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{{Short description|Country in Olivacia}}
{{Short description|Country in Olivacia}}
{{Infobox country
{{Infobox country
| conventional_long_name = Country of Freice{{efn|Riamese federal legislation makes reference to the island as "the Country of Freice in the Riamese Federation." Prior to 2022, the Freician constitution declared the official name to be "Freice", but the Constitution Act 2022 now gives "Freice" and "Country of Freice" equal status.}}
| conventional_long_name = Country of Freice
| common_name            = Freice
| native_name = ''Feese Kaaunga'' (Freician)
| native_name           = ''Tehua Faiose'va'' (Freician)<br>並外民国 (Hoterallian)<br>{{resize|90%|Namiminkoku}}
| image_flag            = [[File:Flag of Freice.png|125px]]
| image_flag            = [[File:Flag of Freice.png|125px]]
| image_symbol          = [[File:National Emblem of Freice.png|85px]]
| image_coat            = [[File:Coat of arms of Freice.png|100px]]
| symbol_type            = [[Emblem of Freice|Badge]]
| flag_type            = [[Flag and emblem of Freice|Flag]]
| national-motto        =  
| coat_alt              = Coat of arms of Freice
| national_anthem        = [[Ati Faio'se, ma seia ka likoa|''Ati Faio'se, ma seia ka likoa'']]  (Freician)<br>''My Freice, gallant and free''<br />{{lower|0.2em|[[File:Anthem of Freice.png|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hq-Ze37MNQU&list=LL&index=1|center]]}}
| symbol_type            = [[Flag and emblem of Freice|Coat of arms]]
| other_symbol          = <div style="padding:0.3em;">
[[File:Coat of arms of Freice (Riamese variant).png|75px|]]</div>
| other_symbol_type      = [[Flag and coat of arms of Freice|Federal arms]]
| national_motto        = ''Kalaa ata Lavaae'' (Freician)<br>(Common: "Separate and Free")
| national_anthem        = ''Tasaam Feese'' (Freician)<br>(Common: "The Freician Song")
| image_map              = [[File:Freice on the globe (Kaldaz Sea centred).png|260px]]
| image_map              = [[File:Freice on the globe (Kaldaz Sea centred).png|260px]]
| map_caption            = Location of Freice in the [[Kaldaz Ocean]]
| capital                = Sekaapa
| image_map2 = [[File:Freice Locator Map.png|260px]]
| map_caption2          = Map of Freice
| capital                = [[Sekapa]]
| coordinates            =  
| coordinates            =  
| largest_settlement    = capital
| largest_city          = capital
| largest_settlement_type = largest village
| official_languages    = {{hlist|Freician|Common Language}}
| status                = [[Political status of Freice|Country]] of [[Riamo]]
| national_languages    =
| official_languages    = {{unbulleted list |[[Freicians#Language|Freician]] | [[Riamo|Common Language]] | [[Hoterallia|Hoterallian]]}}
| ethnic_groups          = Freician (95%)<br>Other Kaldaic (3%)<br>Other Olivacian (1%)<br>Other (1%)
| ethnic_groups          = {{unbulleted list |75% Freician |12.3% Hoterallian | 8.6% Riamese | 4.1% Other}}
| ethnic_groups_ref      =  
| religion              = {{ublist |item_style=white-space:nowrap;
| ethnic_groups_year    = 2019
  |85.2% Christianity
  |9.9% Gaoism
  |4.9% other/none
  |}}
| religion_year          = 2021
| demonym                = Freician
| demonym                = Freician
| government_type        = Unitary parliamentary democracy under a federal monarchial republic
| government_type        = Regional assembly-independent democracy under a federal monarchial republic
| leader_title1         = [[Monarchy in Freice|Monarch]]
| leader_title1 = Monarch
| leader_name1           = [[Monarchy in Freice|Diana II]]
| leader_name1 = Diana II
| leader_title2         = [[Representative of the Sovereign in Freice|Representative of the Sovereign]]
| leader_title2 = [[Maaita of Freice|Maaita]]
| leader_name2           = Ailu [[Apoka Semeia]]
| leader_name2 = [[Kaana Tenkel]]
| leader_title3         = [[Keomoru'lu]]
| leader_title3 = [[Maaita_of_Freice#Regency|Regent]]
| leader_name3           = [[Kana Tenqel]]
| leader_name3 = [[Makeeia Taaguvigi]]
| leader_title4          =
| legislature            = [[Representative Council (Freice)|Representative Council]]
| leader_name4          =
| sovereignty_type      = Establishment
| legislature            = [[General Kiuva]]
| established_event1    = Riamese protectorate established
| sovereignty_type      = [[Political status of Freice|Country]] of [[Riamo]]
| established_date1      = 1878
| established_event1    = Self-government
| established_event2    = Constitution
| established_date1      = 1 February 1969
| established_date2      = 1 September 1925
| established_event2    = Country status
| established_event3    = Current status
| established_date2      = 1 March 1980
| established_date3      = 3 April 1972
| established_event3    = Recognition of independence in foreign relations
| established_event4    =
| established_date3      = 28 November 1992
| established_date4      =
| area_km2              = 121.3
| area_km2              = 121.3
| area_rank              =  
| area_rank              =  
Line 51: Line 47:
| population_estimate_year =  
| population_estimate_year =  
| population_census_rank = not ranked
| population_census_rank = not ranked
| population_census_year = 2021
| population_census_year = 2019
| population_density_km2 = 117
| population_density_km2 = 117
| population_density_sq_mi = 303
| population_density_sq_mi = 303
Line 65: Line 61:
| GDP_nominal_per_capita = 2,312 ACU
| GDP_nominal_per_capita = 2,312 ACU
| GDP_nominal_per_capita_rank =  
| GDP_nominal_per_capita_rank =  
| currency = [[Hoterallian gen]]<sup>a</sup> (HTG)
| HDI                    = 0.640
| HDI_year              = 2021 <!-- Please use the year to which the data refers, not the publication year-->
| HDI_change            = increase <!--increase/decrease/steady-->
| HDI_ref                =
| currency = [[Riamese_hull#Freice|Freician hull]]{{efn|Non-circulation legal tender.}}<br>[[Riamese hull]]
| currency_code =  
| currency_code =  
| timezone = RST
| timezone = RST
Line 77: Line 77:
| iso_code =
| iso_code =
| cctld = .fe
| cctld = .fe
| footnotes = <sup>a</sup> Traders are permitted to denominate their capital in [[Anahuaca peso|Anáhuaca pesos]] if they import/export at least 40% of their stock to/from [[Anáhuac]].
| footnotes =
}}
}}
'''Freice''' (Freician: ''Faio’se'', faʊseɪ; Hoterallian 並外民, Namimin), also known as the '''Country of Freice''' (Freician: ''Tehua Faiose’va'', tɛhʌɑ faʊseɪvɑː; Hoterallian: 並外民国, Namiminkoku) is an island country in the [[Kaldaz Ocean]]. Freice’s capital and most populated village is [[Sekapa]], located on the western side of the island. The island comprises a land area of 121 km2 (47 sq mi), and the highest point is Mopeta Nogeia, at 342 m (1,122 ft) in elevation. At the 2021 census, the population was 14,158.
'''Freice''' (/friːs/ fr-EE-s; Freician: ''Feese'' [feɪeɪsə]), officially the '''Country of Freice''' (Freician: ''Feese Kaaunga'') is an island country in the Kaldaz Sea, approximately 936 km (582 mi) southeast of mainland Olivacia. The country, consisting of a single island that forms part of the wider Pohnpenesian Island group, has a land area of 121 km<sup>2</sup> (47 sq mi) and a population of 14,158 people as of 2019. The capital and largest city is Sekaapa.


Freice was first inhabited by Kaldaic people, who settled on the island around the first millennium. The population of the island, called the Faio, from which the island’s native name comes, had established a stable and comparatively complex system of government by the time of contact with colonial powers in the eighteenth century.<ref name="Source4">Jules Strachan, 'Uncovering pre-colonial histories in Freice', ''Riamese Journal of Anthropological Studies'', 18, no.11 (2019), pp.113-129</ref> The [[Riamo|Riamese]] were the first to visit the island in 1742. The island was formally annexed in 1759. Between 1911 and 1931, the island was [[Hoterallian Occupation of Freice|occupied]] by [[Hoterallia]] following the Great War, before being returned to Riamo. The island’s colonial past remains evident in the large populations of Riamese and Hoterallians and in the prevalence of their respective languages among the population.<ref name="Source3">Sailama Vaitami, 'Living history: Dual legacies of colonisation in Freice', ''Journal of Kaldaic and Southern Olivacian History'', 26, no.5 (2021), pp.19-40</ref>
Freice was first inhabited by Kaldaic people in the first millenium, with a stable and comparatively complex system of government established by the time of colonial contact in the eighteenth century. The Riamese first landed on the island in 1871, making contact with the local chiefs. In 1872, a [[Riamo|Riamese]] protectorate was established, with the indigenous rulers allowed to retain control of internal government. In 1972, Freice assumed full self-governance as a Country of the Riamese Federation, with Riamo retaining control over defence and foreign affairs.


In 1969, Freice was granted self-government as an autonomous state of Riamo. In 1980, it was granted further powers and redesignated as a country within the Riamese Federation. Freicians are Riamese citizens and Diana II is Freice’s head of state as Queen of the Riamese.<ref name="Source2">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Freice and the Federation"]. ''Riamese Federal Government''. Retrieved 4 March 2019.</ref> Today, over half of the approximately 32,000 Freicians live outside of Freice, mostly in Riamo and [[Anáhuac]].<ref name="Source1">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Support for Freicians overseas"]. ''Government of Freice''. Retrieved 19 July 2015.</ref>
Today, Freice remains one of the poorest countries in the world, despite Riamese financial aid. In the early twenty-first century, tourism steadly grew and is now one of the main sources of income for the island's small economy. The island's culture remains tied to its Kaldaic traditions, with minimal residents coming from mainland Olivacia, Riamo, and the other Pohnpenesian islands.
 
==Etymology==
In the Freician language, the island is called Faio'se (literally "place of the Faio"). The Faio people were the nomadic people who first settled on the island at the beginning of the first milennium, their name coming from ''Fase uahi'' (old Freician for "first settler"). Today, Freicians are called "Faiose'io", meaning "a person from the place of the Faio", although some people continue to use the name Faio in relation to modern Freicians.
 
The exonym "Freice" is a corruption of the Freician name. The name was first recorded in the anonymously-written ''Travels to the Islands of the Kaldaz'', first published in 1743.<ref name="ety1">[Anonymous], ''Travels to the Islands of the Kaldaz'' [1743], p.2</ref> The Riamese initially called the island "Windy Island" in reference to the weather at the time of the first contact. The word Freice was adopted as the official Common Language name in 1761.<ref name="Ety1">John Aitken, 'First contacts: Riamese trading with indigenous Kaldaic peoples in the mid eighteenth century', ''Journal of Kaldaic and Southern Olivacian History'', 25, no.7 (2020), pp.88-102</ref>


==History==
==History==
===Early history===
===Riamese Era (1878-1972)===
{{Quote box
Between 1878 and 1972, Freice was a protectorate of the [[Riamo]]. In Freician historiography, this period is known as the "Riamese Era" (Freician: ''Teeia Ramiotam''). During this period, Freice remained a nominally independent state, with its foreign affairs and defence the responsibility of the Riamese Government as part of a Treaty of Friendship and Amicable Relations. In 1878, the Maaita Tuaa Savou signed the treaty under pressure, with implied threat of full annexation if he resisted. Despite promises of domestic autonomy, the Freician government came under increased Riamese influence through the presence of a number of Resident Ministers.  
| title = Historical affiliations
| class = plainlist
| quote ={{flagicon image|Riamo flag 2.png}} Colony of Freice Island 1753-1911
* {{flagicon image|Hoterallian Colonial Flag of Freice.png}} Hoterallian Mandate for the Governance of the Freice Island 1911-1931
* {{flagicon image|Colonial Flag of Freice (1931-1969).png}} Colony of Freice Island 1931-1969
* {{flagicon image|Flag of Freice (1972-2021).png}} Autonomous Republic of Freice 1969-1980
* {{flagicon image|Flag of Freice.png}} '''Country of Freice''' 1980–present
| align = left
| width = 26em
| fontsize = 90%
| bgcolor = #B0C4DE
}}
Although humans have been present on the island from as early as 5000 BCE, the first permanent settlement occurred only in the 3rd century CE, with the Oliva people being the first to establish a long-term, permanent settlement in Freice. The Oliva were a largely agrarian people who focussed on farming and fishing and were largely isolated from events on the continent.<ref>Botín, Sofia E. (2002). ''Tracing roots in Olivacian history''. Olivacian Historical Studies. vol.19, n°102, summer 2019. p.93.</ref> The Oliva people continued to inhabit the island, mostly the west and north, until the 12th century, when a second migratory wave from Olivacia saw the Faio people, a small nomadic people group (from which the native name of the country comes), displace them.<ref>Astor, Felix J. (1999) ''Migration in Medieval Olivacia''. Portington: History Press, p.103. ISBN 120-0-315-54301-3</ref>
 
