The Act of Commonwealth

Act of Commonwealth

Proclaimed by Francis the Dragonking, Emperor of the As’hikan Empire

Calidium 20, 647 AA
[preamble] In recognition of the need for unity, peace, and prosperity within the As’hikan Empire, and in acknowledgment of the diverse peoples and cultures that constitute our great realm, we hereby enact the Act of Commonwealth. This document is intended to establish a framework for governance that promotes autonomy, cooperation, and mutual respect among all territories of the empire. [/preamble]

Article I: Definitions and Scope

1. Empire:
The As’hikan Empire, encompassing all duchies, kingdoms, and territories within its historical and contemporary borders.
2. Commonwealth:
A political entity within the empire granted significant autonomy while maintaining allegiance to the central authority.
3. Emperor/Empress:
The sovereign ruler of the As’hikan Empire.
4. Council of Nobles:
A representative body consisting of the heads of all duchies, kingdoms, and significant territories.

Article II: Autonomy of Commonwealths

1. Governance:

• Each duchy, kingdom, and territory within the empire shall be granted the status of a commonwealth.
• Commonwealths shall have the right to self-governance in all internal matters, including but not limited to legislation, taxation, and administration.
• The head of each commonwealth shall hold the title appropriate to their territory (e.g., Duke, King, etc.) and shall be responsible for local governance.

2. Legislation:

• Commonwealths shall have the authority to create and enforce their own laws, provided such laws do not conflict with the overarching laws and principles of the empire.
• The Council of Nobles shall serve as the legislative body to address matters that affect the empire as a whole.

Article III: Responsibilities to the Empire

1. Allegiance and Loyalty:

• All commonwealths shall swear allegiance to the Emperor/Empress and uphold the unity and integrity of the empire.
• Acts of rebellion or secession shall be deemed treasonous and met with appropriate consequences.

2. Military Support:

• Commonwealths shall maintain their own military forces for internal security.
• In times of external threat or imperial need, commonwealths are required to contribute troops and resources to the imperial army.

3. Tribute and Taxes:

• Each commonwealth shall contribute an annual tribute to the imperial treasury, calculated based on the wealth and resources of the territory.
• Taxes levied by the empire for specific purposes (e.g., defense, infrastructure) must be collected and remitted promptly.

Article IV: Rights and Protections

1. Equality and Justice:

• All citizens of the empire, regardless of their commonwealth, are guaranteed equal protection under imperial law.
• The right to fair trial and legal representation shall be upheld across all commonwealths.

2. Freedom of Movement and Trade:

• Citizens shall have the right to travel freely between commonwealths.
• Trade between commonwealths shall be encouraged and facilitated, with efforts made to remove barriers and promote economic cooperation.

Article V: Citizenship and Integration

1. Inclusive Citizenship:

• Dragons, elves, and other intelligent species are granted equal citizenship within the empire.
• Efforts shall be made to integrate these species into all aspects of society, ensuring equal opportunities and rights.

2. Cultural Preservation:

• Each commonwealth shall have the right to preserve and promote its unique cultural heritage.
• The empire shall support initiatives that celebrate and sustain the diverse cultures within its borders.

Article VI: Oversight and Dispute Resolution

1. Imperial Oversight:

• The Emperor/Empress retains the right to oversee the implementation of this act and ensure compliance.
• An Imperial Oversight Committee, comprising representatives from each commonwealth, shall be established to monitor and report on the act’s implementation.

2. Dispute Resolution:

• Disputes between commonwealths or between a commonwealth and the imperial government shall be resolved through mediation by the Council of Nobles.
• In cases where mediation fails, the Emperor/Empress shall have the final authority to adjudicate and resolve disputes.

Article VII: Amendment and Ratification

1. Amendments:

• This act may be amended by a two-thirds majority vote of the Council of Nobles, followed by the Emperor/Empress’s approval.

2. Ratification:

• This act shall take effect immediately upon proclamation by the Emperor/Empress.
• All commonwealths are required to acknowledge and implement the provisions of this act.

Signed and Sealed by:
Francis the Dragonking Emperor of the As’hikan Empire Calidium 20, 647 AA

Type

Decree, Royal