GoobNES02: The Cold Civil War Update 2 On a collision course?
Annual World Report as at December 31, 1967
Summary
- An update on the Cold War. It appears that the Communists might be the victors in this war.
- ITO allows Japan and WGermany to partially militarize. Protests ensue, along with potential for war with the USSR.
- Laos and Cambodia collapse into anarchy.
- Terrorists and Crime continue to plague Italy.
- Afghanistan attempts reforms as Kings health worsens.
- Philippines holds another election, Marxists take part. Result is bare win for Progressives.
- Elections held in Argentina, Taiwan, Canada, Netherlands, Norway, CC, CPCA, Chile, Venezuela and Brazil.
- Canadian terrorists step up campaign, kidnap UK Minister.
- Maoists, Red Guard cause trouble in PRC, demand end to reforms, hardline Maoism
- Soviet Union A glorious future or instability, inequality and stagnation?
- Rumors swirl of Selective Breeding program in CSA amid possibility of black communist uprising.
- Regional tensions mount in the Middle East.
- War in Vietnam continues to expand!
- Pakistan and India appear close to peace in Kashmir.
- Coup attempt as Yugoslavia continues to reform.
- Malaysia set to become a regional superpower?
- Muslims in Mindanao get some autonomy, as AWR discovers oppression and suppression.
- CSA launches Man into Space!
- CSA, Colombia attempting to crush Communist insurgents.
- Will France come under the control of Nationalists?
- IRA continues to plague NIreland, the UK.
The Cold War An update
The world is a very complicated and tense place. Everyone agrees that all sides are locked in a battle for supremacy in the world. This battle is between the USA, USSR, and CSA, and their respective coalitions. This battle does not take place in fields, with men and guns, but rather in the hearts and the minds. It is about supremacy of ideology, about convincing the world that they are the best way forward for mankind. The AWR has been closely following this War, and is going to update you on the status of it.
The Communists appear to be winning. In Space, they are triumphant, with a list of Firsts that keeps on growing. Their economy is at its peak. The Soviet Union is at its peak. Yet, it faces many challenges. It has few allies. Eastern Europe is poor, and under its grip. Cuba and Bolivia are also poor, and were created by war. The PRC is undergoing turbulent times, and must contend with the Nationalists. North Korea is an isolated nation, as well as Mongolia. While the Soviet Union is a strong, powerful nation, it is essentially the only such nation in the Comintern. Therefore, the Soviets are, of sorts, the only nation truly pushing for the Communist Revolution. It is has its own internal problems, which came to light recently with the ousting of Khruschev for the Stalinist Shelepin as its leader. The weight of the Communist Revolution that Lenin and Marx promised seems to be resting on the shoulders of the Soviet Union.
The Democracies are doing their best in this race. They have mostly rebuilt from the effects of World War II. However, ITO is a diverse bunch. There is no nation in ITO that is as powerful as the Soviet Union. The USA comes close, but not quite. The UK and France are strong, but not superpowers. In ITO, power is really spread among various members, unlike the Comintern. ITO is an alliance of democracies, but these are of varying political stripes. Thusly, ITO is not the most united of the alliances. It seems to be taking steps to further unify recently, however. The US has been doing its best to fight against the encroachment of Communism in nations like Vietnam and the Koreas, but it too is subject to the whims of voters. ITO must also contend with pacifist elements, and the liberal elements, which are against war. ITO is, collectively, the most powerful in terms of economy, and military, but that does not seem to be enough to stop Communism. ITO appears to have stagnated in the Cold War, which is as good as losing in this kind of war.
The final alliance appears to be the underdogs. That is led by the Confederates, the victors, of sorts, in the American Civil War. Thanks to General Lee, they survived against the Unionists. They now have their very own alliance, but it is nothing more then very conservative Democracies or Military Dictatorships. The CSA is trying to change this, as well as combat Communism on its home turf. It is attempting serious reforms in its member nations, and serious long-term battles, with bombs, bricks, and bullets, against the various Communist insurgencies. This has been consuming much of the CSAs attention. It needs to solve some of its problems at home before it can provide a serious challenge to ITO and Comintern.
ITO allows Japan, WGermany to militarize!
It was a resolution that created controversy from the minute it was proposed. As it was debated, it continued to generate controversy. When it passed, that controversy only grew. The Resolution was the Second one for ITO. It was proposed by the USA, and its purpose essentially was to allow Japan and WGermany to have militaries, called Self-Defense Forces, by exploiting a loophole in those nations Pacifist Constitutions. The Soviet Union has reacted negatively to this Resolution. Its public statements have been few, but analysts with the AWR say that the Soviets have a very bad history with both of these countries, and this move will bring some issues between these nations and the Soviets to the forefront. Japan, especially, has some outstanding territorial issues with Japan, especially over some island groups.