The Faio people are the primary ancestors of most native Freicians, with the country's name derived from them. Much like the Oliva people, the Faio economy was dominated by farming and fishing.<ref>Botín, Sofia E. ''Tracing roots in Olivacian history''. p.102.</ref> However, the Faio also involved themselves in continental trade, with small trading posts established on the island to host traders from the mainland continent.<ref>Iqe, Pagei, A. (2009) ''Economic Practices in Pre-Colonial Freice''. Portington: Portington University Press, pp.99-101. ISBN 091-2-357-54431-6</ref> Because of this involvement in continental trade, the Faio were able to amass significant wealth compared to the Oliva people, who had largely been incorporated into the Faio population, and diversify their economy beyond agrarianism.<ref>Iqe, Pagei, A. ''The National Encyclopedia of Freician History and Culture'', p.279</ref>
 
The Faio operated under a system of feudalism, with a strictly enforced class system dividing power between the nobility - the Talitaiama'me - and several classifications of commoner.<ref>Riley, Berton L. (1983) ''Early-Modern Government in Olivacia''. Cockney: R&M Publishers, p.88. ISBN 112-5-632-4576-7</ref> The Aio'i Keikitoe Ritio, the traditional Freician monarch, was the political and spiritual leader of the Faio people and head of the Kauteai dynasty, with a series of ad hoc assemblies (meetings) established as primitive parliaments. From the 14th century, Freice became a vassal of the Kaldaic Empire, although it largely retained its independence. This system of governance remained largely unchanged until Riamese colonisation in the mid-18th century.
 
===Riamese Colonization===
Riamese contact with Freice was first made in 1750. A small trading post was established in the ancient town of Sekapa, called Wilmington, which remained the center of Riamese presence for the next three years. During this period, relations between the Riamese and Freicians remained cordial, with resentment over increasing Riamese control placated by the bribing of nobles.<ref>Harman, Henry F. (1999) ''Riamo and Empire''. Guri: Carry Education Press. p.67. ISBN 881-4-3192-325-4</ref>
 
The island was formally annexed in 1753, with the monarchy and Talitai'ama formally abolished in 1759, having been stripped of power. Local governing institutions were absorbed by colonial institutions, with a military governor exercising near absolute authority on the island.<ref name=": History4">Makama Hutiua (2006) "Early colonial government and the survival of traditional practices", ''Friends of Freice Journal'' 27(4), pp.7-16</ref> The island served largely as a military base for its strategic location in the Kaldaz, with native Freicians seeing little interference in their lives.<ref>Harman, Henry F. (1996) ''General Approaches to the Study of Early Colonial Government in Freice''. Cockney: R&M Publishers, p.100. ISBN 201-2-453-4763-5</ref> Despite this, brutal reprisals against attempted revolts undermined any public support for the colonial government, which fed into popular disdain against the compliant local authorities.
 
Slavery was not instituted on the island, although forced labour was commonplace, with thousands of Freicians forcibly taken and employed in construction projects, conscripted into the Riamese army, or sent to other Riamese colonies to work for little-to-no pay.<ref>Ferrant, Victor R. (2017) ''The Forgotten Island: The Isle of Freice''. Leopolis: University of Leopolis. p.129. ISBN 991-2-31631-775-7.</ref> A number of forts were constructed using such labour, most of which have since been demolished.
 
In Wilmington and surrounding areas, local Freician culture was curtailed through a number of repressive laws which aimed to displace the Freician language and culture through Riamese immigration and segregation between the two ethnic groups. Whilst this did not officially extend to rural areas outside of the capital, unofficially the efforts were implemented across the island.<ref>Harman, Henry F. ''Riamo and Empire''. p.161</ref> Most, however, responded by living double lives, adopting Riamese practices outside of the home whilst maintaining Freician customs and traditions within it.
 
Unemployment and poverty remained a problem for many native Freicians, who were prevented from enjoying the wealth and opportunities available to ethnic Riamese.<ref>Tokia, Enokal A. (1991) ''Economic Conditions for Native People in Early-Twentieth Century Colonial Freice''. Portington: Portington University Press, p.77. ISBN 012-5-67432-665-3</ref> Beginning in the early 1900s, a number of political movements emerged, seeking economic and political reform. Whilst few openly argued for independence, being a potentially capital crime, pro-independence movements began to gain traction as underground resistance against Riamese colonialism quickly grew.
[[File:Shiozawa kōichi.JPG|200px|thumb|Admiral Ryōta Nagase, the first Hoterallian Military Governor.]]
 
===Hoterallian occupation===
During the Great War, Riamo and Hoterallia entered into the war on opposing sides. The Hoterallian navy was tasked with eliminating Riamese naval presence in the Southern Sundaic and Northern Kaldaz, precipitating an invasion of Freice by June 1910. A landing at Wilmington-West Freice by Hoterallian marines quickly followed by the storming of the Riamese garrison on the island.<ref>''Ibid.'', p.310</ref><ref name=": History3">Siotefe Koela (1998) "The Seige of Wilmington", ''Friends of Freice Journal'' 18(2), pp.28-39</ref>
 
Following the conclusion of the Great War, the Treaty of Tsuwan divided Riamese imperial territories amongst the victors, with Freice transferred to Hoterallia as a colonial mandate. Under the treaty, Freice was partially demilitarised, and Hoterallia agreed not to fully assimilate the island into its empire.<ref>Rameia, R.E. (2019) ''A History of the Hoterallian Government in Freice'' (Portington: Portington Press), p.75</ref>
 
The Hoterallian occupation is divided into two periods: the transitional phase and the permanent phase. The transitional phase saw the consolidation of Hoterallian rule. It was divided into five districts, each of which reported to a rear admiral at the navy headquarters in the newly-renamed Sekapa. The island's legal system was administered under Hoterallian law.<ref name=":HAF"> [https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Hoterallia And Freice: An Island Where The Phoenix Once Landed."] ''Minami no Taiyō.'' Retrieved December 11, 2018.</ref> The permanent phase saw a transition from naval to civilian administration, with a ''Freician Elected Authority'' established to govern the islands under the authority of the Navy Ministry.<ref name=":FNA"> [https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "The History of The Imperial Hoterallian Navy: Freician's Naval Authority"] ''Hojo Daily.'' 10 October 2007. Retrieved 17 August 2018.</ref> A governor was established, elected by Freicians and appointed by the Hoterallians, reporting to the Director of the Supreme Authority.
 
The Hoterallians sought cooperation from Freician leaders, promoting cultural and linguistic nationalism to win their favour and to undermine allegiance to the Riamese. Freician was taught in schools and native practices, largely suppressed by the Riamese, were once more introduced.<ref name=":Freice2"> Rameia, R.E. (2011) 'The role of Freician nationalism in the Hoterallian Government (1911-1915)', ''Journal of Kaldaic History'', 9(3), pp.111-129</ref> This was coupled with the exploitation of Freice's natural resources and the suppression of Freician independence movements - often by force.
 
By the late 1920s, with the mandate coming to an end, the Hoterallians sought to encourage opposition to a handover to Riamo with a propaganda campaign. This campaign presented the Riamese as authoritarian colonisers who sought to destroy Freice's traditional way of life.<ref name=":Propa"> Yoshihiro, Kondō. "The Hoterallian Propaganda On Freice." ''Hojo Daily''. 16 January 2010. 4 March 2017.</ref> Nonetheless, on 18th July 1931, sovereignty was transferred to Riamo.
 
===Resumed Riamese sovereignty===
The island was returned to Riamo in 1931. A series of political and legal reforms transformed the governance of the island in response to the levels of self-government afforded to the island under Hoterallian occupation. In 1932, native Freicians entered into the island's civil service for the first time, with the Freice Language Order 1938 permitting the use of Freician in schools.<ref name=": History2">Makama Hutiua (2008) "The advent of civil rights in post-handover Freice", ''Friends of Freice Journal'' 29(3), pp.8-14</ref>
 
In 1950, a new Assembly of Delegates was established to provide representation for native Freicians. This body had only an advisory role, but beginning in 1958, could pass non-binding resolutions which increasingly carried weight with the colonial authorities.<ref name=": History2">Makama Hutiua (2008) "The advent of civil rights in post-handover Freice", ''Friends of Freice Journal'' 29(3), pp.8-14</ref>
 
Starting in 1965, the federal government began discussions on the political future of Freice. The lack of economic development and domestic political institutions rendered independence an impossibility, with discussions focussed on the level of autonomy the island should receive. In 1967, a draft paper was issued which proposed a locally-elected assembly and an island government with responsibility for certain domestic policy areas.<ref name=": History1">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Freice - the Jewel of the Kaldaz"]. 18 March 2009. Retrieved 29 June 2013.</ref>
 
===1969-present===
In 1969, the Government of Freice Act was passed which granted Freice limited home rule. A constituent assembly was elected and sat for the first time in February of that year, passing a new constitution in 1971 for adoption on 1 January 1972. During the course of the 1970s, the island gradually assumed greater self-sufficiency, establishing new domestic institutions in place of federal services (including police, natural resources, and some medical services).<ref name=": RM1">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Freice constitution at 40"]. ''Riamo News''. 1 January 2012. Retrieved 9 January 2012.</ref>
 
The government of [[Sema T. Anamia]] (1969-1983) pursued a policy of nativisation, seeking to reverse two centuries of Riamisation. During this period, the Freice government closely aligned itself with [[Hoterallia]], with Hoterallian developmental aid through the [[Taiyō Initiatives]] helping to raise the standard of living and expand infrastructure.
 
In 1980, Freice became a [[Political status of Freice|Country]] of the Riamese Federation, granting it further self-governance to the point of near-independence. In 1987, the government of Katesu Fapera signed a Special Cooperative Agreement with Hoterallia, which has been renewed regularly until 2014 and which further stimulated economic development on the island.<ref name=": SCA">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Special Cooperation Agreement"]. ''Hoterallia in Freice''. 8 March 2018. Retrieved 22 March 2018.</ref>


In 1992, the federal government formally recognised Freice's independence in foreign affairs, granting it the right to establish its own diplomatic missions. As of 2023, Freice has formal diplomatic relations with 12 states (including Riamo), maintaining diplomatic representation in four of these states.
In 1893, a number of Freician chiefs unsuccessfully sought to rebel against Riamese hegemony, resulting in the execution of five chiefs in what has subsequently been called Black November (Freician: ''Neeia Nogutumaa''). In 2003, the Riamese government apologised for its role in these executions. By 1900, with Christianity well-established as the religion of the majority of Freicians, Maaita Teeakaala Neeiet proclaimed Riamese Orthodoxy the state religion.  


In 2021, [[Aniara Neileka]] was elected the first woman president and initiated reforms known as the 'external focus'.<ref>[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Aniara Neileka hails breakthrough election"]. ''Radio and Television Freice''. 18 June 2021. Retrieved 20 June 2021.</ref> Her government successfully negotiated entry into the [[Saltstil Pact]], which it had previously been represented in through Riamese membership. A month following her election, she was deposed in a coup led by the Common Wealth Party, restructuring Freice into a de facto dominant-party state.<ref>[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Draft constitution passes legislative vote"]. ''Radio and Television Freice''. 1 September 2021. Retrieved 2 September 2021.</ref><ref>[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Human rights groups condemn Freice constitution change"]. ''Riamo Broadcasting Corporation''. 29 September 2021. Retrieved 1 October 2022.</ref> A split in the party resulted in the government collapsing in December that year and the establishment of an interim provisional government under opposition leader Edia Kiarai.<ref name=": Electi1on12">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Nuejel approves constituent assembly"]. ''Radio and Television Freice''. 6 December 2021. Retrieved 9 December 2021.</ref>
Beginning in the 1910s, the Riamese government placed growing pressure on the Freician government to introduce some form of representative body to avoid a second rebellion amongst the chiefs. In 1923, the Maaita's Council was established as an advisory body. This was replaced, in 1928, with the [[Representative Council (Freice)|Representative Council]], which consisted of all the chiefs and representatives of other senior groups. This body was largely hereditary, with the Maaita appointing additional members at their discretion.


