Utmen, Lakhzov Communities Invited To Constitutional SummitA Democratic Confederation representing the many cultures which make up Somerset, while protecting its Celtic identity, is shaping up as Somerset gears up for its Constitutional Summit. The Office of the Lord High Protector announced that the Utmen and Lakhzov would "most certainly" be represented in the upcoming Constitutional Summit, noting that their input had been limited in the formation of the Commonwealth. "When the Commonwealth was established we were focused on our Peoples, but we forgot that the Utmen and Lakhzov whom moved to Somerset prior to the strife within Lakhzovia, collectively, make up 27% of the population of Caledonia Province. This is an oversight which demands redress, so to our Utmen and Lakhzov citizens I do hope to see your presence at the Constitutional Summit. Together, we will build a nation reflective of the diverse cultures and societies which comprise it."
Lord High Protector Evanthe has proposed a democratic confederation, allowing for each Province to have a degree of autonomous rule within the broader Confederation. Special attention is being paid to the faith of the Kerenists, while considerations for the majority Celtic heritage of Somerset are being drafted in preparation for the Summit. "We may invite the advice and oversight of our Celtic brothers and sisters from abroad, as this is quite the project we are undertaking in building a multicultural Somerset," the Lord Protector shared with the Tribune. "As UC has experience in such incorporations, I look forward to their assistance in these affairs."
In related developments the Civil Administration has prepared a program for Utmen and Lakhzov refugees to apply for citizenship and asylum, easing restrictions in light of "increasing uncertainty and strife within Lakhzovia." Citing "vibrant Utmen and Lakhzov communities within Somerset, we invite those who wish to forge a new life to find that life in Somerset and build a multicultural society with their Somerset brothers. Whereas your voices may not be heard elsewhere, here, we desire your voices, your cultural heritage, for it is a part of what will make Somerset great in the future." The Summit, also being referred to as "Our Summit 2018", is scheduled to take place in the near future and will establish the guiding document and principles of Somerset.
The Tribune has obtained snippets of the initial Draft, which have been authorized for release:
In establishing this Constitution, we declare a political system and civil administration founded upon a social contract that reconciles the rich mosaic of Somerset through a transitional phase from chaos, civil war and destruction, to a new democratic society where civic life and social justice are preserved.
The Democratic Confederation shall not interfere in the domestic affairs of other countries, and it shall safeguard its relations with neighboring states, resolving any conflicts peacefully.
The Constitution incorporates the Mundus Convention of Universal Rights and the Uppsala Convention, as well as other internationally recognized human rights conventions.
Everyone has the right to express their ethnic, cultural, linguistic and gender rights.
Every human being has the inherent right to life. No one within the jurisdiction of the Provinces shall be executed.
Individuals have the inviolable right to participate in political, social, economic and cultural life regardless of gender (or lackthereof).
Individuals are equal in the eyes of the law, regardless of gender (or lack thereof). The Constitution guarantees the effective realization of equality and mandates public institutions to work towards the elimination of gender discrimination.
The Kerenists religion is a recognized religion and its adherents’ rights to freedom of association and expression is explicitly protected. The protection of Kerenist religious, social and cultural life may be guaranteed through the passage of laws by the Legislative Assembly.
Natural resources, located both above and below ground, are the public wealth of society. Extractive processes, management, licensing and other contractual agreements related to such resources shall be regulated by law.