Archive of 645 Chancellor Debate Channel

The Kodiak Public Service — 19/08/2022

@Assembly Member

Seeing that there does not appear to have been an agreement on a time for a debate and its become much too late for enough preparation time to record the debate like last election cycle (an exceptional shame) I open the floor to citizens to ask questions directly to the candidates. @Oskar Luchens (NUP) @Klaus Mikaelson (KWP)

Akkad Dunshki — 19/08/2022

@Oskar Luchens (NUP) @Klaus Mikaelson How will you make The Kodiak Republic move forward in becoming better?

2

Ysgramor — 19/08/2022

@Oskar Luchens (NUP) @Klaus Mikaelson how will each of you further the adoption of more advanced military technology within the Kodiak Armed Forces and what steps will each of you take to boost our arms manufacturing industry? (edited)

3

Romulus Katzenwald (Lovendara) — 19/08/2022

@Oskar Luchens (NUP) @Klaus Mikaelson how will you handle foreign relations with neighbouring countries and allies?

4

Belorhn — 19/08/2022

@Oskar Luchens (NUP) & @Klaus Mikaelson

1. Will you better survey the land in this republic to create accurate mapping so we don’t have to rely on hand drawn maps that aren’t accurate.

2. Will either of you work on ramping up military readiness to level where the army can be deployed for natural disasters in a moments notice god forbid it be deemed necessary?

3. Final question, will either of you seek the opinion of your constituency prior to making a decision that could greatly effect the lives of millions of Kodiakers?

3

@Ysgramor

@Oskar Luchens (NUP) @Klaus Mikaelson how will each of you further the adoption of more advanced military technology within the Kodiak Armed Forces and what steps will each of you take to boost our arms manufacturing industry? (edited)

Klaus Mikaelson — 19/08/2022

My government plans to place a percentage of our budget into advancing/modernizing our military, however, I will say that we may be looking at quality over quantity. The recent discussion on a nationwide requirement for military service may be over-zealous, and an example of a somewhat massive over-reaction. Like dropping a bomb on a foreign city where one of your citizens was killed. Many nations have small but powerful and well-respected militaries, and I think that may be the better option for Kodiak at this time. Plus, with a smaller military, we can better afford to develop and produce better weaponry, vehicles and body armor to give our citizens in uniform a tactical advantage over any opponents that they may face.

With the arms manufacturing industry, we want to look at having newer and better weapons available for our military forces, but we also do not want those same weapons to be in the hands of regular, everyday civilians. So we will make sure to pass restrictions to that effect if deemed necessary while in the process of modernizing our military.

@Akkad Dunshki

@Oskar Luchens (NUP) @Klaus Mikaelson How will you make The Kodiak Republic move forward in becoming better?

Klaus Mikaelson — 19/08/2022

That's quite a broad question, so I'll try and answer, but if I don't quite answer as you had hoped, please let me know with a follow up!

The Barber Government did some great work in addressing some of the social issues that our people face on a daily occurrence, but there is more work to be done. As I said in my opening speech, my government will focus on altering our prison system to ease back on the overcrowding issues that we see there, we hope to address gang violence in our major cities and we will work to address both the teacher shortage and the skilled worker shortage that we are seeing throughout Kodiak.

@Romulus Katzenwald (Lovendara)

@Oskar Luchens (NUP) @Klaus Mikaelson how will you handle foreign relations with neighbouring countries and allies?

Klaus Mikaelson — 19/08/2022

My government will work to increase our diplomatic footprint throughout the NS-world, both through regular diplomatic interactions and by working to add several cultural treaties with regions throughout the term. Kodiak has a unique setup, one that perhaps no other place has, and we should work to show that off.

3

@Klaus Mikaelson

My government plans to place a percentage of our budget into advancing/modernizing our military, however, I will say that we may be looking at quality over quantity. The recent discussion on a nationwide requirement for military service may be over-zealous, and an example of a somewhat massive over-reaction. Like dropping a bomb on a foreign city where one of your citizens was killed. Many nations have small but powerful and well-respected militaries, and I think that may be the better option for Kodiak at this time. Plus, with a smaller military, we can better afford to develop and produce better weaponry, vehicles and body armor to give our citizens in uniform a tactical advantage over any opponents that they may face. With the arms manufacturing industry, we want to look at having newer and better weapons available for our military forces, but we also do not want those same weapons to be in the hands of regular, everyday civilians. So we will make sure to pass restrictions to that effect if deemed necessary while in the process of modernizing our military.