A [[General Kiuva|new assembly]] was created, elected in [[2022 elections in Freice|January 2022]], with Aniara returning as head of government. It approved a new constitution in April 2022.<ref name=": Electi1on1">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Meeting approves constitution draft"]. ''Radio and Television Freice''. 2 April 2022. Retrieved 6 April 2022.</ref>
Throughout the 1930s, Freice embarked on a series of social reforms to align it with Riamo. This included a new criminal code, a codified constitution, a form of state welfare, and elections to the Representative Council on a limited suffrage. Under the brief rule of Leiseini Mataasat (1943-1945) and his son Jalimateki Leiseini (1945-1953), restrictions on the press were lifted and universal suffrage was finally introduced.


In 2023, a series of [[2023 Freician constitutional referendums|referendums]] saw the public vote to restore the Talitai'ama, to adopt the [[Hoterallian gen]], and to recognise [[Hoterallia|Hoterallian]] and the Common Language as co-equal alongside Freician. The subsequent constitutional amendments entered into force in February 2023.<ref name=": ref">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Constitutional changes enter law"]. ''Mulo'i Puineta''. 11 March 2023. Retrieved 16 March 2023.</ref>
===Recent history===
In the 1960s, the Riamese federal government requested that the Freician Representative Council discuss and decide on Freice's future political status. The government gave the Council three options: full political independence, integration into Riamo proper, or associated status within the Federation. From 1966, the Freician government supported a policy of association, maintaining political and constitutional links with the Riamese Crown and government whilst maintaining its unique form of self-governance.


With the merger of [[Future Citizens (Freice)|Future Citizens]] and the [[MURO Alliance]] to form [[Mulo Uahi ma pa Kiuoa]], the "birthing of parties" came to an end, concluding the emergence of political parties into a stable two-party system.<ref name=": ref1111111">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "New Kana party brings an end to 'painful' party birth"]. ''Riamo News''. 25 March 2023. Retrieved 29 March 2023.</ref>
On 3 April 1972, the Freice Act formalised the island's political status and clarified debated aspects of its relationship with Riamo. The act formally recognised Freice as a "Country under the Jurisdiction of the Riamese Federation" and granted the Riamese federal government responsibility for the island's foreign affairs and defence. A subsequent bilateral treaty granted the federal government further powers over fiscal and some monetary policy areas. Nonetheless, Freice assumed greater rights of self-government, including (from 1999) the unrestricted right to sign treaties and join international organisations.


====The Freician Issue====
In the 1980s, successive Freician governments sought to reduce Freice's economic dependency on Riamo. New agreements with Anahuac and Leogria, as well as greater cooperation between Freice and Pohnpenesia, led to a greater diversification in the economy. By 1992, Freice's exports to Riamo fell as a proportion of national income by a quarter. However, Riamo continued to be the destination of over 60 percent of Freician imports until the late 2000s, when further economic agreements substantially increased Freician exports to non-federation markets.
{{Main|The Freician Issue}}
In March 2023, a constitutional crisis emerged when the Riamese federal government opposed medical aid from [[Anáhuac]] and [[Hoterallia]] to combat Freice's HIV/AIDS crisis. On 24 March 2023 the Riamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a twatt announcing a meeting with the [[Anáhuac|Anáhuaca ambassador]] over medical assistance given to Freice, raising concerns about Riamese sovereignty over the island.<ref name=": 1a">@RMFA (10 March 2022). [https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "The Riamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has scheduled an urgent talk with Anahuacan Authorities following the latest developments regarding #Freice. @RiamoSenate will be called to vote on the subject today, as this sudden move puts into question Freice's self-determination rights."] - via [https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ Twatter].</ref> The Freiciann goverment, led by [[Head of the Government of Freice|Keomoru'lu]] [[Kana Tenqel]] responded negatively, condemning the federal government for politicizing a health crisis and undermining Freice's constitutional status.<ref name=": 1b">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "'The Freician Issue' explained"]. ''Old Republic News''. Retrieved 30 April 2022.</ref>


On 27 March, Kana wrote to Nunes, claiming that he was "perplexed by the response of the Federal Government", condemning the federal government for being "more interested in politics than the health and wellbeing of the people of Freice".<ref name=": 1c">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "MEDIA RELEASE: Hon. Kana Tenqel, Keomoru'lu, has written to the Federal Chancellor regarding the actions of the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs"]. ''Government of Freice''. Retrieved 30 April 2022.</ref>
In 2003, [[Maaita of Freice|''Maaita'']] Tenkel Maairai publically congratulated Diana II on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of her accession. This was the first time that a Maaita affirmed their loyalty to the Riamese Crown, with predecessors avoiding a direct statement of allegiance in favour of "respectful reverence." ''E Tai Seelit'' suggested that the change in stance reflected a "greater sense of self-confidence within government circles." Tenkel's son and successor, Kaana Tenkel, echoed his father's comments during the Queen's golden jubilee.


Opinion polling has found a sharp increase in support for Freician independence. Polling conducted by Portington University on 1 April 2023 found that 49% of respondents supported independence, tied with those opposing it.<ref>[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Freice Independence Survey (April 2023)"]. ''Portington University''. Retrieved 2 April 2023.</ref> [[Faio'se Ekaitaki'e ka Orpasa'e]], a pro-independence Freician political party, has openly stated that the federal government's actions "proves that Freice can only be free when it unlocks itself from the handcuffs of continued union."<ref name=": 1d">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "FEO: Federal government actions shows that independence is a must"]. ''Radio and Television Freice''. Retrieved 3 April 2022.</ref>
In 2011 council elections, a record number of women were elected, with 7 women elected to the 20-member body. In 2017, the council became majority-female for the first and only time, with 11 women elected. In 2021, the Elections (Gender Balance) Act was passed and requires a minimum of 8 members to be women.


==Geography==
==Geography==
[[File:Etuenao Rocks in Freice.jpg|thumb|Etuenao Rocks, located in Northwest Freice.]]
[[File:Coastal rocks - geograph.org.uk - 5401154.jpg|thumb|Etuenao Rocks, located in Northwest Freice.]]
Freice is an island nation in the Kaldaz Ocean, 936 km (582 mi) from the nearest point on mainland [[Olivacia]]. It is located in the south-centre of the Olivacian plate, and so is geologically considered part of the continent. It is located at latitude 92°E and longtitude 52°S. The island is approximately 47 km (29 miles) in length and 26 km (16 miles) wide, covering an area of 121.3 km<sup>2</sup> (46.8 sq mi) in the general shape of the letter 'L'.<ref name=": Map">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Freice Maps"]. ''www.visitfreice.fe''. 18 May 2018. Retrieved 22 June 2018.</ref>
Freice is an island nation in the Kaldaz Ocean, 936 km (582 mi) from the nearest point on mainland [[Olivacia]]. It is located in the south-centre of the Olivacian plate, and so is geologically considered part of the continent. It is located at latitude 92°E and longtitude 52°S. The island is approximately 47 km (29 miles) in length and 26 km (16 miles) wide, covering an area of 121.3 km<sup>2</sup> (46.8 sq mi) in the general shape of the letter 'L'.


The island's geography is divided between hilly terrain in the north-east of the island, and flat plateaus and west and south. There, the terrain is generally flat and fertile, and which is where the vast majority of the population resides and economic activity takes place. The north-west of the island is dominated by the Eastern Highlands, which includes the Oratite Hills.<ref name=": Country">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Country of Freice"]. ''Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Riamese Federation''. 14 March 2018. Retrieved 3 April 2018.</ref> The area surrounding the range constitutes a National Nature Reserve and is protected by law.<ref name=": AWA">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "National Nature Reserve and Environmental Preservation Act, 1998"] (PDF). ''Assembly of Delegates''. 7 August 2009. Retrieved January 3, 2015.</ref>
The island's geography is divided between hilly terrain in the north-east of the island, and flat plateaus and west and south. There, the terrain is generally flat and fertile, and which is where the vast majority of the population resides and economic activity takes place. The north-west of the island is dominated by the Eastern Highlands, which includes the Nogupi Hills. The area surrounding the range constitutes a National Nature Reserve and is protected by law.


There are a number of small rocks off the coast, which are nature reserves and host to a number of birds and sea species.<ref name=": Map">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Freice Maps"]. ''www.visitfreice.fe''. 18 May 2018. Retrieved 22 June 2018.</ref> All are located within five miles off the shore. This includes [[Culture_of_Freice#National_Heritage_Sites|Far Rock]] (Freician: ''Tora Matakita''), located off the coast of Roheo Radei Oratite, which was historically considered a holy site.<ref>[https://www.nationstates.net/page=rmb/postid=48280706 "National Heritage Sites: Far Rock"]. ''Radio and Television Freice''. 22 July 2022. Retrieved July 25, 2022.</ref>
There are a number of small rocks off the coast, which are nature reserves and host to a number of birds and sea species. All are located within five miles off the shore.


Freice is home to a large variety of flora and fauna, with around 19 mammal species, 10 amphibian species, 8 reptile species, and around 150 species of fish native to the island and its surrounding waters.<ref name=": WW">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Protecting Freice's Wildlife"]. ''Government of Freice''. 19 January 2012. Retrieved 8 March 2019.</ref> Historically, Freice was host to a number of endemic bird species and subspecies, but these have since become extinct following decades of hunting and land clearance from the 1820s to the 1960s.<ref>Harman, Henry F. ''Riamo and Empire''. p.231</ref>
Freice is home to a large variety of flora and fauna, with around 19 mammal species, 10 amphibian species, 8 reptile species, and around 150 species of fish native to the island and its surrounding waters. Historically, Freice was host to a number of endemic bird species and subspecies, but these have since become extinct following decades of hunting and land clearance from the 1820s to the 1960s.


=== Climate ===
=== Climate ===
Freice has an oceanic climate (Koppen: Cfb), characterised by relatively frequent rainfall and a narrow temperature range. The highest recorded temperature in Freice (36.3 °C) was in Sekapa on 3 January 2010. Average temperatures range between 15 and 20 °C (59 and 68 °F) in summer, and between 2 and 10 °C (41 and 50 °F) in July, with the climate broadly characterised as cool, wet, and windy.<ref name="SourceCli1">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Freice statistics"]. ''Riamese Meteorological Office''. Retrieved 4 August 2019.</ref> Snow is rare, recorded only in the highland hills in the island’s northeast, usually once every few decades.
Freice has an oceanic climate (Koppen: Cfb), characterised by relatively frequent rainfall and a narrow temperature range. The highest recorded temperature in Freice (36.3 °C) was in Sekápa on 3 January 2010. Average temperatures range between 15 and 20 °C (59 and 68 °F) in summer, and between 2 and 10 °C (41 and 50 °F) in July, with the climate broadly characterised as cool, wet, and windy. Snow is rare, recorded only in the highland hills in the island’s northeast, usually once every few decades.


