Volkia

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Volkian Federative Republic Волкскийская Федеративная Республика
Flag of Volkia Coat of arms
Motto: "Мы всегда свободны." "We are always free."
Anthem: "Nasha Rodina" "Our Motherland"
Volkian Federative Republic (dark green) -in Itur (green)
Capital and largest city	Volkgoroda
Official languages	Volkian
Ethnic groups (2019)	98.7% Volkian lupine 0.6% Vulpine 0.6% Human 0.1% Other
Demonym(s)	Volkian
Government	Federal presidential constitutional republic
• President	Yuliya Surkova
• Vice President	Vladimir Burmakin
• Speaker of the Chamber	Stefania Nevzorova
• Chief Justice	Yuliya Danilova
Legislature	National Assembly
• Upper house	Federal Council
• Lower house	Chamber of Deputies
Formation
• Grand Duchy	365
• Grand Principality	November 9, 1154
• Kingdom	July 8, 1577
• Federation	April 17, 1888
• Current constitution	March 2, 1975
Area
• Total	1,396,700 km2 (539,300 sq mi)
• Water (%)	5.2%
Population
• 2020 estimate	80,242,175
• 2012 census	75,464,183
• Density	54.03/km2 (139.9/sq mi)
GDP (nominal)	2021 estimate
• Total	$4.35 trillion
• Per capita	$57,643.24
Gini (2019)	27.1 low
SDI (2019)	0.889 very high
Currency	Korona (Ӄ) (VOK)
Time zone	UTC+5
Date format	MM/DD/YYYY
Driving side	right
Calling code	+57
ISO 3166 code	VOL
Internet TLD	.vol

Volkia (Volkian: Волкия, tr. Volkiya), officially the Volkian Federative Republic (Volkian: Волкскийская Федеративная Республика, tr. Volkskiyskaya Federativnaya Respublika), is a country situated on the western part of the continent of Itur, with a population of approximately 80.2 million as of 2019. Volkgoroda is the capital and largest city; other major urban areas include Kursavka, Georgiyevsk, Volsk, Zarinsk, Likhoslavl, Kataysk, and Zuyevka.

Volkia is located on the entirety of the western half of the continent of Itur, and shares a land border with South Hills to the northeast and Kurikia to the southeast. Volkia shares a maritime border with Blaskog to the west. The Rotantic Ocean lies to the north, the Volkian Sea to the west, and the Gulf of Itur to the southeast. Volkia includes 26 administrative divisions that span across an area of 539,268 sq mi (1,396,000 sq km) with a temperate climate. The western region of the country is largely oceanic while the rest of the country falls within a continental climate.

As the birthplace of the lupine species, modern Volkia has been inhabited by various tribes since antiquity. The current capital and largest city, Volkgoroda, was founded during a second set of migrations to the coasts as a stopping point in the 2nd Century. By the 4th Century, some lupine territories around Volkgoroda had been consolidated and formed the Grand Duchy of Volkgoroda. The Grand Duchy continued to expand militarily and economically, eventually declaring the Grand Principality of Volkia in 1154. The Kingdom of Volkia rose in 1578 following territorial acquisitions and growing economic and military dominance on the continent. The Volkian Revolution led to significant democratic rights and the abolition of the Volkian monarchy.

The monarchy was officially dismantled in 1887 and was replaced by a federation made up of the former provinces of the Kingdom of Volkia. Monarchists launched several attempts to reestablish the monarchy, culminating in the Volkian Civil War from 1925 to 1926. The civil conflict resulted in a victory for the federal government and marked the end of major monarchist unrest in Volkia. Growing corruption and economic instability in the late 1960s and early 1970s destabilized the country, leading to widespread incidents of civil resistance which resulted in the amendment of the constitution.

Today, the sovereign state of Volkia is a federal constitutional republic led by a president. It is a highly developed nation with a very high standard of living, and maintains a strong social security and universal healthcare system, environmental protection, and tuition free university.

Etymology

The name Volkiya is derived from the name of the ancient Volkiplemeni, one of four western Iturian lupine tribes (along with Yekarians, Vyalovians, and Orlikians) which formed the ethnic core of modern Volkians. Volkiya came into use to refer to the land populated by the Volkiplemeni which is part of modern day Zhukovsky Oblast, Baksansky Oblast, Abarsk Oblast, and Volkgoroda Oblast in 1154 with the creation of the Grand Principality of Volkia.

History

Prehistory

Iron and bronze swords found in central Volkia.

Archaeological finds uncovered in the Silver Caves located in Zhukovsky Oblast revealed that modern lupines began inhabiting Itur about 250,000 years ago, evolving from archaic lupines that lived in Itur. These lupines left behind artifacts that present characteristics common with artifacts found throughout Volkia. The earliest lupines were hunter-gatherers who used stone tools.

The first pottery appeared in 15,000 BCE, and the Cord Pottery culture rose between 2500 BCE and 2000 BCE. It is believed that the rise of the Cord Pottery culture coincided with the start of agriculture. Hunting and fishing remained a key part of the subsistence economy even as agriculture was introduced, supplementing food stocks during crop failures.

The Bronze Age brought about year-round cultivation and animal husbandry that rapidly spread along the coasts, though the colder climate in the northern reaches of Volkia slowed the change. Cultures in Volkia shared common features in their pottery and tools, but local features existed. Commercial contacts that had so far been local lupine tribes in Volkia extended to the rest of Itur and Yasteria, which brought in bronze artifacts between 2100 BCE and 1900 BCE. Domestic manufacture of bronze artifacts started in 1700 BCE with the introduction of Zalari-style bronze axes.

The Iron Age saw a massive expansion of population across Volkia, especially in modern Zhukovsky Oblast. Cultural contacts to the rest of Itur and Yasteria became more frequent. Commercial contacts throughout the Gulf of Itur grew and extended during the 7th and 8th centuries. Main exports from Volkia were furs, precious metals, and castoreum to nations in Yasteria. Imports included silk and other fabrics, and, to a lesser extent, glass. Domestic production of iron began in 700 BCE.

At the end of the 3rd Century, indigenous artifact culture - especially in women's jewelry and weaponry - had more similar features than ever before. This has been interpreted as expressing a common Volkian identity which was born from an image of common origin.