Ysgramor — 19/08/2022

I agree with you on everything apart from gun control

@Ysgramor

I agree with you on everything apart from gun control

Klaus Mikaelson — 19/08/2022

that's ok.

@Belorhn

@Oskar Luchens (NUP) & @Klaus Mikaelson   1. Will you better survey the land in this republic to create accurate mapping so we don’t have to rely on hand drawn maps that aren’t accurate. 2. Will either of you work on ramping up military readiness to level where the army can be deployed for natural disasters in a moments notice god forbid it be deemed necessary? 3. Final question, will either of you seek the opinion of your constituency prior to making a decision that could greatly effect the lives of millions of Kodiakers?

Klaus Mikaelson — 19/08/2022

1. Sure, why not? If that's something that people are interested in seeing done I'm more than happy to see that it is addressed! I have no personal experience in cartography, so I'll be seeking the assistance and advice of people in the region in seeing this task completed.

2. As stated for another region, my government will focus on having a smaller but excellent military, one that is well armed, well trained, and well prepared for any tasks that they may face. With having a smaller military, we may need to look at perhaps the addition of a "home guard" or a trained civilian corps which can be trained specifically to address natural disasters across Kodiak, so as not to tie up the military should there be a military matter at the same time.

3. That depends on the issue. I've always been a believer in the idea that an elected leader has already been picked by the citizens to make those kinds of decisions, and that leaders who regularly go back and ask for referendums and public polls are not being leaders at all, but are refusing to make a decision that a percentage of the populace may not like or agree with, when doing so is a big part of the job. If there is a topic where I need to make a decision and it is something that is new for the region, or something that will be different from what any Kodiaker has experienced in recent times, then yes, I probably will want input from citizens. But I will not ask the populace for their opinions on every major decision, because then I would be nothing more than an empty suit, a "leader" in title and name only. Nobody wants that.

@Klaus Mikaelson

That's quite a broad question, so I'll try and answer, but if I don't quite answer as you had hoped, please let me know with a follow up! The Barber Government did some great work in addressing some of the social issues that our people face on a daily occurrence, but there is more work to be done. As I said in my opening speech, my government will focus on altering our prison system to ease back on the overcrowding issues that we see there, we hope to address gang violence in our major cities and we will work to address both the teacher shortage and the skilled worker shortage that we are seeing throughout Kodiak.

Akkad Dunshki — 19/08/2022

How do you plan on easing the overcrowing prison system? What steps do you plan on taking to reduce gang violence in the major cities? Will you allow teachers and skilled workers from neighboring areas fill in the gaps of the shortages? And yes, you answered my question.

1

Patrick Barber — 19/08/2022

I ask of the candidates, what will each of you do to increase overall productivity of the economy and workers within the Republic. Our work week is one of the longest in the developed world and yet productivity is hardly half that of other similar nations. Do you see a strategy to improved economic productivity?

2

Joshua Lopez - Slatium — 19/08/2022

@Oskar Luchens (NUP) @Klaus Mikaelson  How do you plan to fix the current water crisis?

2

@Akkad Dunshki

@Oskar Luchens (NUP) @Klaus Mikaelson How will you make The Kodiak Republic move forward in becoming better?

Oskar Luchens (NUP) — 19/08/2022

My position as chancellor is centered on a focused approach to a few key issues that I feel could have larger ripples into the broader situation the Republic faces. Chief among these issues is internal stability in the form of violent crime, riots, and fake news. These circular topics feed each other and continue to dominate the socio-economic challenges of the nation. As Chancellor I plan to roll up a phased approach of initiatives designed to tackle these issues in the form of education reform to combat the struggling standard and opportunities of our citizens on the regional/global stages. Furthermore to combat unemployment we will introduce a series of public works packages in the form of infrastructure projects such as highway expansions and a new national highspeed rail system. Some of these items can be found in my recent posts in 🔆｜lobby talking about the platform I intend to campaign on.

