WA Votes, Vol 5

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Commend Ellenburg" (May 3, 2021)
Result: passed (SC#352)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to commend Ellenburg for a variety of reasons. The first and foremost of those reasons is their prolonged contributions to the governments of Conch Kingdom through their satellite Free Azell and to the larger conglomeration of the Augustin Alliance. Finally, this proposal notes their numerous contributions to the URA, which includes their efforts to promote interregional understanding and diplomacy through leadership.

Undoubtedly, Ellenburg's work has affected a variety of communities and the proposal details their work in a well-written and organized fashion. Ellenburg's positions in the rather unique regional networks of the Augustin Alliance and the URA have been integral to helping them develop and thrive, becoming the large and bustling communities that they are today. The nominee's multifarious roles and their substantial work in improving these communities leaves us without a doubt of their commend-worthiness.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Protecting Native Prairies and Grasslands" (May 3, 2021)
Result: passed (GA#553)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to increase the quality of the world's environment, at the expense of industry by protecting the grasslands and grass prairies that support a wide range of biodiverse organisms. To help member nations with protecting tallgrass prairies, the WA establishes the World Assembly Science Program (WASP) that will help with researching, determining, performing, researching, communicating, and assisting member nations with maintaining and restoring tallgrass prairies. The proposal mandates all member nations with determining areas of tallgrass prairies, conducting environmental impact studies, sharing raw data with WASP, and maintaining tallgrass prairies with WASP guidelines.

The author does an excellent job of constructing the reasons for the need for such drastic actions outlined in the proposal. There is no room for ambiguity in the proposal and the mandate is clear in what it does to protect prairies.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Regulation on the Integrity of Genetic Data" (April 30, 2021)
Result: failed
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to protect the sanctity and privacy of sapient beings' DNA. To protect the integrity of genetic data, it prohibits non-medical DNA testing laboratories from sharing said information, though with the exception that these data can be shared for judicial purposes and that these data can be shared to fulfill a contractual obligation. To enforce these provisions, this proposal creates the World Assembly Genetic Data Oversight Authority (WAGDOA) which is tasked with enforcing the provisions of this resolution and with other tasks relating to ensuring the integrity of genetic data.

While this resolution is ultimately well meaning, there are several faults that we find. First, the policies to be enforced with WAGDOA read more like one idea with a series of exceptions to the norm than anything else. Second, we also find this resolution to ultimately be a confusing jumble and wish it were better refined stylistically, clearly spelling its provisions out rather than the confusing jumble it is at the current moment.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Citizenship And Birth Act" (April 25, 2021)
Result: passed (GA#552)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal has two goals: to reduce statelessness and to define citizenship laws for minors. To achieve this goal, the author first defines the legal terms of jus sanguinis and age of majority. Afterwards, this proposal grants birthright citizenship to the children of a nation's citizens before then working towards further citizenship regulations for minors by placing limits on a state's ability to revoke the citizenship of current citizens except for in narrowly defined cases.

The goals of reducing statelessness and shoring up citizenship laws for minors are both admirable ones. This proposal achieves both in a sensible manner which ensures that both goals are achieved readily and easily in an easy to follow and more than adequate way.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Repeal "On Abortion"" (April 22, 2021)
Result: passed (GA#551)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to repeal GAR #128 "On Abortion" for a variety of reasons. The author cites the double standard required by the original act in terms of qualifications to carry out an abortion as a reason for repeal. Secondly, this proposal notes that philosophical objectors to abortion are given the right to "opt out" of performing the procedure, something which they argue is a tremendous and hypocritical privilege for those doctors. Finally, they cite further action by the General Assembly which has codified a women's right to access reproductive healthcare as a reason to wipe GAR #128 off the books.

We are convinced that this proposal will do an exceptional amount of good when it comes to ensuring that the freedom to access the most intimate forms of health care is upheld for future generations to come. There is no doubt that one way to do so is to ensure that all forms of reproductive health care are safely covered into perpetuity.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Long-Term Storage Of Produced Waste" (April 18, 2021)
Result: failed
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to regulate the storage of potentially harmful wastes produced by member nations. To this end, the author creates a mandate for the creation of storage facilities to take in and store toxic waste-with minimum capacity and lifetime requirements. Additionally, this proposal creates a mechanism for penalizing member states who non-comply while also encouraging governments to make provision for the storage of potentially hazardous waste created by private companies.

This proposal has a clear vision for what it wants to do while actively scrambling its operationalization of that vision. While we are sympathetic to the cause of protecting all citizens from potentially hazardous waste and materials, we are skeptical that blanket mandates on all businesses and pleas for subsidization of hazardous waste disposal facilities are an effective way to go about this proposal's goals.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Commend Kelssek" (April 16, 2021)
Result: passed (SC#351)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to commend Kelssek for a variety of major achievements. First, the author cites their contributions to the World Assembly and its predecessor body via their authorship of multiple resolutions. Secondly, this proposal details their various successes in hosting major sporting events as well as the successes of Kelssek's sportsmen and women in various competitions. Finally, this proposal cites their various contributions to the government of The East Pacific in a variety of positions and capacities.

The proposal is incredibly thorough and well-written, particularly in its detailing of the nominee's accomplishments and achievements in the area of international Sports competitions and international law. However, it fails to go into great depth about the nominee's contributions to the East Pacific. Nonetheless, the arguments in regards to the nominee's achievements in the areas of international sports and policy alone are incredibly convincing, and make an strong case for a commendation.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Freedom Of Association" (April 13, 2021)
Result: passed (GA#550)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to remove penalties for associating with an organization, save for narrowly defined cases of an organization having committed, or having a goal which is to commit, a crime or for spreading a message of hate toward a group.

This proposal adds a crucial pillar of an international rights regime in protecting the right to associate save for involvement in a crime or hate. Such a right establishes that the World Assembly now allows for freedoms of press, assembly, and affiliation more than a decade after its founding.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Repeal "Voting Equality for Freed Inmates"" (April 9, 2021)
Result: passed (GA#549)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to repeal GA 419 "Voting Equality for Freed Inmates". The proposal argues that the target resolution bars future resolutions from taking action to expand voting rights protection to individuals that are currently incarcerated.

While the goal of the proposal is admirable, the arguments within are underdeveloped. The proposal states that the target resolution blocks efforts to extend protections without expanding on that point or providing any support for it. The proposal fails to provide adequate justification for replacing GA 419.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Commend Honeydewistania" (April 9, 2021)
Result: passed (SC#350)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to commend Honeydewistania for their laudable efforts across a variety of domains. To begin, this proposal discusses Honeydewistania's efforts in the World Assembly as author in the GA and SC, repeal author, and as mentor to other first-time World Assembly authors. Finally, this proposal highlights their contributions to the regional government of Mariner Trench and their exploits and skill as a member of the anti-fascist cause.

This proposal succinctly summarizes the large, and growing, list of accomplishments for a nation which has shown their skill and dedication in a variety of areas during their time on NationStates. Honeydewistania certainly has accomplished incredible feats, and their contributions to the respective communities they are a part of have not gone unnoticed. It can be said, truly, that a nation with the bona-fides of Honeydewistania is eminently commendable.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Reducing Microplastics" (April 5, 2021)
Result: passed (GA#548)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to address the health risks posed by microplastics: small fragments of plastic that are unintentionally released into the environment. The proposal accomplishes this by prohibiting manufacturers from purposefully adding microplastics to products and mandating that member nations implement measures to combat microplastic runoff. It also tasks the World Assembly Scientific Programme with researching techniques for microplastic pollution prevention.

The Ministry believes the protection of the environment and the prevention of pollution are of the utmost importance. This proposal intelligently addresses the causes of microplastic pollution and sets out clear restrictions on the use of microplastics in products. Additonally, this proposal requires member nations to be proactive in preventing microplastic runoff and aids them in administering the most effective methods for prevention.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Commend Marrabuk" (April 5, 2021)
Result: passed (SC#349)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to commend Marrabuk, a former Delegate of The East Pacific for their tremendous contributions to said region. The proposal touches on Marrabuk's revitalization of East Pacifican Ministry of Foreign Relations-both internally and with a view towards developing and mending its relationships. It also exhibits Marrabuk's leadership of the East Pacific, rallying support around the duly elected government after the Fedele coup via security measures and generating popular support for their claim to the Delegacy.