{{Weather box
{{Weather box
Line 301: Line 241:
| Nov percentsun= 56
| Nov percentsun= 56
| Dec percentsun= 53
| Dec percentsun= 53
| source 1 = Riamse Meteorological Office<ref name="SourceCli1">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Freice statistics"]. ''Riamese Meteorological Office''. Retrieved 4 August 2019.</ref>
| source 1 = Riamse Meteorological Office
}}
}}


==Politics and foreign relations==
==Politics==
{{Main|Politics of Freice}}
{{Main|Politics of Freice}}
{{multiple image
Alongside Pohnpenesia, Freice is one of the last remnants of the Riamese Empire still under a form of Riamese sovereignty. Freice is officially designated a "Country under the Jurisdiction of the Riamese Federation" and has a relationship with the Riamese federal government based on a series of bilateral treaties. Since 1999, Freice has maintained a separate personality in international law, although the Freician government continues to allow the Riamese government to legislate in foreign affairs on its behalf.
| align            = right
[[File:Vanuatu Parliament, Port Vila - Flickr - PhillipC.jpg|thumb|right|The Public Building Complex houses the Representative Council of Freice.]]
| direction        = horizontal
Freice's government follows a mixed system, combining elements of democracy and aristocracy. The [[Maaita of Freice|Maaita]] is the hereditary chief of the island, a position shared between the inheritors of three original claimants. Prior to 2001, the Maaita was the head of government; laws required the Maaita's approval and it was the Maaita that appointed government officials. Since the enactment of a new constitution, the Maaita's functions are now largely ceremonial. The current Maaita, since 30 January 2023, is [[Kaana Tenkel]], who is the 6th Maaita of his Tuaa share. His wife, [[Makeeia Taaguvigi]], serves as regent since 22 December 2023.
| total_width      = 435
| image1            = Regina Margareta (cropped) (cropped).jpg
| alt1              = The Queen wearing a blue suit
| caption1          = [[Monarchy in Freice|Diana II]], Queen of the Riamese
| image2            = Official portrait of Ailu Apoka Semeia.png
| alt2              = A smiling man standing in front of a grey background
| caption2          = [[Apoka Semeia]], Representative of the Sovereign
| image3            = Official portrait of Kana Tenqel (2023).png
| alt3              = A man standing in front of the Freician flag
| caption3          = [[Kana Tenqel]], Keomoru'lu
}}
Freice is a self-governing nation under the sovereignty of the Riamese Federation. The island has full internal self-governance, with Riamo formally responsible for its defence and foreign relations.<ref name="Source2">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Freice and the Federation"]. ''Riamese Federal Government''. Retrieved 4 March 2019.</ref> It operates as a parliamentary democracy and constitutional monarchy{{efn|The official terminology used by the Freician government is "monarchical republic". This term relates to the nature of republicanism in Riamo, which is a rejection not of monarchical authority, but of the rule of nobility at the expense of the common people.}}. The Riamese Monarch is head of state, represented locally by the [[Representative of the Sovereign in Freice|Representative of the Sovereign]], and executive authority vested in the Government of Freice.
 
The most recent constitution was adopted in 2022 (The Constitution Act 2022). Under the constitution, the head of government is the Keomoru’lu (“Overseer”), who is appointed as the nominee of the party gathering the most votes.<ref name="SourceConstitution">[[Constitution Act 2022 (Freice)|Constitution Act 2022]]. ''Government of Freice''. Retrieved 18 April 2022.</ref> A Cabinet of Ministers is nominated by the Keomoru’lu and appointed by the Representative of the Sovereign. The legislature - the General Kiuva - consists of 21 members elected by the electors of each district constituency. The Keomoru’lu, when they are not an elected member, is permitted to sit as an ex officio member with the same rights and privileges as other members.<ref name="SourceParliament">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "General Kiuva"]. ''Government of Freice''. Retrieved 24 June 2022.</ref>
 
The current Representative of the Sovereign is [[Apoka Semeia|Ailu Apoka Semeia]] (since 2 March 2023).<ref name="SourceRep">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "His Excellency The Representative of the Sovereign"]. ''Government of Freice''. Retrieved 5 March 2023.</ref> The current Keomoru’lu is [[Kana Tenqel]] (since 20 January 2023), who is the leader of [[Mulo Uahi ma pa Kiuoa]].<ref name="SourceKeo">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Cabinet of Ministers"]. ''Government of Freice''. Retrieved 27 January 2023.</ref>


===Relationship with Riamo===
The [[Representative Council (Freice)|Representative Council]] is the unicameral legislature. 20 members are elected every three years through plurality block voting. All legislation requires the approval of the Council and the Maaita promulgates all laws. As part of the committee-based system used in Freice, councillors are appointed to one or more committees, which serve as equivalent to ministries, and which oversee and coordinate policy in a given area. The Policy Development Committee is the most important committee, consisting of a president, the chairs of the committees, and a number of ex officio members. The president of the Policy Development Committee is analogous to a prime minister.  
Freice’s relationship with Riamo is governed by the Government of Freice Act 1979 (GFA).<ref name="Source2">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Freice and the Federation"]. ''Riamese Federal Government''. Retrieved 4 March 2019.</ref> Freice is designated under the Act as a “Country for which the Government in Right of the Federation is responsible.”<ref name="SourceGFA">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Government of Freice Act 1979"] (PDF). ''Riamese Federal Government''. Retrieved 19 July 2015.</ref> It is autonomous and self-governing with its own independent legal, administrative and fiscal systems. The Riamese government has ultimate responsibility for the ‘good government’ of Freice; international representation; ensuring the island meets its international obligations; and defence.


Previously, foreign relations were fully deferred to the Riamese government. However, since the 1980s, Freice has developed its own foreign policy independent of Riamo. The island maintains representations in [[Guri]], [[Orajioe]], and [[San Jorge Xayacatlán]], and has established diplomatic relations with twelve sovereign states and a number of non-sovereign territories. In 2021, it became an independent member of the Saltstil Pact, having previously been represented by Riamo.<ref name="SourceSP1">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Member state governments welcome accession of Freice"]. ''Saltstil Web Portal''. Retrieved 27 June 2021.</ref>
===Judiciary===
Freice's legal system consists of traditional Freician Customary Law overlaid with principles and practices taken from Riamese law and statute law passed in the Representative Council. The Courts of Freice are responsible for the administration of justice, which are independent from the executive and legislative branches.


As per its right to self-government, Freice’s participation in the federal political system is limited. Freice sends three non-voting delegates to the Riamese Senate, and is able to opt-in to a number of federal services and initiatives, whilst the majority Federation Law does not apply in Freice without the consent of the Freician government. This system, known as the “Give and Take System”, was devised by the Riamese government and sees Freice cease to participate in federal politics in areas where it has autonomy.<ref name="SourceFed">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "How does the federal system work?"]. ''Riamo News''. Retrieved 4 April 2022.</ref>
The principal court is the Island Court, which exercises jurisdiction over civil and criminal cases. The Island Court is the highest court of appeal, with the the power to interpret law and to reexamine the facts of a given case. The President of the Island Court is the head of the island's judiciary and is usually a Riamese jurist appointed with the approval of the local government. Other courts include the District Court, which deals with serious criminal matters, and the Summary Court, which deals with minor criminal matters and civil cases. Land Courts are specially-formed courts to hear disputes over land ownership.


Freice does not maintain an independent military force, with RRAF Yaqia in the southeast of the island providing principal defence. A Tactical Response Unit of the [[Royal Freice Police Service]] was established in 2023, replacing a previous paramilitary unit.<ref name="SourceRFPS">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Tactical Response Unit"]. ''Royal Freice Police Service''. Retrieved 14 April 2023.</ref>
The Federal High Court (FHC) and the Federal Supreme Court (FSC) are the final courts of appeal in certain cases. The two federal courts have the power of appeal only in cases relating to good government and human rights, as well as in cases reserved for the federal government.


===Administrative divisions===
===Administrative divisions===
Administrative divisions
Freice is divided into nine administrative districts. Each district is governed by an elected mayor and district council, which have some jurisdiction over local matters.The most populous district is Sekápa, with 3,810 residents. The following table shows the population of each district according to the 2019 census.
Freice formerly consisted of three regions comprising 25 villages. The Freician government abolished these in 2022, replacing them with 9 new smaller divisions called “districts” (Freician: riseki):<ref name="SourceDist1">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Meeting passes local government reform". Radio and Television Freice."]. ''Radio and Television Freice''. Retrieved 24 March 2022.</ref>
[[File:Towns of Freice Map.jpg|thumb|right|The districts and towns of Freice.]]
* Dukorane
* Koimuke
* Marana Pratsa
* Mopeta Pratsa
* Peka
* Ritora Iisa
* Roheo Radei Oratite
* Sekapa (not to be confused with [[Sekapa]], which is the main town in the district)
* Sekapa Seiva
Districts are further divided into towns, which are groupings of smaller villages and larger settlements. They are: Alui, Aolo, Areia, Ataia, Fana Mano, Hamia, Kalapi, Kapia, Koimuke Seiva, Lemana, Levaima, Matta, Maui, Nania, Pulo, Puti, Sani, Savaga, Sekapa, Soni, Tuhea, Ui and Yaqia.<ref name="SourceDist2">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Freice"]. ''Global Factbook''. Retrieved 9 February 2023.</ref>


The districts have various administrative functions, such as waste collection and leisure and recreation.<ref name="SourceDist3">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "District administration"]. ''Government of Freice''. Retrieved 25 March 2022.</ref> Each district is governed by a District Administrative Council, which is elected by the eligible voters resident in the district. The Atika’lu is the head of the district government.
{| class="wikitable sortable"
! No. || District || District town || Area<br>(km<sup>2</sup>) || Population<br>(Census 2021) || No. of<br>towns
|-
| 1 || Dukoraani || Kapia || align="right" | 18 || align="right" | 1,439 || 2
|-
| 2 || Koimuk || Puti || align="right" | 7.2 || align="right" | 1,381 || 2
|-
| 3 || Maraana || Hamia || align="right" | 13.1 || align="right" | 1,352 || 3
|-
| 4 || Maatta || Matta || align="right" | 12.3 || align="right" | 907 || 2
|-
| 5 || Peeka || Soni || align="right" | 9.4 || align="right" | 1,503 || 3
|-
| 6 || Iisa || Tuhee || align="right" | 15.1 || align="right" | 1,343 || 3
|-
| 7 || Nogupi || Nogupi || align="right" | 32.6 || align="right" | 402 || 2
|-
| 8 || Sekaapa || Sekaapa || align="right" | 3.5 || align="right" | 3,810 || 3
|-
| 9 || Sekaapa Alut || Maui || align="right" | 10.1 || align="right" | 2,021 || 3
|-
|- style="background: #CCC;" | class="sortbottom"
|  || '''Freice''' || Sekaapa || align="right" | 121.3 || align="right" | 14,158 || 23
|-
|}