@Ysgramor

@Oskar Luchens (NUP) @Klaus Mikaelson how will each of you further the adoption of more advanced military technology within the Kodiak Armed Forces and what steps will each of you take to boost our arms manufacturing industry? (edited)

Oskar Luchens (NUP) — 19/08/2022

The issue of the Kodiaker military remains one I am most familiar with. We have made great strides in the past three years with several reform measures passed and a comprehensive strategy of improvement to course correct an established decline of capabilities. Following on the heels of the recent defense reforms, I do not intend to further increase the Defense budget aside a conflict between a peer adversary which I firmly believe to be on the horizon. With this in mind I remain committed to the planned Force Redesign 646 and the expected fulfillment of our goals by 655 to achieve the planned strategy of reforms. Using the budget in prioritized manners to both expand the armed forces while also fielding modernized equipment and developing the next generation of equipment for identified purposes such as the Air Superiority Fighter Model '35 which will serve as the mainstay of the Air Force for the decades to come.

With regard to the national defense industry. I remain committed to the private sector's ability to compete and drive initiative. With this in mind I intend to instruct the Defense Department to pursue a series of combat trials and contracts for various global competitors for equipment options in the future. Our domestic industry will likely remain capable of modernization projects of existing models while slowly gaining improvements via license productions of key systems such as partnerships between global defense firms.

@Romulus Katzenwald (Lovendara)

@Oskar Luchens (NUP) @Klaus Mikaelson how will you handle foreign relations with neighbouring countries and allies?

Oskar Luchens (NUP) — 19/08/2022

As was mentioned Mr. Mikaelson, The Kodiak Republic is in a unique position within the NS world to showcase its RP mechanics that can bring other Regions into our community. Under this core concept My goal for foreign relations will not be totally NS centric but a mission to expand Kodiak's community into the non-NS realm of recruitment to bring in a fresh pool of active users with unique ideas that can help drive us to the next level of initiatives.

Within the Maxtopia Peninsula, The Republic will seek to increase partnerships between our neighboring nations in order to reestablish The Republic's previous international and regional standing. This would take the form of strategic trading deals and new treaties of cooperation between us and our neighbors. However chief amongst these plans will be a dedicated demarche against the Great North and a strategy of de-escalation between our forces in order to remain in the competition phase of international events. I am committed to a safe and secure society within the Republic and will pursue my foreign policy with that objective at heart.

1

@Belorhn

@Oskar Luchens (NUP) & @Klaus Mikaelson   1. Will you better survey the land in this republic to create accurate mapping so we don’t have to rely on hand drawn maps that aren’t accurate. 2. Will either of you work on ramping up military readiness to level where the army can be deployed for natural disasters in a moments notice god forbid it be deemed necessary? 3. Final question, will either of you seek the opinion of your constituency prior to making a decision that could greatly effect the lives of millions of Kodiakers?

Oskar Luchens (NUP) — 19/08/2022

1. Will you better survey the land in this republic to create accurate mapping so we don’t have to rely on hand drawn maps that aren’t accurate.

-The challenge at hand can be easily solved through both domestic and international efforts. Under my Chancellorship, as part of the planned Public Works programs, we intend to integrate drone mapping software that can be used to build micro-analytic profiles of Kodiak's terrain. While at the macro level we must also improve the National Surveying Society's standards for education and practices to rebuild core competencies. Through contracts with some foreign space based companies we can better obtain topographic data from their satellites that are already releasing data into the Public Domain. There is no reason we can not harness that data better for ourselves.

2. Will either of you work on ramping up military readiness to level where the army can be deployed for natural disasters in a moments notice god forbid it be deemed necessary?

-Civil-Military Cooperation remains a area of proficiency in my eyes as the outgoing Defense Minister. Between the training achieved by our ARSOF Regiment at San Chico in its hostage rescue missions and the conventional army's experience on the border in support of the Border Service shows that the military remains capable of providing services and support within the Republic to civilians and non-Defense departments.

However an area that could use work is a national Disaster Service to coordinate these measures. There currently exist little in the realm of government planning for such events and the burden appears to fall solely on the Defense Ministry.

[23:09]

3. Final question, will either of you seek the opinion of your constituency prior to making a decision that could greatly effect the lives of millions of Kodiakers?

-The thoughts and opinions of my home constituency are always chief concerns to me as their elected representative to the Assembly. That being said, as Chancellor I must of course consider all districts and the varying challenges we face at the micro level. I will continue to marshal support amongst the Assembly members to tackle their concerns for issues at all levels. The success of the Republic depends on the shared understanding of all political factions that we must correct the course we are on.

@Patrick Barber

I ask of the candidates, what will each of you do to increase overall productivity of the economy and workers within the Republic. Our work week is one of the longest in the developed world and yet productivity is hardly half that of other similar nations. Do you see a strategy to improved economic productivity?