Marrabuk has proven consistently their leadership of, and their dedication to, the East Pacific in a variety of ways-re-shaping its internal world and the way it interacts with those outside of it. Marrabuk's leadership and invaluable contributions to the community of the East Pacific are undoubtedly commendable, and the proposal makes its argument in a well-written fashion.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Repeal "Digital Network Defense"" (April 1, 2021)
Result: passed (GA#547)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This resolution seeks to repeal GA #378 "Digital Network Defense", the second attempt by the author to do so. It does so for one reason only: it argues that a right to privacy has been established in other extant law and that GA #378 violates this right to privacy.

While we are adamant defenders of the fundamental rights of a nation's citizens, we are generally unconvinced by the notion advanced by the author that GA #378 displays a "total lack of respect for personal privacy", nor do we agree that the legislation necessarily blocks future efforts to codify a right to digital privacy for citizens.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Blood Donation Safety and Equality Act" (March 30, 2021)
Result: passed (GA#546)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to remove discriminatory practices in eligibility for blood donation. To this end, this proposal then removes those restrictions while allowing for safety protocols to be put in place to prevent the spread of disease before also stating a framework for sharing information on blood donation and its potential risks.

While certainly removing arbitrary barriers to blood donation is a noble goal, this proposal misses the mark in several ways. First, it does not recognize that screening practices exist post-blood donation which renders moot the need for penalties for those who donate blood while having, or not knowing they have, a blood-borne illness. Secondly, this proposal works against itself-stating an ambiguous case for uniform, universal safety standards instead of recognizing the need for different standards for different donors.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Military Death Penalty Ban" (March 25, 2021)
Result: passed (GA#545)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This resolution seeks to prohibit the use of capital punishment for any crime tried under a military judicial code, as well as to prohibit deportations of individuals to jurisdictions that may utilize capital punishment against these deported individuals.

The practice of capital punishment is one that that the Ministry and the broader World Assembly community regards as reprehensible. Capital punishment has not been demonstrated to deter serious crimes, is disproportionately used against minorities and other disenfranchised populations as well as political dissidents, and horrifically has been employed against innocent persons for millennia. These same issues and disparities have also been demonstrated to be present in military tribunals and have permeated the enforcement of military judicial codes much like their civilian counterparts.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Condemn Scardino" (March 25, 2021)
Result: failed
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This resolution seeks to condemn Scardino for a variety of nefarious deeds. The proposal details their founding of Lone Wolves United and their involvement in raiding with the Sekhmet Legion of Osiris, pointing out the destruction of native communities that resulted from their actions. Further, the proposal details their actions in a failed 2019 coup attempt of The East Pacific between the reigns of Fedele and Libertanny.

While the actions detailed in this proposal certainly show a pattern of behavior continued over a long time span, this proposal fails in two key ways. First off, the proposal shoots for a condemn that properly encapsulates the nominee's history, but fails in this regard. The proposal fails to properly detail much of the raiding in many parts of the proposal, instead favoring a detailed recounting of the most recent coup of TEP, which was an abject failure. As a result, the proposal is left with a stunted argument on one end and an uncomplete one on the other.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Repeal "Digital Network Defense"" (March 21, 2021)
Result: passed, but discarded due to rule violations
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to repeal GA 378 "Digital Network Defense". The proposal argues that the target's definition of "cyberattack" is overly broad, and that the handling of cyberattacks as a criminal offense in all situations is an unwise intrusion into national judicial systems. The proposal additionally argues that the target unduly infringes on the personal privacy of citizens.

The at-vote proposal seeks to correct several flaws in the target resolution, making note of its violations of the personal privacy of citizens. Several proposals are also in the works to correct some of these flaws. However, the repeal fails to make a compelling argument for some of its key points, including those regarding the definition of a "cyberattack" and the restriction on member nations' judicial systems.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Condemn Dilber" (March 15, 2021)
Result: failed
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to condemn the West Pacific's Delegate, Dilber for a variety of shocking acts. To bolster their case, the proposal mockingly notes the "undemocratic nature" of the West alongside several inside jokes involving Varanius and Pacifican Xoriet. Finally, this proposal mentions the tag raiding efforts of the West Pacific Armed Forces and presents these as an affront to the communities affected.

While jokes are always good and a dash of humor always makes for a good Security Council proposal, this proposal goes too far in terms of humor vs. actual content. This proposal presents very little in the way of tangible achievements which show why Dilber should be condemned.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Condemn Minineenee" (March 12, 2021)
Result: passed (SC#348)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to condemn Minineenee through the exhibition of their history sowing chaos in various regions. To bolster the case for condemning Minineenee, the author describes the efforts that they went to over the course of the last two decades to coup several prominent regions such as Osiris, The East Pacific, and The West Pacific through satellite nations as well as abortive attempts to overthrow the legitimately elected governments of Lazarus and The Rejected Realms. Finally, this proposal highlights Minineenee's involvement with the group Empire and their involvement with several regions which are known "imperialist groups" in the words of the author.

There is absolutely no doubt that over the nearly two decades of NationStates that Minineenee is one of the longest standing forces of chaos and "evil" that this game has ever known. Their involvement in overthrowing the duly elected governments of numerous prominent regions and attempts to overthrow multiple others show this nominee's worthiness of a condemnation. For these reasons, the Ministry of World Assembly Affairs recommends a vote For the Security Council resolution at vote, "Condemn Minineenee".

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Prohibition Of Honor-Based Violence" (March 9, 2021)
Result: passed (GA#544)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): The at-vote General Assembly proposal seeks to ban honour-based violence, which is the use of violence against individuals because they caused real or perceived damage to their family or community's reputation, honour, etc. Honour killings are often, but do not have to be, religious in nature and may, for example, target those who engaged in pre-/extramarital affairs.

This proposal bans a barbaric practice that too often costs people their lives, solely because they do not share the moral or religious framework of the perpetrator. Every act of honour based-violence is one too many, and this proposal adequately deals with the issue by including not just honour killings, but all forms of violence. In addition, the third clause prevents prosecutors from purposefully not prosecuting honour-based violence, or prosecuting such cases with less severity. This proposal thereby fills an important gap in present international law.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Condemn The Communist Bloc" (March 7, 2021)
Result: failed
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): The Security Council Resolution at vote seeks to impose a condemnation upon The Communist Bloc due to an opposition to The Communist Bloc's ideology and how its constituent nations govern themselves.

This condemnation attempt is written in an exceptionally poor manner, with no practical research done into at least verifying the vague, emotionally-driven arguments presented in this joke of a resolution. The incoherent ramblings that comprise this resolution besmirch the reputation of the Security Council by virtue of it even making it to the voting floor in the first place. Furthermore, the author of this resolution conducted themselves in such a poor manner in the discussion thread for this resolution that the thread had to be locked, due to numerous incidents of flaming, trolling, and baiting that the author engaged in as they attempted to defend the abysmal quality of their arguments and proposal. Overall, if The Communist Bloc is to be condemned by the Security Council, it must be executed in a much better manner than this attempt.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Protecting the Rights of Labour Unions" (March 5, 2021)
Result: passed (GA#543)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This resolution aims to serve as a replacement to GAR #530 "Fairness In Collective Bargaining", which had previously been repealed due to flawed and vague language within the GAR #530, as well as the inconsistent usage of definitions within GAR #530. This replacement resolution has been pushed forward with an eye to avoiding the mistakes of its predecessor, and expanding upon worker protections.

This replacement resolution expands greatly upon its predecessor in its more specific definitions, prohibitions, and restrictions placed employers and labour unions. Additions such as Article 2 which requires that labour unions operate autonomously from the employers to whom they advocate, Article 3(f) which requires that employers negotiate in good faith with labour unions, and Article 4(d) which prevents labour unions from ordering retaliations against workers who choose not to strike or demonstrate are paramount to mandate using General Assembly legislation. By splitting broad mandates found in GAR #530 in specific conditions and requirements, the replacement resolution also eliminates the vague nature of the mandates in its predecessor.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Commend Roavin" (March 2, 2021)
Result: passed (SC#347)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to commend Roavin, a nation famous for their contributions to the defending cause and to the regional government of The South Pacific. In order to bolster the case for a commendation, this proposal cites their service as a participant in prominent defences and their leadership as part of the Order of the Grey Wardens. Further, this proposal also cites the technological innovations created by Roavin. This proposal also focuses on Roavin's political leadership in The South Pacific and its community while also mentioning their contributions to the anti-fascist cause.