Grand Duchy of Volkia

***WIP***

The Grand Duchy of Volkia was formed at some point in 365 with the bustling village of Volkgoroda as its capital city.

Grand Principality of Volkia

***WIP***

On November 9, 1154 the Grand Duchy became the Grand Principality, with the Grand Duke assuming the title of Grand Prince.

Kingdom of Volkia

***WIP***

Volkia attained the status of a kingdom on July 8, 1577 and cemented its power as a major player in Itur.

Era of Revolution

See also: Volkian Revolution

***WIP***

Various issues in Volkia including economic stagnation, social unrest, and massive crop failures ultimately led to the fall of the Kingdom of Volkia. Crop failures led to widespread famine and food riots, the largest of which occurred in Volkgoroda. These riots and the threat of open revolt led to the abdication of the Volkian monarch and resulted in the abolishment of the Volkian monarchy as a whole.

Revolution ended with the republic referendum vote and the establishment of the federal republic

Federative Republic

The Volkian Federative Republic was officially established on April 17, 1888 following the adoption of the country's first constitution. Former prime minister Aleksey Pushkarev headed the transitional government that ruled until scheduled elections on October 31, 1888. Pushkarev announced his intention to run for president soon after the adoption of the constitution, ultimately running against Monarchist Union candidate Dimitri Maslov. Pushkarev unveiled plans to solve the ongoing food and social crises if he was elected, as did Maslov. Maslov also ran on the platform of reversing the effects of the binding republic referendum and reinstating the monarchy. Pushkarev won the election and was inaugurated as the country's first president on January 9, 1889.

The top priority of the new Pushkarev administration was the ongoing food crisis, which led to an increase in the importation of food as well as the seizure of the successful harvests that was then distributed to areas of highest need. These farmers received compensation from the federal government below market price, causing further agitation within Volkia's agrarian communities. By early 1891, the famine had ended in most of Volkia and was seen by many in the country's urban areas as a major success for the fledgling government. Farmers and landowners were less approving of the government's methods, with many demanding additional payment for grain and crops seized by the government. The Volkian Agrarian Party was founded in the aftermath of the famine.

Politics

Governance

The National Assembly Building, where the Federal Council (left) and the Chamber (right) meet.

The Presidential Palace, the official residence and workplace of the president.

The Federal Supreme Court Building, where the Federal Supreme Court sits.

See also: Constitution of Volkia

The country is a federation and a presidential constitutional republic, where the president is both head of state and government. In the Volkian federalist system, citizens are subject to three levels of government: federal, provincial, and local. The local government's duties are commonly split between district and municipal governments. In almost all cases, executive and legislative officials are elected using instant-runoff voting. The Volkian Federative Republic is fundamentally structured as a multi-party representative democracy, with the federal government composed of three branches that regulate each other by a system of checks and balances:

• Executive: The President is the Commander-in-Chief of the Defense Forces, can veto legislative bills before they become law, and appoints the Government of Volkia (Cabinet) and other officers, who administer and enforce federal laws and policies.
• Legislative: The bicameral National Assembly, made up of the Federal Council and the Chamber of Deputies, makes federal law, declares war, approves treaties, has the power of the purse, and has the power of impeachment, by which it can remove sitting members of the government.
• Judiciary: The Federal Supreme Court and lower federal courts, whose judges are appointed by the president and confirmed by the Federal Council, interpret laws and overturn those they find unconstitutional.

The president is elected by popular vote for a four year term (eligible for a second term, but not a third term).

The Chamber of Deputies has 472 voting members, each representing an electoral district for a two year term. Seats are apportioned among the provinces by population every eight years and, if necessary, seats are added to the Chamber of Deputies. Seats are added, if necessary, following the conclusion of the National Census that occurs every eight years. At the 16th National Census taken in 2012 Kurilsk Oblast, the least populous province, had one representative while Zhukovsky Oblast, the most populous province, had 34. The Federal Council has 78 voting members with each province having three, elected at-large to six-year terms; one third of Federal Council seats are up for election every other year.

The Federal Supreme Court, led by the Chief Justice of Volkia, has 16 members with a mandatory retirement age of 70. The Chief Justice, as well as the Court's associate justices, are selected by the President and confirmed by the Federal Council.

The provincial governments are structured in a roughly similar fashion. The governor (chief executive) of each province is directly elected. Some provincial judges and cabinet officers are appointed by the governors of the respective provinces, while others are elected by popular vote.

Parties and elections

See also: List of political parties in Volkia

Volkia has been structured as a multi-party democracy since its establishment in 1888, however it has been ruled by the Social Democratic Union since 1973. For elective offices at most levels, each province administers primary elections in order to choose the major party nominees for the following general election. There are currently six parties represented in the National Assembly but only four parties have held the office of the presidency: the Conservative Party (5), Liberal Party (5), Socialist Labor League (2), and the Social Democratic Union (7). Aleksey Pushkarev, the first president, has been the only president not affiliated with a political party. The president, federal councilors, and people's deputies are chosen by instant run-off voting while lower level elective officers are chosen by a plurality vote in their electoral district.

While the Social Democratic Union is considered dominant in Volkian politics, there are still strongholds of other political parties. Southern Volkia is widely considered to be a Social Democrat stronghold, while Northern Volkia tends to lean towards the Conservative Party and Monarchist Union. The west heavily supports Liberal candidates, though Social Democratic, Socialist, and Green candidates are often ranked highly on ballots from the western provinces.

Social Democrat Yuliya Surkova was reelected in the 2020 Volkian presidential election after three rounds of counting and has served as the 20th president of Volkia since 2017. Leadership in the Federal Council includes Vice President Vladimir Burmakin, Majority Leader Yefim Luzhkov, and Minority Leader Viktoriya Titova. Chamber of Deputies leaders include Speaker of the Chamber Stefania Nevzorova, Majority Leader Boris Sukhanov, and Minority Leader Stepan Maksimov.

In the 66th National Assembly, the Federal Council and the Chamber of Deputies is controlled by the Social Democratic Union. The Federal Council consists of 44 Social Democrats, 11 Conservatives, 11 Liberals, six Socialists, and six Greens. The Chamber of Deputies consists of 258 Social Democrats, 66 Conservatives, 50 Liberals, 47 Socialists, 37 Greens, 11 Monarchists, and three independents. The Naitonal Assembly meets in the National Assembly Building, located in Volkgoroda.