Oskar Luchens (NUP) — 19/08/2022

Indeed the draconian nature of the workforce is a concern especially as it continues to limit our economic output and challenge the stability of the nation. Under the NUP's platform we are strategizing for some Labor centric goals to alleviate this burden in the following forms.

Entrepreneurial Aide Agency, in order to better create conditions for smaller businesses to thrive and generate startups for the micro-economic fields.

National Business and Commerce Council, to develop and execute join planning between the Public and Private sectors of many of these policies.

Youth Entrepreneur Mentor Scheme, to provide for better opportunities of our national youth and to better create an environment for small business.

Establishment of the 40 hour work week standard, this is a global norm. There is no reason for Kodiak to deviate from this norm. As part of this program, we will pursue a case study of our national output to identify the wasted efficiency that we can resource improvements through the National Business/Commerce Council.

@Oskar Luchens (NUP)

My position as chancellor is centered on a focused approach to a few key issues that I feel could have larger ripples into the broader situation the Republic faces. Chief among these issues is internal stability in the form of violent crime, riots, and fake news. These circular topics feed each other and continue to dominate the socio-economic challenges of the nation. As Chancellor I plan to roll up a phased approach of initiatives designed to tackle these issues in the form of education reform to combat the struggling standard and opportunities of our citizens on the regional/global stages. Furthermore to combat unemployment we will introduce a series of public works packages in the form of infrastructure projects such as highway expansions and a new national highspeed rail system. Some of these items can be found in my recent posts in 🔆｜lobby talking about the platform I intend to campaign on.

Akkad Dunshki — 19/08/2022

Are you planning to re-pave roads that need to be re-paved? How will the highspeed rail system benefit The Kodiak Republic? How are you going to reduce riots and violent crimes?

1

Gustave Bernier — 19/08/2022

Question to the candidates: how do you plan to reduce the number of workers under the poverty line ?

2

@Joshua Lopez - Slatium

@Oskar Luchens (NUP) @Klaus Mikaelson  How do you plan to fix the current water crisis?

Oskar Luchens (NUP) — 19/08/2022

The Water Crisis is one that I was united with Mr Barber in working for a solution in the form of a State Water Enterprise to establish government control of the crisis. Additionally the Chancellor's latest bill being an amendment of that existing piece of legislation further seeks to impose a limitation of water consumption to better address continued challenges. As chancellor I intend to address this from an environmental lens. As Climate Change continues to shift our eco-system's norms. We must take proactive measures to reverse many of these developments. As we see globally, drought and heat waves will continue to increase in frequency and effects. The loss of valuable water sources will degrade the nation's arable lands and trigger an increased food crisis within our nation. As I will strategize the implementation of the following:

Green Energy incentives through Government Grants to wind and solar generation companies. Beginning a ten year phase out of cardon producing energy sources to decrease out national reliance on Coal and other sources by as much as 10%. A repivoting of our energy systems.

More data is certainly needed following the most recent bill to amend the existing Water Act. But my government will pursue those details to the fullest to also better identify direct measures. (edited)

1

@Akkad Dunshki

Are you planning to re-pave roads that need to be re-paved? How will the highspeed rail system benefit The Kodiak Republic? How are you going to reduce riots and violent crimes?

Oskar Luchens (NUP) — 19/08/2022

The NUP is committed to investing 1.4 billion florins into a National Rail Project that will provide national transportation methods with a goal to achieve 160kmph as the top speed. This will enable the commuting of large swaths of the national population that is forced to sit in traffic on our deteriorating highways.

We are barely able to keep the potholes filled with all the activity we are forcing on those roads. Therefore, the NUP is proposing a 600 million increase to the Transportation budget for road repair costs across the next three years. This will be more than just a repaving project but also laying groundwork for new connections and more efficient road designs.

@Oskar Luchens (NUP)

The NUP is committed to investing 1.4 billion florins into a National Rail Project that will provide national transportation methods with a goal to achieve 160kmph as the top speed. This will enable the commuting of large swaths of the national population that is forced to sit in traffic on our deteriorating highways. We are barely able to keep the potholes filled with all the activity we are forcing on those roads. Therefore, the NUP is proposing a 600 million increase to the Transportation budget for road repair costs across the next three years. This will be more than just a repaving project but also laying groundwork for new connections and more efficient road designs.

Joshua Lopez - Slatium — 19/08/2022

Don't you think some cars won't be able to handle the speed and catch on fire?