A key figure in both the South Pacific and the defending community, Roavin is undoubtedly a commendable nominee. From touching on their accomplishments in the development of key tech that has changed the R/D landscape to their monumental presence in the development of the South Pacific, this proposal makes clear the argument for commendation, and does so well.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Gay Panic defense Ban" (March 1, 2021)
Result: passed (GA#542)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): The resolution at-vote seeks to outlaw a legal defense strategy known as the "Gay Panic Defense", which is often employed to evade or mitigate prosecution for the use of force against non-straight and non-cisgender people based solely on their sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity.

The Ministry believes that such a defense being employed, successfully, or not, represents a significant stain upon justice systems across the world. Not only does this flawed defense serve as an excuse to violate the civil liberties and freedoms of non-straight and non-cisgender people, it also degrades the concept of legitimate self-defense in the eyes of the public. As such, it is crucial that this egregious legal defense strategy is outlawed across all WA member states.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Repeal "Liberate The Embassy"" (February 27, 2021)
Result: passed (SC#346)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to repeal Security Council Resolution # 344 "Liberate The Embassy", a recently proposal passed in response to a raid of the target by raider forces. The rationale for repealing the Liberation is that invader organizations which had held the region have now moved out and thus, the continued existence of the Liberation places a burden on the protection of the region from future raids.

It should be noted that this repeal was submitted quickly, without drafting, and is not of high quality. While this can be inherent to the nature of liberations, there are still concerns over the motive of the author's seemingly selfish motives for a badge and how this effects the quality of the proposal. Others have raised the issue of the history of the region, especially its RMB, and that notwithstanding, the lack of interest by the founder and the potential loss of executive authority once restorationist forces move on are problematic when it comes to this repeal effort.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Repeal "Fairness in Collective Bargaining"" (February 25, 2021)
Result: passed (GA#541)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): The at-vote proposal seeks to repeal GA resolution #530 "Fairness in Collective Bargaining", arguing that although admirable in its goals, the original resolution uses vague terminology that could easily be worked around, harming the rights of workers rather than protecting them. It is paired with a replacement proposal better suited to protecting labour unions.

The proposal in question is rigorously constructed and provides numerous examples for its case, supporting the claim that several terms can be exploited beyond any good faith interpretation, thus weakening the target. Furthermore, the replacement mentioned in the proposal addresses these issues, and is currently ready for submission.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Condemn Lily" (February 23, 2021)
Result: failed
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to condemn the independent military and region of Lily. The proposal highlights several major operations that Lily has undertaken, primarily in the realm of tag raiding, along with their continued relationship with The Black Hawks.

Condemning an independent military organization for their hyper-efficient practices is something we could potentially be amenable to. However, this proposal is merely a basket case of achievements with little coherent argument to support it. Additionally, members of Lily themselves contest the veracity of this proposal and claim it contains factual inaccuracies.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Supporting People with Disabilities" (February 21, 2021)
Result: passed (GA#540)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): "Supporting People With Disabilities" is a resolution that seeks to establish legal protections for disabled persons, as well as to ensure that their civil liberties are preserved.

The resolution covers various legal protections and enshrines crucial civil liberties in a comprehensive manner, and also provides excellent reasoning for the mandate that it enforces upon member states. Such protections and guarantees provide economic benefits in addition to the primary effect on the societal and governmental treatment of disabled persons, as such improvements to their quality of life allow disabled persons to contribute to the economy in a much more effective manner; thus negating any costs incurred in providing the aforementioned protections and guarantees. In addition, the effect of this legislation would extend beyond improving the quality of life of disabled persons; as such measures have the potential to inspire better treatment of other disenfranchised groups.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Repeal "Commend Northern Borland"" (February 19, 2021)
Result: passed (SC#345)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): Repeal: "Commend Northern Borland" is a proposal to repeal the recently passed resolution to, you guessed it, commend Northern Borland. It argues that the high amount of inherently evil rankings warrant a condemnation and not a commendation, and that the satirical nature of the resolution makes a mockery of the World Assembly and tarnishes the honour of a commendation.

The arguments presented in this proposal fall flat. The assertion that Northern Borland should be condemned and condemned only is a fallacy, considering the precedent set by nations such as Wrapper, Australian rePublic and Chan Island, who were condemned for contributions to Issues and the GA, which could be interpreted as objectively commendable. On the flipside, Nuremgard was also commended for 'evil' actions, such as forgery and kidnapping. There is absolutely no need to stick to arbitrary, enforced standards for commendations and condemnations outside of GamePlay resolutions.

The resolution's other argument concerning the sarcastic language is an exceptionally poor argument. It is ridiculous to assert that Commend Northern Borland devalues the meaning and importance of all commendations, future and past, and that as a direct result of repealing the commendation, all other nations or regions with commendations will look much more important.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Whistleblower Protection Act" (February 17, 2021)
Result: passed (GA#539)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This resolution seeks to ensure that those who disclose details of illicit behavior and dealings by businesses, governments, and other such organizations, known as whistleblowers, are able to do so without fear of reprisal from member states and private entities; while establishing parameters under which whistleblowers can act and enjoy the resolution's protections.

The Ministry believes that the ability of individuals or groups to make the general populace aware of governmental or corporate wrongdoing is one that should be safeguarded zealously. This resolution excellently covers the various parameters under which the protections contained within shall be applied to whistleblowers and media outlets. In doing so, this resolution ensures that the general populace of a nation is aware of any wrongdoing committed by their government or notable companies; wrongdoing which often is in the interest of the public to be aware of.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Liberate The Embassy" (February 15, 2021)
Result: passed (SC#344)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to liberate the recently-occupied regoin of The Embassy. Liberating the region would remove its entry password and block future attempts at creating one.

Despite seemingly noble intentions, this proposal is burdened by issues that preclude supporting it. For starters, the region in question previously maintained embassies with fascist regions, which it only closed due to external pressure. Additionally, there is insufficient evidence of native support for the liberation. The proposal also cites a possible intention by the occupiers to destroy and refound the region, which is not supported by any concrete evidence.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Right To Secure Digital Communication" (February 14, 2021)
Result: passed (GA#538)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to free up digital communication by spaces by allowing citizens of member states to use encryption and other methods to ensure the secrecy of their communications on and over digital devices, also prohibiting government backdoor access to digital communications platforms. This proposal also places limits on what governments when government can place limits on digital communications platforms and processes.

While a sanctioned right to user privacy in digital communication is not in the General Assembly's books yet, this proposal is an encouraging step in that direction, offering reasonable protections for consumers from government restrictions and overreach.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Commend 1 very fast endotarter" (February 10, 2021)
Result: passed (SC#343)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to commend 1 very fast endotarter, also known as "r3n", for their various contributions to the international community. The proposal highlights r3n's varied contributions to the Cards community and TNP, where their tools and and technical prowess have been instrumental in each community. Additionally, this proposal highlights r3n's contributions to the anti-fascist cause witht the development of the Civil Defense Siren.

r3n's various contributions to the Cards community, especially here in TNP, their contributions to the technical aspect of administration in TNP, and contributions to the anti-fascist cause present a compelling case to prove the nominee's worthiness of a commendation. r3n has been a giant in several communities, and this well-written proposal manages to encapsulate the technical work they have done.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Right to Assemble" (February 9, 2021)
Result: passed (GA#537)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): "Right To Assemble" is a resolution by the esteemed General Assembly author Maowi that seeks to replace the recently repealed GAR #27 "Freedom Of Assembly". It replaces important protections that were stripped by the repeal of GAR #27, while adding additional restrictions to protect the general public.

This proposal, like its recently-repealed predecessor, seeks to enforce the right to peaceful assembly with limited exceptions for public safety. It resolves the issues presented in the repeal of its predecessor, including by introducing specific definitions for harmful activities, reasons for which governments may take action against a gathering, but only if it is the least restrictive way of doing so. These definitions are sensible, carefully worded, and prevents loopholes such as allowing governments to declare certain assemblies illegal activities. In addition, the proposal allows governments to prevent assemblies based on hate and requires them to protect groups targeted by these assemblies, a step which protects the civil rights of minorities.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Commend Northern Borland" (February 8, 2021)
Result: passed (SC#342)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): The at-vote proposal commends the nation of Northern Borland for reaching and maintaining a large count of extraordinarily high stats, among them first in the world for freedom of taxation and average disposable income. Additionally, the satellite states of East and Deep South Borland are mentioned for their similarly impressive stats.