Foreign relations

The foreign relations of Volkia are handled by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Ministry is currently headed by Foreign Affairs Minister Nikolai Skorobogatov.

Volkia maintains diplomatic relations with nearly all independent nations, and hosts a multitude of foreign embassies in its capital. It is a largely neutral country and tries to maintain independence in foreign affairs, though in recent years it has participated in military engagements near Volkian territory. The country is a founding member of the Kerilo Accord.

Volkia maintains close ties to North Dveria following the end of the 2014 Dverian War which saw the breakup of the unified Dverian state.

The country is a member of the International Forum and the Rotantic Congress.

Military

The Galyorkin Aerospace GA-75 is Volkia's primary multirole fighter.

Main article: Volkian Defense Forces

The president holds the title of Commander-in-Chief of the Volkian Defense Forces and appoints its leaders: the Minister of National Defense and the General Staff. The Ministry of National Defense administers the armed forces, which is divided into the Army, Navy, and the Air Force. The number of active duty soldiers in 2020 was 323,018. The Reserves and National Guard brought the total number of troops to 570,217. The Ministry of National Defense additionally employed 55,000 civilians, not including contractors in 2020. Volkia's annual military budget in 2021 is $71.8 billion, or 1.65% of its GDP. In absolute terms, Volkian military expenditure is the 11th highest in the world.

Military service is voluntary though conscription can be implemented in times of "national crisis when the voluntary force has been overwhelmed." This is done through the Emergency Conscription System, which provides a list of military aged Volkian males to the Ministry of National Defense. Volkian males are required to register in this system from ages 18 to 26.

Volkian nuclear deterrence relies on complete independence. The current Volkian nuclear force consists of five Avangard class and two Zashchitnik class submarines equipped with submarine-launched ballistic missiles. In addition to the submarine fleet, the country maintains approximately 250 land based ballistic missiles in nuclear silos and on mobile launchers. Roughly 100 medium-range air-to-ground missiles loaded with nuclear warheads make up Volkia's air based nuclear weapons, 45 of which are deployed by the Volkian Air Force while 20 are deployed by the Volkian Navy via aircraft launched from the country's two aircraft carriers.

The country maintains a classified amount of chemical and biological weapons, with known agents including tabun, sarin, ricin, and botulinum. The Volkian government has stated that it is exploring options to destroy the country's chemical and biological agent stockpile, though it would maintain its nuclear arsenal. Volkian defense doctrine states that the country's weapons of mass destruction are for homeland defense only; the country would only use its WMDs in extraordinary circumstances.

Volkian BMP-80M in a combat demonstration in eastern Yekartovsk.

Volkia took part in the 2014 Dverian War which resulted in the Kerilo Accord, which created a military partnership with the nations of South Hills, Vekaiyu, and Listonia. Volkia was given control over the northern half of the country, and following the establishment of an independent South Dveria, the Republic of North Dveria was created in 2016. Volkia has slowly been withdrawing its forces from the country, though there are still approximately 20,000 troops still remaining in order to train and provide logistical support to North Dverian security forces.

The country currently maintains a strong domestic defense industry, with the vast majority of equipment used by the Volkian military developed and built by the Volkian defense industry. Its aerospace industry is among the largest in the world. Volkia's defense industry has produced the PV-77 assault rifle, GA-75 multirole fighter, and the Aleksey Pushkarev class aircraft carriers. Volkia is a major arms seller and provides many of its designs for the export market with the exception of nuclear weapons and nuclear-powered devices.

Political divisions

Main Article: Administrative divisions of Volkia

Volkia is a federation comprised of 26 provinces and a federal city. Provinces are further divided into districts while the federal city of Volkgoroda is divided into wards for administrative purposes.

Provinces

The country's 26 provinces (oblasts) are the principal political divisions. Each province holds jurisdiction over a defined geographic territory and shares sovereignty with the federal government. They are subdivided into districts (raions) and further divided into municipalities. Generally speaking Volkia can be grouped into three regions: Northern Volkia, Southern Volkia, and Western Volkia. Provinces have certain rights and obligations that are defined in the Volkian constitution.

Provinces are afforded all power not delegated to the federal government in accordance with the constitution and may freely organize their local governments and ratify their own constitutions. Each province also owns and maintains their own natural and financial resources, though the federal government does own land and resources in each province; this amount varies across the provinces. Each province has a bicameral legislature, organized in a similar fashion to the federal legislature.

The constitution mandates that the provinces must maintain a representative, republican style of government and obey the constitution. Provinces may not unilaterally secede from the federation and they must remain subordinate to the federal government. Provinces are also forbidden from making war, engaging in their own foreign relations, or printing and issuing currency.

Federal City

There is one city designated as a federal city in Volkia, which is the federal capital of Volkgoroda. The city is officially known as the "Federal City of Volkgoroda" and is located within Volkgoroda Oblast, where it also serves as that province's capital city. As most municipalities in Volkia fall within a district, Volkgoroda is considered to be equivalent in status and function of a district. It is responsible for providing services usually provided by district governments to its citizens. Because of this, it is similar to an independent city, however it is still administratively part of Volkgoroda Oblast and receives its representation in the National Assembly through the province.

It is further subdivided into wards (kupe) for administrative purposes.

Provinces	Capital	Population (2012)
Abarsk Oblast	Venyov	3,537,246
Akusha Oblast	Chertkovo	3,712,605
Baksansky Oblast	Okha	3,028,910
Belorerino Oblast	Poltovka	3,610,238
Dinskaya Oblast	Chernushka	2,521,987
Kalinibinsk Oblast	Grachyovka	5,242,002
Khivlyar Oblast	Beryozovka	3,698,015
Kologrosk Oblast	Repyovka	1,002,798
Kurilsk Oblast	Bakaly	99,178
Kyshtovka Oblast	Kyakhta	1,836,891
Lagan Oblast	Sigayevo	2,526,879
Lopatino Oblast	Sharlyk	4,126,724
Makushin Oblast	Satka	3,620,498
Norindzhik Oblast	Kovdor	1,209,785
Olyutorsk Oblast	Dolinsk	4,598,754
Orlik Oblast	Yadrin	1,415,426
Osinsky Oblast	Petrovskoye	2,715,687
Ozyoretsk Oblast	Zuyevka	3,118,219
Shimanovsk Oblast	Shipunovo	300,598
Shipayetsk Oblast	Birsk	2,345,954
Uzlovaya Oblast	Askiz	2,258,591
Vladinsk Oblast	Izumrud	3,489,511
Volkgoroda Oblast	Volkgoroda	3,642,198
Vyalovsk Oblast	Kodinsk	1,894,350
Yekartovsk Oblast	Kursavka	4,478,941
Zhukovsky Oblast	Zarinsk	5,432,198

Law

Courthouse for the Federal District Court of the District of Volkgoroda.