1

@Akkad Dunshki

Are you planning to re-pave roads that need to be re-paved? How will the highspeed rail system benefit The Kodiak Republic? How are you going to reduce riots and violent crimes?

Oskar Luchens (NUP) — 19/08/2022

Regarding riots and violent crimes we will explore a more comprehensive audit of the activity of the National Kodiak Police and its community policing programs. The NKP has been expanded and funded in the past to address these issues but if we are not making progress, it will need to be better identified. I intend to instruct the Ministry of Law/Order to pursue a new strategy of enforcement that will shift additional resources to locations that are most effected. Additionally the courses of many of these riots and crimes stems from economic conditions. The police can only be tasked with keeping the situation under control while we create a new environment for better opportunities.

@Gustave Bernier

Question to the candidates: how do you plan to reduce the number of workers under the poverty line ?

Oskar Luchens (NUP) — 19/08/2022

Mr Bernier, the situation that many of our citizens experience as part of their daily lives remains one that is most fundamental challenges the next administration will face. However. With the current 📜｜social-security Act this is under consideration and appears to enjoy join support between the main factions of government I believe this will be a key cornerstone of the coming changes for the citizens of the republic. Furthermore, with many of the economic initiatives I plan to pursue as Chancellor, mentioned above. I believe that the status of the average citizen will improve significantly. Educational reforms will also open new opportunities for our own citizens that will have effects in the next 10-20 years we are not experiencing now.

@Joshua Lopez - Slatium

Don't you think some cars won't be able to handle the speed and catch on fire?

Oskar Luchens (NUP) — 19/08/2022

Given the lack of a national highspeed rail system. This will be "From Scratch" project, totally overhauling existing public transport lines to bring them up to a new standard of capability. In line with this, we will have to order new carriages and engines that meet the demands. But in keeping with the original question, I will endeavor to ensure that the Ministry of Transportation builds a Safety Standards Act to better regulate all forms of public transportation

1

20 August 2022

@Oskar Luchens (NUP)

Regarding riots and violent crimes we will explore a more comprehensive audit of the activity of the National Kodiak Police and its community policing programs. The NKP has been expanded and funded in the past to address these issues but if we are not making progress, it will need to be better identified. I intend to instruct the Ministry of Law/Order to pursue a new strategy of enforcement that will shift additional resources to locations that are most effected. Additionally the courses of many of these riots and crimes stems from economic conditions. The police can only be tasked with keeping the situation under control while we create a new environment for better opportunities.

Akkad Dunshki — 20/08/2022

Are you planning to increase security such as adding new alarms and security cameras? Also, are you planning to "change" prisons to make inmates less likely to commit crimes in the future?

1

@Oskar Luchens (NUP)

The NUP is committed to investing 1.4 billion florins into a National Rail Project that will provide national transportation methods with a goal to achieve 160kmph as the top speed. This will enable the commuting of large swaths of the national population that is forced to sit in traffic on our deteriorating highways. We are barely able to keep the potholes filled with all the activity we are forcing on those roads. Therefore, the NUP is proposing a 600 million increase to the Transportation budget for road repair costs across the next three years. This will be more than just a repaving project but also laying groundwork for new connections and more efficient road designs.

Akkad Dunshki — 20/08/2022

What is your plan to reach such speeds? Can they stop in time to reach the next destination without missing it? Is the National Rail Project eco-friendly? When will this project start and end?

1

Aaron Tonnesen - New Asden — 20/08/2022

@Oskar Luchens (NUP) @Klaus Mikaelson   What does your administration plan to do with the numerous ores located in the Darrent region? How will you defend it?

2

@Akkad Dunshki

Are you planning to increase security such as adding new alarms and security cameras? Also, are you planning to "change" prisons to make inmates less likely to commit crimes in the future?

Oskar Luchens (NUP) — 20/08/2022

Mr Dunshki,   I will direct the Minister of Justice to compile a detailed report of the subject. At this time, there is a lack information regarding the specifics of the prison situation. But based on that report I would make a decision to potentially institute changes to the prisons.

@Akkad Dunshki

What is your plan to reach such speeds? Can they stop in time to reach the next destination without missing it? Is the National Rail Project eco-friendly? When will this project start and end?