Northern Borland's stats, alongside those of their puppet states, are incredibly impressive and are indicative of years worth of commitment to their nations and issues answering. While some might argue that issues answering is far too simple a practice to be commended for, there is no doubt that Northern Borland's dedication to their nations is something outstanding.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Repeal "Death Penalty Ban"" (February 5, 2021)
Result: failed
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): "Repeal: Death Penalty Ban" is a resolution that aims to repeal the previously passed GA#535, "Death Penalty Ban". It argues that the issue of Death Penalty should not be legislated by the General Assembly, and that member nations with the practice have their own regulations that ensure the usage of capital punishment is fair and just.

The resolution in question does not provide enough substantial points for a repeal. Instead, the author merely provides a basket list of incoherent arguments as reasons for repealing the resolution. For instance, it is difficult to see how "the World Assembly is overstepping itself into a morally-challenging policy area in a way that engenders significant opposition". The Ministry has also previously outlined its support for the passed GA#535, stating that the resolution would allow the Assembly to uphold basic standards of morality by banning the usage of capital punishment.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Commend King HEM" (February 1, 2021)
Result: passed (SC#341)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): "Commend King HEM" seeks to recognize an upstanding figure who founded the region of Europeia. The author, Ambrella details King HEM's many and varied contributions to the Europeian community, especially in their role as Founder of said region, as Grand Admiral of Europeia's military, the Europeian Republican Navy, and in their role as Head of State of the aforementioned region. Additionally, this proposal goes through the efforts and long service that King HEM has undertaken in and provided to The South Pacific and The Land of Kings and Emperors.

A long-time leader within the Europeian community, HEM was incredibly important in the development of Europeia as its founder and has helped shape the region into the pinnacle of culture and community that it is today. Additionally, their work in the other regions noted in the proposal should not go unnoticed. King HEM has indeed gone, in the words of the proposal, "consistently...above and beyond" and is indeed "highly worthy of recognition by the Security Council".

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Repeal "Freedom of Assembly"" (February 1, 2021)
Result: passed (GA#536)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): The at-vote proposal seeks to repeal GA resolution "Freedom of Assembly", arguing that its lack of clear definitions creates several loopholes which may be exploited against the best interests of those it sets out to protect. Two separate replacements are being drafted, should this proposal pass.

The proposal in question makes for a weak case against GA #27. The proposal provides several minor quibbles with the target resolution and presents them as an argument for repeal. However, the proposal fails to create a clear argument as to why the resolution does not work, resulting in a disjointed argument that ends up tripping over itself. Additionally, the proposed replacements for the resolution carry over some of the flaws observed in the original.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Protecting Sapient Life" (January 29, 2021)
Result: failed
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): "Protecting Sapient Life" seeks to implement an absolute ban on the death penalty, and restricts the deporting of convicted individuals to areas where they may be sentenced to the death penalty.

The issue of a death penalty ban is a contentious one. However, the Ministry firmly believes that preserving human life and preventing the execution of innocents is a just cause, and that the death penalty is both impractical and ineffective. The proposal manages to close a hole in previous legislation, implementing a full ban on the death penalty.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Death Penalty Ban"(January 24, 2021)
Result: passed (GA#535)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): The at-vote proposal "Death Penalty Ban" seeks to ban the execution of prisoners except under military penal code during time of war. All currently-outstanding sentences involving capital punishment will also commuted. The proposal allows further legislation to also ban the death penalty during times of war.

The World Assembly has, throughout its existence, required that its members abide by basic standards of morality. However, it has not yet done so in one area: capital punishment. The use of execution as a means of punishment is inherently inconsistent with human dignity, and is inefficient as well. Furthermore, the risk of executing innocents is inherent to the death penalty, although the likelihood of this is significantly lower when dealing with war crimes (the exception in this resolution).

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Fair Treatment of Prisoners" (January 21, 2021)
Result: passed (GA#534)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): The at-vote proposal, "Fair Treatment Of Prisoners", introduces a number of regulations meant to ensure the protection of prisoners. It requires that prisoners be treated at least as well as POWs, that they not be subjected to forced labour, and that they be paid a comparable wage to free workers.

Given that the GA has repealed GAR 500, "International Criminal Protocol", it needs a new resolution to protect prisoners against abuse. This proposal serves this goal well. In particular, it provides necessary regulation of prison labour; prison labour can be a useful tool for rehabilitation and re-integration only if prisoners voluntarily choose to participate in it and are properly compensated.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Repeal "International Criminal Protocol"" (January 15, 2021)
Result: passed (GA#533)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): 'Repeal: "International Criminal Protocol"' is a resolution that seeks to repeal GA#500 "International Criminal Protocol" for preventing the World Assembly from banning the execution of prisoners. It argues that the resolution ought to be replaced by a proposal that similarly protects civil liberties, without blocking the WA from banning capital punishment.

The Ministry of WA Affairs opposed the target when it was submitted to the WA, calling it a "wolf in sheep's clothing". The Ministry continues to be saddened by the blocker the resolution presents. Capital punishment is unacceptable in a tolerant and just society. Any supposed practical benefits never actually materialise, and still, nothing justifies killing a person. The WA previously repealed legislation because it blocked a ban on capital punishment, and it should do so again. The resolution's laudable effort to protect prisoners can be served by a replacement resolution that doesn't contain a blocker.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Commend Northrop-Grumman" (January 10, 2021)
Result: failed
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): The at-vote proposal seeks to commend the nation of Northrop-Grumman for their creation and maintenance of several expansive and long-standing indexes and registries of information on nations throughout Nationstates. The nominee is also the creator of the Dark theme, which is not mentioned in the proposal due to a rule restriction.

The nominee's stewardship of multiple decade-old indexes and registries is no small feat, and their creation of the dark theme is not a light accomplishment even though mention of it in a proposal is against the SC rules. Although the language of the proposal is somewhat awkward due to a few shoehorned references to the Dark theme, the proposal is well-organized and well-written overall.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Commend Singapore no2" (January 7, 2021)
Result: passed (SC#340)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): The at-vote proposal seeks to commend prolific issues author Singapore No2 for their work in issues writing, as well as their work in defending and recruiting nations for their home region Singapore. This is the proposal's second rendition, and replaces the largely listed format of the first rendition with a connected narrative.

Singapore No2 is undoubtedly an accomplished issues author, having authored the second most issues of any regular nation at an astonishing 28, and their work in their home region alongside prominence in issues writing makes them, without a doubt, a commendable figure. Not only that, but the author's commitment to ensuring the quality of their work through revision has ensured that the at-vote proposal is of high quality.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Repeal "Commend The Western Isles"" (January 2, 2021)
Result: passed (SC#339)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal aims to repeal "Commend The Western Isles" for poor construction, abundant filler, and an overall lack of demonstrated commendable behavior in the commendation.

This repeal's arguments are compelling and reflect those of the Ministry's (against) IFV on the target resolution. The target commendation relies on abundant fluff to disguise its lack of actual arguments for commending the target region. Making treaties in itself is not commendable. Mentoring new nations and having a forum is also not commendable in itself. The target's actual material is severely limited, and the resolution fails to make a convincing case with what material is actually present.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Regulating Remote Election Administration" (January 2, 2021)
Result: failed
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal aims to establish standards for the administration of absentee voting systems in WA member nations. The legislation also codifies restrictions that nations may implement on mail and electronic voting, in addition to other mandates covering items such as information availability regarding absentee voting.

As a whole, this proposal is quite well-written and has a clear focus, which it covers satisfactorily. Under normal circumstances, the Ministry would be comfortable supporting such a proposal. However, the proposal's focus is what makes it questionable. The WA is comprised of a vast number of nations with incredibly different election systems, if they even have elections to begin with. The at-vote proposal attempts to micromanage a tiny subset of elections, assumes an American-style electoral system, and would entail the entirety of the WA passing measures that only apply to some of it.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "International Radio Standards Act" (December 31, 2020)
Result: passed (GA#532)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal aims to establish standards for radio spectrum allocation and radio frequency use through a WA committee. The proposal also defines areas for restrictions on radio equipment that member nations may implement.