This Resolution has caused protests and demonstrations in many parts of Europe. In Japan, the opposition liberal parties have been leading demonstrations in favour of peace, and rallies against the idea of having a military. Polls done in Japan consistently show that over 70% of the population are in favour of Japan having a Defensive Force. In WGermany, it is expected that the Pacifist Constitution could soon be amended to allow WGermany to have a full-fledged military. Germans are very strongly in favour of such a move, only some very minor political movements are against the idea. Germany has started producing Tanks, and is reportedly developing a 5 year plan in which is will have a standing army of 200,000 men, along with a Navy and Air Force. This might upset the delicate balance of troops that exists in Europe along the Iron Curtain between the Soviets and ITO, and this could be dangerous for peace in the region. It is not expected that the militarization of Germany would lead to all-out war though.
Laos, Cambodia descend into Anarchy as Governments Collapse!
This event was forthcoming for years. The war in Vietnam had been spilling over to these two nations. The Governments here were already weak, and were being further weakened by insurgents and opposition groups. It finally happened, though. Laos and Cambodia were weak nations, with weak governments that had been unable to lift them out of poverty. In both nations, the government simply collapsed. There are a variety of groups working in the countries. The AWR has not had access to either, but we do know that these groups include Communist ones, pro-Democracy, and remnants of the former armies. In Laos, the Communists appear to have the upper hand. Cambodia has the pro-Democracy movements slowly gaining strength. India has been attempting to encourage pro-Democracy groups in both nations, and sent peacekeepers. But that is not enough. A concerted effort needs to occur to bring these nations out of anarchy. It will take time, patience, and some skilful negotiating, but it can be done.
Italy continues to be plagues by crime and terrorists.
Italy is a nation that has some serious problems on its hands. First of all, it has a terrorist group called the Red Brigades that are attempting to overthrow the current Government in favour of a Communist regime. Italys economy has been performing poorly after WWII, and the Red Brigades promise to liberate Italians from that. Italy is also suffering from the highest crime rate among ITO members. It is plagued by organized gangs such as the mafia. Italys government is seemingly unable to solve the problems, and this is being noticed by the population. A hard line Conservative party is gaining in popularity, and this is worrying some. This party is borderline Fascist, and promises to make Italy a strong nation with a strong Military and Police force to crush the communists and criminals. Some are worried that this party will turn Italy into a Fascist regime once again. Italy is not due to hold elections for another 2 years.
Afghanistan reforms as Kings health worsens
Afghanistan is a small, fairly isolated nation. And yet, it seems to be set to emerge from that. It is a poor nation, surrounded by nations that dont particularly like it. The King is well-liked, but he is getting on in age, and has health problems. He has decided to start an ambitious series of reforms. A new Constitution is being drafted that would see Afghanistan emerge as a Constitutional Monarchy, somewhat like the Westminster system. It would also grant more rights and freedoms to citizens. The King would be the ceremonial leader, and there would be a Parliament, called a Loya Jirga, that would make Laws. A Prime Minister would be elected by the parliament. This is a major step forwards for Afghanistan. Closer ties with India are expected to boost its economy. The King is suspected of having stomach cancer, but it has yet to be confirmed.
Progressives eke out win in Filipino election!
The Philippines seems to be on the road to stability as it holds yet another election. What was different about this one is that the UN had a large role to play, with election monitors and counters. The Filipino Electoral Commission was only in charge of coordinating the logistics behind it. The Marxists agreed to join in under those conditions, so the election is being lauded as a fair one. The President decided to abandon his party, which was unpopular, and start a new one. It turned out to be a race between the Marxists and the new Progressive party, with the Marxists enjoying a lot of support in the countryside. They also had a very flashy advertisement campaign, and a surprisingly well developed platform.
When it came to the election, the results were very close. The country was finally stable, since the Marxists decided to call a ceasefire. Muslims in Mindanao had previously been granted some limited autonomy over social issues, which meant they were not protesting, as they had been before. The country, in fact, was probably as stable and calm as it was in over a decade. Election day was one of tension, especially when the results began to trickle in. The Marxists initially took a lead in the polls. This is owing to the fact that they have their support in the countryside, and poor urban regions. This lead was gradually whittled down as results came pouring in. In the end, the Progressives gained 5 more seats then the Marxists. This result was immediately challenged, and upheld through a long series of challenges. It appears that President Person has overcome the Marxist threat, for now. He now must forge a coalition with other parties. The Marxists, on the other hand, might be splitting down the middle. One faction is in favour of uniting with other Communist movements in the Philippines. The other decided to renounce the elections as unfair, and are continuing the fight. The insurgency by the Marxists has definitely slowed down, but not stopped. Only time will tell if this nation has truly gotten past its bloody past.