Oskar Luchens (NUP) — 20/08/2022

First and foremost, the NUP will make a priority to ensure the trains run on time. In order to achieve the speeds we are discussing, my administration would utilize an Integrated Network Approach which connects entire regions by combining the transformative power of dedicated high-speed lines with the geographic coverage of tracks that handle both passenger and freight trains. Used across the world, it delivers steady and incremental progress, guided by a long-term plan. New segments of new or upgraded lines are steadily added over time, like building blocks, to create a growing and thriving network. In some cases, high-speed trains run on both high-speed and shared-use tracks. In other cases, passengers easily switch between high-speed and conventional trains to get to their destination. This approach fuses multiple types of trains—running on different kinds of tracks—into a single, flourishing, high-volume network.

Ecological consideration will be a top priority

This will largely depend on the actions of the Assembly to pass any such funding. However, the current plan that is being written establishes a 10 year plan of rail investment (edited)

@Aaron Tonnesen - New Asden

@Oskar Luchens (NUP) @Klaus Mikaelson   What does your administration plan to do with the numerous ores located in the Darrent region? How will you defend it?

Oskar Luchens (NUP) — 20/08/2022

Mr Tonnesen,   The Kodiak Republic has much to gain from tapping the natural resources that were discovered in the Darrent over a decade ago. It has been a shame that thus far there has been only marginal efforts to tap these by the private sector. However my administration would be willing to consider foreign investments and partnerships with some of our leading mining industries to further the projects and also build up our own capabilities along the way. This is a win win for both our foreign partners and domestic industries. (edited)

Hester Sirocco-Loren (Juliette) — 20/08/2022

To our Chancellor candidates, I put forward a few questions initially, thank you for answering questions in an unusual open floor manner.

1 - What are your thoughts on the rights of workers in the Republic's present form? It is obviously clear that they stand as an antithesis of what The Kodiak Republic enshrines as our values. Where would you like to take them? While it may not be possible for a full reform of labour rights  and employment laws, let's hypothetically assume that is is possible and there are no limitations and roadblocks - what should our labour rights look like? What should our employment laws cover?

2 - What is your opinion of The Kodiak Republic's international standing? It would appear that there has been little communication with the outside world of a productive and diplomatic nature which is understandable given the many problems we have to deal with domestically. We appear quite an isolationist nation due to our major crisis at home, indeed our major 'correspondence' if you will has been through mutual military maneuver between ourselves and a seemingly hostile government.

How should we, as a Republic, forge a path towards greater international standing, and take our place as a nation of note in this world, and join with like minded nations? Global peace is wrought with challenges, and it would seem like we need friends more than ever that can aid us, and in return I'd hope that Kodiak would be a greater contributor to nations of this world as a whole once we are in a better state.

(OOC: I ask question 2 in in relation to the simulation and our Kodiak RP, not Nationstates meta).

3 - In the previous term, social housing was enacted and the implementation of such has begun - though likely the effects will take some time to come to fruition. Similarly, social security is being discussed in the assembly. What critical aspects of support do you believe the people still need? How will we address these? If we cannot address these, what groundwork do we need to advance the livelihood of our citizens? (edited)

1

@Hester Sirocco-Loren (Juliette)

To our Chancellor candidates, I put forward a few questions initially, thank you for answering questions in an unusual open floor manner. 1 - What are your thoughts on the rights of workers in the Republic's present form? It is obviously clear that they stand as an antithesis of what The Kodiak Republic enshrines as our values. Where would you like to take them? While it may not be possible for a full reform of labour rights  and employment laws, let's hypothetically assume that is is possible and there are no limitations and roadblocks - what should our labour rights look like? What should our employment laws cover? 2 - What is your opinion of The Kodiak Republic's international standing? It would appear that there has been little communication with the outside world of a productive and diplomatic nature which is understandable given the many problems we have to deal with domestically. We appear quite an isolationist nation due to our major crisis at home, indeed our major 'correspondence' if you will has been through mutual military maneuver between ourselves and a seemingly hostile government. How should we, as a Republic, forge a path towards greater international standing, and take our place as a nation of note in this world, and join with like minded nations? Global peace is wrought with challenges, and it would seem like we need friends more than ever that can aid us, and in return I'd hope that Kodiak would be a greater contributor to nations of this world as a whole once we are in a better state. (OOC: I ask question 2 in in relation to the simulation and our Kodiak RP, not Nationstates meta). 3 - In the previous term, social housing was enacted and the implementation of such has begun - though likely the effects will take some time to come to fruition. Similarly, social security is being discussed in the assembly. What critical aspects of support do you believe the people still need? How will we address these? If we cannot address these, what groundwork do we need to advance the livelihood of our citizens? (edited)