While not sorely needed, international legislation on radio standards is nevertheless a beneficial thing to have. The real meat of this proposal is the International Radiocommunications Authority (IRA), a WA committee charged with radio spectrum allocation and accepting a registry pertaining to radio equipment. The IRA is handled in a sufficiently clear manner while leaving room for flexibility by member nations. While clause 3's mandate of a registry of "persons or institutions" rather than equipment itself is questionable, it is a functional approach and not sufficient grounds to oppose this proposal. The remainder of the proposal deals with restrictions on equipment that member nations may implement; while admittedly toothless, this section is a fair addition and leaves room for future legislation on the subject.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Tariffs and Trade Convention" (December 26, 2020)
Result: passed (GA#531)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal aims to promote free international trade by codifying a set of standards for customs areas and associated restrictions on trade. This resolution also defines what circumstances are necessary before a state may impose an import tax, tariff, quota, or other trade barrier on a good.

This proposal is very competently written, and serves as both a solid piece of international trade law and an effective replacement for the recently repealed "World Assembly Trade Rights." Promoting free trade is certainly in the interests of the WA, and this proposal handles that area well.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Commend Verdant Haven" (December 23, 2020)
Result: passed (SC#338)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): "Commend Verdant Haven" is an effort to commend a long-time resident of and contributor to Forest and prolific issues author. In their time on this site, Verdant Haven has authored eleven issues and helped in co-authoring a GA Resolution, along with contributing to countless other issue and WA proposal drafts. Their time as Forest Keeper has resulted in a myriad of improvements to their home region and to a deepening of that proud region's ties to the international community.

Throughout their career on NationStates, Verdant Haven has shown a willingness to contribute to the international community in a variety of ways. Their authorship of eleven well-written issues is nothing to scoff at, and their work as Forest Keeper goes beyond their concrete accomplishments - they have been a monumental and incredibly helpful member of Forest.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Fairness in Collective Bargaining" (December 22, 2020)
Result: passed (GA#530)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal aims to complement the existing body of WA labor law by eliminating company unions (labor unions dominated by the employer whose workers they purport to represent), protecting blockade action, and establishing expectations from both labor unions and employers.

Despite being inherently limited in scope, "Fairness in Collective Bargaining" nevertheless confers a diverse set of benefits upon people within member nations in the area of labor negotiation. Much of the proposal is devoted to establishing good-faith behavior on the part of both labor unions and employers, its abolishment of company unions effectively reinforces the intent of existing WA labor law.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Repeal "Commend The Holy Principality of Saint Mark"" (December 19, 2020)
Result: passed (SC#337)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal aims to repeal "Commend The Holy Principality of Saint Mark" for factual inaccuracies, poor handling of the nominee's accomplishments, and suboptimal writing.

While The Holy Principality of Saint Mark is certainly a noteworthy and commendable nation, the commendation currently on the books simply fails to do them justice. This repeal highlights numerous concrete issues with the target resolution, such as the nominee's contributions to Albion and Osiris being poorly represented and their contributions to the West Pacific and The Pacific being given insufficient elaboration. Additionally, repealing this resolution opens the door to a better future commendation that gives the nominee the recognition they deserve.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Repeal "International Road Safety"" (December 16, 2020)
Result: failed
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): The at-vote proposal aims to repeal GA resolution "International Road Safety", arguing that the ambiguity of the regulations introduced in the target may result in unintended and negative consequences towards the effectiveness of the resolution. A replacement is being drafted alongside the repeal to address these concerns.

While the proposal in question is well constructed, it does not offer an effective case for the necessity of a repeal. The target clearly sets a guideline for the scope of its regulations in its 'Requires' and 'Further Requires' clauses, with the proposal itself ceding that the target sets definable standards for the regulations it implements. It is evident that the target establishes a distinguishable upper limit and sets clear parameters for the safety regulations implemented. While a case could be made for repealing the target resolution, this repeal does not make a particularly convincing one.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Commend The Western Isles" (December 16, 2020)
Result: passed (SC#336)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to commend The Western Isles for roleplay among its nations and sustained regional efforts to promote such roleplay.

While nicely written, this commendation simply fails to make a convincing case that its target region is worthy of recognition by the Security Council. A vibrant regional roleplay community is certainly a great thing for a region to have. However, having such does not signal substantial contribution to the wider NS community, and doesn't set this region apart from the myriad of other good-sized regions with developed RP communities of their own, much less support a commendation on its own.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Water Fluoridation Act" (December 12, 2020)
Result: failed
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): The at-vote proposal aims to provide for the fluoridation of member nations' water supplies in such a way that promotes public health. To that end, the proposal mandates that member nations research fluoridation levels, and instructs the International Bureau of Water Safety (IBWS) to analyze said research, issue specific fluoridation recommendations, and assist with fluoridation and research where requested.

While the promotion of dental health is undoubtedly a noble goal, this resolution goes about said goal in a suboptimal and unnecessary manner. The proposal legislates specifically on water fluoridation with the aim of improving dental health. However, nations caught by the proposal's mandates are not the ones most likely to benefit from them, considering that nations which "do not have the technological or logistical means to safely fluoridate water" are exempted from the proposal's fluoridation mandate despite the IBWS being authorized to provide support in this case. Additionally, the proposal mandates that nations conduct research only to send it to a WA committee for analysis, and has said committee issue fluoridation mandates at the municipal or private level. Overall, this is a highly bureaucratic albeit well-written international solution to a local problem, which overrides successful local systems in the name of an "optimal" approach and exempts the nations that would benefit the most from its mandates.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Commend Praeceps" (December 12, 2020)
Result: passed (SC#335)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): "Commend Praeceps" is an effort to commend one of The North Pacific's very own for their long and meritorious service to the region and to the wider international community, focusing on their cards-related contributions, including their efforts in setting up the North Pacific Card Guild as well as their authorship of several cards-related news and information. The proposal also touches on the nominee's continuous contributions to the Security Council and several government positions in TNP.

Praetor has been a pillar of TNP's community, and has played a huge role in the development of key cards programs and the exploration of new communities in the SC. Their commitment to the cards community, their commitment to TNP's foreign and domestic security, and finally, their commitment to promoting international peace has not gone unnoticed, and thus we believe that Praeceps has more than cleared the bar to be Commended.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Repeal "Rights of the employed"" (December 8, 2020)
Result: passed (GA#529)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to repeal "Rights of the employed" on the grounds of several flaws in the target resolution and redundancy with extant law.

Our logic in supporting this repeal is similar to our logic in opposing the target resolution when it initially came to vote: the resolution in question contains several compromising flaws, including a requirement that workers prove to their employers the necessity of them breastfeeding in the workplace in order to benefit from the resolution's breastfeeding provisions; these provisions include providing such workers with a space in the workplace reserved "for the sole purpose" of breastfeeding, thereby excluding multipurpose rooms and burdening small businesses.

Additionally, the resolution provides for the full duration of paid leave upon adoption, even of older children that don't require special care, and numerous extant resolutions adequately cover the main areas of the resolution, including workplace anti-discrimination law, paid leave, and protection from retaliation.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Repeal "Protecting Sites of Religious Significance"" (December 5, 2020)
Result: passed (GA#528)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): 'Repeal: "Protecting Sites of Religious Significance"' seeks to repeal GA 522, "Protecting Sites of Religious Significance". It argues that the resolution imposes unnecessary bureaucracy, especially in light of existing protections under GA 287, "Cultural Site Preservation". Furthermore, it argues that the resolution's definitions are sufficiently vague for it to precipitate a number of issues.

The at-vote repeal ultimately fails to make a convincing case for stripping religious sites of the target's protections, which are sufficiently separate from those of prior resolutions. Additionally, the repeal's argument that the definitions of the target resolution would cause trivial sites to be protected in perpetuity is unconvincing, given that the target is sufficiently vague to allow for a reasonable interpretation of its mandates. Further, the repeal assumes that members' court systems are incapable of reasonably determining what constitutes an actual religion.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Commend The Templar High Council" (December 2, 2020)
Result: passed (SC#334)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): "Commend The Templar High Council" focuses on the nominee's expansive contributions to the world of P2TM roleplaying, under the guise of the target conducting their work through a collective group of authors from the target nation. The proposal notes the nominee's exceptional work in growing the RP world in assisting in the creation of countless popular fantasy roleplays as well as guiding and supporting newer authors.

