Constitutional Convention
The Constitutional Convention is a group of seven citizens of Westarctica directed by Grand Duke Travis to draft a Constitution of Westarctica that will serve as the new supreme law of the land and provide guidance for the Government of Westarctica.
History
The members of the Convention were selected by the Grand Duke on the advice of the Prime Minister. The final selection was made on 9 April 2019 and was announced during a meeting of the Royal Council on 13 April 2019.
Composition
In creating the Convention, the Grand Duke expressed a desire to draw from as wide a range as possible of Westarcticans. Reflecting this philosophy, His Royal Highness selected a member of the Old Guard, two members of the Royal Council, two members of the Peerage of Westarctica, a Knight of the Snowflake, and two common citizens.
- Grand Duke Travis - Chairman
- Duke of the Bear Peninsula - Vice-Chairman
- Duke of Waesche
- Princess Rebecca, Duchess of Rockefeller
- Viscountess of Melville
- Sir Christian Seitz, KtS
- Christine Wood
Process
Before the main portion of the convention kicked off, the Grand Duke and Prime Minister worked to create a first draft to be utilized in convention debates on a myriad of topics, from defining Westarctica to government structure to human rights. This draft went through roughly a dozen iterations before the two were prepared to move forward.
The core of the convention is hosted in a private online forum. Each topic, called an "article" is introduced for discussion individually, with up to four articles open at any time. Each topic is open until a week has passed or everyone has given their opinion on the matter, whichever occurs first. During this window, all seven members are free to ask questions, raise concerns, and suggest changes. After any changes are made and discussion is complete, or has stalled, a vote is held of the members (minus the Grand Duke). Four of the six votes are needed for a majority. Once a measure passes the vote, the Grand Duke approves or rejects the measure, as it stands.
Upon completion of the formal convention process, the five non-chair members will put their signatures to attest that they approve the document. The Prime Minister will sign to attest that the constitution has passed a ratification vote of the general public (to be held the first weekend of February 2020), with the Grand Duke signing to pass the constitution into law.