Grand Duchy of Björkebo
Grand Duchy of Björkebo Storhertigdömet Björkebo (Svenska) | |
|---|---|
 Flag | |
 Satellite picture of Björkebo | |
| Capital | Björkebo |
| Official languages | English, Swedish |
| Government | Duchy |
• Grand Duke | HRH Anders Saltborn |
| Establishment | 21 August 2006 (Settlement founded) 17 November 2015 (Grand Duchy established) |
| Population | |
• (as of 2017 census) census | 3 |
| Currency | Barter |
| Time zone | CET/CEST |
The Grand Duchy of Björkebo, Storhertigdömet Björkebo is an administrative region under the Republic of Latitudia that was established on 17 November 2015 as a Grand Duchy. Before that it was known as the Northern Outpost Settlement since the founding of Latitudia some nine years earlier.
Geography
Björkebo is completely surrounded by the Free State of Northern Medelpad, but some say also the Kingdom of Sweden lays claim on the surrounding areas.
Government and politics
Björkebo is fairly autonomously governed by the ruling Grand Duke or Duchess, however always observing Latitudian Law and constitution and is by that de facto governed by the High Council of Latitudia. The current Grand Duke is representing Björkebo in the High Council, at his seat as Chairman.
Military and Law Enforcement
The Grand Duchy has no army or civilian policing force, but is protected by The People's Army of Latitudia through its residents.
Culture
Björkebo is observing and celebrating cultural expressions from Latitudia, Free State of Northern Medelpad and Sweden.
National Holidays
Outside celebrating the Latitudian holidays, the Founding Day is observed annually on 17 November. Legends say that if there is snow on Founding Day, the following summer will be very fruitful.
Baronships
The Grand Duchy is not awarding any medals, awards or knighthoods, but do appoint Barons and Baronesses (Swedish: Baron/Friherre, Baronessa/Friherrinna). This is a highly ceremonial and prestigous title and is given to Latitudian as well as foreign citizens. The titles are individual and often closely linked to local culture and geography. The official style is Firstname Lastname, Baron/Baroness of <distinct matter/object>, and in Swedish Högvälborne <Firstname Lastname>, Friherre/Friherrinna av <distinct matter/object>.
Foreign relations
Most foreign relations are managed through Latitudia, but some are considered to be handled directly with the Grand Duchy.
Formal relations through a treaty
Republic of Latitudia, since 17 November 2015
Duchy of the Salt Sea, since 17 November 2015
Free State of Northern Medelpad, since 11 January 2016
Citizenship
Citizenship is automatically but volontarily granted to individuals residing within the Grand Duchy's claimed territory.