The at-vote proposal explores a community mostly unfamiliar to the SC in a clever and well-written manner. Though somewhat liberal in its use of lists, the proposal ultimately encapsulates the nominee's extensive role in expanding the P2TM universe in an accurate and elegant manner. The target is also very deserving of a commendation, having (as stated before) played an admirable and large part in the development of their corner of Nationstates.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Protected Working Leave" (November 30, 2020)
Result: passed (GA#527)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal aims to complement existing WA law in ensuring that working people in member nations have access to adequate social safety nets. The specific focus of this proposal is paid leave- for parental, medical, and caretaking purposes. The proposal strengthens its mandates to this end by prohibiting retaliation over the taking of leave or the imposition of undue conditions on the granting of such leave.

A fairly uninteresting if effective proposal, "Protected Working Leave" combines solid mandates with reasonable flexibility to ensure that workers in member nations have access to paid leave sufficient to continue to support themselves in times of financial crisis. This primary policy goal is complemented by ancillary clauses providing for protection from retaliation and preventing small businesses from having undue costs imposed upon them.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Condemn The Free Joy State" (November 28, 2020)
Result: passed (SC#333)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): The at-vote proposal seeks to condemn its nominee, The Free Joy State, on the basis of their prolific issues authorship and horrifying national policies, with an added twist to its description of mentioned issues which paint the target as an "evil" figure. Notably, the proposal is only able to condemn the target for the three issues authored before their appointment as an Issues Editor due to the rules of the Security Council, which results in the omittance of their other issues, which number at over thirty.

The nominee's contributions to issues writing, the issues community, and the development of the game as a whole should not go unnoticed, despite the proposal's inability to mention the full scope of their work. They have made a profound impact on NationStates, and are incredibly deserving of recognition. While such a player would likely be commended under normal circumstances, the nominee's status as an evil nation in-character and the relative neutrality of issues makes a Condemnation entirely warranted and a more appropriate choice.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Land Reclamation Regulation" (November 27, 2020)
Result: passed (GA#526)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): "Land Reclamation Regulation" seeks to institute restrictions and concrete procedures for oceanic land reclamation. The proposal's primary effects include mandating that reclamation is conducted in an environmentally friendly manner and establishing a permit system for the authorization of land reclamation projects.

While inherently limited in scope and effect, this proposal nevertheless effectively regulates land reclamation and ensures that it meets an acceptable standard of environmental friendliness. Though the proposal's use of a WA committee for the purposes of reviewing land reclamation impact studies is arguably unnecessary, this execution does not detract from the proposal's effectiveness.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Commend Kenmoria" (November 23, 2020)
Result: passed (SC#332)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): The Security Council proposal "Commend Kenmoria" seeks to commend Kenmoria on the basis of their multifaceted contributions to the international community- citing their contributions to international law through the World Assembly and assisting other authors, their time spent as Undersecretary in the World Assembly Office in Europe, and their issue authorship, along with their unique roleplay.

In the opinion of the Ministry of World Assembly Affairs, this nominee's diverse and sustained contributions to the international community through the WA and issues authorship make them a clearly deserving target for recognition by the Security Council. The solid writing displayed in the proposal along with the nominee's further contributions to regional development only add to the case for commendation.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Repeal "Landfill Regulation Act"" (November 23, 2020)
Result: passed (GA#525)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal aims to repeal GA resolution "Landfill Regulation Act" on the basis of it introducing unnecessary bureaucracy to landfill operation and maintenance, along with implementing unnecessary and costly regulations.

While the repeal proposal in question is well-constructed, it does not make an effective case for the target resolution necessitating a repeal. The proposal presents two primary concerns: that the resolution in question imposes unnecessary mandates, especially concerning the establishment of compliance agencies, and that the resolution imposes undue financial burdens on member nations. The target's mandate that member nations "establish, if such does not already exist, a state agency or similar organization with the responsibility of inspecting and regulating SWLs in accordance with this resolution" captures a variety of methods of complying with this clause, and the resolution's qualifying of its mandates regarding leachate disposal and physical barriers serves to prevent the exorbitant costs that the repeal is concerned with.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Commend Twobagger" (November 18, 2020)
Result: failed
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to commend its nominee for their contributions to defending gameplay and region-building in 10000 Islands, citing work in government positions, involvement in defense and liberation operations, combatting coups, and developing new military tactics.

"Commend Twobagger" is overall a well-constructed commendation of a deserving nominee. The nation in question has substantially contributed to both 10000 Islands and defending at large, and has left a lasting positive impact on defending gameplay. Alongside their extensive direct involvement in highly notable operations, this nation is undoubtedly worthy of recognition by the Security Council, and this proposal makes a compelling case for just that.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Repeal "Supporting and Valuing the Humanities"" (November 18, 2020)
Result: passed (GA#524)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): The at-vote proposal seeks to repeal the target on the grounds that the target creates a set of unnecessarily stringent punishments, pointing to the flawed anti-corruption mechanism Clause 5 which results in a complete embargo of funds from the GAO upon a report of even the most minor misuse of funds, and fails to prevent the indirect diversion of funds.

Repeal "Supporting And Valuing The Humanities" exposes several loopholes and flaws within the target resolution, accurately and thoroughly dissecting the undue penalties in Clause 5, which, upon the most trivial of transgressions, results in the complete cut off of all funding from the GAO (including funds going to other GAO-supported projects in a member nation). The repeal also points out the target proposal's failure in preventing dishonest usage of GAO funds, which allows scenarios in which requesters can use GAO funds to fill intentional holes in their budget.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Commend Ariusgrad" (November 14, 2020)
Result: failed
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): Commend Ariusgrad focuses on the target's long-time service to their native region, Philippines, noting their position as President and part in protecting the region from invasions by raiders. The proposal puts particular emphasis on the target's role in regional development, including the creation of 11 government positions, regional population growth, and fostering positive foreign relationships.

While promoting regional growth and development is a respectable cause, the target does not appear to be remotely commendable by SC standards. The target and their home region do not appear to have had any larger effect or influence on the Gameplay or Nationstates community as a whole, and most of the actions taken by the target to improve said home region do not appear to be particularly exemplary. The proposal also suffers from strange wording, as well as the exaggeration of several actions taken by the target, most notably in reference to the target's supposed maintenance of "warm relations with more than 100 regions".

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Patient Travel Freedoms" (November 14, 2020)
Result: passed (GA#523)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal aims to provide for the ability of people in member nations to seek medical care within other member nations, with allowance for certain restrictions and exceptions. Additionally, the legislation includes clauses dealing with medical care for incarcerated populations and follow-up care.

While this proposal is inherently limited in scope, it nevertheless legislates on an important area and complements prior resolutions well. The exceptions carved out are reasonable, and while the proposal's ancillary provisions are limited in their specificity, they effectively support the legislation's main objective while leaving room for future legislation.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Commend Sierra Lyricalia" (November 11, 2020)
Result: passed (SC#331)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to commend Sierra Lyricalia for their contributions to several significant communities across Nationstates, particularly through their authorship of several issues and General Assembly Resolutions, as well as their role in the governance and protection of the region Anarchy and their extensive role in the downfall of numerous fascist regions.

"Commend Sierra Lyricalia" shines a light on the target nation's exceptional contributions to their respective communities, honoring them in a well-deserved and skillfully-written proposal. The target is an exemplary figure in Anarchy, the WA, GI, and GP, and has played a huge role in each. The at-vote proposal makes a good argument for the commendation of the target, effectively capturing the full effect of the target's long career and profound effects on Nationstates.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Protecting Sites of Religious Significance" (November 11, 2020)
Result: passed (GA#522)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to protect sites of importance to "presently practiced" religions in member nations. To this end, it creates the Office for the Protection of Religious States to identify sites to be preserved and create plans for their long-term protection. Additionally, the proposal prohibits the destruction of sites deemed by the OPRS to be significant and outlines what this destruction entails.

