Citizen
Namorian citizenship holds significant value within the Namorian Republic, offering a range of rights, privileges, and protections to those who possess it. The process of obtaining citizenship is multifaceted and varies depending on individual circumstances, but the rewards and benefits it brings make it highly desirable.
Contents
Overview
Namorian citizenship represents a highly sought-after status, affording individuals a range of rights, opportunities, and protections within the Namorian Republic. The process of obtaining citizenship, though complex and varied, contributes to the diverse fabric of Namorian society while ensuring loyalty, service, and adherence to the values of the Republic.Appointment
Initially, when the Namorian Republic was founded, a census was conducted across the controlled territories. Individuals residing in Namor City and its controlled territories in Namoria automatically gained citizenship, with a few exceptions such as slaves, criminals, and those unable to prove permanent residence.
Subsequently, individuals born to Namorian citizens became citizens themselves if registered with the local bureaucracy office within the required timeframe. Additionally, individuals serving in the military overseas and able to trace their permanent residence to the controlled territories were granted citizenship. These criteria resulted in a diverse population becoming citizens of the Republic, representing various cultures and ethnicities. However, some people were left out due to oversights, discrimination, or specific circumstances, such as soldiers and military personnel from foreign or auxiliary detachments who lacked permanent homes.
Service
For those who were not automatically granted citizenship, there are alternative pathways to obtain it. One common route is sponsorship by an existing citizen, coupled with demonstrating loyalty and service to the Republic through military or civic duty. For the less privileged, this avenue is often the primary means of attaining citizenship. Conversely, the wealthy may achieve citizenship through thinly veiled philanthropy or sizable donations to their local areas.Political Events
In rare instances, entire populations of towns, villages, or clans have been granted citizenship as a reward for their loyalty, bravery, and service to the Republic. This strategic approach is carefully planned to secure the loyalty of specific areas or serve as an example to neighboring peoples who may require incentives to align with Namorian interests.Family Ties
When an individual becomes a citizen, their spouse and already living children do not automatically gain citizenship. However, immediate family members have a relatively easier process to obtain citizenship, often with the assistance of a sponsor. Family member advocacy plays a significant role in the application process, influencing the decision-making process. Any subsequent children born to citizens automatically acquire citizenship, which can lead to complex family dynamics when divorces or marriages result in splits in citizenship and associated rights.Adoption & Patronage
Adoption and patronage play significant roles in certain cases where individuals seek to acquire Namorian citizenship. For those who do not have a direct path to citizenship through birth or military service, being adopted into a rich family or securing patronage from influential individuals can provide a viable route. Wealthy families, seeking to expand their lineage or secure loyal supporters, may sponsor individuals for adoption, granting them the privileges and rights associated with citizenship. Similarly, securing patronage from influential figures can offer opportunities for social mobility and access to the necessary resources and connections to navigate the bureaucratic hurdles required for citizenship. These avenues of adoption and patronage serve as crucial mechanisms for those who aspire to become citizens within the Namorian Republic, albeit contingent upon the willingness and generosity of those in positions of power.Duties
See also: The Eight Pillars
Being a Namorian citizen carries several moral obligations that individuals are expected to uphold. These obligations stem from the core values and principles of the Namorian Republic known as the The Eight Pillars, emphasizing civic duty, loyalty, and the betterment of society. Namorian citizens are expected to:
Being a Namorian citizen carries several moral obligations that individuals are expected to uphold. These obligations stem from the core values and principles of the Namorian Republic known as the The Eight Pillars, emphasizing civic duty, loyalty, and the betterment of society. Namorian citizens are expected to:
- Uphold the Republic - Citizens have a moral obligation to support and defend the Namorian Republic, its institutions, and its ideals. This includes respecting and abiding by the laws of the land, paying taxes, and fulfilling civic responsibilities.
- Contribute to the Common Good - Citizens are expected to actively participate in the betterment of society. This can involve engaging in philanthropic activities, supporting community projects, and working towards the overall welfare and development of their fellow citizens.
- Respect and Promote Equality - Namorian citizens are obligated to treat others with fairness, respect, and dignity. Discrimination based on factors such as ethnicity, religion, or social status goes against the moral fabric of the Republic and is discouraged.
- Defend Individual Rights - Citizens have a responsibility to protect the individual rights and freedoms enshrined in the Namorian Republic's principles. This includes advocating for justice, equality, and the protection of civil liberties for all citizens, irrespective of their background.