Volkia's legal system operates on common law and has a written constitution which provides for a federal constitutional republic. The federal court system consists of the Federal Supreme Court, the Courts of Appeals, and the District Courts, all of which apply Volkain federal law and hear both criminal and civil matters. The provincial court systems are set up similarly, with minor differences between each province; all provincial court systems consist of a supreme court, appellate court, and a trial court. Provincial courts try the vast majority of criminal cases in the country. Trials for serious offenses must be tried before a jury unless a plea bargain can be reached. The Federal Supreme Court and federal Courts of Appeals have the power of judicial review across both federal and provincial law and actions, while provincial supreme courts and appellate courts may only review laws and actions within their province. Except in exceptional circumstances, court hearings must be held in public.

Roughly 87% of residents have confidence in Volkia's security institutions. The overall crime rate in Volkia is relatively low, though some types of crime are above average for a developed nation, such as homicide. Corruption in business and government overall remains low, largely thanks to sweeping reforms passed in the early and mid-1970s following rampant corruption in the 1960s.

Law enforcement in Volkia is generally the responsibility of local police and sheriff's departments, with provincial police providing broader services. These departments are responsible for all aspects of civil policing, both in terms of territory and infrastructure. Each department may be set up slightly differently, though generally speaking they will be headed by either a Chief or a Sheriff who may be elected or appointed. Most uniformed officers carry a pistol while military-style firearms are reserved for specialty units. There is no federal police force, however federal agencies like the National Bureau of Investigation will typically have specialized duties that replaces the need for one.

Geography

Mt. Belyzub is the tallest mountain in Volkia, standing at 11,002 ft (3,353 m) and is the centerpiece of the Belyzub National Park.

Main article: Geography of Volkia

Volkia's core territory is situated on the western half of Itur, and the archipelago of Kurilsk to the north is also part of the republic. Lying between latitudes 50° and 70°, and longitudes 60° and 90°, Volkia is one of Urth's northernmost countries. The capital city, Volkgoroda, is one of the world's northernmost capitals. The positioning of Volkia has afforded it a large, rugged coastline containing numerous bays, inlets, and fjords. To the east, Volkia is bordered by South Hills and Kurikia.

Volkia's landscape varies greatly, with the country experiencing elevations ranging from under 600 feet to over 6,000 feet. Much of Volkia is over 1,000 feet, notably in the east, while large swaths of the country's interior are near sea level. Volkia's east contains a great deal of natural features caused by prehistoric glaciers and also contains the Velikiye Steny. This mountain range is home to the highest point in Volkia, Mount Belyzub, which is 11,002 ft (3,353 m) above sea level.

The number of islets and islands across Volkia are estimated to be some 5,712 (including those in lakes). Two of the largest islands in Volkia are Shimanovsk and Khorovstrov, which make up Shimanovsk Oblast. The Kurilsk Archipelago are the northernmost islands in Volkia and support a subarctic climate.

Volkia has over 1,500 lakes, most of them being very small while the largest is Clearwater Lake in the north of the country. The country's landscape is also home to many rivers, the longest of them being the Wolf, Tar, and Pine Rivers.

Volkia's land is largely made up of granite and gneiss rock, but slate, limestone, and sandstone are also common. Significant natural resources include iron ore, coal, potash, timber, uranium, copper, natural gas, salt, and nickel. The lowest levels of elevation in Volkia contain marine deposits, and several large fossils have been uncovered in these areas. Due to prevailing westerlies and warm sea currents from the Sea of Itur, Volkia experiences higher temperatures and more precipitation than expected at such high latitudes, especially along the country's western coast.

Due to the wide variety in varied topography and climate, Volkia hosts some of the most diverse habitats in Itur. There are roughly 75,000 species in Volkia and its adjacent waters (excluding bacteria and viruses). The Volkian marine shelf ecosystem is considered highly productive.

Climate

Lopatino Oblast's beaches are a favorite summer getaway spot for Volkians.

Köppen climate classification types of Volkia.

Much of Volkia lies within the boreal zone, which is characterized by warm summers and freezing winters. Most of the country experiences four distinct seasons. The western and southern coasts are fully exposed to the Volkian Sea's storm fronts and as such have more precipitation and milder winters than the country's north. Some areas around the Velikiye Steny are within a rain shadow, and as such receive less precipitation than the rest of the country. The western coast is typically the wettest while the southeast experiences the highest temperatures throughout the year.

Volkia has several climate zones but is mostly continental. Winters range from cold and snowy to mild and generally overcast with little precipitation in the north, while summers tend to be cool and rainy. The country's western regions have prevailing westerly winds that bring in moist air from the Volkian Sea, moderating the region's temperature and increasing the amount of precipitation. A small area of the country's south, mostly Lopatino Oblast, has warmer summers, cooler winters, and has less precipitation than the west. The north experiences the most extreme cold temperatures. A very small portion of the country's east experiences alpine tundra while much of the northern coast experiences arctic tundra.

The highest temperature ever recorded in Volkia was 103.3 °F (39.6 °C) in Sharlyk on July 1, 1968 and the lowest was -61.6 °F (-52 °C) in Erzin on January 12, 2002.

Biodiversity

The gray wolf, Volkia's national animal

The golden eagle, Volkia's national bird

Main article: Wildlife of Volkia

The territory of Volkia can be split up into three ecoregions: Volkian coastal conifer forests, Iturian mixed forests, and Iturian taiga. The north is covered by boreal forests while the western coast contains conifer forests, of which have some small areas of temperate rainforest. The rest of the country is dominated by Iturian mixed forests, which contain broadleaf and conifer forests. As of 2015, 45% of Volkia's land is dedicated to agriculture, while 37% is forested and 18% is covered by settlements or infrastructure.