==Population==
==Population==
{{See also|Freicians}}
===Ethnicity===
===Demographics===
As of 2019, the population of Freice was 14,158. Of these, approximately 95 percent were ethnic Freicians, of whom around 98 percent were born in Freice. The remaining five percent consist of other Kaldaic peoples (3 percent), other Olivacians (1 percent) and a small number of Riamese nationals (1 percent). Freicians are a Kaldaic ethnic group closely related with Pohnpenesians. According to Freician custom and tradition, persons born to one Freician are considered fully-Freician and are counted as such in censuses rather than as mixed race.
As of April 2021, Freice had a population of 14,158 inhabitants. The majority of residents (75.02%) are ethnic Freicians, a Kaldaic ethnic group descended from the nomadic Faio people. Minorities include Hoterallians at 12.32%, Riamese at 8.59%, Anahuense at 2.21% and Pohnpenesians at 1.12% (figures from the 2001 census).<ref name="Dem1">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Tesagena 2021 / Census 2021"]. ''Government of Freice''. Retrieved 20 August 2021.</ref>
{{bar box
{{bar box
|title=Ethnic Groups in Freice (2021 Census)<ref name="Dem1">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Tesagena 2021 / Census 2021"]. ''Government of Freice''. Retrieved 20 August 2021.</ref>
|title=Ethnic Groups in Freice (2021 Census)
|titlebar=#ddd
|titlebar=#ddd
|left1=Ethnic Groups
|left1=Ethnic Groups
Line 363: Line 298:
|float=right
|float=right
|bars=
|bars=
{{bar percent|Frecian|darkgreen|75.02}}
{{bar percent|Frecian|darkgreen|95}}
{{bar percent|Hoterallian|red|12.32}}
{{bar percent|Other Kaldaic|blue|3}}
{{bar percent|Riamese|red|8.59}}
{{bar percent|Other Olivacian|violet|1}}
{{bar percent|Anahuense|violet|2.21}}
{{bar percent|Other|purple|1}}
{{bar percent|Pohnpenesian|purple|1.12}}
}}
{{bar percent|Other|maroon|0.74}}
From 2015, a small number of Leogrian and Riojanian workers came to Freice as part of a Riamese-initiated program of infrastructure development. The vast majority of these workers had left the island by 2019, although a small number remain in Sekaapa.
{{Historical populations
| title= Historical population
| percentages = pagr
| 1877 | 2129
| 1909 | 4829
| 1919 | 5739
| 1929 | 7192
| 1939 | 7619
| 1949 | 8261
| 1959 | 8928
| 1969 | 10005
| 1979 | 10872
| 1989 | 12029
| 1999 | 12881
| 2009 | 13429
| 2019 | 14158
}}
}}
89% of the population is Freician, while 11% are non-Freician. Of the non-Freician population, the majority are citizens of Riamo, Hoterallia, and Anahuac.<ref name="Dem1">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Tesagena 2021 / Census 2021"]. ''Government of Freice''. Retrieved 20 August 2021.</ref> From 2015, a number of Gavrillian and Pohnpenesian workers were brought in as labour due to insufficient manpower amongst the population. The vast majority of these workers had left the island by 2019.<ref name="Dem2">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Controversy over migrant labour plan"]. ''Radio and Television Freice''. Retrieved 4 May 2015.</ref><ref name="Dem3">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Freice govt. says most migrant workers have left Freice following end of controversial policy"]. ''Riamo News''. Retrieved 29 July 2019.</ref>
===Languages===
===Languages===
Freice has three official languages: Freician, Common, and Hoterallian.<ref name="SourceConstitution">[[Constitution Act 2022 (Freice)|Constitution Act 2022]]. ''Government of Freice''. Retrieved 18 April 2022.</ref> Freician is a Kaldaic language closely related to Pohnpenesian. Due to colonisation by both Riamese and Hoterallian forces, it has borrowed a number of terms from the Common and Hoterallian languages, with the former significantly influencing Freicians’ grammar.<ref name="SourceLang2">Louis Manning, 'Speaking with a colonial tongue: The impact of Riamese colonisation on the Freician language', ''Journal of Kaldaic and Southern Olivacian History'', 21, no.5 (2016), pp.104-142</ref>
Freice has two official languages: Freician and the Common Language Freician is a Kaldaic language, closely related to Pohnpenesian. Due to the influence of the Riamese, it has borrowed a number of terms from the Common language, with the former significantly influencing Freicians’ grammar.


The Freician language is spoken by the vast majority of islanders, and is recognised in Freice’s constitution as the island’s “national language”. Whilst the Common Language was, historically, a lingua franca amongst different ethnic groups, the promotion of the Freician language since self-government and immigration requirements have resulted in both Riamese and Hoterallian communities having proficiency.<ref name="SourceLang3">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Requirements for long-term stay"]. ''Government of Freice''. Retrieved 4 January 2017.</ref> The Common Language has been an official language since colonisation, but is largely limited to government and commerce. The Hoterallian language was recognised as an official language in 2023; however, with some exceptions, the language is largely spoken between Hoterallians.<ref name="SourceLang1">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Frecia hace cambio de idioma"]. ''Noticias Imevisión''. Retrieved 4 April 2023.</ref>
The Freician language is spoken by the vast majority of islanders, and is recognised in Freice’s constitution as the island’s “national language”. Whilst the Common Language was, historically, a lingua franca for communication between island and Riamese authorities, it has since become the most prevalent second language. The Common Language has been an official language since 1969 upon full independence.


Estimates claim the number of people who speak Freician worldwide to be around 30,000.<ref name="SourceLang2">Louis Manning, 'Speaking with a colonial tongue: The impact of Riamese colonisation on the Freician language', ''Journal of Kaldaic and Southern Olivacian History'', 21, no.5 (2016), pp.104-142</ref> Radio and Television Freice transmits Freician-language programming, with specialist providers offering some services in Freician in Riamo, Anahuac, and Hoterallia.
Estimates claim the number of people who speak Freician worldwide to be around 30,000. Freician television and radio transmits Freician-language programming, with specialist providers offering some services in Freician in Riamo, Anahuac, and Pohnpenesia.


===Religion===
===Religion===
The Riamese Orthodox Church is the largest religion in Freice, with adherents comprising about 76% of the population.<ref name="Dem1">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Tesagena 2021 / Census 2021"]. ''Government of Freice''. Retrieved 20 August 2021.</ref> The Constitution of Freice guarantees freedom of religion, including the practice and changing of religion, and prohibits the government from promoting one religion over others.<ref name="SourceConstitution">[[Constitution Act 2022 (Freice)|Constitution Act 2022]]. ''Government of Freice''. Retrieved 18 April 2022.</ref> Other Christian groups include the Silvadian Catholic and Methodist communities, which represents much of the remaining Christian population. There are also small groups of Seventh-Day Adventists and Christadelphians.
The Riamese Orthodox Church is the largest religion in Freice, with adherents comprising about 76% of the population. The Constitution of Freice guarantees freedom of religion, including the practice and changing of religion, and prohibits the government from promoting one religion over others. Other Christian groups include the Silvadian Catholic and Methodist communities, which represents much of the remaining Christian population. There are also small groups of Seventh-Day Adventists and Christadelphians.
{{Pie chart
{{Pie chart
| thumb = left
| thumb = left
| caption = <center>Religion in Freice according to the 2021 census<ref name="Dem1">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Tesagena 2021 / Census 2021"]. ''Government of Freice''. Retrieved 20 August 2021.</ref>
| caption =  
| other =  
| other =  


Line 390: Line 339:
| color1 =blue
| color1 =blue


| label2 =Gaoist
| label2 ="Spiritual"
| value2 =9.9
| value2 =9.9
| color2 =yellow
| color2 =yellow
Line 402: Line 351:
| color4 =black
| color4 =black
}}
}}
The Gaoist religion is the largest minority religion in Freice, with practitioners constituting around 10% of the population.<ref name="Dem1">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Tesagena 2021 / Census 2021"]. ''Government of Freice''. Retrieved 20 August 2021.</ref> Gaoists are predominantly resident in Sekapa, where most Hoterallians live. In recent years, a number of Gaoists and Orthodox Christians have united to form interfaith congregations, combining certain religious practices and worshipping together.<ref name="SourceReligion1">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Interfaith dialogue"]. ''Riamese Orthodox Church in Freice''. Retrieved 9 November 2020.</ref>
There is a large number of people who identify as "spiritual" and avoid direct participation in organised religion. Although many believe in God, and a large number believe in the Christian doctrine, self-declared spiritual people identify more with a personal relationship with God that bypasses ordained clergy and defined practices of worship.


The introduction of Christianity to the island largely ended traditional religion and the worship of other deities. However, there have been many attempts at reviving traditional religion to varying degrees of success.<ref name="SourceReligion2">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "What links Kana, Christ, and anti-colonial activism?"]. ''Radio and Television Freice''. Retrieved 23 June 2022.</ref>
The introduction of Christianity to the island largely ended traditional religion and the worship of other deities. However, there have been many attempts at reviving traditional religion to varying degrees of success. Today, around 1% of the population identify as professing a traditional religion, although religious scholars have pointed out that the link between today's traditional religion and pre-Christian practices is weak. Much of traditional worship in modern Freice is more akin to Christianised spiritualism, leading some to argue that such practices come under the "spiritual" heading.


===Health===
===Health===
Life expectancy of the people of Freice in 2019 was 68 years for men and 72 years for women.<ref name="SourceHealth1">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Federal government announces Freice Health Action Plan"]. ''Riamese Federal Government''. Retrieved 3 March 2019.</ref> Historically, infant mortality was high due to a lack of infrastructure and limited knowledge of good medical practice. However, since the 1980s infant mortality has been reduced from 37 to 20 per 1,000 live births.<ref name="SourceHealth2">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Freice statistics"]. ''Federal Ministry of Health''. Retrieved 3 March 2019.</ref>
Life expectancy of the people of Freice in 2019 was 68 years for men and 72 years for women. Historically, infant mortality was high due to a lack of infrastructure and limited knowledge of good medical practice. However, since the 1980s infant mortality has been reduced from 37 to 20 per 1,000 live births.


Kaineki Tumatuga General Hospital in Sekapa is the only hospital in Freice, and is the primary provider of medical services.<ref name="SourceHealth3">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "About us"]. ''Kaineki Tumatuga General Hospital''. Retrieved 29 January 2021.</ref> A number of villages and towns host medical centres staffed by both qualified practitioners and volunteers, offering consultations and limited medical provision.<ref name="SourceHealth2">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Freice statistics"]. ''Federal Ministry of Health''. Retrieved 3 March 2019.</ref>
The Sekaapa General Hospital is the only hospital in Freice, and is the primary provider of medical services A number of villages and towns host medical centres staffed by both qualified practitioners and volunteers, offering consultations and limited medical provision.


Since the 1980s, the most significant health problems in Freice are related to HIV/AIDS. Freice faces a generalized epidemic, with approximately 3 percent of adults aged 15 to 49 infected.<ref name=": SourceHealth3">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "HIV/AIDS in Freice"]. ''Global Fund for HIV/AIDS Research''. Retrieved 29 March 2019.</ref> In the 21st century, this rate has declined and stabilised, reducing from an historic high of 11.1% in 1998. A renewed focus on combating the virus in the 2020s has prompted an international response, with medical aid coming from Riamo, Hoterallia, and Anahuac. HIV prevalence is higher in rural areas than in urban areas, arising from a greater prevalence of prostitution and limited knowledge of safe-sex practices.<ref name=": HIV2">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "HIV/AIDS epidemic dashboard"]. ''Riamese Federal Government''. Retrieved 4 June 2020.</ref>
Since the 1980s, the most significant health problems in Freice are related to HIV/AIDS. Freice faces a generalized epidemic, with approximately 3 percent of adults aged 15 to 49 infected. In the 21st century, this rate has declined and stabilised, reducing from an historic high of 11.1% in 1998. A renewed focus on combating the virus in the 2020s has prompted an international response, with medical aid coming from Riamo, Leogria, and Anahuac. HIV prevalence is higher in rural areas than in urban areas, arising from a greater prevalence of prostitution and limited knowledge of safe-sex practices.


===Education===
===Education===
{{Main|Education in Freice}}
Education in Freice is free and compulsory between the ages of 4 and 17. The Ministry of Public Health, Education, and Social Services oversees education on the island, with the primary agency being the Commission on Education Standards and Testing.
Education in Freice is free and compulsory between the ages of 4 and 17. The Ministry of Public Health, Education, and Social Services oversees education on the island, with the primary agency being the Commission on Education Standards and Testing.<ref name=": SourceEd1">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Education services"]. ''Government of Freice''. Retrieved 30 April 2023.</ref>
 
Freicians enjoy a relatively high level of education when considering its income level and development, with a 97.9% literacy rate.<ref name=": SourceEd2">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Federal government commits to eliminating education access inequalities"]. ''Riamese Federal Government''. Retrieved 14 March 2022.</ref>


Each district has at least one primary school, with boarding schools more common in isolated areas where transportation links are more limited.<ref name=": SourceEd2">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Federal government commits to eliminating education access inequalities"]. ''Riamese Federal Government''. Retrieved 14 March 2022.</ref> Previously, a majority of schools were operated by the Riamese Orthodox Church, but most of these have since fallen under the operation of the national government.
Freicians enjoy a relatively high level of education when considering its income level and development, with a 97.9% literacy rate.


Historically, Freicians were taught in the Common Language first, with the Freician language being taught from the age of 10. However, since the 1970s, the Freician language has been given precedence, with the Common Language now taught only from grade 3.<ref name=": SourceEd5">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Freice's government pushes for language reform in bid to leave behind its colonial past"]. ''Riamo News''. Archived 2 August 2009. Retrieved 18 May 2019.</ref>
Each district has at least one primary school, with boarding schools more common in isolated areas where transportation links are more limited. Previously, a majority of schools were operated by the Riamese Orthodox Church, but most of these have since fallen under the operation of the national government.


There are two tertiary institutions on the island: University School of Medicine, Sekapa (Kekarem), and the Freice Institute of Science, Technology, and Engineering (FISTE).<ref name=": SourceEd3">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Education services"]. ''Government of Freice''. Retrieved 30 April 2023.</ref> The majority of students study abroad, predominantly in Riamo and Anahuac.
There are two tertiary institutions on the island: University School of Medicine, Sekápa, and the Freice Institute of Science, Technology, and Engineering (FISTE). The majority of students study abroad, predominantly in Riamo and Anahuac.


