An Essay on the Sustainability of Micronations
 Cover page | |
| Author | Salgado-Victa |
|---|---|
| Country |  Balzi |
| Language | English |
| Genres | Political Essay, Micronationalism |
| Publisher | Independent Publication |
| Media type | Print, Digital |
| Pages | 6 |
| Text | An Essay on the Sustainability of Micronations online |
An Essay on the Sustainability of Micronations is a work authored by President Salgado-Victa of Balzi, released on October 13, 2024. The essay critically examines the sustainability challenges faced by micronations, particularly focusing on the phenomenon of founder-dependency, governance structures, and the pressing need for self-reliance in the micronational community.[1]
The essay serves as a reflection on the historical trajectory of Balzi, a micronation established in 2019 by Salgado-Victa. Initially characterized by its heavy reliance on its founder, Balzi underwent a significant transformation in 2024. The focus shifted from external diplomatic engagements to a concentrated effort on internal governance, community-building, and sustainable development. Salgado-Victa’s insights connect with broader themes in micronationalism, challenging conventional structures and proposing innovative solutions.
Content
The Journey of Balzi
Founded in 2019, Balzi was initially a founder-dependent micronation, where most activities, governance, and direction hinged on Salgado-Victa’s leadership. Throughout its early years, the micronation focused primarily on establishing diplomatic relations through the formation of the Accande Terrie Ornindo organization in 2020. This organization aimed to foster unity among various micronations but inadvertently highlighted the prevalent issue of founder-dependency.
Founder-Dependency in Micronations
Salgado-Victa argues that many micronations within the Philippine Island Micronational Community exhibit a troubling trend of being ruled solely by their founders, leading to what he describes as “one-man micronations.” Notable examples include micronations like Vista, Hesminia, and Ravenia, which often share dual citizenship among the same individuals. This heavy involvement in external micronations resulted in Balzi being neglected, leading to a crucial realization: the true needs of a micronation lie in its internal development rather than external commitments.
In his essay, Salgado-Victa expresses his resolve to prioritize Balzi’s internal affairs over external obligations, stating, “Non-Balzians don’t deserve me; they don’t owe my time, and they will definitely not owe my brain.” This marked the beginning of Balzi’s shift towards self-reliance, fostering a more people-centered approach to governance.
Questioning Monarchical Structures
Salgado-Victa critiques the prevalence of monarchical systems in Philippine micronations, questioning their sustainability and independence. He emphasizes that the reliance on a single individual to govern often undermines the potential for democratic engagement and community-driven initiatives. The essay raises an essential inquiry: can micronations thrive in such a governance structure, or are they destined to remain stagnant under the weight of founder-dependency?
Transition to Self-Reliance
The turning point in 2024 saw Balzi adopting a more self-sustaining model. Salgado-Victa emphasizes the need for micronations to cultivate strong internal foundations, focusing on citizen engagement, community-building, and strategic initiatives. The essay outlines how Balzi transformed into a Combined Community through the Mass Territorial and Regional Integration Convention, solidifying its status as a significant player in the micro-political landscape.
Emphasis on Community Engagement
A vital aspect of Balzi’s evolution is the emphasis on patriotism and community involvement. Salgado-Victa argues that true patriotism stems from the connections citizens forge with one another and their micronation. As citizens embraced their identity as Balzians, the community flourished, resulting in a shared vision of growth and self-sustainability.
A Community of Excellence
Balzi is depicted as a Community of Excellence, dedicated to nurturing future leaders, lawyers, and humanitarians. Salgado-Victa emphasizes the micronation’s commitment to education, advocating for policies that prioritize academic pursuits while fostering personal development. The ongoing efforts to register Balzi as a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) in the Philippines reflect its aspirations for formal recognition and enhanced societal impact.
Reaction, response, and influence
An Essay on the Sustainability of Micronations has been highly praised by several key figures in the micronational community for its insights and critique of governance structures. Their responses emphasize the essay's contributions to discussions on micronational self-reliance and leadership:
1. Crown Prince of Vurmond stated:
"I commend your article which I have just read. True indeed that a secret to a Micronation's success is for it to mind its own business. The Republic of Molossia is also a concrete example of this. It's a fact that many micronations are monarchies. Vurmond is a Constitutional Monarchy, and with that, the 'one-man' rule is avoided. Highly admired and appreciated, Excellency. We should write more substantial articles like yours." -Crown Prince of Vurmond
The Prince of Vurmond appreciated the essay's focus on self-reliance and its critique of monarchic systems. He highlighted his own micronation, Vurmond, as an example of a constitutional monarchy that avoids the "one-man rule," resonating with the essay's call for more sustainable governance models.
2. Lakan of Vethony said:
"Dapat lamang na Bigyang Parangal si Carl dahil sa kanyang husay pagdating sa larangan nang Micronations, ang kanyang husay at katalinuhan ay kikilalanin sa Vethony habang buhay."
(Translation: "Carl deserves recognition for his excellence in the field of Micronations; his skill and intelligence will be recognized in Vethony for life.")-Lakan of Vethony
The Lakan of Vethony praised Salgado-Victa’s intellectual contributions, asserting that his skills and intelligence will be celebrated in Vethony for life. This acknowledgment highlights the essay’s lasting influence on the wider micronational community.
3. King Jerold I of Arlandica
"Time to time kasi, may bagong micronations, tapos may iba naman na nadidissolve. Pero gano’n talaga, nasa founder talaga ’yan... Swerte na lang kung ang magiging successor mo ay may commitment sa micronationalism. That’s why there’s a phrase: fighting for existence."
(Translation: "From time to time, there are new micronations, and some others may dissolve. But that's just how it is; it really depends on the founder... It's lucky if your successor has a commitment to micronationalism. That’s why there’s a phrase: fighting for existence.")
King Jerold I expressed his enthusiasm for the essay, and later indicated that he would feature these viewpoints in HMBN.
4. President of Renderfeit commented:
"Your essay is commendable, your excellency. I agree that as micronationalists, our prime responsibility is to transform a society based upon ethics of responsibility, accountability, and opportunity for growth. Your critique is very timely. I hope the word is spread."
The President of Renderfeit praised the essay for its focus on ethics, responsibility, and accountability. He also noted that its message is timely and should be disseminated widely across the micronational community.
5. Emperor of Vilasia added:
"I applauded Victa's work (An Essay on the Sustainability of Micronations) since it addressed difficulties highlighted by some members of the Philippine Micronation Community. I also think about the article as Vilasia went through a 'one-man micronation' that was completely dependent on its founder. I hope that this essay encourages Micronations not only in the Philippines, but also around the world." -Emperor of Vilasia
The Emperor of Vilasia highlighted the relevance of the essay to his own experiences with Vilasia, which had previously been dependent on a single leader. He commended the essay for addressing issues faced by the Philippine Micronation Community and expressed hope that it would inspire micronations globally.