Volkia also has an extensive and diverse range of fauna. There are at least 80 native mammalian species, 315 breeding bird species, over 150 fish species, and 20 reptile and frog species present today. Many of these species have migrated from neighboring countries thousands of years ago. Large and widely recognized mammal species found in Volkia are the gray wolf (the national animal), brown bear, moose, caribou, and wolverine. Some of the more striking birds include the golden eagle, which is the national bird of Volkia, the snowy owl, and the gray heron. Of the more than 150 fish species, the northern pike, perch, trout, and others are plentiful in Volkia's rivers and lakes. Fish present along the coast include cod, flounder, turbot, and numerous others. Iturian salmon remains a favorite of fly rod enthusiasts.

The largest predator found in Volkia's waters is the sperm whale, and the largest fish is the basking shark. Both species are protected under Volkian law. The brown bear is Volkia's largest terrestrial predator, while the moose is the largest animal found on land in Volkia.

Much of Volkia's land is protected in national parks and nature reserves, compromising nearly 27% of the country. There are 35 national parks and 125 nature parks in Volkia. More than 250 zoos operate in the country, the largest of which is located in Nikolayevsk.

The midnight sun seen in Kologorsk Oblast.

Environment

Attractive and dramatic landscapes can be found throughout Volkia. The northern coast presents some of the most visually impressive coastal sceneries in the world, which is made up of numerous fjords and dramatic terrain. The northern regions of the country experience the natural phenomena of the midnight sun (during summer) and the aurora borealis, attracting thousands of tourists a year. TravelVolkia, a domestic tourism magazine, consistently rates the country's north as a top tourism destination for domestic travelers.

Much of Volkia's environment is protected in the form of national parks and nature reserves, and numerous endangered species receive protection from the government under the Protecting Endangered Species Act of 1965. Volkia has received praise in some international studies for its protection of such species and their environment, though it has also received harsh criticism for its over-exploitation of fisheries and gas and oil drilling.

Economy

Izumrud is a major shipping port of Volkia.

Volkia has a mixed economy, which has resulted in a prosperous capitalist welfare state with a combination of free market activity and large state ownership in certain key sectors. This was influenced first by liberal and socialist governments in the early 1930s and fully implemented by Social Democratic administrations starting in 1973. Public healthcare is free and parents receive 40 weeks of paid parental leave. Volkia also guarantees its workers a minimum of 32 days paid vacation (20 paid days off, 12 public holidays). The unemployment rate is 3.4%, with 66% of the population aged 15-74 employed. Nearly 8% of the population aged 18-66 receives a disability pension and 25% of the labor force are employed by the government. The vast majority of workers are unionized, totaling nearly 70% of the labor force in 2018.

The wage difference between the lowest paid worker and the CEO of most companies has been kept relatively low compared to other industrialized economies due to Volkian society's egalitarian values.

Volkia has a highly skilled workforce, low levels of corruption, and a relatively high level of innovation. The service sector contributes approximately 68% of the total GDP, industry 30.5%, tourism 1.8%, and agriculture 1.5% as of 2019. Volkia holds significant timber, mineral (iron, chromium, copper, nickel, and gold), and freshwater resources. Forestry, paper factories, agriculture, and mines are important for rural residents and the national economy. The Greater Volkgoroda area generates more than a quarter of Volkia's GDP.

The state maintains large ownership positions in key industries such as the forestry sector (Kirishi Group), mining sector (Vyska Group), hydroelectric energy (Volkiya Hydro), natural gas sector (VorkutaGas), Volkia's largest bank (VSB), and the largest telecommunications provider (Volktel). The government controls roughly 25% of the stock values at the Volkgoroda Stock Exchange through these large companies. When non-listed companies are included, the state has an even higher share in ownership. Volkia is a major shipping nation and controls a sizable merchant fleet, with over 1,600 Volkian owned vessels.

Around 90% have a mobile phone and 85.7% have internet connection in their home. Cities and towns are encouraged to build their own broadband networks with technical and financial assistance from the federal government and Volktel.

Agriculture

A farm near Zarevo, Vladinsk Oblast

Roughly 45% of Volkia's land is dedicated for agricultural uses. For the most part Volkia's agriculture has been efficient and productive when compared to farming in neighboring countries. Agriculture in Volkia has been characterized by the northern climate and self-sufficiency in most major agricultural products. Large farms are responsible for the majority of agricultural goods produced, though small, family owned plots still play a major role in the growth of Volkian agriculture. Agriculture's share of GDP has declined in recent years when compared to other industries.

A wide variety of crops are grown in Volkia, including wheat, rye, barley, oats, potatoes, sugar beets, turnips, peas, hay, and silage. Volkian wheat, rye, and to a lesser extent potatoes are used in the production of Volkian vodkas.

Agriculture in Volkia's north is mostly restricted to animal husbandry due to the colder climate that makes it difficult to grow crops. Cattle and chickens are the main species preferred by Volkians, though other animals raised in northern Volkia include pigs, sheep, goats, and horses.

Energy

Popov Nuclear Power Plant near Popov, Akusha Oblast

Volkia produces a large amount of electricity thanks to the country's natural gas reserves, which has been used for export and for fueling its own power plants. There is also a large network of hydroelectric power that powers roughly 35% of the country. Natural gas plants produce 40% of Volkia's electricity, while nuclear power plants produce the remaining 25%.

Volkia's first nuclear power plant was built in 1990. Since then it has become one of five currently operating nuclear power plants in Volkia. Four of the nuclear power plants in Volkia are privately owned, while Popov Nuclear Power Plant was built and is currently owned by the state. All nuclear power is highly regulated and monitored by the Ministry of Energy. The Ministry of Energy has supported increasing the amount of hydroelectric and nuclear power produced, seeking to produce 80% of Volkia's electricity through renewable means by 2050.

Currently under construction is the Polskala spent nuclear fuel repository located in northern Norindzhik, which will be used as the national spent nuclear fuel repository. In early 2020 the Ministry of Energy approved an application for two additional reactors at the Yozhikov Nuclear Power Plant, located in Kalinibinsk Oblast.