Oskar Luchens (NUP) — 20/08/2022

Ms. Sirocco-Loren,

1 - Kodiak has slipped from the international standard and norms regarding its population's rights to working conditions and social programs. Under my administration, I would continue to bring Kodiak closer to the international standard. The upcoming vote for the Social Security law is a perfect launching point for our citizens as it not only lowers the age of retirement but also enables basic access to unemployment and social security for qualified citizens. As mentioned in my policy points on the Assembly floor, my administration would pursue a new work week standard to bring us into commonality with the 40 hour week. That being said, it will come as no surprise that the NUP will take a very cautious approach to these items to balance popularity with long term analysis.

2 - As I mentioned early in another question as well, The Kodiak Republic must engage with our regional partners. The current situation with The Great North is a striking example of how the lack of diplomacy and international presence has isolated us. The last meaningful engagement Kodiak carried out with the international world was during the Allied Nations Mission to stabilize the government twenty years ago. Economic initiatives with our neighbors in the form of joint excavation projects and foreign contracts for some other initiatives would be good ways to build up our reputation and trust with our neighbors. Unfortunately it may be too late to build a security agreement to ward off any potential dangers from The Great North.

Regarding our international standing. I believe that Kodiak is still situated to be a major regional power in the Maxtopia Peninsula. Just as we were in the past prior to the period of turmoil. Kodiak is still a long way away from its deserved position. But we will continue to build that here domestically and lay groundwork of our position abroad.

[21:54]

3 - Indeed many of the social programs that were or are being instituted will take years to showcase their effectiveness and it will likely not be during the next chancellor's time to fully realize those effects. That being said, The NUP remains committed to reaching a level of international norms that will improve the lives of all Kodiakers. The national work week remains a key priority for the NUP going into the next cycle which I am positive we will find common ground with the KWP in this topic that our people are overworked and there is no gain for the expenses.

Gustave Bernier — 20/08/2022

"under my administration, I would continue to bring Kodiak closer to the international standard", "reaching a level of international norms" what is your answer to some citizens/politicians saying that the international standard is not enough ? Do you plan on going further, or stopping Kodiak at the international standard ? (edited)

1

@Gustave Bernier

"under my administration, I would continue to bring Kodiak closer to the international standard", "reaching a level of international norms" what is your answer to some citizens/politicians saying that the international standard is not enough ? Do you plan on going further, or stopping Kodiak at the international standard ? (edited)

Oskar Luchens (NUP) — 20/08/2022

Mr. Bernier,   Given the challenge the republic already faces from the number of crises, my administration would be focused a balanced approach toward the various items and getting them to the international standard. All the while, analyzing the effect as we move the scale. Too rapid an escalation and it might negatively spiral us in the other issues. Unfortunately our resources are limited and only so much can realistically be accomplished in the next three years.

That is not to say its outside the realm of possibility. We will consider all options too improve the lives of our citizens and create the conditions necessary for a stronger recovery here at home. All the while amidst global instability and economic issues.

Gustave Bernier — 20/08/2022

Another question for you Mr. Luchens, what is your view on socialists and how do you plan to make them agree to your law projects ? In the last 3 years, the amount of socialists within the Kodiak Republic has gone up significantly, is your plan to encourage socialism or try and promote capitalism ? (edited)

1

Oskar Luchens (NUP) — 20/08/2022

Mr. Bernier, the NUP is not an anti-socialist party in the way that the KWP is an anti-capitalist party. Indeed the NUP seeks to hybridize the private and public sectors for unified lines of effort. But the NUP goes a step further in its core belief that the citizen has an expectation to help advance these items through their service in exchange for these benefits. The NUP is not the enemy of the people. Indeed we have found common ground with the KWP across the last three years, the NUP has authored the Social Security Bill that is currently headed to a vote. We have mainly clashed with the KWP on social programs in trying to reign in some of the most radical and overreaching measures. The NUP would expect that the KWP will continue that policy with regard to NUP initiatives put forward as well. (edited)

21 August 2022

@Akkad Dunshki

How do you plan on easing the overcrowing prison system? What steps do you plan on taking to reduce gang violence in the major cities? Will you allow teachers and skilled workers from neighboring areas fill in the gaps of the shortages? And yes, you answered my question.