Culturally, scholarship is held in high esteem. The body of academic knowledge created by Freicians has been collected and preserved at the Institute of Education and Learning in Sekapa. This includes all doctoral and master’s dissertations written by any ethnic Freician in any country, as well as all scholarly works published by or about Freicians. Since 2012, these have been made publicly available at no cost.
Culturally, scholarship is held in high esteem. The body of academic knowledge created by Freicians has been collected and preserved at the Institute of Education and Learning in Sekápa. This includes all doctoral and master’s dissertations written by any ethnic Freician in any country, as well as all scholarly works published by or about Freicians. Since 2012, these have been made publicly available at no cost.


==Economy==
==Economy==
The economy is strongly affected by the island’s geography. Freice is isolated from most foreign markets, lacks in modern infrastructure, has very few natural resources, and has little capacity for manufacturing. Consequently, most income comes from tourism, which makes up approximately 71.2% of the country’s GDP. Foreign aid, largely from Riamo but also from Hoterallia, also makes up a significant part of the island’s budget.<ref name="SourceDist2">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Freice"]. ''Global Factbook''. Retrieved 9 February 2023.</ref>
The economy is strongly affected by the island’s geography. Freice is isolated from most foreign markets, lacks in modern infrastructure, has very few natural resources, and has little capacity for manufacturing. Consequently, most income comes from tourism, which makes up approximately 71.2% of the country’s GDP. Foreign aid, largely from Riamo but also from Pohnpenesia and [[Anáhuac]], also makes up a significant part of the island’s budget.


Freice forms part of the Federal Customs Area (FCA), with unfettered trade to and from Riamo and a common tariff on imports. Suggestions of a new agreement, particularly one that gives Freice control over import tariffs, have been raised on several occasions.<ref name="Econ1">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Freician assembly debates customs union exit"]. ''Glaze News''. Retrieved 23 June 2020.</ref> As part of this, Freice is a party to a number of free trade agreements negotiated by the Riamese federal government.
Freice forms part of the Riamo-Kaldaz Customs Agreement (RKCA), with unfettered trade to and from Riamo and a common tariff on imports. Suggestions of a new agreement, particularly one that gives Freice control over import tariffs, have been raised on several occasions. As part of this, Freice is a party to a number of free trade agreements negotiated by the Riamese federal government.


Despite this, a significant part of Freice’s export market is in Anahuac (26.6%) and Hoterallia (18.3%).<ref name="Econ2">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Trading"]. ''Freice.fe''. Retrieved 3 March 2019.</ref> Because of this, Freice enjoys a strong economic relationship with the two states. Previously, the Anahuaca peso was the official currency, but its use was problematic due to its limited purchasing power, the Hoterallian peso replaced it in 2023.<ref name="Econ3">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Freice formally adopts gen"]. ''HHK''. Retrieved 1 April 2023.</ref>
Despite this, a significant part of Freice’s export market is in Anahuac (26.6%) and Leogria (18.3%). Because of this, Freice enjoys a strong economic relationship with the two states.
[[File:Le chalutier Le Miquelon (1).JPG|thumb|left|Sekaapa Marina.]]
The island is a member of the Oriental Trade Alliance (OTA) within the Saltstil Pact, which provides for a reduction of quotas and tariffs amongst member states and simplifies processes for the movement of goods, services, and people across the Oriental Trade Area.


The island is a member of the Oriental Trade Alliance (OTA) within the Saltstil Pact, which provides for a reduction of quotas and tariffs amongst member states and simplifies processes for the movement of goods, services, and people across the Oriental Trade Area.<ref name="Econ5">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Oriental Trade Alliance in action"]. ''Saltstil Web Portal''. Retrieved 4 August 2021.</ref><ref name="Econ4">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Accession and Members of the Oriental Trade Alliance"]. ''Saltstil Web Portal''. Retrieved 4 August 2021.</ref>
The Comprehensive Action Plan for a 21st Century Freice (CAP) is a government initiative created to develop Freice’s economy and reduce the island’s dependence on foreign aid and tourism. The plan sets national priorities for social and economic development, including the modernisation and expansion of infrastructure, the promotion of the private sector, and the construction of a number of new commercial centres. The Freice Chamber of Commerce, a not-for-profit organisation of Freician businesses, is a major participant in the CAP.
[[File:Devonport Airport aerial2.JPG|thumb|left|Aerial view of Sema T. Anamia Airport.]]
The Comprehensive Action Plan for a 21st Century Freice (CAP) is a government initiative created to develop Freice’s economy and reduce the island’s dependence on foreign aid and tourism. The plan sets national priorities for social and economic development, including the modernisation and expansion of infrastructure, the promotion of the private sector, and the construction of a number of new commercial centres.<ref name="Econ6">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Comprehensive Action Plan for a 21st Century Freice"]. ''Government of Freice''. Retrieved 8 May 2018.</ref> The Chamber of Commerce and Trade of Freice, a not-for-profit organisation of Freician businesses, is a major participant in the CAP.<ref name="Econ7">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Minister meets with Freice government for discussions on economic development"]. ''Riamese Federal Government''. Retrieved 21 January 2021.</ref>


===Transport===
===Transport===
Transport services in Freice are limited, although recent efforts have been made to modernise and expand roads as part of the CAP initiative. The A1 is the main road on the island, starting at Matta in the northwest and progressing along the island's western, southern, and eastern coasts to Alui in the northeast. The A2 crosses the country east-to-west, linking Sekapa to Nania. The Sekapa Tramway is the only railroad on the island, opened in January 2023 following the redevelopment of the old railway opened in 1901.<ref name="Trany2">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Freice Tramway officially opens"]. ''Railways Online''. Retrieved 5 February 2023.</ref>
Transport services in Freice are limited, although recent efforts have been made to modernise and expand roads as part of the CAP initiative. The A1 is the main road on the island, starting at Mattá in the northwest and progressing along the island's western, southern, and eastern coasts to Álui in the northeast. The A2 crosses the country east-to-west, linking Sekápa to Nána. The Sekápa Tramway is the only railroad on the island, opened in January 2023 following the redevelopment of the old railway opened in 1901.
 
[[File:Vehicle registration plate (Freice).png|thumb|right|[[Vehicle_registration_plates_of_Freice|Riamese vehicle registration plate for use in Freice]], including a variant of the [[Flag and coat of arms of Freice|coat of arms of Freice]].]]
A number of roads are unpaved, with the limited number of paved roads causing congestion to be an issue at certain peak times in major urban areas.
A number of roads are unpaved, with the limited number of paved roads causing congestion to be an issue at certain peak times in major urban areas.


The only airport on the island is Sema T. Anamia International Airport in [[Sekapa]]. Passenger services is provided by Freice Airlines, the flag carrier airline for Freice. Flights operate four days a week to Hernández de Córdoba International Airport, with chartered flights available for Guri and Orajioe.<ref name="Tran1">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Destinations"]. ''Sema T. Anamia International Airport''. Retrieved 14 July 2022.</ref>
The only airport on the island is Sekápa Airport. Passenger services is provided by Freice Airlines, the flag carrier airline for Freice. Flights operate four days a week to Hernández de Córdoba International Airport, with chartered flights available for Guri and Harpan.


The Ialegita Nelige Marina provides sea access. In recent years, the marina has been modernised in recent years, including expansion and the improvement of roads linking it to the A1. The marina is an important import/export hub, as well as the home of a limited number of civil vessels.<ref name="Tran2">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "About"]. ''Ialegita Nelige Marina''. Retrieved 29 March 2021.</ref>
The Sekaapa Marina provides sea access. In recent years, the marina has been modernised in recent years, including expansion and the improvement of roads linking it to the A1. The marina is an important import/export hub, as well as the home of a limited number of civil vessels.


==Culture==
==Culture==
===Media===
===Language===
[[Radio and Television Freice]] (Freician: ''Faiose'i Lerika ka Paasukase'') is the national broadcaster of the island, owned by and operated through the Ministry of Finance, Infrastructure, and Sustainable Development. FLP broadcasts domestic programs as well as certain programs from Anáhuac, Riamo, and Hoterallia, and also provides radio and limited internet services.<ref name=": Med1">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Services"]. ''Radio and Television Freice''. Retrieved 9 June 2020.</ref> There are also a small number of private commercial radio stations, which also carry some programming from Riamese and Anáhuaca stations.
The official languages of Freice are Freician and the Common Language. Although the Common Language is commonly used in politics and business, it is rarely spoken on a day-to-day basis amongst ordinary Freicians. The Common Language is spoken by approximately two-in-ten Freicians.
 
Freician is a Kaldaic languages and is related to Pohnpenesian, although many of its characteristics are sui generis. It is the principal language of communication for the majority of Freicians and is used for all road signs and forms of public communication. Freician is regulated by the Freice Language Commission, which publishes the ''Official Dictionary of the Freician Language'' and works to protect the integrity of the language.


[[Mulo'i Puineta]] (Freician: ''Island's Bulletin'') is the main newspaper on the island, published in [[Sekapa]]. Previously a weekly newspaper published on Friday, it became a triweekly paper in 2023, publishing on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday.<ref name=": Election6">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Mulo'i Puineta becomes tri-weekly"]. ''Mulo'i Puineta Online''. Retrieved 12 April 2022.</ref>
Amongst Freicians, the most common greetings ''tai baas'' ("Good day") and ''deei taitamee teeiaga'' ("God bless your day").  


===Talitai'ama===
===Media===
The [[Talitai'ama]] is the traditional nobility of Freice. Before colonisation the Talitai'ama constituted the highest class below the monarch, possessing significant power in government and owning the majority of the land. Noble titles were abolished by the Riamese in 1759 on the island's annexation, but continued to play an informal role into the present day. In 2023, following a [[2023 Freician constitutional referendums|referendum]], the Talitai'ama were formally restored and recognised by the Freician government, allowing members to use their titles in a formal capacity.<ref name=": Tali2">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Referendum sees victory for Kana-led initiatives"]. ''Riamo News''. Retrieved 21 January 2023.</ref>
The Freice Broadcasting Commission is the national broadcaster of the island, owned by and operated through the Ministry of Finance, Infrastructure, and Sustainable Development. It broadcasts domestic programs as well as certain programs from Anáhuac, Riamo, and Ponhpenesia, and also provides radio and limited internet services. There are also a small number of private commercial radio stations, which also carry some programming from Riamese and Anáhuaca stations.


Whilst the constitution explicitly prohibits any member of the Talitai'ama from occupying a position of authority by right of their title, members do weild immense power in their local communities.<ref name=": Tali1">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Restoration of Freician nobility raises concerns about local democracy"]. ''Riamo News''. Retrieved 4 February 2023.</ref> Despite concerns about the impact on the island's democratic system, the Talitai'ama are widely considered to be an important part of the national culture, with many seeking redress for problems through the nobles rather than through elected government.<ref name=": Tali1">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Restoration of Freician nobility raises concerns about local democracy"]. ''Riamo News''. Retrieved 4 February 2023.</ref>
There are a small number of newspapers in circulation on the island. The most popular is ''E Tai Seelit'' (Common: ''The New Day''), which was founded in 1948. Newspapers continue to be one of the main methods of consuming news on the island, particularly in areas where radios and televisions are less common.


===Arts===
===Arts===
Arts and crafts play an important role in Freician culture. Predominant among this is boat building, a practice long associated with the island's seafaring culture. This includes both boats and seafaring accessories, including ornately-decorated oars. The giving of nautical crafts, most commonly a small boat, is a common sign of appreciation or affection, usually given to confirm or affirm a friendship.<ref name="Arts1">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Learn more about Freice"]. ''Freice.fe''. Retrieved 21 June 2020.</ref> During the royal visit of Prince and Princess Arthur of Riamo in 2022, a number of such crafts were offered as a show of loyalty.<ref name="Arts2">[https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ "Prince Arthur receives warm welcome on first day of Freice visit"]. ''Riamo News''. Retrieved 22 October 2022.</ref>
Arts and crafts play an important role in Freician culture. Predominant among this is boat building, a practice long associated with the island's seafaring culture. This includes both boats and seafaring accessories, including ornately-decorated oars. The giving of nautical crafts, most commonly a small boat, is a common sign of appreciation or affection, usually given to confirm or affirm a friendship.


