the party has played a spoiler role since the elections in 2000, taking votes away from the ASP and SDP.

Other Political Entities

Interest Groups

Arnish Workers Union (AWU). A representation of the labor movement within Arnland, its strongest ties are with the SDP and more recently the ASP, who traditionally support labor interests when in power.

Federation of Employers in Arnland (FEA). Representative of the business elite in Arnland, it has a strong influence in the political and commercial activities within the country; positively and negatively, legally and illegally. Traditionally aligned with the APP, it shifts support to the party most able to enable and facilitate their business activities and protect their interests.

Arnland Federation of Trade Unions. The AFTU is an all‐Arnish voluntary association of trade unions that represents the national‐level industrial sector in the city of Alsstad and its surrounding region. It is the largest trade union confederation in Arnland, with more than half a million members. As of March 2011, 19 national trade unions and ten regional trade unions were associated with the AFTU. The aim of the AFTU is to express and represent the interests and protect the rights of its member organizations, coordinate their collective actions, promote unity in the trade union movement, represent and protect labor and the socio‐economic rights and interests of trade union members before state and local authorities, and represent the interests of members in their relationship with employers and their organizations. At the international level, the AFTU is affiliated with the International Trade Union Confederation and with links to the ASP. Mr. Vigmar Lofdahl has been serving as chairman since May 2008.

Free Arnland Front. Free Arnland Front (FAF) has similar goals to GADA and by non‐violent means wants to establish an Independent and Self Sustainable Marxist Arnland free from Western influence. Ideologically it wishes to safeguard the environment and remove reliance on nuclear power‐Ideological. It wishes to create an economically and technically independent Arnland which attracts foreign investment, reduces the brain drain, redistributes wealth and increases environmental industrialization. The main means of focusing anti‐government messages is by demonstrations, civil disobedience and slow working action with a strong social media network.

Pressure Groups

Transparency. The most vocal legally organized pressure group active at the national level in Arnland is “Transparency”, a group established to challenge the political and judicial systems in Arnland to deal with corruption and its influence. Transparency, led by the charismatic Sofia Lindtner, aims at coordinating international and national anti‐corruption efforts in Arnland and several other regional member countries. Transparency promotes the adoption of international legal instruments, good governance, strengthening the rule of law, transparency and integrity in business operations and the development of an active civil society in order to fight corruption.

Female Equality Movement (FEM). FEM is a protest group based in Alsstad, founded by Ms. Martinette Rosengard in 2008. The organization is well known in the country for organizing protests against human trafficking, international marriage agencies, sexism, sexually based violence and other social, national, and international ills. Female university students between 18 and 20 years old form the backbone of the movement. Some of the aims of the organization are to develop leadership, intellectual and moral qualities of the young women in the Arnland and to build up the image of Arnland, the country with great opportunities for women. As of late June 2014, the organization is contemplating becoming a political party to run for seats in the next parliamentary election.

Greater Skolkan Movement (GSM). The existence of the GSM is another complication for the Arnish Government. The GSM has the appearance of a political party but is in reality is a pressure group. Its policies can be summarized as follows; the breaking up of the Skolkan Empire was a historic error; Arnland, Framland and Torrike form a natural geographical, linguistic and economic entity and there is insufficient diversity between these ‘nations’ to justify their separate existence.

Political and Campaign Funding

Political parties in Arnland receive public funds, largely in proportion to the seats won in the NA. Nevertheless, parties evidently need substantial additional resources to compete effectively in the political process. There are no meaningful restrictions on party or campaign finance. The law prohibits financial aid from foreign governments and companies but not from foreign political organizations or from any local persons or organizations. There are no restrictions on the amount of money that can be donated by business interests or individual citizens to political parties or candidates. At the 2012 election there was a significant rise in political funding from private business. The election law had a new provision requiring disclosure of expenditures, but compliance was incomplete and there was no enforcement or ability for authorities to investigate. Many Arnish politicians own or have close relatives who own businesses that directly benefit from patronage. Some politicians own their own newspapers or television stations, which are used for political and economic ends.

The absence of legislation on conflicts of interests and party finance has also produced advantages for those businesses that have financed political campaigns. These companies certainly have been privileged in receiving government contracts; they may also be avoiding taxes by financing key officials.

The “Transparency” group has unsuccessfully attempted to force the two largest political parties to enact the necessary reforms to restrict if not eliminate this practice with a view to legitimizing the electoral and political processes in Arnland. EU membership may be the catalyst that “Transparency” needs to cause the powerbrokers within the system to embrace meaningful change.