This proposal effectively allows for areas of importance for long-standing observed beliefs to be preserved into the future. While the proposal is weighed down by a few instances of strange wording or questionable grammar, these issues are hardly compromising and do not severely impede the ability of the legislation to accomplish its objectives.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Repeal "Commend Wintony"" (November 6, 2020)
Result: passed (SC#330)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): "Repeal 'Commend Wintony'" argues that the target resolution fails to make a solid case for commendation, noting that the commended nation's efforts to improve an individual region were not particularly exemplary nor effective and thus fall far from grounds for commendation.

The target resolution is weakly written and does not provide a strong argument for a commendation of its nominee. This repeal accurately pinpoints key flaws in the target resolution, particularly the target nation's unexceptional accomplishments and failure to provide permanent stability to the very region it was commended for improving, and provides sufficient argument for a repeal of the commend in question. In addition, the writing used in the target resolution to argue for commending Wintony lacks coherency and only adds to the case for repealing it.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Repeal "GMO International Trade Accord"" (November 6, 2020)
Result: passed (GA#521)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): "Repeal 'GMO International Trade Accord'" argues that the target proposal fails to implement and enforce proper regulations on member nations. The at-vote proposal points to several instances of "vague" and "weak" wording as well as several exemptions within the target proposal, and asserts that the aforementioned points allow for far too loose interpretations of the target and permits member nations to sidestep the effects of some provisions as well as penalties for noncompliance entirely, thus weakening the target and undermining the goal it aims to achieve.

The at-vote proposal makes several potentially valid justifications for repeal in its arguments that the target allows member nations too much jurisdiction in interpreting certain clauses through the use of the phrase 'reasonable' and that it fails to expressly require member nations to enforce regulations implemented by the committee established in the target. However, the proposal's other arguments center on the target's intentional omission of genetic modifications obtained through hybridisation and lack of regulations on intellectual property, which are arguably broad enough to be covered in separate proposals.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Commend Morover" (November 2, 2020)
Result: passed (SC#329)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): The Security Council proposal, "Commend Morover", seeks to commend Morover on the basis of their service in the World Assembly. The proposal cites several of Morover's authored General Assembly Resolutions and Security Council Resolutions as evidence of Morover's service and their commend-worthiness. This proposal also notes Morover's long-standing service to The North Pacific and to The Rejected Realms through their involvement in the Ministry of World Assembly Affairs in both regions.

This proposal is a well-written commendation that recognizes the work of a prominent GA and SC author, whose contributions to both the World Assembly and The North Pacific are nothing short of significant. Though it is most unfortunate that Morover's WA career has come to a close, at least for the time being, they are most certainly deserving of recognition by the SC.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Landfill Regulation Act" (November 1, 2020)
Result: passed (GA#520)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal aims to mitigate the environmental and public health hazards of solid waste landfills by regulating their placement, operation, and post-closure maintenance, in addition to mandating regular testing of at-risk groundwater and providing for their inspection.

A fairly niche proposal, "Landfill Regulation Act" nevertheless effectively accomplishes what it sets out to do and tackles a subject area relevant to the environment and public health. The legislation strikes a reasonable balance in its mandates: it tackles environmentally safe landfill operation from a variety of angles including physical barriers, leachate collection, groundwater testing, and inspection, without crossing the line into being overly micromanaging.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Provisional Rule in Wartime" (October 24, 2020)
Result: passed (GA#519)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal seeks to ensure that rights of civilians are upheld and recovery begun in the military occupation of a territory in the aftermath of a military engagement. The legislation seeks to accomplish this goal by defining which actions are not acceptable in the occupation of an administered territory, establishing obligations that member states have towards occupied territories in their recovery from military conflict, and provides for a reporting system should breaches of human rights or obligations towards occupied territories occur.

"Provisional Rule in Wartime" is a well-written proposal that creates a comprehensive framework for the military occupation of territories. The proposal establishes a set of directives for member state occupying forces to follow that ensures the proper governance of an occupied territory in an effective manner, and sets reasonable restrictions on the utilization and management of occupied territories.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Condemn Northern Borland" (October 21, 2020)
Result: failed
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): The Security Council proposal, "Condemn Northern Borland", seeks to condemn Northern Borland on the basis of their nation's in-game statistics. The proposal lists a number of worrisome statistics, and attempts to build a narrative of a nation lacking even the most basic regulations and where the ultra-rich routinely abuse the destitute. Commendations and condemnations of nation stats are somewhat of a unique case compared to other SC proposals. Although Kindjal was commended based on their statistics, Northern Borland's statistics don't quite reach that same level. Additionally, the proposal's writing quality is more a rote list of stats than a truly cohesive argument, and some feel that in general, maintaining statistics does not require the effort necessary for a commendation/condemnation. However, others disagree - saying that Northern Borland has consistently answered issues towards a singular goal for 17 years.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Reducing Disease Vectors" (October 20, 2020)
Result: passed (GA#518)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This proposal aims to combat the negative public health effects of vector-spread diseases. The legislation seeks to accomplish this goal by mandating the conducting of research necessary to reduce the public health threats of vector-spread diseases, providing for the dissemination of relevant information by the Epidemic and Pandemic Alert and Response Centre and member nations, with exceptions, and instructing member nations to create and enforce policies to combat the threat of vector-spread diseases in high-risk areas.

Though inherently limited in its scope and effects, "Reducing Disease Vectors" is nevertheless a solidly written proposal that effectively legislates on the subject of combatting the public health risks of vector-spread diseases. The proposal's mandates are subject to reasonable limitations, and the information release provision is effectively tempered by an exception for personal privacy or national security purposes.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Commend Kuriko" (October 19, 2020)
Result: passed (SC#328)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): Just over a month ago, the Security Council repealed its commendation of Kuriko (SCR 323). It did so noting "that Kuriko is highly commendable for their actions both in the Security Council itself and abroad in the international community", but that the commendation in question did "a poor job of representing Kuriko's accomplishments". The author of that repeal has now submitted a new commendation listing the many accomplishments of Kuriko, including her military service, service as diplomat and Delegate for 10000 Islands and her work as an avid Security Council resolution author.

"Commend Kuriko" clearly explains why Kuriko is deserving of a commendation. She protected the East Pacific from an attempted coup in 2019, worked on improving 10000 Islands' international relations, including with the North Pacific, and liberated numerous regions from fascist invaders. The commendation targets a nation proven in the past to be commend-worthy, and does so in a way that addresses the concerns that led to the repeal of the target's previous commendation. Overall, this proposal is an irrefutably superior commendation of an undoubtedly worthy target.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Repeal "World Assembly Trade Rights"" (October 15, 2020)
Result: passed (GA#517)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): "Repeal 'World Assembly Trade Rights'" is a competently written proposal that convincingly demonstrates several significant issues with its target resolution. In particular, the target's undermining of trade zones and sloppy handling of trade preferences, retaliatory tariffs, and subsidies support a compelling case in favor of this repeal. Additionally, the existence of a promising replacement proposal on the onsite forum helps to quell any concerns over repealing such a significant and longstanding resolution.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Condemn Raionitu" (October 13, 2020)
Result: passed (SC#327)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This Security Council condemnation aims to recognize the actions of its target, Raionitu, in the field of raiding and military gameplay. A high-ranking member and former councilor in the Black Hawks, the target nation's exploits as articulated in the proposal include infiltrating, invading, and occupying multiple large regions, organizing and leading Operation Blackout, a major operation involving the raiding of well over one hundred regions in one night, occupying Illuminati and Communist Alliance, two regions containing over one hundred nations each, unapproval raiding, and extensively training new nations in the field of raiding.

"Condemn Raionitu" is a well-written proposal that effectively articulates the target nation's actions and contributions to raiding gameplay and their region. The target is a prominent raider with a long history in this area, and the breadth and depth of their achievements in this field as argued by this proposal leave little doubt that they are deserving of a condemnation.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Repeal "Ban on Sterilisation of Minors etc"" (October 13, 2020)
Result: passed (GA#516)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): This General Assembly proposal aims to repeal GA #472 "Ban on Sterilisation of Minors etc" on the grounds that its measures are both unnecessary and poorly executed. The target resolution mandates that no incompetent person or person below the age of majority be sterilized unless such sterilization is deemed necessary for their long-term health by "an independent Institutional Review Board." The target also empowers the World Assembly Compliance Commission (WACC) to "make regulations to clarify upon and enforce this resolution."