Transport

Terminal A at Volkgoroda International Airport, the largest airport in Volkia.

Volkia's roadways are utilized mostly by internal cargo and passenger traffic, and as of 2015 totaled about 620,000 miles. The Volkian federal highway system is known colloquially as the Шоссе (Shosse). It is officially known as the Федеральная система автомобильных дорог (Federal'naya sistema avtomobil'nykh dorog, abbreviated FSAD), which translates as "federal highway system." It connects the major cities and is marked by blue colored signs and their own numbering system.

An example of a highway entrance sign.

The main international passenger gateway is Volkgoroda International Airport, which handled about 30 million passengers in 2015. Poltovka International Airport is the second largest airport, handling about 21 million passengers in 2015. The country has 32 major airports, though the total number of airports and airfields total over 250. The flag carrier and largest airline in Volkia, Air Volkia, is based at Volkgoroda International and provides both domestic and international services.

The total length of common-used railway tracks exceeds 35,000 miles (56,327 km). Most of this railroad is electrified, and additionally there are more than 18,641 miles (30,000 km) of industrial non-common carrier lines. Like most of the world, Volkia uses the standard gauge for their railroads. High speed rail serves most major cities, and plans are in place to expand the system.

The majority of international cargo shipments are handled at Volkia's ports. Major sea ports of Volkia include Izumrud, Volsk, Shipunovo, Korkino, and Zuyevka which are located on the Sea of Itur and the Volkian Sea. In 2015 the country owned over 1,600 merchant marine ships. Icebreakers keep the northernmost ports of the country open year round. Ferry services connect mainland Volkia to its island possessions.

Major Volkian cities typically have well-developed systems of public transport, with the most common varieties of exploited vehicles being bus, trolleybus, and tram. Most major Volkian cities have underground metros. The Volkgoroda Metro and the Kursavka Metro are the oldest in Volkia, opened in 1925 and 1935 respectively. These two are among the fastest and busiest metro systems in the world, and are famous for rich decorations and unique designs of their stations.

Tourism

Auroras attract tens of thousands of visitors to northern Volkia every year.

Tourism in Volkia grossed $78.5 billion in 2018 with an increase of 4% from the previous year. Of this, $19.9 billion (41%) came from foreign tourism. In 2018 there were 21.8 million overnight stays of domestic tourists and 12.7 million stays of foreign tourists. Much of the growth can be attributed to increasing globalization of the country and increasing awareness. Yasteria is still the largest market for foreign tourists, though the biggest growth came from Borea and Aurora. Tourism contributes roughly 1.8% to Volkia's GDP.

Tourist attractions in Volkia include the natural landscape found throughout the country as well as urban attractions. Volkia is covered with thick pine and conifer forests, hills, and lakes. Mountains are present in the northern reaches of the country. There are 35 national parks present throughout Volkia from Shimanovsk Oblast's shores on the Gulf of Itur to Kurilsk Oblast's frozen tundra in the north. Outdoor activities include skiing, snowboarding, golf, yachting, lake cruises, hiking, kayaking, among others. Bird-watching is a favorite of those fond of avifauna, though hunting and fishing are also widely popular. Moose, hare, and deer are common game while trout, pike, and perch are common freshwater game fish. Cod, salmon, and flounder are common saltwater game fish.

Volkia's urban areas also host numerous cultural events and activities. Volkgoroda's tourist attractions include the Forest Temple, the Petrenko Theater, and the Volkian Museum of HIstory. Sretensk in Lopatino Oblast hosts the annual Sretensk Folk Festival, and the old towns of Kursavka, Georgiyevsk, and Okha attract thousands of visitors.

Demographics

Population

Main article: List of cities in Volkia

Races in Volkia (2020 est.)
Race			Percentage
Volkian lupine			98.7%
Vulpine			0.6%
Human			0.6%
Other			0.1%

According to the 2012 National Census the total population of Volkia is 75,464,183, with the population estimated to be 80,242,175 as of September 2020. The population density in 2012 was estimated to be 139.93/sq mi (54.03/km2), while in 2020 it was estimated to be 148.79/sq mi (57.45/km2). Volkia's population has an average age of 37.1. The 2012 National Census revealed that 21.63% of the country's population lives in one of the top 20 largest cities.

Volkia's population has always been concentrated in south and west of the country, a phenomenon which became more pronounced with urbanization in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The capital and largest city, Volkgoroda, is located in the center of the country. About 81% of Volkian citizens live in urban areas (including suburbs); about half of those reside in cities over 50,000. In 2012, 74 incorporated places had populations over 100,000. There are four metropolitan areas with populations greater than one million, one of which has a population of over three million. Of Volkia's 20 largest cities, 17 of them are located in the southern half of the country.

Nearly the entirety of Volkia's population is made up of Volkian lupines. Minority races make up 1.3% of Volkia's population and include vulpines and humans, who tend to live in the country's larger cities.

The country's largest urban area is located within Volkgoroda Oblast.

Family structure

As of 2012, 54% of Volkian citizens were married, 6% were widowed, 10% were divorced, and 30% had never been married. Women now mostly work outside of the home and earn a majority of bachelor's degrees.

The teen pregnancy rate is 15 per 1,000 women. The Legal Abortion Act legalized abortion nationwide in 1982. Since legalization the abortion rate has continued to decline, the ratio being 132 abortions per 1,000 live births in 2008. In 2015, the average age at first birth was 24 and 37.8% of births were to unmarried women.

The total fertility rate (TFR) was estimated for 2013 at 2.36 births per woman. Adoption in Volkia is common and relatively easy from a legal point of view. Same-sex marriage has been legal nationwide since 1987 and it is legal for same-sex couples to adopt. Polygamy is illegal throughout the country.

Language

See also: Volkian language

According to the constitution the official language of Volkia is Volkian. Roughly 74.7 million, or 99% of the population aged five years and older, spoke only Volkian at home in 2012. While Volkian is by far the dominant language in the country, Volkians are becoming increasingly multilingual due to globalization. Roughly 54% of Volkian citizens claim to be able to communicate at least one foreign language, while 22% claimed to be competent in at least two. The learning of Volkian is a requirement for naturalization.

The Volkian Government does not regulate the choice of language in publications by individuals but requires the state to operate in Volkian. Print media, public notices, road signs, and state services are provided in Volkian.