Klaus Mikaelson — 21/08/2022

We can look at other punishments, other forms of rehabilitation besides simply "lock them up" that helps nobody, not the victims, not the offenders, and it costs the taxpayers huge amounts of money. There must be better ways, and I believe that there are better ways. We must focus on alternative means of punishment with a greater emphasis on rehabilitation.

We can offer youth-based programs for working, for sports, for community-based clubs to give teens who otherwise might be drawn to gangs an alternative, positive use of their time.

We'll take anyone who wants to get involved to help fill the gaps, you could consider it on the job training.

@Patrick Barber

I ask of the candidates, what will each of you do to increase overall productivity of the economy and workers within the Republic. Our work week is one of the longest in the developed world and yet productivity is hardly half that of other similar nations. Do you see a strategy to improved economic productivity?

Klaus Mikaelson — 21/08/2022

The solution is the answer to both of those issues. People work better, and harder, when they know they are looked after, and when they are cared for. People who have a shorter work week tend to work harder and feel a greater sense of devotion and loyalty to their companies, which means less time has to be spent on training new hires. A shorter work week just makes sense. Companies know that and so do we. My Government will push to enable a shorter work week for all state employees, and we will host meetings with private businesses to convince them to do the same.

@Joshua Lopez - Slatium

@Oskar Luchens (NUP) @Klaus Mikaelson  How do you plan to fix the current water crisis?

Klaus Mikaelson — 21/08/2022

We have to look towards a higher production and use of green energies, but we also need the help of the everyday citizen. If people stop watering their grass every day, if they plant better, more water-friendly plants, they will require less water anyways. Instead of grass, plant moss. The amount of water that is wasted by members of the public on a day to day basis is shameful, and we will look to ease back on that waste. Our citizens deserve better, and our country needs us all to do better, but it requires the work of each and every one of us.

@Gustave Bernier

Question to the candidates: how do you plan to reduce the number of workers under the poverty line ?

Klaus Mikaelson — 21/08/2022

Companies must begin to pay a real wage, not one that requires citizens to choose between rent, food and medication. Too many businesses treat their employees like indentured servants who they can toss out the door with no notice, at any time. A Miikaelson Government will work to ensure that citizens are paid a real wage,  a wage that they can live on, a wage that will allow them to enjoy life now, not just when they are retired if they have worked hard enough and been frugal enough to put any of their money away.

@Aaron Tonnesen - New Asden

@Oskar Luchens (NUP) @Klaus Mikaelson   What does your administration plan to do with the numerous ores located in the Darrent region? How will you defend it?

Klaus Mikaelson — 21/08/2022

Our first step must always be via diplomacy. Always. If for no other reason than to serve as a delaying tactic while our military is modernizing and becoming safer and more efficient. If military action is needed, then regrettably that is something we will face. That said, we will work to exhaust all diplomatic options well before a military action is even considered.

22 August 2022

Ysgramor — 22/08/2022

hmm could be dangerous we could give up the initiative in delaying so long how do you plan to control the damage that might cause (edited)

@Ysgramor

hmm could be dangerous we could give up the initiative in delaying so long how do you plan to control the damage that might cause (edited)

Patrick Barber — 22/08/2022

The debate is for the candidates, if you have a specific question, please direct it to them.

Ysgramor — 22/08/2022

sorry was just implying a concern to the candidate meant to add at the end "how do you plan to control the damage"

[00:32]

corrected it

@Oskar Luchens (NUP)

First and foremost, the NUP will make a priority to ensure the trains run on time. In order to achieve the speeds we are discussing, my administration would utilize an Integrated Network Approach which connects entire regions by combining the transformative power of dedicated high-speed lines with the geographic coverage of tracks that handle both passenger and freight trains. Used across the world, it delivers steady and incremental progress, guided by a long-term plan. New segments of new or upgraded lines are steadily added over time, like building blocks, to create a growing and thriving network. In some cases, high-speed trains run on both high-speed and shared-use tracks. In other cases, passengers easily switch between high-speed and conventional trains to get to their destination. This approach fuses multiple types of trains—running on different kinds of tracks—into a single, flourishing, high-volume network. Ecological consideration will be a top priority This will largely depend on the actions of the Assembly to pass any such funding. However, the current plan that is being written establishes a 10 year plan of rail investment (edited)

Akkad Dunshki — 22/08/2022

Will the new and uprgraded rails be connected to other areas in the world?