Most Freicians have some experience in crafting these objects, with a significant informal economy operating around the buying and selling of these items. The Freice National Arts Centre, located in Sekapa, includes an extensive display of arts and crafts, which is an important tourist attraction.
Most Freicians have some experience in crafting these objects, with a significant informal economy operating around the buying and selling of these items. The Freice National Arts Centre, located in Sekápa, includes an extensive display of arts and crafts, which is an important tourist attraction.


==See also==
==See also==
* [[Politics of Freice]]
* [[Politics of Freice]]
* [[Flag of Freice]]
* [[Monarchy of Freice]]
* [[Education in Freice]]
* [[Culture of Freice]]
 
==References==
{{Reflist|30em}}


==Notes==
==Notes==
{{notelist}}
{{notelist}}
{{reflist|group=note}}


==External links==
==External links==
* [https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ Official government website]
* [https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ Official government website]
* [https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ Ratona Tama]
* [https://i.imgur.com/LJrd3HN.jpg/ Freice Broadcasting Commission]
{{Template:Anteria info pages}}
{{Template:Anteria info pages}}
{{Template:Freice topics}}
{{Template:Freice topics}}

Latest revision as of 16:47, 29 December 2023

Country of Freice
Feese Kaaunga (Freician)
Motto: Kalaa ata Lavaae (Freician)
(Common: "Separate and Free")
Anthem: Tasaam Feese (Freician)
(Common: "The Freician Song")
Federal arms
Coat of arms of Freice (Riamese variant).png
Freice on the globe (Kaldaz Sea centred).png
Capital
and largest city
Sekaapa
Official languages
  • Freician
  • Common Language
Ethnic groups
(2019)
Freician (95%)
Other Kaldaic (3%)
Other Olivacian (1%)
Other (1%)
Demonym(s)Freician
GovernmentRegional assembly-independent democracy under a federal monarchial republic
• Monarch
Diana II
• Maaita
Kaana Tenkel
• Regent
Makeeia Taaguvigi
LegislatureRepresentative Council
Establishment
• Riamese protectorate established
1878
• Constitution
1 September 1925
• Current status
3 April 1972
Area
• Total
121.3 km2 (46.8 sq mi)
• Water (%)
negligible
Population
• 2019 census
14,158 (not ranked)
• Density
117/km2 (303.0/sq mi) (not ranked)
GDP (nominal)2020 estimate
• Total
32.7 million ACU
• Per capita
2,312 ACU
HDI (2021)Increase 0.640
medium
CurrencyFreician hull[a]
Riamese hull
Time zoneUTC+5:00
Driving sideleft
Calling code+451
Internet TLD.fe

Freice (/friːs/ fr-EE-s; Freician: Feese [feɪeɪsə]), officially the Country of Freice (Freician: Feese Kaaunga) is an island country in the Kaldaz Sea, approximately 936 km (582 mi) southeast of mainland Olivacia. The country, consisting of a single island that forms part of the wider Pohnpenesian Island group, has a land area of 121 km2 (47 sq mi) and a population of 14,158 people as of 2019. The capital and largest city is Sekaapa.

Freice was first inhabited by Kaldaic people in the first millenium, with a stable and comparatively complex system of government established by the time of colonial contact in the eighteenth century. The Riamese first landed on the island in 1871, making contact with the local chiefs. In 1872, a Riamese protectorate was established, with the indigenous rulers allowed to retain control of internal government. In 1972, Freice assumed full self-governance as a Country of the Riamese Federation, with Riamo retaining control over defence and foreign affairs.

Today, Freice remains one of the poorest countries in the world, despite Riamese financial aid. In the early twenty-first century, tourism steadly grew and is now one of the main sources of income for the island's small economy. The island's culture remains tied to its Kaldaic traditions, with minimal residents coming from mainland Olivacia, Riamo, and the other Pohnpenesian islands.

History

Riamese Era (1878-1972)

Between 1878 and 1972, Freice was a protectorate of the Riamo. In Freician historiography, this period is known as the "Riamese Era" (Freician: Teeia Ramiotam). During this period, Freice remained a nominally independent state, with its foreign affairs and defence the responsibility of the Riamese Government as part of a Treaty of Friendship and Amicable Relations. In 1878, the Maaita Tuaa Savou signed the treaty under pressure, with implied threat of full annexation if he resisted. Despite promises of domestic autonomy, the Freician government came under increased Riamese influence through the presence of a number of Resident Ministers.

In 1893, a number of Freician chiefs unsuccessfully sought to rebel against Riamese hegemony, resulting in the execution of five chiefs in what has subsequently been called Black November (Freician: Neeia Nogutumaa). In 2003, the Riamese government apologised for its role in these executions. By 1900, with Christianity well-established as the religion of the majority of Freicians, Maaita Teeakaala Neeiet proclaimed Riamese Orthodoxy the state religion.

Beginning in the 1910s, the Riamese government placed growing pressure on the Freician government to introduce some form of representative body to avoid a second rebellion amongst the chiefs. In 1923, the Maaita's Council was established as an advisory body. This was replaced, in 1928, with the Representative Council, which consisted of all the chiefs and representatives of other senior groups. This body was largely hereditary, with the Maaita appointing additional members at their discretion.

Throughout the 1930s, Freice embarked on a series of social reforms to align it with Riamo. This included a new criminal code, a codified constitution, a form of state welfare, and elections to the Representative Council on a limited suffrage. Under the brief rule of Leiseini Mataasat (1943-1945) and his son Jalimateki Leiseini (1945-1953), restrictions on the press were lifted and universal suffrage was finally introduced.

Recent history

In the 1960s, the Riamese federal government requested that the Freician Representative Council discuss and decide on Freice's future political status. The government gave the Council three options: full political independence, integration into Riamo proper, or associated status within the Federation. From 1966, the Freician government supported a policy of association, maintaining political and constitutional links with the Riamese Crown and government whilst maintaining its unique form of self-governance.

On 3 April 1972, the Freice Act formalised the island's political status and clarified debated aspects of its relationship with Riamo. The act formally recognised Freice as a "Country under the Jurisdiction of the Riamese Federation" and granted the Riamese federal government responsibility for the island's foreign affairs and defence. A subsequent bilateral treaty granted the federal government further powers over fiscal and some monetary policy areas. Nonetheless, Freice assumed greater rights of self-government, including (from 1999) the unrestricted right to sign treaties and join international organisations.

In the 1980s, successive Freician governments sought to reduce Freice's economic dependency on Riamo. New agreements with Anahuac and Leogria, as well as greater cooperation between Freice and Pohnpenesia, led to a greater diversification in the economy. By 1992, Freice's exports to Riamo fell as a proportion of national income by a quarter. However, Riamo continued to be the destination of over 60 percent of Freician imports until the late 2000s, when further economic agreements substantially increased Freician exports to non-federation markets.

In 2003, Maaita Tenkel Maairai publically congratulated Diana II on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of her accession. This was the first time that a Maaita affirmed their loyalty to the Riamese Crown, with predecessors avoiding a direct statement of allegiance in favour of "respectful reverence." E Tai Seelit suggested that the change in stance reflected a "greater sense of self-confidence within government circles." Tenkel's son and successor, Kaana Tenkel, echoed his father's comments during the Queen's golden jubilee.

In 2011 council elections, a record number of women were elected, with 7 women elected to the 20-member body. In 2017, the council became majority-female for the first and only time, with 11 women elected. In 2021, the Elections (Gender Balance) Act was passed and requires a minimum of 8 members to be women.

Geography

Etuenao Rocks, located in Northwest Freice.

Freice is an island nation in the Kaldaz Ocean, 936 km (582 mi) from the nearest point on mainland Olivacia. It is located in the south-centre of the Olivacian plate, and so is geologically considered part of the continent. It is located at latitude 92°E and longtitude 52°S. The island is approximately 47 km (29 miles) in length and 26 km (16 miles) wide, covering an area of 121.3 km2 (46.8 sq mi) in the general shape of the letter 'L'.

The island's geography is divided between hilly terrain in the north-east of the island, and flat plateaus and west and south. There, the terrain is generally flat and fertile, and which is where the vast majority of the population resides and economic activity takes place. The north-west of the island is dominated by the Eastern Highlands, which includes the Nogupi Hills. The area surrounding the range constitutes a National Nature Reserve and is protected by law.

There are a number of small rocks off the coast, which are nature reserves and host to a number of birds and sea species. All are located within five miles off the shore.

Freice is home to a large variety of flora and fauna, with around 19 mammal species, 10 amphibian species, 8 reptile species, and around 150 species of fish native to the island and its surrounding waters. Historically, Freice was host to a number of endemic bird species and subspecies, but these have since become extinct following decades of hunting and land clearance from the 1820s to the 1960s.

Climate

Freice has an oceanic climate (Koppen: Cfb), characterised by relatively frequent rainfall and a narrow temperature range. The highest recorded temperature in Freice (36.3 °C) was in Sekápa on 3 January 2010. Average temperatures range between 15 and 20 °C (59 and 68 °F) in summer, and between 2 and 10 °C (41 and 50 °F) in July, with the climate broadly characterised as cool, wet, and windy. Snow is rare, recorded only in the highland hills in the island’s northeast, usually once every few decades.

Climate data for Freice
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Record high °C (°F) 36.3
(97.3) 		34.6
(94.3) 		33.6
(92.5) 		25.5
(77.9) 		20.2
(68.4) 		15.1
(59.2) 		16.6
(61.9) 		19
(66) 		25.5
(77.9) 		29.1
(84.4) 		31.3
(88.3) 		35.1
(95.2) 		36.3
(97.3)
Average high °C (°F) 19.9
(67.8) 		19.4
(66.9) 		17.9
(64.2) 		15.1
(59.2) 		12.5
(54.5) 		9.8
(49.6) 		9.5
(49.1) 		10.8
(51.4) 		12.7
(54.9) 		14.8
(58.6) 		16.3
(61.3) 		18.2
(64.8) 		14.8
(58.6)
Average low °C (°F) 10.2
(50.4) 		10.1
(50.2) 		8.8
(47.8) 		6.6
(43.9) 		4.8
(40.6) 		2.7
(36.9) 		2.4
(36.3) 		2.8
(37.0) 		4.1
(39.4) 		5.5
(41.9) 		7.2
(45.0) 		8.8
(47.8) 		6.2
(43.2)
Record low °C (°F) 3.1
(37.6) 		3.2
(37.8) 		1.6
(34.9) 		0.9
(33.6) 		−1.4
(29.5) 		−2.5
(27.5) 		−2.6
(27.3) 		−1.5
(29.3) 		−0.5
(31.1) 		0.0
(32.0) 		0.1
(32.2) 		3.1
(37.6) 		−2.6
(27.3)
Average rainfall mm (inches) 41.7
(1.64) 		35.8
(1.41) 		35.0
(1.38) 		40.6
(1.60) 		37.2
(1.46) 		44.0
(1.73) 		42.5
(1.67) 		61.0
(2.40) 		52.6
(2.07) 		50.8
(2.00) 		48.7
(1.92) 		51.0
(2.01) 		540.9
(21.30)
Average rainy days (≥ 0.2 mm) 8.5 8.1 10.3 10.1 11.0 11.4 13.1 14.3 14.7 14.0 12.5 10.7 138.7
Average afternoon realative humidity (%) 51 52 52 56 58 64 61 56 53 51 53 49 55
Mean monthly sunshine hours 257.3 226.0 210.8 177.0 148.8 132.0 151.9 179.8 195.0 232.5 234.0 248.0 2,393.1
Percent possible sunshine 59 62 57 59 53 49 53 58 59 58 56 53 56
Source: Riamse Meteorological Office

Politics

Main article: Politics of Freice

Alongside Pohnpenesia, Freice is one of the last remnants of the Riamese Empire still under a form of Riamese sovereignty. Freice is officially designated a "Country under the Jurisdiction of the Riamese Federation" and has a relationship with the Riamese federal government based on a series of bilateral treaties. Since 1999, Freice has maintained a separate personality in international law, although the Freician government continues to allow the Riamese government to legislate in foreign affairs on its behalf.

The Public Building Complex houses the Representative Council of Freice.