Codexian is the second most spoken language in Volkia, and is often taught as a second language to Volkian students.

Religion

Lunarists commonly wear crescent moon necklaces.

See also: Lunarism

Religion in Volkia (2012)
Religion			Percentage
Lunarism			87.25%
Thaerism			1.6%
Atheism			1.4%
Unaffiliated			8.45%
Other religions			1.2%

The lupine religion of Lunarism was historically the state religion of Volkia's predecessor states, starting with Grand Duchy of Volkgoroda in 365 CE. This trend continued all the way through to the Kingdom of Volkia until the establishment of the Volkian federal republic. Today Volkia has no official religion. However, Lunarism remained dominant within the political landscape until the amendment of the constitution in 1947. Volkia's current constitution guarantees the free exercise of religion and forbids the government from passing any laws that violates this protection.

Today, Lunarism remians the most commonly practiced religion in Volkia. As of the 2012 Volkian National Census, 84.25% of Volkians practice the religion. Thaerism is the most commonly practiced minority religion in Volkia, with 1.6% of the population stating they practice the religion in 2012. Atheists make up 1.4% of the population while those who consider themselves "unaffiliated" or "irreligious" are 8.45% of the populace. An additional 1.2% of people practice other religions.

Although the government may not show favoritism towards any particular religion, five of the twelve federal holidays coincide with religious holidays. Challenges as to the status of these holidays have been rejected by the Federal Supreme Court repeatedly, with the Court maintaining the holidays have their own meanings among those who don't practice Lunarism. The religion continues to play an important part in the lives of many Volkians, and the number of Lunarist churches within Volkia far outnumber the minority religions combined.

Health

Main article: Healthcare in Volkia

Vachasky District Hospital, a teaching hospital in Vacha, Makushin Oblast.

Volkia's healthcare system dates from the Liberal governments of the 1930s and 1940s. Since the mid-1930s, provisions and reforms strengthened and overhauled the system to transform it into the robust universal healthcare system that is in place today. In 2018, Volkia spent 11.4% of its GDP on healthcare. Approximately 81% of health expenditures are covered by government funded agencies while the remaining 19% are privately funded.

Generally speaking healthcare is free for people suffering from chronic diseases such as cancer, cystic fibrosis, or hepatitis. Lupines tend to have slightly shorter lifespans than humans, though thanks to medical advancements and a dramatic decrease in inter-lupine violence Volkia's life expectancy has increased nearly 20 years since the 1930s. Today it now matches or exceeds that of other developed nations. As of 2018, the average life expectancy at birth is 71.6 years for men and 78.1 years for women. The infant mortality rate is 2.9 deaths per 1,000 live births while the maternal mortality rate is 4.7 per 100,000 live births as of 2018.

In 2019, the principal cause of death was cardiovascular disease, at 36%. Obesity and other lifestyle-related diseases are on the rise within Volkia, with the government citing these as major health issues. A study in 2018 showed 54% of the adult population was overweight or obese. The number of musculoskeletal diseases and cancers are increasing as well, although the cancer prognosis has improved.

Education

Founder's Fountain outside Izmaylov Auditorium at Osinsky Federal University.

Main article: Education in Volkia

Education is primarily organized within the individual provinces. Kindergarten is optional and is open to all children between the ages of three and six, after which school is compulsory until the student completes high school or reaches the age of 18. Volkia operates on a K-12 model, wherein elementary school will usually last from ages six to 11, middle school from ages 11 to 14, and high school from ages 14 to 18.

Some 16% of children are enrolled in parochial or nonsectarian private schools while 81% attend public schools. Roughly 3% of children are homeschooled.

Most of the universities in Volkia are public institutions run by either the federal or provincial governments, and students are permitted to study without fee payment. The general requirement for entrance to a university is a high school diploma or equivalent. Volkgoroda University is the oldest university in Volkia as well as one of the world's oldest, established in 1478. Some 91% of Volkia's university students attend a public university.

Of Volkians aged 25 and older, 89.4% graduated high school, 54.2% attended some college, 36.2% earned a bachelor's degree, and 14.8% earned graduate degrees. The basic literacy rate is 99%.

Culture

Main article: Volkian culture

Folk culture and cuisine

Volkian culture is an amalgamation of the cultures of four western Iturian lupine tribes that inhabited Volkia: the Volkiplemeni, Yekarians, Vyalovians, and Orlikians. Volkiplemeni culture was the most dominant, thus many aspects of Volkian culture are directly taken from the Volkiplemeni.

Volkian handicraft, like vyra pottery, Uvat toys, and Tupik painting are important aspects of Volkian folk culture. Ethnic Volkian clothing includes khalat, kosovorotka, and ushanka for men, dzhempka, ochipok, and kokoshnik for women. Common shoes include lapot and valyaniye.

Volkians have distinct traditions when it comes to folk music. Typical Volkian ethnic musical instruments are gusli, balalaika, zhaleika, and garmoshka. Volkian classical composers were influenced significantly by folk music, and in modern times have influenced a number of popular folk bands, like Nasha Prekra.

In addition, Volkians have many traditions. These traditions include washing in banya. Old Volkian folklore takes its roots in the pagan religions that were once common throughout Volkia and Itur. Many Volkian fairytales and epic poems have been adapted for animated films.

Traditional Volkian pirozhki.

Cuisine (WIP)

Volkian cuisine is largely uniform across most of the country, though there are some differences between the regions based on climate and food availability. Volkian cuisine at its heart stems from the western lupine tribes that dominated Volkia prior to amalgamation in the 4th Century, and evolved with Volkian culture and heritage.

Sautéed reindeer with mashed potatoes and lingonberry jam.

Poultry and fish play a prominent role in traditional Volkian dishes from the south of the country, with fish playing a larger role along the coast. Dishes from the country's interior traditionally include beef, mutton, and vegetables. Many regions within Volkia have strongly branded traditionally delicacies, such as Seveliky has sote iz oleniny and Venyov has kuritsa venov.

Volkian foods often use wholemeal products (rye, wheat, barley, oats, and millet) and berries (bilberries, lingonberries, cloudberries, and seaberries). Milk and its derivatives like buttermilk are commonly used as food, drink, or in various recipes like biscuits or sausage gravy. Turnips were common in traditional cooking, but were replaced by the potato after its introduction in the 17th Century.