This repeal argues that the use of independent Institutional Review Boards is problematic, since said boards are not technically required to be staffed by medical experts, and are not truly necessary in the first place to make these sorts of decisions. The second major argument made by this repeal is that the target resolution allows the WACC to create secondary legislation with little oversight.

This repeal hinges on three main points: The WACC being empowered to create sub-legislation with little oversight or requirements, the target's use of Institutional Review Boards to decide on whether sterilization is warranted, and the fact that GA #486 "Prevention of Forced Sterilisation arguably covers the exact same ground. Taken separately, each of these three points does not present a strong argument for repeal alone. Together, however, they paint what some might call a convincing case of an arguably depreciated resolution with some questionable enforcement mechanisms.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "International Bankruptcy Protocol" (October 3, 2020)
Result: passed (GA#515)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): As commerce further internationalises, “International Bankruptcy Proposal” sets up a robust system to ensure that international-scale bankruptcies are handled fairly and efficiently. The proposal elegantly eliminates avenues for abusing the proposal by setting up a “reasonably analysis” standard. Using these and other tools, the proposal ensures it is sufficiently narrow the preserve national sovereignty. It furthermore prevents member states from discriminating against foreign representatives in bankruptcy cases, both with unfairly high fees and interference in ongoing foreign procedures.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Ending School Segregation" (September 30, 2020)
Result: passed (GA#514)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): A proposal legislating on broader education quality as much as segregation, "Ending School Segregation" aims to ensure that all students in member nations have equal opportunities to attain a pluralistic and social education. The proposal accomplishes this by declaring all children as generally possessing this right, prohibiting segregation and self-segregation of students by protected classes, mandating that educational services not under nations' direct control not be worse in quality than those that are, and including a provision against mistreatment of students. This proposal is poised to make an excellent addition to the existing roster of education-based resolutions, and there is little reason to oppose it.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Condemn The Land of Kings and Emperors" (September 26, 2020)
Result: failed
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): While the Land of Kings and Emperors could very well be deserving of a Condemnation by the Security Council, the current at-vote proposal "Condemn the Land of Kings and Emperors" should not be the proposal to do so. The Condemnation in question is riddled with numerous factual errors and questionable writing decisions, and is an overall sloppily constructed proposal. These errors and questionable decisions include, but are not limited to, inaccurately citing occupations, spelling mistakes, exaggerating contributions to raids on Hippiedom and The Union, and using failed raids and association with major raider regions as significant arguments for a Condemnation.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Sovereign Justice Accord" (September 25, 2020)
Result: passed (GA#513)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): Lawsuits between states and foreign legal persons have proven to be a particularly pernicious issue to diplomatic relations. The suit can happen in the courts of the nation, giving rise to a conflict of interest. Alternatively, the lawsuit may be filed in the foreign person's native courts, forcing one state to haul another into their courts. Both options are flawed. Furthermore, this opens up avenues for retaliatory and abusive suits between members, damaging the international system. "Sovereign Justice Accord" tactfully addresses this issue by redirecting such lawsuits to a neutral, well-regulated international court system. Given the importance of fairness and justice, there is scarce reason to oppose this proposal.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Condemn Ever-Wandering Souls" (September 22, 2020)
Result: passed (SC#326)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): Due to their long and colorful history of effective raiding and related regional development, Ever-Wandering Souls (colloquially known as Souls) is undoubtedly deserving of a Condemnation by the Security Council. In this manner, the at-vote proposal "Condemn Ever-Wandering Souls" does not disappoint. The proposal provides a succinct overview of the most notable of Souls' numerous acts of raiding, with primary focus being given to regions either refounded or emptied of natives to severe harm, and effectively elaborates on why each of these acts contributes to the nominee's deserving of a Condemnation.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Pedagogical Freedom" (September 19, 2020)
Result: failed
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): A fairly benign proposal at first glance, "Pedagogical Freedom" aims to establish a balancing test with regards to the freedom of parents and legal guardians to interfere in the education of their children. However, this is where the problems begin. The proposal attempts to insert a supposed right of parents "to direct and guarantee, with regard to their sincerely-held moral beliefs, the education of their children" into its balancing test that all member nations must abide by. This is inherently problematic, firstly because it is not, and should not be, the role of parents to "direct and guarantee" their children's education in accordance with said parents' "moral beliefs," and secondly because nothing currently prevents parents from engaging with their children on educational topics outside of the classroom. This balancing test, which forms the crux of the proposal, is unnecessary at best and starkly contrary to the purpose of education at worst.

Furthermore, the proposal implicitly places the burden on member nations to demonstrate that families within their jurisdictions are not complying with the mandates of the proposal, thereby placing an unnecessary burden on the Independent Adjudicative Office by forcing it to make judgement as to whether individual children's education is compliant with the proposal's balancing test in a context where what is "adequate and appropriate" for one child is wholly inadequate or inappropriate for another. Due to this proposal's attempted inclusion of parents' morality into its primary (and only) mandate, and its efforts to address an issue that does not really exist as the proposal makes it out to, we see little reason to support it in its current form.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Liberate Syria" (September 19, 2020)
Result: passed (SC#325)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): The region of Syria has fallen victim to a past raid by members of The Wolf Clan, a notorious group of raiders that have previously cooperated with fascist regions. Though the region lacks an active native community at this moment, regions named after real-life countries always have good potential to develop a native community. The Wolf Clan should not be able to doom this region to destruction, and by liberating it, the Security Council would enable defenders to retake the region from its occupying forces.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Commercial Arbitration Recognition" (September 15, 2020)
Result: passed (GA#512)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): Disputes arising from commercial agreements between firms are inherently different from disputes between individual persons, due to the former's greater emphasis on neutrality, discretion, flexibility, and finality of judgement as a result of these disputes often occurring between actors in similar bargaining positions engaging in mutually beneficial dealings. Arbitration is an attractive and efficient form of alternate resolution of these disputes, due to its ability to provide a greater level of neutrality, flexibility, and discretion than national court systems. "Commercial Arbitration Recognition" seeks to provide for the enforcement of arbitration agreements and arbitral awards as pertaining to international commercial agreements, with certain exceptions. Seeing as the resolution's scope is limited to these types of agreements, and arbitration in these situations is quite beneficial and by definition mutually agreed upon, we see little reason to oppose this proposal.

Pallaith voted for the World Assembly Resolution "Commend The Red Fleet" (September 15, 2020)
Result: passed (SC#324)
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): Recently, the Security Council repealed its commendation of The Red Fleet (TRF). It did so - in an effort supported by TNP - because of flaws with the specific commendation. This, however, in no way made TRF less commend worthy. A force against fascism since its inception, TRF has conducted and participated in countless military operations against regions that operate with the express purpose of advocating fascism; often, these fascist regions raided otherwise peaceful regions that do not conform to their hateful ideology. While there are too many examples to cite, TRF played key roles in operations against The Greater German Reich, Apartheid South Africa, Nazi Europe, and others.

Pallaith voted against the World Assembly Resolution "Repeal "Supporting and Valuing the Humanities"" (September 11, 2020)
Result: failed
Reason for vote (adapted from TNP MoWA): "Repeal: 'Supporting and Valuing the Humanities'" seeks to strike out its target resolution on the basis of poor management of the World Assembly General Fund pursuant to the implementation of its mandates. The specific concerns presented are twofold: they include the resolution not placing strict enough limitations on the acquisition or use of WA funds, potentially permitting member nations to acquire funding they don't need to use on wasteful programs of no practical benefit; and the resolution's wording arguably requiring all funding to be ceased after receiving any mere report of improper use of funding, potentially stripping member nations of all WA funds due to frivolous reports. Additionally, the presence of other extant resolutions dealing with education means that the negative consequences of repealing the target will not be too severe.

However, these arguments are the subject of a not insignificant level of controversy. Opponents of this repeal argue that the resolution does not, in fact, mandate that all funds be ceased due to any reports, as the intended meaning of "funds" is clear in the context of the legislation. Additionally, the resolution does not actually lay out a concrete process for the submission of reports of improper use of funding, nor does it explicitly authorize the filing of reports. Further, this is inherently a technicality-based repeal, and the absence of any planned replacement does this attempt no favors.