Freice's government follows a mixed system, combining elements of democracy and aristocracy. The Maaita is the hereditary chief of the island, a position shared between the inheritors of three original claimants. Prior to 2001, the Maaita was the head of government; laws required the Maaita's approval and it was the Maaita that appointed government officials. Since the enactment of a new constitution, the Maaita's functions are now largely ceremonial. The current Maaita, since 30 January 2023, is Kaana Tenkel, who is the 6th Maaita of his Tuaa share. His wife, Makeeia Taaguvigi, serves as regent since 22 December 2023.

The Representative Council is the unicameral legislature. 20 members are elected every three years through plurality block voting. All legislation requires the approval of the Council and the Maaita promulgates all laws. As part of the committee-based system used in Freice, councillors are appointed to one or more committees, which serve as equivalent to ministries, and which oversee and coordinate policy in a given area. The Policy Development Committee is the most important committee, consisting of a president, the chairs of the committees, and a number of ex officio members. The president of the Policy Development Committee is analogous to a prime minister.

Judiciary

Freice's legal system consists of traditional Freician Customary Law overlaid with principles and practices taken from Riamese law and statute law passed in the Representative Council. The Courts of Freice are responsible for the administration of justice, which are independent from the executive and legislative branches.

The principal court is the Island Court, which exercises jurisdiction over civil and criminal cases. The Island Court is the highest court of appeal, with the the power to interpret law and to reexamine the facts of a given case. The President of the Island Court is the head of the island's judiciary and is usually a Riamese jurist appointed with the approval of the local government. Other courts include the District Court, which deals with serious criminal matters, and the Summary Court, which deals with minor criminal matters and civil cases. Land Courts are specially-formed courts to hear disputes over land ownership.

The Federal High Court (FHC) and the Federal Supreme Court (FSC) are the final courts of appeal in certain cases. The two federal courts have the power of appeal only in cases relating to good government and human rights, as well as in cases reserved for the federal government.

Administrative divisions

Freice is divided into nine administrative districts. Each district is governed by an elected mayor and district council, which have some jurisdiction over local matters.The most populous district is Sekápa, with 3,810 residents. The following table shows the population of each district according to the 2019 census.

No. District District town Area
(km2)		 Population
(Census 2021)		 No. of
towns
1 Dukoraani Kapia 18 1,439 2
2 Koimuk Puti 7.2 1,381 2
3 Maraana Hamia 13.1 1,352 3
4 Maatta Matta 12.3 907 2
5 Peeka Soni 9.4 1,503 3
6 Iisa Tuhee 15.1 1,343 3
7 Nogupi Nogupi 32.6 402 2
8 Sekaapa Sekaapa 3.5 3,810 3
9 Sekaapa Alut Maui 10.1 2,021 3
Freice Sekaapa 121.3 14,158 23

Population

Ethnicity

As of 2019, the population of Freice was 14,158. Of these, approximately 95 percent were ethnic Freicians, of whom around 98 percent were born in Freice. The remaining five percent consist of other Kaldaic peoples (3 percent), other Olivacians (1 percent) and a small number of Riamese nationals (1 percent). Freicians are a Kaldaic ethnic group closely related with Pohnpenesians. According to Freician custom and tradition, persons born to one Freician are considered fully-Freician and are counted as such in censuses rather than as mixed race.

Ethnic Groups in Freice (2021 Census)
Ethnic Groups percent
Frecian
 
 95%
Other Kaldaic
 
 3%
Other Olivacian
 
 1%
Other
 
 1%

From 2015, a small number of Leogrian and Riojanian workers came to Freice as part of a Riamese-initiated program of infrastructure development. The vast majority of these workers had left the island by 2019, although a small number remain in Sekaapa.

Historical population
YearPop.±% p.a.
1877 2,129—    
1909 4,829+2.59%
1919 5,739+1.74%
1929 7,192+2.28%
1939 7,619+0.58%
1949 8,261+0.81%
1959 8,928+0.78%
1969 10,005+1.15%
1979 10,872+0.83%
1989 12,029+1.02%
1999 12,881+0.69%
2009 13,429+0.42%
2019 14,158+0.53%

Languages

Freice has two official languages: Freician and the Common Language Freician is a Kaldaic language, closely related to Pohnpenesian. Due to the influence of the Riamese, it has borrowed a number of terms from the Common language, with the former significantly influencing Freicians’ grammar.

The Freician language is spoken by the vast majority of islanders, and is recognised in Freice’s constitution as the island’s “national language”. Whilst the Common Language was, historically, a lingua franca for communication between island and Riamese authorities, it has since become the most prevalent second language. The Common Language has been an official language since 1969 upon full independence.

Estimates claim the number of people who speak Freician worldwide to be around 30,000. Freician television and radio transmits Freician-language programming, with specialist providers offering some services in Freician in Riamo, Anahuac, and Pohnpenesia.

Religion

The Riamese Orthodox Church is the largest religion in Freice, with adherents comprising about 76% of the population. The Constitution of Freice guarantees freedom of religion, including the practice and changing of religion, and prohibits the government from promoting one religion over others. Other Christian groups include the Silvadian Catholic and Methodist communities, which represents much of the remaining Christian population. There are also small groups of Seventh-Day Adventists and Christadelphians.

  Christian (85.2%)
  "Spiritual" (9.9%)
  Traditional beliefs (0.8%)
  Other/none (4.1%)

There is a large number of people who identify as "spiritual" and avoid direct participation in organised religion. Although many believe in God, and a large number believe in the Christian doctrine, self-declared spiritual people identify more with a personal relationship with God that bypasses ordained clergy and defined practices of worship.

The introduction of Christianity to the island largely ended traditional religion and the worship of other deities. However, there have been many attempts at reviving traditional religion to varying degrees of success. Today, around 1% of the population identify as professing a traditional religion, although religious scholars have pointed out that the link between today's traditional religion and pre-Christian practices is weak. Much of traditional worship in modern Freice is more akin to Christianised spiritualism, leading some to argue that such practices come under the "spiritual" heading.

Health

Life expectancy of the people of Freice in 2019 was 68 years for men and 72 years for women. Historically, infant mortality was high due to a lack of infrastructure and limited knowledge of good medical practice. However, since the 1980s infant mortality has been reduced from 37 to 20 per 1,000 live births.

The Sekaapa General Hospital is the only hospital in Freice, and is the primary provider of medical services A number of villages and towns host medical centres staffed by both qualified practitioners and volunteers, offering consultations and limited medical provision.

Since the 1980s, the most significant health problems in Freice are related to HIV/AIDS. Freice faces a generalized epidemic, with approximately 3 percent of adults aged 15 to 49 infected. In the 21st century, this rate has declined and stabilised, reducing from an historic high of 11.1% in 1998. A renewed focus on combating the virus in the 2020s has prompted an international response, with medical aid coming from Riamo, Leogria, and Anahuac. HIV prevalence is higher in rural areas than in urban areas, arising from a greater prevalence of prostitution and limited knowledge of safe-sex practices.

Education

Education in Freice is free and compulsory between the ages of 4 and 17. The Ministry of Public Health, Education, and Social Services oversees education on the island, with the primary agency being the Commission on Education Standards and Testing.

Freicians enjoy a relatively high level of education when considering its income level and development, with a 97.9% literacy rate.

Each district has at least one primary school, with boarding schools more common in isolated areas where transportation links are more limited. Previously, a majority of schools were operated by the Riamese Orthodox Church, but most of these have since fallen under the operation of the national government.

There are two tertiary institutions on the island: University School of Medicine, Sekápa, and the Freice Institute of Science, Technology, and Engineering (FISTE). The majority of students study abroad, predominantly in Riamo and Anahuac.

Culturally, scholarship is held in high esteem. The body of academic knowledge created by Freicians has been collected and preserved at the Institute of Education and Learning in Sekápa. This includes all doctoral and master’s dissertations written by any ethnic Freician in any country, as well as all scholarly works published by or about Freicians. Since 2012, these have been made publicly available at no cost.

Economy

The economy is strongly affected by the island’s geography. Freice is isolated from most foreign markets, lacks in modern infrastructure, has very few natural resources, and has little capacity for manufacturing. Consequently, most income comes from tourism, which makes up approximately 71.2% of the country’s GDP. Foreign aid, largely from Riamo but also from Pohnpenesia and Anáhuac, also makes up a significant part of the island’s budget.

Freice forms part of the Riamo-Kaldaz Customs Agreement (RKCA), with unfettered trade to and from Riamo and a common tariff on imports. Suggestions of a new agreement, particularly one that gives Freice control over import tariffs, have been raised on several occasions. As part of this, Freice is a party to a number of free trade agreements negotiated by the Riamese federal government.

Despite this, a significant part of Freice’s export market is in Anahuac (26.6%) and Leogria (18.3%). Because of this, Freice enjoys a strong economic relationship with the two states.

Sekaapa Marina.

The island is a member of the Oriental Trade Alliance (OTA) within the Saltstil Pact, which provides for a reduction of quotas and tariffs amongst member states and simplifies processes for the movement of goods, services, and people across the Oriental Trade Area.

The Comprehensive Action Plan for a 21st Century Freice (CAP) is a government initiative created to develop Freice’s economy and reduce the island’s dependence on foreign aid and tourism. The plan sets national priorities for social and economic development, including the modernisation and expansion of infrastructure, the promotion of the private sector, and the construction of a number of new commercial centres. The Freice Chamber of Commerce, a not-for-profit organisation of Freician businesses, is a major participant in the CAP.

Transport

Transport services in Freice are limited, although recent efforts have been made to modernise and expand roads as part of the CAP initiative. The A1 is the main road on the island, starting at Mattá in the northwest and progressing along the island's western, southern, and eastern coasts to Álui in the northeast. The A2 crosses the country east-to-west, linking Sekápa to Nána. The Sekápa Tramway is the only railroad on the island, opened in January 2023 following the redevelopment of the old railway opened in 1901.

Riamese vehicle registration plate for use in Freice, including a variant of the coat of arms of Freice.

A number of roads are unpaved, with the limited number of paved roads causing congestion to be an issue at certain peak times in major urban areas.

The only airport on the island is Sekápa Airport. Passenger services is provided by Freice Airlines, the flag carrier airline for Freice. Flights operate four days a week to Hernández de Córdoba International Airport, with chartered flights available for Guri and Harpan.

The Sekaapa Marina provides sea access. In recent years, the marina has been modernised in recent years, including expansion and the improvement of roads linking it to the A1. The marina is an important import/export hub, as well as the home of a limited number of civil vessels.

Culture

Language

The official languages of Freice are Freician and the Common Language. Although the Common Language is commonly used in politics and business, it is rarely spoken on a day-to-day basis amongst ordinary Freicians. The Common Language is spoken by approximately two-in-ten Freicians.

Freician is a Kaldaic languages and is related to Pohnpenesian, although many of its characteristics are sui generis. It is the principal language of communication for the majority of Freicians and is used for all road signs and forms of public communication. Freician is regulated by the Freice Language Commission, which publishes the Official Dictionary of the Freician Language and works to protect the integrity of the language.

Amongst Freicians, the most common greetings tai baas ("Good day") and deei taitamee teeiaga ("God bless your day").

Media

The Freice Broadcasting Commission is the national broadcaster of the island, owned by and operated through the Ministry of Finance, Infrastructure, and Sustainable Development. It broadcasts domestic programs as well as certain programs from Anáhuac, Riamo, and Ponhpenesia, and also provides radio and limited internet services. There are also a small number of private commercial radio stations, which also carry some programming from Riamese and Anáhuaca stations.

There are a small number of newspapers in circulation on the island. The most popular is E Tai Seelit (Common: The New Day), which was founded in 1948. Newspapers continue to be one of the main methods of consuming news on the island, particularly in areas where radios and televisions are less common.

Arts

Arts and crafts play an important role in Freician culture. Predominant among this is boat building, a practice long associated with the island's seafaring culture. This includes both boats and seafaring accessories, including ornately-decorated oars. The giving of nautical crafts, most commonly a small boat, is a common sign of appreciation or affection, usually given to confirm or affirm a friendship.

Most Freicians have some experience in crafting these objects, with a significant informal economy operating around the buying and selling of these items. The Freice National Arts Centre, located in Sekápa, includes an extensive display of arts and crafts, which is an important tourist attraction.

See also

Notes

  1. ↑ Non-circulation legal tender.

External links

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