Biscuits and gravy, a popular breakfast dish among Volkians.

Soups and stews popular in Volkia include cabbage soup, beet soup, fish soup, settler's stew, goulash, and cold vegetable soup. Smetana (a heavy sour cream) is often added to soups and salads.

Pirozhki, blini, and syrniki are popular dishes. Popular meat dishes include pelmeni and shashlyk, with chicken cutlets and various beef cuts making popular centerpieces for other meat dishes. Tea is popular with Volkians, as well as domestically produced beers and vodkas.

Visual arts

Art has been an important part in Volkia's history, helping record important events through history. Early art depicted grand battles, leaders of Volkia's first states, religion and other important people. This continued into Volkia's history as it transformed into a fruitful kingdom and empire, glorifying its leaders and advancements. Volkian art grew dark in the years following the establishment of the junta. Enlightenment art rose with the foundation of the Federation, putting power into the hands of the people.

Post-federalization art saw bright colors and hope return to Volkian art. Scenes of battle were painted as well, showing the new army fighting for the people. This trend as continued into the 21st century, only bringing dark themes into it during times of trouble in the country.

Modern art today is bright and uplifting, and depicts anything from people and important figures to abstract art.

Music and dance

Volkian music traditionally was made with stringed instruments, drums, and horns. Various instruments were brought in as the nation began to westernize, shaping the musical style of Volkia today.

Rock music has taken off in the country, with subjects from emotions to historically important events. Classical remains popular as well thanks to Alexander Yurov, a man many musicians consider to be one of the best composers of the century.

Laws passed in the early 1990s have restricted the censorship of music, as well as other art forms and television.

Media

Media has always been controlled by the people with little restriction. These freedoms are held near and dear to the hearts of the people, and almost all broadcasting companies belong to private citizens. Government does own some broadcasting services, but these are typically only for education or information purposes. Freedom of the press is guaranteed by the Volkian constitution, ensuring the people will hear from the people on matters, not the government.

Laws passed in the early 1980s have greatly restricted the censorship of media. However, the government has an ability to publish what is known as Ne translirovat' uvedomleniye, or a Do Not Broadcast Notice, which is an official request to news editors not to publish or broadcast items on specified subjects for reasons of national security.

Sports

Mitya Nekrasov on the Nemetsky stage of the 2011 Volkian Grand Prix

Ice hockey is Volkia's national sport and also considered to be the most popular sport. The Volkian Hockey League (VHL) is the country's top professional hockey league and one of Volkia's major professional sports leagues. It is also the only Volkian sports league to feature foreign teams. The VHL's championship tournament, known as the Polivanov Cup playoffs, are the most watched sports tournament in Volkia. The sport is popular even at the high school and collegiate levels. Various other sports are popular within Volkia, which include football, basketball, rugby, cross-country skiing, ski jumping, and motorsports. While ice hockey is considered the most popular in terms of television audience, football is considered to be most played team sport in terms of number of players nationwide.

Football continues to grow in popularity in Volkia thanks to the Volkian Premier League, which is the top football league in the country. The league has the highest average game attendance in Volkian sports, and the league's championship game brings in millions of television viewers every year.

Motorsports are also growing in popularity in the country, notably the sport of rallying. The Volkian Grand Prix is an annual rally competition that takes place in various locations in Volkia offering a wide variety of course types that has allowed it to become the fastest rally competition in Volkia, averaging 75.17 mph in 2019. Touring car racing is also rather popular in Volkia, with the Volkian Touring Car Championship garnering the highest attendance in Volkian touring car racing.

National holidays

All of the twelve federal holidays are also provincial holidays. A holiday that falls on a weekend is usually observed on the closest weekday. The official names came from the laws that define holidays for federal employees. While officially a secular nation, the federal government continues to observe major religious holidays.

Date	Official Name (Volkian)	Notes
January 1st	New Year's Day (День нового года)	Celebrates the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year. Festivities typically begin the previous evening.
Last Monday of March	Labor Day (День труда)	Celebrates achievements of workers and the labor movement.
April 17th	Federation Day (День Федерации)	Celebrates the adoption of the Constitution of Volkia and the creation of the Federative Republic.
Last Friday of April	Pushkarev's Birthday (День рождения Жуков)	Honors Aleksey Pushkarev, the first president of the Federation.
First Friday of May	President's Day (День президентов)	Honors the presidents of Volkia.
Third Monday of May	Spring Festival (Весенний фестиваль)	Religious and federal holiday.
Third Monday of June	Defenders of the Federation Day (День защитника Федерации)	Honors all members of the Volkian Defense Forces, especially surviving veterans of wars.
Last Friday in September	Festival of the Sky (Фестиваль неба)	Celebrates the deity of Lunarism, Yelena. Religious and federal holiday.
Last Wednesday in October (Biennial)	Election Day (День выборов)	Public holiday held every other year for purposes of federal elections. The next federal elections are to be held October 26, 2022.
Third Friday of November	Autumn Festival (Осенний фестиваль)	Celebrates the autumn harvest in Volkia, has its roots in old Lunarist festivals.
December 29th	Eve of the Winter Festival (Фестиваль Зимы Ева)	Celebrates the eve of the Winter Festival, an important part of Lunarism. Religious and federal holiday.
December 30th	Winter Festival (Зимний фестиваль)	Celebrates the Winter Festival, an important part of Lunarism. Religious and federal holiday.

	Volkian Federative Republic
Main article: Volkia
Important Topics: Culture ♦ Lupine ♦ Volkian language ♦ Lunarism ♦ Volkian korona ♦ Defense Forces
Government: Federal Government ♦ President ♦ Cabinet ♦ National Assembly ♦ Federal Supreme Court ♦ Political Parties
History: Grand Principality of Volkia ♦ Duchy of Volkia ♦ Kingdom of Volkia ♦ Volkian Civil War ♦ Northern Revolt ♦ Volkian Revolution
Important Figures (Past and Present): Yuliya Surkova ♦ Aleksey Pushkarev ♦ Stefan Gurkovsky ♦ Ivan Ogarkov ♦ Vasily Tolmachyov ♦ Yulian Lebedev