- Contribute to the Defense of the Republic - In times of need, citizens may be called upon to defend the Republic and its interests. Military service or support, if required, is considered a moral obligation to safeguard the security and sovereignty of the Namorian Republic.
- Preserve and Celebrate Namorian Culture - Citizens are encouraged to preserve and celebrate the cultural heritage and traditions of Namoria. This includes respecting local customs, promoting cultural diversity, and participating in national festivities and celebrations.
- Act with Integrity- Namorian citizens are expected to conduct themselves with honesty, integrity, and ethical behavior. Upholding personal and professional values, being accountable for one's actions, and promoting transparency in public and private endeavors are seen as moral obligations.
Benefits
Citizenship bestows numerous advantages, including the right to vote, stand for election in the Chamber of Voices, and eventually ascend to the Octarchy. It also provides enhanced legal protections against discrimination, particularly regarding slavery. While citizens are not immune to slavery, they enjoy safeguards against harm, greater freedom of choice, and generally more favorable treatment. Non-citizen slaves, on the other hand, have only minimal protections against sexual exploitation and extreme violence. Non-citizen slaves cannot gain citizenship unless they are freed by their masters, a process that involves navigating bureaucratic procedures.
Accoutrements & Equipment
Within the Namorian Republic, citizenship is meticulously documented in the extensive and efficient bureaucracy. Each citizen receives their own set of papers, which are stored locally by administrative officers and also archived in provincial capitals, eventually making their way to the central archive in the capital. While the system is designed to be efficient, any mistakes in the paperwork can cause delays, sometimes taking several months or even a year for the information to circulate throughout the Republic.
Due to a significant proportion of the population being illiterate, private legal advisors can be found even in the smallest Namorian towns. These advisors assist citizens with legal matters, including the verification and handling of citizenship papers. Registration with the local administrative office and regular updates are recommended to ensure that individuals can readily prove their citizenship, particularly in cases of legal disputes. However, transient populations and individuals who have not properly registered may face delays and discrimination when attempting to establish their citizenship.
Most citizens do not carry their papers with them, fearing theft or damage. Instead, they store their documents with a bank, legal advisor, or in a secure location within their residence. Extra copies of citizenship papers exist, and forgeries are also known to circulate, leading officials to cross-check with the central office to ensure authenticity. This culture of suspicion, particularly in smaller towns and areas, contributes to a cautious approach toward unfamiliar individuals. It is not uncommon for long-term residents of a town to be assumed as citizens, only to discover later that their paperwork, inherited from their parents, lacks proper documentation. Such instances can result in heavy fines or penalties if uncovered.
While day-to-day activities typically do not require proof of citizenship, official interactions often do. There is a general assumption of citizenship across the Republic, especially in the diverse Namor City. However, this assumption can be exploited as a mechanism for discrimination. Unscrupulous individuals may reject business transactions, tenancy agreements, or other services based on the perceived lack of Namorian appearance. Guards and militias might arrest individuals, particularly foreigners, who are unable to immediately provide proof of citizenship. These individuals may spend lengthy periods in jail while their citizenship or paperwork is verified.
The complex nature of Namorian citizenship, coupled with bureaucratic processes and the potential for discrimination, underscores the importance of properly maintaining and documenting one's citizenship. While the system strives for efficiency, it is not without its flaws and challenges, requiring citizens to navigate the bureaucracy and be vigilant against potential abuses of the system.
Grounds for Removal/Dismissal
In exceptional cases involving severe criminality such as treason or repeated behavior contrary to Namorian beliefs and teachings, citizenship may be revoked and must be reearned. This is considered a grave punishment and can only be carried out by a court of law. While the death penalty exists, it is generally frowned upon in most cases. In the most extreme situations, a criminal may have their citizenship stripped and be exiled from the core territories or even sold into slavery for reparations, effectively permanently barring them from regaining citizenship.
History
The position of Citizen was created at the official founding of the Namorian Republic in 1 RE, and registrations within Namor and Namoria area were opened a few months later to allow people to travel.
Later, with the incorporation of Lanathal and the Acathi Peninsula, the same opportunity was provided with the same terms. However, this created additional pressures on the bureaucracy and also diminished the central power of the heartlands. When Western Namoria, Mundalodem, the Dagmit and the Great Desert were incorporated, only people who travelled to the provincial capital could register, leading to significant underrepresentation.
Type
Civic, Citizenship
Creation
1 RE
Form of Address
Citizen
Related Organizations
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