Election results in various nations
In many nations, it was the year of elections, with governments going to the polls for re-election. It was a historic year for elections as well in South America, as the CSA-initiated Bolivarian Republic government system is being implemented across nations. Military Dictatorships appear to be allowing their citizens some limited say in how the government works.
- The Norwegian elections were watched by many in ITO. It was between the governing Liberals, and the Christian Democrats, who are much more conservative. After a tough-fought election, the result was clear. The Christian-Democrats swept the polls, taking 65% of the vote, in a strong mandate. They are pledging much closer ties with the USA, and an expanded Military for Norway. This is seen as a good sign for ITO unity.
- The Canadian elections were also being watched, but not as closely as the Norwegian elections. Canada is a close ally of the USA. The governing Liberals managed to hold on to power, with a popular young leader. Key issues were the relationship with the USA, and Canadas role in ITO. The newly elected party is pledging to boost Canadas Navy and Air Force, and keep the Army at current levels.
- The Dutch elections were not being closely watched, simply because most thought they knew the outcome. It seemed evident that the Freedom Liberals would have a breakthrough here, and the Conservatives would have little say in government. Instead, nearly the reverse happened. The main Liberal party clung on to power, the Conservatives did much better then most expected. No party won a majority, which means the Liberals will have to depend on small parties for support. The Netherlands has been one of the most vocal opponents of the USA in ITO, and this is expected to change as the nation swings to the middle.
- The Taiwanese elections comes as big things happen in this small nation. The Nationalists swept to victory, after running a very strong campaign. They are pledging to Unite all Chinese in one Democratic nation. Right after winning power, they decided to join CAN, the right-wing alliance. This has been very controversial in the ROC, but most seem to accept that CAN will help the ROC unite China more then ITO will. Also, if the ROC is attacked by the PRC or Comintern, it will be defended by all of CAN, under the articles of CAN. Taiwan is working on improving its economy. It is paying off debt, liberalizing trade, and enjoying investment from a variety of nations. Many in the nation think that the ROC should focus on developing its military, and should be focussed on uniting the Chinas under its control rather then internal improvements.
- Venezuela surprised many by being the first to hold its Civilian Elections. Under its new Constitution, the newly elected Civilian President, and the Parliament, are responsible for laws, but the Military holds a veto. A coalition of leftist parties managed to win. They have not attempted to pass laws as yet, and are negotiating with the military on a number of issues, including the budget. One notable feature of these elections was a freer press. The press is now much freer then it once was. Criticism of the military is not allowed, however.
- Chile also decided to hold Bolivarian Elections. These were not nearly as smooth as the ones held in Venezuela, and were obviously rigged. The newly elected President immediately swore loyalty to the military. His first series of laws were denouncing Communism, and calling for a larger military, which the Military Dictatorship eagerly approved of.
- Elections were also held in the CC and CPCA. In the former nation, they went fairly well. The leader seems to be uniting his nation. Various insurgencies continue to rock this nation, but they are lessoning in magnitude. A new government structure has been proposed that has been lauded by libertarians are being small, lean, and efficient, while providing the necessary services. Some are suspecting that this structure might be copied by others in CAN if it works as promised. In the CPCA, the elections also went fairly well. Rumors are swirling that the military might be ready to give up power. The Constitution has been amended that gives a lot more freedoms and rights back to the people, and these are being taken advantage of. The crushing poverty seems to be lifting, as the economy finally rebounding.
- Argentina has also fully converted to be a Bolivarian Republic. They are continuing their crackdown against leftist insurgents and Communists, but the people do have more rights and freedoms. The Civilian Government is attempting to pass some Social Development legislation to improve the nations social systems, but the Military has been resisting.
- Finally, Brazil has successfully implemented the Bolivarian System. It attempted to last year, but the Constitution did not include a military veto, so it was rejected by the military. Elections were held, and the protests against the government have mostly stopped. Brazil is in the midst of a massive modernization drive which is expected to revamp its economy. The civilian government is fairly moderate, and trying to solve the many problems enveloping this nation. The military seems content to let it do just that, within limits, of course.
Canadian Terrorists kidnap British Minister!
The terrorism campaign in the Canadian province of Quebec seems to be constantly growing. They are demanding that Quebec be granted immediate sovereignty. Quebec is the only French-speaking province in Canada, an English-speaking country. The FLQ is a Marxist organization, who have been conducting bombings and drive-by shootings. These have been targeting mostly police and government buildings and officials. Recently, they kidnapped a British Minister, James Cross. They say they will release him when certain conditions are met. AWR sources inform us that he is likely to be released soon. Their cause has little support among Quebecers, although recent polls show support is increasingly slowly. This situation is very unusual among nations in ITO. They generally tend to be peaceful democratic nations. Canada is certainly a democracy, but a part of it is undergoing a small-scale insurgency. Italy has some problems with various groups, but they are more widespread, and have more to do with organized crime. Canadas situation is somewhat unique in ITO, but there isnt much more that ITO can really do.
Red Guard, Maoists cause trouble for governing Reformists in PRC!
The PRC is a nation in serious trouble. It faces a series of problems, although not as many as it did before. Its founder, the great Mao, according to the propaganda is dead. He has been replaced by someone considered a Reformer in the PRC. Zhou Enlai is not a reformer by Western standards, but in his country, he is. He has introduced a wide variety of changes to the PRC, and is undermining or stripping away some programs that Mao implemented. Also, high-ranking officials in the Communist party no longer enjoy their life tenure, which has upset many. This, of course, has incurred the wrath of some Maoists. They are insisting upon what they call pure Communism, which makes then fundamentalists in the PRC. They have been attempting a coup, of sorts, to overthrow Enlai. Enlai has total control of the Police and Military, which makes him hard to overthrow, however. The traditionalists have employed the Red Guard into their service, which was supposed to have disbanded. They are causing trouble and instability for the current regime. The threat of a coup is bad for any nation, as well as armed insurgents.
The PRC does seem, however, to be doing better then before. Its economy is slowly increasing, and expected to go up a level next year. It has patched relations with the Soviets, and is working on some internal issues, like poverty and underdevelopment. Comintern is investing in the PRC. At this rate, the PRC could well come out of its isolation, and be a major force in the world. The PRC is not taking a major role in Comintern, or in the world, however. It seems content to let the Soviets be the sole voice in Comintern, and of Communism as a whole. Given the size of the PRC, it could be a major force in the world, if it can successfully modernize and industrialize itself.
The Soviet Union at a Turning Point?
The Soviet Union is the worlds most powerful nation. Sure, the USA and CSA come very close, but the Soviets are simply larger, in terms of land, population, economy, and sheer political might. The reign of Soviet Supremacy, as some have put it, might be at an end, however. It appears that the Soviet Union is at a major turning point. The recent event which started this was an internal power struggle. Khruschev was overturned by, after a series of struggles, the Stalinist Shelepin. Under Khruschevs reign, the Soviet economy boomed. Productivity skyrocketed, the Heavy Industry and Agriculture sectors did very well. The Soviet Union is clearly at the height of its power.
And yet, it could be even better. The USSRs biggest worry is stagnation. This is where the economy stops expanding, and productivity stays constant. There are signs this might be occurring in the USSR. Also, the Soviets have been neglecting Eastern Europe. There are signs that this might be changing though. The stability of the Soviet Union is another matter of concern. Typically, Russians are best off in the USSR, and other minority groups are somewhat neglected. There have been no solid indications as of yet, but continued inequality between the various parts of the Union could be very bad for this nation. The Soviet Union is at the pinnacle of its power, but it could easily slide down from that. It faces problems which must be addressed head-on.
CSA: Victim of black communists, or selective breeders?
The so-called Black Issue continues to haunt the CSA. Of course, this issue has defined this nation. There are two major issues currently underway, one that directly impacts the future of the CSA. The CSA government has recently accused the Soviets and Communists in general of provoking a black insurgency. They recently released the bombshell that workers on 3 farms had risen up, killing their masters, raping women, and attempting treason. Of course, these traitors were shot on sight by security forces. The shootings were highly publicized across the world, and all but Confederates seem to be shocked by it. In the CSA, it was reported as a Communist-led uprising. The CSAs reputation has been hurt by these incidents, however.
The CSA is also being accused of creating a selective breeding program of black people to create stronger labourers. This bombshell was released by major newspapers in ITO, who provided some fairly solid evidence that this was occurring. This has further damaged the reputation of the CSA around the world. In the CSA, this news was brushed off by most. In the rest of the world, and especially in Comintern propaganda, the CSA is being vilified by these reports, whether they are true or not. Protests are occurring in major ITO cities, and this issue could hurt the CSAs economy, along with its reputation abroad.
Or South Korea and etc. Leave them alone.
Though the contents aren't exactly "good" 
